Avalon Reef Club, Isla Mujeres: hotel review

Shannon's Travel Bag: travel tips for women

 SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: travel tips for women

Shannon Skinner visits the Avalon Reef Club, Isla Mujeres, Mexico that’s an island unto itself.

 

 

 

I have visited Isla Mujeres, Mexico on three separate occasions over the past two years. It has a wonderful energy and beauty that keeps calling me back. One of the other reasons I love returning is because the locals are so “sunny” — they smile A LOT. It was no exception with the staff at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, whose sunny dispositions and wide-open smiles did not disappoint.

Shannon Skinner reviews Avalon Reef Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Photo: Aerial view of the resort located on an enchanting private islet that is attached to Isla Mujeres by a small wooden bridge. I felt like I had my own private island. Courtesy Avalon Reef Club

Located on the secluded island of Isla Mujeres, (“Woman Island”), just a 20 mins. ferry ride from Cancun, the Avalon Reef Club, a luxury hotel, sits on its own private islet.  After arriving on Isla Mujeres,  I took a taxi from the pier to the hotel, which took all of five minutes through the town. We drove along a small wooden bridge across a shallow channel of water to get to the property. Once there, I felt like I had my own private island. Given the name, it is as enchanting as one might expect.

Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, the property offers a spectacular view of the water, amazing sunsets, enjoyment of powdery beaches, rejuvenation of the spirit and romance for those looking for a getaway.

Shannon Skinner reviews Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres Mexico

Photo: spacious and modern lobby, complete with a billiards table; courtesy Avalon Reef Club

The amenities are ideal for weddings, retreats, seminars and conferences. I had attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day three-day conference (March 8-10 2012) that was held in the property’s event centre. I attended representing my web TV show, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner, that was the event’s media partner. The event centre itself was located outside the main building, and is circular in shape and bright with lots of windows. (Considering Isla Mujeres means the “Women Island,” I thought it was the perfect setting for such an event.) We were well taken care of by the staff. So if you run retreats or seminars for women, I highly recommend this venue.

Shannon Skinner reviews Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres

Photo: the event centre; courtesy Avalon Reef Club

The hotel offers standard hotel rooms and suites, and also Spanish-style studios that have a few alcoves and a gazebo situated next to the water with a breathtaking view. All rooms in the tower have an ocean view. My room was a standard one. It had everything I needed for my five night stay, including the soothing sound of the rolling waves underneath my window. For small groups, the studios might be an ideal choice.

To me, a hotel’s staff can make or break a stay. The staff at the Avalon Reef Club were friendly, courteous and helpful. In fact, one of the staff at the desk graciously went beyond the line of duty to help me book transportation to the airport from the ferry.

Shannon Skinner reviews Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Photo: the Spanish-style studios along the water; courtesy Avalon Reef Club

There are a few restaurant/bar options on-site offering tasty Mexican and international food, although the service was a bit tardy. However, I was in no rush so my patience was not tested.

The hotel’s natural swimming pool looked so inviting, though I did not have time to dip my toe in it, let alone enjoy it, sadly.

The only drawback about this venue to me is that it is quiet at night (especially if you enjoy nightlife). But, depending on your values, this may be a benefit. The hotel is only a 10 mins. walk to bars and restaurants, and the benefit is you can retreat to peace and quiet after a night out.

Shannon Skinner reviews Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres

Photo: the beaches are sugar-white and feel great under the feet, especially on early morning walks; courtesy Avalon Reef Club

The hotel manager, Diana Arriaga, speaks English and is highly resourceful and eager to ensure you enjoy your stay.

For solo women: consider not wearing the wristband that the hotel supplies and instead keeping it in your wallet and showing it when you are required to, rather than walking around the town with it on your wrist. Just be aware the town is small and the wristband does identify where you are staying.

And a note about safety: while there is fear about traveling to Mexico, I have felt perfectly safe traveling solo as a woman to this island on three occasions now. When I asked many of the locals why they live on the island, they all said they felt “safe.” A contributing factor, I learned, is the presence of the Mexican navy base.

Price From: $95-120+ Cdn (inquire about rates and specials)

Who goes? Singles, couples and families.

Style/Character: beach-resort, bed & breakfast/European plan

Service/Staff: Friendly, resourceful, helpful, English-speaking staff – and they smiled a lot.

