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 RAI TRAVEL SPECIALIST
Wat Rong Khun - White Temple
Chiang Rai, in northern Thailand, is known for its striking temples like the White Temple and Blue Temple. It offers scenic landscapes and is a gateway to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Best time to visit Chiang Rai:The best time to visit Chiang Rai is from November to February when the weather is cool, dry, and perfect for exploring.
Best hotels in Chiang Rai:
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
- Property Location: Located in Chiang Saen, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is on a river, just minutes from Hall of Opium and Golden Triangle Park. It’s 1.6 miles from Golden Triangle Viewpoint and 1.9 miles from Wat Prathat Pukhao.
- Rooms: Enjoy one of 61 air-conditioned rooms with free minibar items, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies. Rooms also feature satellite TV, DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms with shower/tub combos.
- Amenities: Relax at the full-service spa or enjoy the outdoor pool, tennis courts, and sauna. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, concierge services, and wedding services.
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
- Property Location: In Chiang Saen, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is a rural retreat within a 5-minute drive of Hall of Opium and Golden Triangle Park. It’s 1.7 miles from Golden Triangle Viewpoint and 2 miles from Phra Chiang Saen Si Phaendin.
- Rooms: Choose from 15 uniquely decorated rooms with refrigerators, minibars, private balconies, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs and separate showers.
- Amenities: Enjoy the spa, outdoor pool, spa tub, and bike rentals. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, concierge services, and an arcade/game room.
Chiang Rai's festivals:
1. Chiang Rai Flower Festival (December) - Features vibrant flower displays and cultural performances at Singha Park.
2. King Mengrai Festival (January) - Celebrates the founder of the Lanna Kingdom with parades and cultural events.
3. Songkran Festival (April) - Thai New Year festival with water fights, parades, and traditional ceremonies.
4. Loi Krathong Festival (November) - Involves floating decorative baskets on water and lantern releases.
5. Mae Fah Luang Festival (January) - Honors Princess Mother Mae Fah Luang with cultural activities and exhibitions.
6. Hill Tribe Festivals (Various Dates) - Celebrates the traditions of local hill tribes with costumes, dances, and cultural events.
Here are the top 10 activities to enjoy in Chiang Rai:
1. Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
- Explore this stunning, contemporary Buddhist temple known for its intricate white design and unique artwork.
2. Explore the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
- Admire the striking blue and gold architecture and elaborate murals at this vibrant temple.
3. Discover the Golden Triangle
- Visit the historic area where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and learn about its opium trade history at the Hall of Opium Museum.
4. Wander through the Singha Park
- Enjoy scenic views, flower gardens, and recreational activities in this expansive park.
5. Relax at the Black House (Baan Dam)
- Tour this unique museum and art complex featuring dark-themed architecture and a collection of traditional and contemporary art.
6. Explore the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park
- Discover Thai art, history, and cultural exhibits in the park dedicated to Princess Mother Mae Fah Luang.
7. Take a Boat Ride on the Mekong River
- Experience the Mekong River’s scenic beauty with a boat ride and view the border areas of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
8. Visit the Golden Triangle Viewpoint
- Enjoy panoramic views of the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, and visit nearby attractions.
9. Hike in Phu Chi Fa
- Trek to this mountain viewpoint for breathtaking sunrise views over the mist-covered hills and valleys.
10. Explore the Hill Tribe Villages
- Visit local hill tribe communities, such as the Akha, Karen, and Lahu, to learn about their traditional lifestyles and crafts.
Top 5 must-do activities in Chiang Rai:
1. White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) - This iconic, contemporary Buddhist temple is renowned for its stunning white architecture and intricate details. It's a must-see for its unique and artistic design.
2. Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) - Known for its striking blue exterior and intricate interior murals, this vibrant temple offers a visually captivating experience.
3. Golden Triangle - Visit the historic region where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Explore the Hall of Opium Museum to learn about the area's opium trade history.
4. Black House (Baan Dam) - This unique art and cultural complex features dark-themed architecture and a fascinating collection of traditional and modern art.
5. Singha Park - Enjoy the scenic beauty of this large park with its flower gardens, recreational activities, and stunning landscapes.
My Travel Albums
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
My Reviews
71 of 115 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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