It’s all in the details !!

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I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “it’s all in the details”. This is also true when it comes to your vacation experiences. Whether it is a destination wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, life milestone, girl’s weekend getaway, or any other type of vacation experience, truly it is all in the details. Let’s take a look at some of the details that can really enhance your vacation experience, or on the other hand, be problematic if you overlook them!

Let’s start with details to enhance your vacation!

Every vacation experience can be enhanced with additional details. For example, on your honeymoon, consider things like planning a romantic dinner on the beach, a couples massage, or dinner served in your room on the balcony or terrace. Many resorts offer some fabulous honeymoon amenities for guests that have been married within an allotted time frame. Tip: If you are a honeymooner, it is important to take a long proof of your recent marriage so you can get the honeymoon amenities!

Are you taking a cruise? There are some details to really enhance your cruise experience! Spa treatments can often be reserved in advance as can some specialty dining options. While on your cruise how about a champagne breakfast on your balcony? You can also have birthday, honeymoon, and anniversary celebrations onboard. Don’t forget to think about planning your shore excursions in advance! Many of the popular activities and excursions are for smaller groups and do sell out in advance.

If you are going on a family vacation to a resort or destination that provides opportunities for character visits or meals (think Disney or Sesame Street Experiences at Beaches) make sure to schedule them well in advance as they are very popular and do sell out. There are also things to consider like children’s programs on ships and at resorts, toys, diapers, and the list goes on. Some resorts have partnerships that will provide toys and baby or children essentials.

Now let’s look at the details that can become problematic if not taken care of properly!

The name on your booking must EXACTLY match the name on your passport. Airlines are very particular about this and it is an expensive mistake if made.

Make sure your passport is good for 6 months past the date of travel. There is nothing worse than getting to the airport and not being allowed to board because your passport expires too soon after travel.

Credit Cards are another important detail when you travel. First, make sure to use an actual credit card, not a prepaid card or a debit card. Secondly, make sure you notify your credit card company of your travel dates and destination. It isn’t fun when your card gets denied in another country and you have no other form of payment and must try to call your credit card company.

Do you have any special needs with regards to Medical, dietary, mobility, sleeping? These must be noted prior to travel so the proper details can be attended to and arranged to make your vacation experience a good one. Most cruise lines and resorts can accommodate most special needs with advanced notification. As a note, I know that for people who live every day with themselves, they don’t think of certain things as special needs. If you have any possible special need, please discuss it in advance so there are no surprises.

 

This is a topic I could literally discuss for days! There are many details to be considered when planning your vacation experience! I hope this has given you an idea of a few of them!

Happy Travels,

Time to plan !!

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As we approach summer, it’s time to think about your travel plans for the rest of the year!  Now is the time to think about your holiday travel, whether it is to celebrate the holiday, or celebrate your very own special occasion.  Are you getting married this fall or around the holidays and have yet to plan your honeymoon?  Are you celebrating a life milestone this year?  Are you thinking about taking the family on that holiday vacation this year so you don’t have holiday stress at home?  Do you like to wait until closer to the end of the year to take your vacation time?   Whatever the occasion for your travel, now is the time to plan!

Here are some fun ideas you may not have considered for your travels that coincide with the holiday season!

Christmas Markets in Europe – these are fabulous and amazing!  River Cruising is one option to see multiple Christmas markets on your vacation.  Another option is making them a destination vacation.  For example, Spain, Germany, and Austria all have great Christmas markets, as do many other European countries.  Some of my favorites are the markets in Barcelona, Berlin, Vienna, Prague, and Brussels.  The Christmas markets typically start the week of Thanksgiving and run through Christmas.

Ski vacations – it doesn’t have to be just about the slopes!  Of course the slopes are the main attraction for skiers, but the ski vacations of today can be a romantic getaway for 2 or a great family trip for everyone.  Some of the lodges have hot tubs en suite, spas on site, and offer romance packages.   Did you know that some resorts have ski concierges that will warm your ski boots and transport your gear for you?  If you are looking for a family vacation, there are resorts and slopes specifically designed with the family and children in mind.  Remember, there are some fabulous ski destinations outside the US as well.  If you are looking for a little international adventure, think about skiing in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria, Argentina, or Canada.

