Mother’s Day May be over, but everyone knows the best moms deserve 365 days of celebration and luxury travel!
No matter how old we get, great mothers remain a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration. They are our first teachers, our first friends, and our first role models. Celebrating Mothers is a chance to acknowledge their invaluable role in our lives, bond, and to express our heartfelt gratitude.
As my mom's first child, I always try to make Mother's Day celebrations special for her, and I've made it a routine for over 7 years to give my mum a treat for Mother's Day. As a busy mom, it's not often that she gets a chance to escape on her own and indulge in some good time to herself and with me of course😊, so I made a vacation part of the Mother's Day treats. In fact, I'll call it a "MOMCATION".
Let me take you through the best 6 luxury destinations we've visited for our "momcation"
Maldives
First on the list is the Maldives, where crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches await, the flattest country in the world and earth's paradise. We stayed in a luxurious overwater bungalow and spent our days lounging by the pool, indulging in spa treatments, and savoring delicious cuisine. It was my mom's first time traveling internationally, and I wanted to make it an unforgettable experience for her. And boy, did we have an adventure!
The moment we arrived at our resort, I knew we were in for a treat. The crystal-clear waters and the white sandy beaches were like nothing I had ever seen before. We were greeted with refreshing coconuts and a warm smile from the resort staff, who were dressed in traditional Maldivian attire. My mom was in awe of the beauty of the landscape, and I could tell that this trip was going to be a memorable one.
Our first day was spent lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking in the stunning views. We even went on a boat tour to explore some of the neighboring islands. The water was so clear that we could see schools of fish swimming right below us. We also had the opportunity to snorkel and swim with dolphins, which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One of the highlights of our trip was the food. The resort had a wide variety of cuisines, from traditional Maldivian dishes to international favorites. We tried everything from fresh seafood to flavorful curries, and I must say, I have never tasted anything quite like it. My mom particularly enjoyed the fresh fruit, especially the coconuts straight from the tree. It was a culinary adventure that we both thoroughly enjoyed.
On our third day, we decided to explore the island's local culture. We visited a nearby fishing village and interacted with the locals, who were warm and welcoming. We got to see firsthand how the Maldivians lived and worked, and it was fascinating to learn about their way of life. We even got to try our hand at fishing, and my mom caught her first fish! We were both thrilled with the experience.
But perhaps the most adventurous part of our trip was when we decided to go scuba diving. I must admit, I was a little nervous, but my mom was excited to try something new. The dive instructor was patient and informative, and we felt comfortable under his guidance. As we descended into the water, I was amazed by the colorful coral reefs and the vast variety of fish species. My mom and I swam side by side, taking in the breathtaking underwater world. It was a surreal experience that we will never forget.
As the week went on, my mom and I grew closer, and I was grateful for this opportunity to bond with her. We laughed, explored, and enjoyed each other's company. It was a trip that we will always cherish and remember. She made a photo book from the pictures we took on this trip. The Maldives is truly a paradise on earth, with its breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and warm, friendly people. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation experience. And for my mom, I'm super grateful to have the best mom in the world. This trip was just a small way to show her how much I love and appreciate her and what better time than a celebration like Mother's Day!
Bora-Bora
Next up was in Bora Bora, where we snorkeled with tropical fish and enjoyed sunset dinners on the beach. I still can't believe that my mom and I finally made our dream trip to Bora Bora for Mother's Day. We talked about going there for years and finally decided to make it happen. I have to say, it was one the most memorable trip we've ever taken together. The beautiful resorts and hotels, the stunning landscape, the crystal-clear waters, and the warm and friendly people made it an unforgettable adventure.