Rooms: Standard, suites and studios.

Food/Drink: A few restaurant and bar options.

Value for Money: yes

Women traveling solo-friendly: Yes. Consider not wearing the wristband and instead keeping it on your wallet and showing it when you are required to. Inquire about single supplements for hotel rooms.

Family-friendly: yes

Amenities: great for holding weddings, seminars, retreats or conferences, especially for women. There is an on-site spa/salon.

Disabled Access: yes

Local shopping: Lots of shopping is walking distance, in the town’s center.

Where to eat: In the town’s centre, check out Como-No (“Why Not?”), an inviting restaurant/bar that is owned/operated by Canadian Penny Deming, which has a terrific roof patio and entertainment. Barlito offers healthy, inexpensive food. La Luna is a spacious bar/restaurant (Canadian owned/operated).

What not to miss: The Mayan temple to the goddess Ixchel, on the south end of the island.

Nightlife: Check out La Luna Bar and Como-No (rooftop patio) in the town’s centre.

Reservations: http://avalonvacations.com/hotels/avalon_reef_isla_mujeres/

Location: north beach, Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

 

© Shannon Skinner 2012


I, the Reluctant Speaker

I recall reading some years ago that there are three fears in life:

1. Fear of public speaking

2. Fear of dying, and

3. Fear of dying while public speaking

Cheeky, I know. But, this is exactly how I felt for many years – until recently.

As a professional communicator, I have spent two decades in the field of public relations. I also spent those twenty years hiding from professional public speaking. A big reason was fear (“terror” is a more accurate word), but not all: I simply did not enjoy getting up in front of people and being the centre of attention. Period.

Now, anytime I tell someone about this, they look at me like I have 8 horns growing out of my head. Apparently, I come across as being extroverted (like extroverts are supposed to enjoy public speaking), but, truthfully, inside I feel more like an introvert.

On my recent trip to Isla Mujeres, Mexico,  I had some time to reflect (not much, though, as it was packed with activity, plus I got a horrible chest cold). I believe my fear of public speaking stemmed from my first public address in elementary school when I stood up in front of the class and completely forgot my speech. As I stood there as blank as a sheet of paper, the entire class burst into laughter (hey, I would too!). Feeling like the village idiot, I vowed to never let that happen again.

So, I hid from it.

Well, fast-forward to my twenties and thirties, when I worked in the PR agency world for a number of years, I would find any excuse I could to get out of doing major presentations because I was far too nervous (I would call in sick, or conveniently have a scheduling conflict, or come up with some other excuse). I would have rather hammered toothpicks underneath my nails.

In later years, I took a teaching position at a university with one goal in mind: to get over my fear. It helped, but I still did not enjoy getting up in front of people to speak.

So, I still hid from it.

In my relatively new role as an internet TV talk show host, I had to get over my fear of being in front of the camera. Since launching my new career, I continually get asked to speak to groups, on a variety of topics. And I’ve been saying “yes” – willingly.

I realized my reluctance over the years did not have as much to do with speaking in front of a group as it did about having the right topic to speak about. I just needed the right topic and, vavoom

I recall one of my teachers saying “if you have a gift, it is your responsibility to share it with the world” (thank you, John Demartini). When I got clear that I had a message — listen to your heart’s desires — I realized that this one of the most important aspects of life to me: to listen and follow my heart’s desires — no matter what. And because that is the thing I want deeply, it is also the greatest challenge I have been given. Why? So I strive to learn…and share…

Even having written a book on the subject: “The Whispering Heart: Your Inner Guide to Creativity,” I still have not yet mastered it.

But what I do know, and what I have a lot of practice doing, is striving to follow my heart, getting over the fear to do so, and finding the tools to help me get back on my path when I veer off.

I believe I have been given two gifts: 1. Ability to communicate, and 2. A message worthy of sharing. I also believe it is my responsibility to share the wisdom I have gleaned, including the mistakes and failures. Besides, it’s all a lesson.

When I attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event, I gave a few introductory words and shared a story worthy of hearing, which I share here in this video (below).

My point is this: if you have a fear of public speaking, just know this: so do I.  If I can do it, so can you.

I, the Reluctant Speaker….

© Shannon Skinner 2012


special report International Women’s Day We Move Forward 2012, Isla Mujeres, Mexico

I recently attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event, which took place March 8-10, 2012 on Isla Mujeres (“Woman Island”), Mexico. I asked a number of the speakers and participants this question: What does it mean to be a woman?