Costa Rica adventure awaits you!  Costa Rica is best visited between November and April!   Costa Rica has everything from hot springs and volcanoes, to rainforests!   Zip lining, hiking, surfing, and sport fishing just to name a few more options.   You can visit multiple areas of the country or stay in one area for more destination immersion.  You can visit the Nicoya Peninsula for a more quiet nature loving experience, or visit the Guanacaste and Arenal regions for a little adventure and more activity.  Yes, of course there are also beaches in Costa Rica, some are black sand (remember, there are volcanoes there), some are more typical beaches.  Are you looking for quiet romance?  Are you in search of family fun?  This is one destination that can offer it all for you!

Holidays in the sun – of course you can go to Mexico or the Caribbean and bask in the sun, but there are other sunny winter destinations as well!

How about a holiday down under?  While the holiday season here can be a bit chilly, November and December are summer months in Australia and New Zealand!  If you have the time (and of course the budget), consider visiting one of your bucket list destinations during the holiday season.  Yes, I know, I am assuming that Australia and / or New Zealand are on your bucket list!  Aren’t they?

I hope these ideas spark your curiosity!   The world is a place meant to be explored, and I am here to help you!

Happy Travels,

Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso – Riviera Maya

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My assistant Emer was in Mexico with her husband Neal earlier this month.   I’ve asked Emer to provide us with a review of her vacation.
Here is the review from Emer!

Kelley, as you know, right before you left for Mexico, Neal and I had just returned from a 5 day paradise trip at the Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso, Riviera Maya.  We had previously had only one experience with an all inclusive resort on our Honeymoon – many moons ago.

We flew into Cancun airport, and it was only about a 45 minute drive to the resort by pre-arranged transportation.  Once we got there, I was surprised by the size of the property – there are several different Iberstar hotels on property, some are family friendly, ours was the Adult ONLY Grand hotel. The drive around property was beautiful with lush trees and well maintained grounds.

         

The Lobby area of the Grand Hotel is stunning – cool, airy, tiled floors and tasteful decor.
Upon arrival we were warmly greeted with a fresh towel and a welcome cocktail. The staff is very professional and courteous.
We had arrived early so our room was not quite ready, we were invited to visit the Lunch Buffet by the pool.  Our patio table looked out on the ocean.
The assortment of food was unbelievable – there was a fresh seafood buffet with Lobster tails, Jumbo Shrimp. Crab claws and many different salads and side dishes for anyone’s taste.  In addition, there was a hot cooked buffet line and a full dessert bar to boot.  Needless to say we went there regularly.
  

There are several restaurants(Italian, French, Japanese and Surf and Turf) on the property along with two different buffet style restaurants.  We tried them all and each one was outstanding – no complaints here about the food or service.

Our room was an oceanfront with balcony – really beautiful and tastefully decorated.
After a few minutes our butler arrived to review the resort amenities and room features, and to insure that we were satisfied with our amenities.   We had been able to pre-order our comfort requests including mini bar preferences, spa appointments, restaurant reservations and desired pillow menu online prior to arrival, and everything was perfect.
  

The beach was right outside our room, it was paradise with luxury lounge chairs and beds, under shaded grass umbrellas.  Staff came around continously to freshen drinks and take care of any other requests you had.  We were spoiled..!!!  We booked a couple of Spa treatments that were out of this world !!

We got to see several beach wedding photo shoots while we were on the beach, it seemed like the perfect place to get married.  We chatted to a wedding party one evening at dinner and they were having a great time, they said everything was outstanding.


We also booked a couple of excursions
off property including a Catamaran          snorkeling trip and a Pro-fishing trip.
Thanks to Kelley we had booked these through one of Kelley’s reputable companies prior to leaving.

We thoroughly enjoyed both, especially for me the snorkeling.  The Ocean was perfect.

 

One of the things I most appreciated about this resort was that it never felt crowded.  Because of the size of the property and the number of amenities, everything was spread out.  I loved walking through the hotel as it was cool, airy and quiet.  Also, even though we don’t personally play Golf, other guests were commenting on the world class golf course on property.  We had a restful vacation and would have loved some more time.