From the moment we stepped off the plane, we knew we were in for the treat I wanted her to experience. The air was warm and humid, and the sun was shining brightly. We were greeted with traditional lei necklaces and welcomed by our resort staff at the Four Seasons Resort, who escorted us to our overwater bungalow. It was a breathtaking sight - the bungalow was perched over the turquoise lagoon, and we could see colorful fish swimming below us. We spent most of our days sipping tropical cocktails and enjoying the beautiful views. The beaches in Bora Bora are stunning - soft, white sand, crystal-clear waters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. We took long walks along the shore, collecting seashells and taking pictures of the beautiful scenery.
One of our favorite things to do was to explore the island. We rented a bike and rode along the scenic routes, admiring the beautiful views of the lagoon and mountains. We visited the Bora Bora Lagoonarium, where we swam with colorful fish and fed stingrays. We also hiked to the top of Mount Otemanu, which offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the island, it was amazing to watch my mom make it to the top.
The cuisine in Bora Bora was also a highlight of our trip. We enjoyed fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies such as poisson cru, a delicious dish of raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice. We dined at some of the best restaurants on the island, including the famous Bloody Mary's, where we feasted on grilled fish and sipped cocktails made with fresh fruits and coconut milk.
But perhaps the most memorable part of our trip was the time we spent together. We laughed, talked, and made memories that will last a lifetime. We watched the sunset over the lagoon, enjoying each other's company and reflecting on the beauty of the world around us. We had the chance to relax and unwind in a place that truly felt like paradise.
As our trip came to an end, we both felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experience we had shared. Bora Bora had exceeded all of our expectations, and we left feeling rejuvenated, relaxed, and closer than ever. It was the perfect Mother's Day gift - a chance to show my mom how much I love and appreciate her and to make unforgettable memories.
Florida
It was a sunny afternoon in May when I surprised my mom with the news that we were going to Florida, and I was gladdened by the big hug and excitement that my mom expressed. I had been to Florida before, but this time was different. We were going on a mother-daughter vacation to celebrate Mother's Day! As soon as we arrived, we headed off to our luxurious resort in Orlando. As we walked into our room, we were greeted by the beautiful view of the resort's pristine pool and the lush greenery that surrounded it. Our room was spacious and elegantly decorated, making us feel like royalty. We freshened up and headed out to explore the resort's amenities, starting with a dip in the pool. We lounged poolside, sipping on refreshing cocktails and basking in the warm Florida sun.
Our first adventure here was visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, a place my mom had always dreamt of visiting. We were amazed by the magical world that surrounded us, from the Cinderella Castle to the thrilling rides that made us scream with excitement. We took plenty of pictures to document our unforgettable experience. For lunch, we indulged in some delicious seafood at a nearby restaurant. The seafood platter was a feast for our taste buds, and the view of the waterfront was mesmerizing. We then headed out to explore the famous International Drive, filled with endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
One of the most memorable moments of our trip was a visit to the Kennedy Space Center. It was a dream come true for my mom, who had always been fascinated by space exploration. We learned about the history of NASA, saw real-life rockets and space shuttles, and even had a chance to meet an astronaut!
We also spent some time exploring the beautiful beaches of Florida. We strolled along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. Our evenings were spent enjoying the local cuisine and nightlife. We dined at some of the best restaurants, savoring the flavors of fresh seafood and other delicacies. The live music, lively atmosphere, and friendly locals made our nights even more enjoyable. As our vacation came to an end, we realized how much we had bonded and how many unforgettable memories we had created together. We explored and tried new things, and it was an experience that we would cherish forever.
In summary, our mother-daughter vacation to Florida was an adventure of a lifetime. From the luxurious resorts to the exciting attractions, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, we had the time of our lives. It was a special way to celebrate Mother's Day, and we made memories that we will treasure forever. Florida truly is a magical place that has something to offer for everyone, and we cannot wait to go back!
Portland
The fresh, crisp air and the beautiful scenery upon arrival at Portland airport made us feel welcome and excited for the adventures ahead. I had this luxury trip planned for my mom to celebrate Mother's Day, and we were eager to explore all that this vibrant city had to offer.