Here’s what they had to say:

The wind proved to be somewhat of a challenge for recording (hey, it’s an island after all!).

Most of the footage was shot on location at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, and also at the island’s north end at the Mayan ruins of the temple Ixchel.

My show, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner, is the proud media partner.


Moving forward, using all my breath…

This past week, I was in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, attending the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event. The reason this event was so significant is its location: Isla Mujeres means “Woman Island” in Spanish. The event brought together dozens of women from across Canada, the United States, Mexico and other destinations, to hear some incredible speakers and storytellers, share their visions, and celebrate being a woman.

I attended representing “Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner,” the event’s media partner. When I first heard about this event several months ago, I wanted to be involved, since I had been to Isla Mujeres and fell in love with it, and resonated with the concept of bringing women together for IWD.

The event, which had a spiritual retreat flavour, took place at the wonderful Avalon Reef Club resort and focused on the central theme: moving forward.

(photo: courtesy of Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, Mexico)

It was a success!  So many people involved deserve a special thanks — far too many to be named individually in one blog post. So I will say KUDOS to ALL involved. And one big round of applause for Janeen Halliwell, who conceived and spearheaded the event.

Janeen Halliwell, We Move Forward 2012 International Womens Day event

(photo: Janeen Halliwell)

The event kicked off with cocktails at CoMoNo (“Why Not?”), owned and operated by Canadian Penny Deming. Each day started with a mindful movement session conducted by wonderful practitioners, followed by a yummy, healthy breakfast (sponsored by Barlito’s), then a day filled with speakers and storytellers.The featured speakers really touched hearts – thanks to: Monica Parker, Kristin Crowe, Judith Jenya and Elizabeth Mahon.

The facilitators were amazing: Janeen Halliwell, Christie Andrus and Cathy & Ed McKenzie.

 

Janeen Halliwell and Katie, closing cermonies, We Move Forwrad 2012, Isla Mujeres, Mexico

(photo: Janeen and Katie, closing ceremony dinner)

The storytellers added another layer of depth and entertainment – kudos to: Alison Sawyer Current, Molly Fisher, Pamela Maddox, and Lorna Tychostup. One of the highlights was a special ceremony conducted by Mayan Elder, Mary Coba, who took us through a traditional Mayan ceremony, honouring the earth and elements.

Mary Coba, Mayan Elder, ceremony, We Move Forward 2012, International Women's Day

(photo: Mary Coba, Mayan elder, conducting traditional Mayan ceremony)

Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, Mexico, We Move Forward 2012

(photo: the room where the event was held at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres)

There was a fiesta in the town square, dancing and a wonderful closing ceremony and dinner. And, of course, a little time to enjoy the sights.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico, We Move Forward 2012

(photo: the waves are soothing)

Hats off to the Avalon Reef Club for outstanding service, and especially the hotel’s general manager, Diana Arriaga.

Many women had breakthroughs during the event.  I gleaned some of my own personal insights that I will share over the next while, but in the meantime, here’s something to whet your appetite:

1. It’s not always about business, even when it is business: Even when we attend events to network and potentially land business for ourselves, sometimes the gift you get from a business association may not business-related at all. Sometimes it is as simple as an idea of a way of life for yourself, or a new friend.

2. Everyone is needed: No matter what your background is, what clothing size you wear, what preferences you have, or what job or career you have, everyone has a role in society and we need everyone to make it happen.

3. Sometimes you just need to rest: Unfortunately, I caught a nasty cold mid-way through the week on Isla Mujeres. I did something unusual while traveling: I rested, so I could let my body heal.

Overall, my personal take-away from the event is this: I’m moving forward, using all my breath (as sung by Modern English) … I have a bigger dream and vision for myself, and having attended this event and gleaned some extraordinary insights, I will put all my energy into those forward steps.

Give this a whirl: so what steps will you take this week to move forward with your dream?

Stay tuned for more to come in the series.

 

© Shannon Skinner 2012


What it means to be a w-o-m-a-n

Welcome to my new blog! This site is “under construction” and I decided not to wait to share my voice and words, so here it is…

As I prepare to attend next week’s We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event on Isla Mujeres (“Woman Island”), Mexico, I find myself reflecting on what it means to be a “woman.”

