Benjamin Vanderhorst Benjamin Vanderhorst

Fora vs. Amex: Why it’s Better to Book through a Fora Advisor

“Why should I book with Fora when I could just book through Amex?”

At Fora, this is one of the most common questions we get, along with…

“Aren’t the hotel perks the same? And what about that 5x points value? Why is booking with Fora better?”

And we’ve got answers. Read on to learn why booking travel with Fora (that’s us at BVDH Elite Travel) means a better booking & travel experience.

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Benjamin Vanderhorst Benjamin Vanderhorst

Trending in Travel: 2024's Must-Visit Spots

I am kicking off 2024 with a heavy dose of wanderlust. As a Fora Advisor, I can tap into my community of fellow travel advisors for data-driven intel on trending destinations, and we’ve mapped out a 2024 Hot List with our take on where to stay.

In 2024, expect rising stars (hola, Panama), as well as tried & true classics in heavy-hitter destinations like Japan. Read on to learn what’s trending in travel this year (plus where to stay, of course).

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Benjamin Vanderhorst Benjamin Vanderhorst

Where to Stay in Mayakoba, Mexico (luxury resorts near Cancun)

Dazzling beaches, lush lagoons, mesmerizing culture and a direct flight? There’s a reason I can't get enough of Riviera Maya, Mexico — specifically, the stretch of coastline known as Mayakoba.

This coveted resort enclave, located on 500+ acres of beachfront jungle, was once an untouched stretch of land dotted with mangroves and lagoons. In the 80s, investors acquired the land, eventually using it to build an environmentally conscious resort hot spot. The development's design prioritized preserving the native mangroves and jungle, and a biologist-ecologist oversaw much of the project.

But, with several standout resorts concentrated in one single complex, deciding where to stay is a challenge. Each hotel is spread out among the area's unique combination of lagoons and beachfront. But regardless of where your room sits — lagoon-side or on the beach — the vibe is serene, the views are unmatched and the experience is extra special, akin to an untapped secret.

After the jump, we break down the differences between the area's best resorts. Read on to decide which one is right for you.

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Benjamin Vanderhorst Benjamin Vanderhorst

8 Stellar Hotel Gyms

A fabulous hotel gym can make all the difference on your vacation. Travel is notorious for interrupting health routines, as it can can be difficult to find the time or a decent gym while away from home.

Luckily, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. Below are some of the best hotel gyms, designated as such due to their quality fitness equipment, diverse selection of group classes, fantastic amenities or impeccable views (a breathtaking landscape makes any workout more enjoyable). And of course, you can decide to forgo the gym altogether and hit the spa or cocktail bar — because that’s wellness, too.

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Benjamin Vanderhorst Benjamin Vanderhorst

9 Dreamy Hotels Perfect for A Babymoon

We’ll take any excuse for a getaway, but the impending arrival of a new baby seems like one of the very best we can think of.

Babymoons are popular for a reason — they offer parents-to-be a chance to unwind and get away from it all before the whirlwind of parenting begins. It’s a chance to reconnect and have important conversations leading up to such a big life change. Plus, it’s an opportunity for some well-deserved pampering (think spa treatments, languorous lunches and plenty of sun).

And while babymoons may not include the fullest of itineraries, it’s crucial to plan them thoughtfully. This starts with the right hotel, preferably one that is easy to reach, and offers plenty of amenities for the parents to be. Read on for several of our favorite resorts for a babymoon.

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Benjamin Vanderhorst Benjamin Vanderhorst

3 Reasons to Book with a Fora Advisor

Are you looking to level up your next trip?

Searching for personalized recommendations from someone who’s actually been there?

Maybe you’re hoping to save some time, and take the stress out of travel planning?

Or, you’re looking to score hotel perks on your next weekend away (or staycation, or solo trip, or honeymoon)?

Whatever your reason, Fora is your secret weapon. When you book with a Fora Advisor — a.k.a. me! — you benefit from expert itinerary planning, insider recs & killer hotel perks.

Intrigued? Read on for three reasons to book your next trip with a Fora Advisor. Then, connect with me to get started.

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