Our first stop was our resort, The Nines which was located in the heart of downtown Portland. From the moment we arrived, we were treated like royalty. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the amenities were top-notch. We loved the luxurious accommodations, the delicious breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, and the stunning views of the city. After settling into our room, we headed out to explore the city. Our first stop was the Portland Japanese Garden, which was breathtakingly beautiful. We strolled through the tranquil paths, admiring the carefully tended trees and ponds. The garden was a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and we both felt rejuvenated after our visit.
Next on our list was the Oregon Zoo, which was a highlight of the trip. We marveled at the exotic animals, from the playful elephants to the majestic lions. We also took a ride on the zoo's train, which gave us a fun and unique perspective on the animals and their habitats. Of course, no trip to Portland would be complete without trying some of the amazing food the city is known for. We dined at several delicious restaurants, including Pok Pok, where we sampled some of the best Thai food we've ever had, and Salt & Straw, where we indulged in some of the creamiest ice cream imaginable. We also checked out the famous food trucks that dot the city, sampling everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches.
One of the most memorable parts of our trip was exploring the stunning landscape of the Oregon coast. We rented a car and drove out to Cannon Beach, where we were awed by the towering rock formations and the crashing waves. We also visited Haystack Rock, a famous landmark that rises out of the ocean and is home to a variety of sea birds and marine life. We even had the chance to dip our toes in the chilly waters of the Pacific Ocean. Throughout our trip, we were struck by the warmth and friendliness of the people we met in Portland. From the hotel staff to the restaurant servers to the strangers we chatted with on the street, everyone seemed genuinely happy to welcome us to their city. We felt a sense of community and belonging that made our trip all the more special.
As our trip drew to an end, my mom and I both agreed that our visit to Portland was one of the best vacations we had ever taken. We loved the beautiful scenery, the delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the locals. Most of all, we cherished the time we spent together, celebrating our bond as mother and daughter. We left with memories that will last a lifetime and a deep appreciation for the vibrant and welcoming city of Portland.
Greece
We also visited the beautiful Greek island of Santorini. When mom and I walked out of the airport, into the warm, salty air of Santorini, Greece, the view of the sparkling blue sea took our breath away. I knew we were in for an unforgettable Mother's Day celebration. We stayed in a stunning Villa Resort overlooking the ocean. We explored the island's charming towns, sipped local wines, and soaked up the sun on the black sand beaches.
Our first stop was our resort, and we were not disappointed. We stayed at the luxurious Grace Hotel, which overlooked the gorgeous sea and had a magnificent infinity pool. The staff was warm and welcoming, and the room was impeccable. It was an ideal place to relax and unwind from the bustle of everyday life. We spent the first day exploring the beautiful landscape of Santorini. We visited the famous town of Oia and walked along its narrow streets, lined with white houses with blue roofs. We took countless photos of the stunning sunsets and watched as the sky turned into a beautiful orange hue. We also visited the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, where we learned about the island's rich history and culture.
One of the things that made our trip truly unforgettable was the delicious food. Everywhere we went, we were treated to the most amazing Greek cuisine. We tried the famous gyros, stuffed vine leaves, fresh seafood, and of course, the sweet and flaky baklava. The locals were friendly and always willing to share their favorite dishes with us. We even took a cooking class where we learned how to make some of the traditional dishes ourselves!
On another day, we visited the Red Beach, known for its red sand and dramatic cliffs. We spent the morning lounging on the sand and sometimes the pool. We also took a boat tour around the island, where we saw the famous Caldera and visited the hot springs. The view from the boat was breathtaking, and the warm waters were a treat for our sore muscles. In the evenings, we would return to our resort and watch the sun go down over the sea from the comfort of our room or the poolside bar. We would talk for hours about our adventures, and my mom would share stories from when she was younger. It was a special time for us to bond and reconnect.