Perhaps the meaning is unique for every woman. Or, maybe there is an underlying meaning shared by every woman on the planet. Perhaps it simply comes down to individual values.

One dictionary definition of a woman is this: an adult female human. Somehow, though, that does not capture the “essence” of what a woman is, or how she shows up in the world.

It is far more than that.

Yesterday, my niece had a baby, which makes me a “Great Auntie.” I’m excited to have this new introduction into our family – so special. Let’s face it, giving birth is an experience unique to the female gender. So, certainly having the ability to have a baby is very womanly. My niece is a young woman and perhaps what she will deem “being a woman” will be defined by this experience; only time will tell.

But what about women who choose not to, or simply can’t, have children? Are they any less womanly than a female who chooses to procreate?

No.

And is the stay-at-home mom any more womanly than the career-type who is determined to be fully independent, run a business or have a high-powered job, and maybe travel the world, regardless of whether she has a family? Or vice versa?

I don’t think so.

Being a woman is not just about looks or our physique either, although, hey, the anatomy type is certainly a criteria.

Women are: girlfriends, wives, mothers, daughters, granddaughters, grandmothers, sisters, nieces and aunts – and Great Aunts. They are also healers and nurturers. They not only create a family, they hold a family together. A community is created by women. Women are the glue that holds our society together.

I’m looking forward to the We Move Forward 2012 event, celebrating women, on the “island of women.” There is a fantastic line-up of speakers, storytellers, healers – and women from all over coming together to form “community.” My talk show, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner is the proud media partner, and I also look forward to blogging about my experience – and insights. So, stay tuned!

In the meantime, I’ll leave you with this video:

Bette Midler singing “I’m a Woman”

 

© Shannon Skinner 2012


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I am hosting a tour of India for extraordinary women, in partnership with Sunspots Holidays, this September 2024.Join me as we explore India's stunning architecture, such as the renowned Taj Mahal, royal palaces and ancient forts. Discover Indian culinary delights, cultural places, authentic textiles and learn about everyday way of life of Indians, including yoga, through a female lens.We will explore 5 cities, as well as India's breathtaking desert region, Rajasthan. As well, we are now offering an *optional* tour extension of Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world and the spiritual capital of India, after the completion of our main tour, adding a 6th city to our itinerary.I am excited to share with you the India I fell in love with. Join me!🔸women's tour🔸Sept. 16-27, 2024🔸12 days/11 nights - 5 cities🔸Delhi-Agra-Jaipur-Jodphur-Udaipur🔸Optional Varanasi tour extension post-tour (2 days/1 night)🔸small group Presented by: Extraordinary Women TV. Book this exclusive offer now.For details, visit: ShannonSkinner.com.Contact: info@shannonskinner.com. *Tour can only be purchased with Sunspots Holidays (TICO registration 1030981).#shannonskinner #extraordinarywomentv #travel #india #toursforwomen #shannontravels ... See MoreSee Less
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I recently had the opportunity to speak at a travel industry event, “Evolving Tourism Landscape in India,” hosted by the India High Commissioner in Ottawa and India's Consul General in Toronto.I spoke about my northeast India travels and why a Bengal Tiger is calling me back.Photo: Indo Canada Chamber of Commerce (thank you) ... See MoreSee Less
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India is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. Take it from me, a travel writer.This September, I am hosting a guided tour of India for extraordinary women, in partnership with Sunspots Holidays. Join me as we explore India's stunning architecture, such as the renowned Taj Mahal, royal palaces and ancient forts. Discover Indian culinary delights, cultural places, authentic textiles and learn about everyday way of life of Indians, including yoga, through a female lens.We will explore 5 cities, as well as India's breathtaking desert region, Rajasthan.I am excited to share with you the India I fell in love with. Join me!🔸women's tour🔸Sept. 16-27, 2024🔸12 days/11 nights - 5 cities🔸Delhi-Agra-Jaipur-Jodphur-Udaipur🔸small group Presented by: Extraordinary Women TV. Book this exclusive offer now.For details, visit: ShannonSkinner.com.Contact: info@shannonskinner.com. *Tour can only be purchased with Sunspots Holidays (TICO registration 1030981).#shannonskinner #extraordinarywomentv #travel #india #toursforwomen #shannontravels ... See MoreSee Less
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