I would definitely go there again and this time, I would stay longer and also do a full day tour of the Mayan Ruins – I heard fantastic things about that trip.

Until we go back, I can dream of paradise……..

I don’t know about you, but Emer has been successful in making me want to go back again… Thanks Emer!

Safe Travels,

5 more of my favorite Apps for travel.

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Since I do travel quite a bit, I rely on some great travel apps to keep me organized, informed, and connected.  I use many different apps and I am always trying different apps out to see which ones can be of service to me and to you!  I’d like to tell you about 5 must have apps that I am really a fan of!

Google Translate –
Google translate is a great feature for both desk top computers and as an app on your smartphone.  I love this app, and guess what – it’s free!  Google Translate will translate around 80 languages!  Can you even name 80 languages?  I’m not sure I can!  You can speak, type, or write, and the app will respond in the target language!

Viber – 
Viber is a great app for free phone calls and texts; you can also send pictures and video.  Another great feature is that not only can you use it on Wi-Fi (certainly best international option), you can use it over 3G as well for free.  There is also a paid service, Viber Out, for calls to non-viber land lines, and mobile numbers.  The app syncs with your phone contact list and will automatically let you know which of your friends already has Viber.  You can also use Viber with groups of up to 100; could be great for your group of family or friends traveling together!

Xe Currency –
I use Xe Currency on my desktop all of the time checking for currency exchange rates; now I have it as an app too.  This is a great tool for travel, both before you leave and during travel.   Since currency rates can change daily, this is an excellent option for having the most up to date exchange rates.  With the XE Currency App, you can access live exchange rates, view historical charts, and calculate prices on your smartphone or tablet.  This is a free app and available on a variety of platforms.

Packing Pro –
This is an amazing must have travel app for people that are obsessed with their packing!  You can create lists or use templates they have already created; they also have sample packing lists for your reference.   You can import / export lists, share lists among devices, print your lists, email your lists, and much more.  This is a quick, simple, reliable and completely customizable packing app.
Cruise Planners Mobile App – My Trips  

(of course I have saved the best for last!)
MyTrips is a great option from my website (www.cruisevacationsandmore.com ) or as Cruise Planners Mobile, a mobile app from your app store. This app is exclusively designed by Cruise Planners for our clients.  It provides you access to your vacation information and allows you to book right from the website or app.  It’s an innovative way to have me with you all of the time!  You can book your insurance, shore excursions, and share your vacation plans with others.  Once you have your vacation booked with me, I’ll send you your MyTrips log-in information and you’ll be able to access all sorts of information about your vacation.

I hope you’ll try some of these apps!   If you have any other apps that you love for travel, please feel free to share them with me!

Safe Travels,

What do your photos say ??

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what do your pictures say?  Do your pictures tell the story of your special event or vacation?  When it comes to travel, our pictures help us to recreate the memories that may have been either long forgotten, or are a blur due to all of the excitement of the day or your trip.  With social media such as Facebook and Instagram, we have the ability to get our pictures and our excitement out to everyone so quickly!  You know I am a big fan of Facebook and post pictures quite often!  I am getting better at Instagram, but have a ways to go with that!

The one thing I firmly believe in is if you are having a special event such as a wedding, anniversary celebration, life milestone celebration or any other event, the services of a professional photographer should definitely be included!  While we all love our selfies and our camera phones, there is something to be said for the professional!

My friend Jen is an amazing photographer and I asked her if she wouldn’t mind sharing a few insider secrets or tips with us.   Jen is a travel enthusiast who has visited some very exciting destinations such as Israel, Peru, and Nicaragua.  Jen is also the owner of Jen Brazeal Photography.  Since I’m attending the Romance Travel Forum next week, I’ve asked Jen to share some of her thoughts on the trends in wedding photography.

Wedding Photography Trends by Jen Brazeal Photography

1.  The First Sight – This is when the Bride and Groom get to see each other before the Ceremony and here are some amazing reasons why it’s being done!
The bride and groom are not so stressed seeing each other, and they get to have a few private moments together before all the guests arrive.