As the days went on, we realized that our trip to Santorini was not just a vacation, it was a journey of discovery. We discovered new places, new people, and new things about each other. We laughed, we explored, we relaxed, and we made memories. Our Mother's Day trip to Santorini was truly unforgettable. From the luxurious hotels to the stunning landscape, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, everything about the trip was perfect. We returned home with a newfound appreciation for each other and the world around us. We are going to Santorini again and relive the beautiful memories we created together.
Luxotic Retreats is hosting a retreat to Greece in August 2023, and I'm excited to go experience Greece again. The difference is this time, we'll not only have fun, but we’ll also be networking with professionals. Even though the retreats don't fall on Mother's Day, I'm getting a discount in the spirit of the Mother's Day celebration for booking with the code MOM.
Morocco
Last year we took our momcation to Africa and indulged in the exotic beauty of Morocco, where we stayed in a luxurious riad and explored the colorful markets and historic landmarks. Each of these destinations provided the perfect backdrop for spoiling my mom and giving her the ultimate luxury getaway. As first-time travelers to Africa, we were open to exploring it all on this vacation to celebrate Mother's Day. Little did we know that this trip would be one of the most memorable experiences we'd ever have.
From the moment we landed at the airport, we were impressed with the warm and friendly people of Morocco. The locals welcomed us with open arms and went out of their way to make us feel at home. We were pleased to find that the country's sanctioned language is Arabic, but most people also speak French and English. We were staying at one of the nicest resorts in Morocco, located in the deepwater city of Essaouira. The resort had everything we could ever ask for luxurious accommodation, a private beach, and world-class dining. We enjoyed lounging by the pool and belting on refreshing drinks. The resort also had a gym and spa where we indulged in some coddling treatments, I call it the" baby girl" treatment.
While we loved our resort, we also wanted to explore the megacity of Essaouira. We spent an entire day walking through the narrow streets of the city’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The medina was a bustling business with shops dealing everything from spices and sauces to apparel and crockery. We indeed stumbled upon an artisanal request where original artists were dealing with their handmade crafts. One of the highlights of our trip was the food. Moroccan cuisine is a unique mix of flavors and spices that we had never tasted before. We tried traditional dishes like tagine, a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, and couscous, a dish made with semolina and served with vegetables and meat. We also tried a variety of Moroccan sweets like baklava and chebakia.
We took a day trip to Marrakech, a vibrant city located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Marrakech was a sensory overload with its bustling streets, various souks, and lively squares. We visited the famous Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace with beautiful auditoriums and intricate architecture. We also visited the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. The landscape of Morocco was breathtaking. We drove through the Atlas Mountains and saw stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush denes. We also visited the Ouzoud Falls, located in the Middle Atlas Mountains. The waterfalls were stunning, and we even got to take a dip in the refreshing water.
Of course, no trip to Morocco would be complete without a visit to the beach. Essaouira's sand was pristine, with a white beach and clear water. We spent an entire day lounging on the beach and swimming in the ocean.
Our mother-daughter vacation to Morocco was everything we could have hoped for and more. We made lovely memories, tried new foods, and experienced a culture that was unlike anything we had ever seen before. It was the perfect way to celebrate Mother's Day, and I cannot wait to plan our next travel adventure together.
Every mother loves to be celebrated. Mother's Day is an occasion to celebrate the selfless love, sacrifices, and dedication of all the amazing mothers in the world who work tirelessly to nurture, protect and support their children. It is an opportunity to show our appreciation and gratitude for all that they do.
Still thinking of a perfect Mother's Day treat for your mom? Take her on that trip and let her see the world!!!
This year, I'm making it up a notch and planned a surprise vacation for us to Bali !!! where we'll immerse ourselves in the culture and enjoy the ultimate relaxation at a top-tier spa resort. Luxotic retreats do not only have a retreat scheduled for August in Bali, we also have luxotic travel planning to any destination of choice at any time. So If you've decided to go on that mother-daughter trip or a whole family vacation, rest assured we have the best all-inclusive offers for you.