Rey Alton
Bellaire, TX
Travel Lifestyle Specialist
The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience. But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
Learn more about me.
The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience. But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than 25 years of travel industry experience, Rey specializes in providing knowledge-based guidance to corporate, government, higher education, and leisure travelers. Rey is committed to providing his clients with honest and straightforward advice throughout the travel planning process. He places a special emphasis on being responsive to his clients’ needs while making each client feel comfortable and equipped to make informed travel decisions. Rey thrives on helping people fulfill their travel goals and dreams. As an experienced world traveler who has visited six continents and 45 countries, Rey uses his first-hand knowledge to help guide and advise his clients. Rey has worked in the travel industry for more than 25 years and has experience with travel brands such as American Express, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, and Travel Leaders. A native Houstonian, Rey enjoys spending time with his young family, volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, and practicing yoga. Rey also serves as a frequent travel expert on local television networks, including ABC News-KTRK-13, Fox Morning News KRIV-26, and Great Day Houston-KHOU 11. He has been quoted in the New York Times, Travel Weekly, and CNN.com.Rey graduated from Hampton University with honors in 1995 with a degree in History.
Can Be Reached At
1-713-592-8000 ext:1
CHIANG MAI TRAVEL SPECIALIST
Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The city is famed for its ancient temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Chiang Mai also hosts vibrant festivals, like the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, and provides access to nearby natural attractions, including lush jungles and serene waterfalls.
Best time to visit Chiang Mai:
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to early April, when the weather is cooler and dry, perfect for exploring the city's attractions and natural surroundings.
Best hotels in Chiang Mai:
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
- Property Location: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is centrally located, a 15-minute walk from Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Warorot Market.
- Rooms: The 84 rooms feature minibars, Smart TVs, private balconies, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bathrooms.
- Amenities: Enjoy a full-service spa, outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center, and dining options. The resort also offers a business center, event space, and free self-parking.
Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel
- Property Location: Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel is centrally located, just a minute from Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and a 12-minute walk to Tha Phae Gate.
- Rooms: The 383 rooms feature minibars, Smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bathrooms with deep soaking tubs.
- Amenities: Enjoy a full-service spa, outdoor pool, sauna, and 24-hour fitness center. The hotel also offers dining options, a business center, and free valet parking.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
- Property Location: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is located in the serene countryside of Northern Thailand, surrounded by lush rice fields, just a short drive from Chiang Mai's city center.
- Rooms: Rooms at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai include 99 suites with private terraces, luxurious bedding, spacious layouts, deep soaking tubs, Smart TVs, and high-speed internet.
- Amenities: The resort offers a full-service spa, Lan Sai Village shopping boutiques, meeting rooms, a chef’s garden, and walking and cycling trails.
Chiang Mai's Festivals:
1. Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November): Celebrated with the release of thousands of paper lanterns into the sky, creating a stunning visual display.
2. Loy Krathong (November): Features floating decorated baskets on rivers and canals to honor the water goddess.
3. Songkran (April): Marks the Thai New Year with citywide water fights and traditional ceremonies.
4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February): Showcases colorful floral displays and parades in honor of the region's rich horticultural heritage.
5. Thai New Year (Songkran) (April 13-15): Involves street parties, water fights, and cultural events to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year.
Here are the top 10 activities to do in Chiang Mai:
1. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Explore this revered temple with panoramic views of the city.
2. Explore the Old City: Wander through ancient streets and visit historic temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.
3. Shop at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Enjoy vibrant shopping, local crafts, and street food at this popular market.
4. Experience the Elephant Nature Park: Interact with rescued elephants and learn about their rehabilitation.
5. Stroll Through the Chiang Mai Flower Festival: Marvel at the colorful floral displays and parades held annually.
6. Take a Thai Cooking Class: Discover traditional recipes and cooking techniques in a hands-on class.
7. Relax at a Traditional Thai Spa: Pamper yourself with massages and wellness treatments.
8. Visit the Jim Thompson House: Explore the museum dedicated to the American silk entrepreneur and his traditional Thai home.
9. Explore the Weekend Walking Streets: Enjoy the Saturday and Sunday markets with local food, crafts, and performances.
10. Hike in the Mae Sa Valley: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and waterfall visits in the scenic countryside.
B O N U S !
Here are the top 5 must-visit places in Chiang Mai:
1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: This iconic temple offers stunning views of Chiang Mai and holds great spiritual significance.
2. Chiang Mai Old City: Explore ancient temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, and experience the historic charm of the Old City.
3. Elephant Nature Park: Spend time with rescued elephants in a sanctuary dedicated to their care and rehabilitation.
4. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A vibrant market where you can shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and enjoy street food.
5. Chiang Mai Flower Festival: Held annually, this festival showcases spectacular floral displays and lively parades.
My Travel Albums
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
My Reviews
70 of 114 people found this review helpful
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent, he is patient with groups and always provides stellar customer service. The resorts are always fabulous and his recommendations on what to do when we arrive at our destinations make my vacations more enjoyable. I’ve counted on Rey to book fabulous vacations for over 10 years and he always delivers the best. I’ve always enjoyed the individual attention and care Rey provides his clients. He understands the apprehension that comes along with trying new places and is thorough and accommodating as a result. He’s also great at making suggestions on future vacations and I’ve never been disappointed when I follow his suggestions. Rey will remain my travel confidante for many years to come. He’s the best, hands down!
By
TC
from
San Antonio, Texas
Traveled to
Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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72 of 121 people found this review helpful
We have worked with Rey for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Most of our travel has been river cruises in Europe but last year we did a trip to South Africa. Rey is very thoughtful, thorough and responsive.
By
Randy
from
Houston
Traveled to
Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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62 of 108 people found this review helpful
Destination Wedding Planner
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
By
Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz
from
Houston, Texas
Traveled to
Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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63 of 112 people found this review helpful
Rey and the Almeda Travel family have been so good to my family in assisting us in all of our travel needs/goals from beginning to return. Rey has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism, patience,guidance, and quality service that is so difficult to find these days. We have trusted Almeda Travel for the last 5-6 years for our vacations and will continue to do so, I also strongly recommend if you’re looking for an agent/team that is knowledgeable and consumer responsive go with Almeda Travel!
By
Lady on the Go
from
Beaumont, Texas
Traveled to
Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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56 of 100 people found this review helpful
I have the opportunity to book travel with Rey at Alameda Travel several times over the past 5-8years. He is very informative and knowledgeable about different places to travel and the hospitality service companies in those areas. I have been very pleased with every interactions and trip we have been on.
By
Chris Cooper
from
Humble, Texas
Traveled to
Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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