We are able to take all photographs before the wedding. This allows for a quick and smooth transition to the reception.
The couple gets to see each other for the first time alone, instead of in front of hundreds of people. They can greet each other and say things in a manner that wouldn’t be possible for the first time at the altar.
The couple tends to relax and therefore has a more genuine look of amazement and joy on their faces the first time they lay eyes on each other!
We can plan for all the natural lighting we need to get amazing pictures! In order to have beautiful, clear, crisp photos, we need natural light.
This option may not be for you, I understand.  If you don’t have the time it takes, I would suggest an After Session. This is when the bride and groom dress back up the day after the wedding and we have an entire session dedicated to getting creative images without the pressure and demands of the wedding day.

2.  Wedding Day Slideshow – this is when your photographer makes a slideshow of the photos they JUST took at your wedding and put them together on their laptop to set up and show guests.  A great, “real time” experience and speedy turnaround is a huge draw for brides

3.  USB drives – Instead of the usual CD or DVD that can be scratched or you may not even have a DVD drive on your computer anymore, photographers are giving out custom USB drives for storage.  Or even digital downloads straight from an online gallery!

In the future, I’ll get Jen to share some of her insight on how we can take better vacation pictures ourselves!

If you would like to see more of her work, or learn more about her company and what they have to offer, please visit her website at http://www.jbrazeal.com .  She can also be found on Facebook – Jen Brazeal Photography or by email at Jen@JBrazeal.com Take some great pictures this weekend!!

Safe Travels,

I dream of Fiji

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Do you dream of Fiji?                                                                          All Fiji photos credit to Tracy Bonetti

Fiji is one of those destinations that people do dream about!  It is a gorgeous South Pacific destination that can be more in reach than some people realize.  Many people also don’t realize that Fiji is not just a single island, but a group of islands, 333 to be exact.  (Most of the islands remain uninhabited due to the lack of fresh water.) Destination Weddings, Honeymoons, Anniversary, Life Milestones, and Romantic getaways are perfect for Fiji!  Fiji is famous for its soft coral diving, white sand beaches and pristine natural environment.   Fiji is a leader in eco-tourism.

Fiji is located in the heart of the South Pacific.  Fiji is a 10 hour flight from Los Angeles; Los Angeles is the only mainland US airport with non-stop flights in to Fiji.  You can also fly to Fiji from Honolulu in about 5 hours.  (Can you imagine a combination Hawaii and Fiji trip?!)  Fiji is also the perfect stop to or from Australia or New Zealand!

Fiji is a year-round destination; the most popular time to visit is during the peak dry season of July – September.  The dry season is actually June – October and wet season is November – April.  Shoulder season is May-June and October. The dry season is mild, with temperatures reaching a high of 84 degrees. The wet season can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching a high of 88 degrees. While rain can occur sporadically during this season, it is typically followed by sunshine.  As a note, the wet season is also typhoon season.

Fiji is well known as a world premier dive destination with year round sunlight and warm waters. Activities abound in Fiji if you want an active DestinationWedding /Honeymoon, Anniversary, Life Milestone, and Romantic getaways    It offers superb golf courses, tennis, water-skiing, wind surfing, sailing, fishing, bird watching, horse riding, rugby, soccer and cricket, and so much more. A once volcanic area, it is home to rugged mountains, lush green rainforest, waterfalls and remote villages.

The influences of Pacific, Indian, European and Chinese cultures have turned Fiji in to the meltingpot of the South Pacific.  The influences are seen in the food, architecture, language and religion.
Fiji offers a huge variety of choice in accommodation styles, from five-star resorts with an international flavor, to secluded, traditional “bures,” to thatched cottages on private beaches and everything in between.

Fiji and the surrounding islands all have their own special characteristics.  The Coral Coast is traditionally known and promoted as the most densely populated tourist area in Fiji.

The Coral Coast is approximately 50 miles of beaches, bays, rocky outcrops and lush vegetation along the southwest of Viti Levu.  Denarau Island is located on the western side of Viti Levu and is famous for its year round blue sky. Only 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport and 8 minutes from Nadi Town, Denarau Island is well situated for trips to the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands from the newly upgraded Port Denarau Marina.  The famous Mamanuca Islands of Fiji are the tropical islands of your dreams.   With their gently swaying palm trees, and being surrounded by white sand beaches, set among deep blue waters with fringing coral reefs of turquoise and pastel green, this is the Fiji that dreams are made of!

               

When traveling to Fiji, there are a few things to keep in mind.  Here are some helpful tips for your trip to Fiji:

Do be prepared for “Fiji time,” which means that things on the islands probably won’t go exactly according to schedule.
Do cover up when invited to visit a village. Women who cover their shoulders, arms and legs will be treated with more respect.
On a village visit, do remove your hat (only the chief may wear a hat); remove your shoes before entering a bure (house); never touch someone’s head; and ask before taking pictures.
Don’t wander into villages uninvited. It’s considered quite rude.
Women who travel alone in Fiji are considered “available” by local men.
Change plenty of money at the airport, where the bank is open 24 hours, before you set out for remote islands, where there are no banks and changing foreign currency is usually not possible. Credit cards are often not accepted outside resorts.

Fiji’s diversity, proximity and unparalleled beauty make it the ultimate reward. The genuine friendliness of the islands’ residents combined with the unique environment, extreme beauty and soothing tranquility make it a perfect vacation destination.

Safe Travels,

Smooth Sailing all the way !!!

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Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.  While it is fantastic for frequent international travelers, there is no minimum number of trips necessary to qualify for the program.

Even if you only travel outside of the country once a year, or once every couple of years, it is well worth the investment of time and money to enroll in the program!   Membership in the program is valid for 5 years with no additional fees other than the initial application fee.

Participants in the Global Entry program may enter the United States by using automated kiosks located at select airports. This saves a great deal of time (and sometimes frustration) waiting in the long to very long customs lines upon reentering the US from your international trip. The kiosk issues the traveler a transaction receipt and directs the traveler to baggage claim and the exit.

Besides the obvious benefit of expedited arrival into the US after your travel, there are also some nice benefits associated with Global Entry on your travel departure as well.  Global Entry participants are automatically eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits as well.

TSA PreCheck allows you to go through an expedited TSA / Security check when you arrive at the airport.  This can be a huge time saver during peak travel times!

If you have a passport already, there are 4 steps to apply for this program.  If you do not have a passport yet, there are 5 steps; the very first would be to obtain your passport.  Here is a brief outline of the application process:
1.  Apply online (there is a $100 non-refundable application fee)
2. Once your application has been processed, you will schedule an interview at one of the Global Entry  Enrollment Centers
3. The Interview – this determines your eligibility.  You will be interviewed by a CBP officer.
4. Provide proper identification at the interview – you must provide your passport and one other government issued form of identification such as your driver’s license.  If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card.

Global Entry kiosks are available at many of the larger airports throughout the US.  Please remember, it may not be as important that the program be available at your local departure airport, the need is for it to be available at the airport through which you re-enter the United States.

For example, using a local example, they do not have Global Entry kiosks at the airport in College Station, TX but they do have them in Houston at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.  They currently do not have them in Austin, TX but they are in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Atlanta, and Chicago – which are the US Entry points for most flights originating out of Austin.  Also, it is important that you can get to one of the enrollment centers for your interview.

If you are ready to save time and would like more information about this program, please visit the program website at www.globalentry.gov

I hope you found this time saving information helpful!

Safe Travels,

What do you know about Karisma ??

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What do you know about Karisma Resorts?


Karisma resorts operate a premier collection of award-winning properties throughout the Riviera Maya, Mexico, and now Negril Jamaica.   Their resort brands include the adults-only El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels, the family-friendly Azul Hotels, and the newest member of the Karisma family is Generations, all suites, all butler, beachfront family friendly resorts.   Both of the Generations resorts are located in Riviera Maya, Mexico – one on Maroma Beach and the other in the heart of Riviera Maya just steps away from the El Dorado Casitas Royale.  The Azul resorts (Azul Beach, Azul Sensatori, Azul Fives) are located throughout Riviera Maya.  The Azul Sensatori Jamaica is the first Karisma resort outside of Mexico; they do have 2 city hotels in their portfolio that are located in Cartagena, Columbia.  Azul Sensatori Jamaica is located on the world famous 7 Mile Beach
of Negril.

Karisma is known for their Gourmet Inclusive vacations.  What is Gourmet inclusive you ask?

When asked, Karisma will tell you it is about more than the dining.  It takes your all-inclusive resort experience up to the level of a traditional luxury hotel experience.  They call it 2 steps above all-inclusive.  At each resort you are greeted with a smile, a refreshing towel and a welcome cocktail. The décor and overall atmosphere of the resorts provide for a relaxed yet upscale environment with lush landscaping, beaches lined with beach beds and multiple pools with swim-up bars. You will be pampered with Gourmet services and amenities such as beach butlers, concierge, turn-down, 24-hour room service, premium beverages and Gourmet cuisine.  Karisma is well known for their dining!
At one of their resorts, they have a 100,000 sq. ft. green house that provides their fresh produce for the resorts throughout the Mexican Riviera.

 

Let’s take a closer look at the El Dorado hotels and resorts within the Karisma portfolio:

El Dorado – These are the adult only resorts in the Mexican Riviera which cater to romance with Jacuzzis in every suite, truly beachfront wedding chapels and Aguas del Amor—private, outdoor showers.  There is El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale, El Dorado Maroma, and El Dorado Seaside Suites.

El Dorado Royale – is where the 100,000 sq ft greenhouse is located I mentioned above.  It is consistently ranked in Conde Nest top 100 hotels in the world.  The resort is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, facing the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. 25 minutes south of Cancun International Airport, 15 minutes north of Playa del Carmen.

El Dorado Casitas Royale – is a Spa Resort featuring 205 luxuriously decorated Suites in 9 categories; all with maximum capacity for 2 guests. This resort is located adjacent to El Dorado Royale and is also a consistent presence in the Conde Nest top 100.  Casita Suites special treats include: DVD / CD library, exclusive concierge service 8.00am-5:00 pm, turn down service, pillow menu, and aromatherapy in your room. Beach butlers are also available between 9.00 am –5.00 pm.

El Dorado Maroma – is located on Moroma Beach which has been listed as one of the top 10 beaches in the world by independent reviewers, including The Travel Channel.   El Dorado Maroma is just 40 minutes south of Cancun Airport, 35 minutes south of downtown Cancun, and 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen.  This is an upscale and intimate 72-room boutique luxury hotel nestled in the coast of the Yucatan peninsula, overlooking the crystalline turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean.

El Dorado Seaside Suites – has been voted one of the top 10 most romantic resorts by Forbes.  El Dorado Seaside Suites embodies barefoot elegance for the carefree and relaxed. On the secluded beach of Kantenah in the heart of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this resort offers an unrivaled combination of relaxation and sophistication. Enchanting pristine beaches and seductive intimate spaces create just the right atmosphere for romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries.

I hope you have enjoyed your brief introduction to Karisma Resorts!  Their portfolio really does have something for everyone!  Please let me know if you have questions about any of the fantastic resorts!

Safe Travels,

See the World and save on your budget !!

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Whether you plan to get away for a few days or a few weeks, traveling allows us to step out of our daily lives and meet new people, try new foods and get inside cultures very different from our own.
And at the end, we’re left with priceless memories that can change our lives forever.

If you’ve started 2014 with wanderlust, but you’re feeling the pinch after the holidays, and with the upcoming tax deadline, you might be keen to hear about the value of guided tours.

Guided tours provide value both financially and logistically, you will know your plan every step of the way.
Colesseum

Spending precious time working out how to get from A to B with your head buried in a guidebook can feel like a waste. Pre-set and guided itineraries remove the hassle of planning your own route and leave you with more time to achieve what you set out to do: explore. Plus all travel – whether it’s by coach, ferry or train – is included.  Many of the popular tour companies offer a value much better than what you can find by piecing your trips together.  Some companies offer a more budget minded experience, such as Trafalgar Tours worldwide CostSaver guided tours.

 

In the more budget-minded tours, you will find your biggest differences are in the location of the accommodations and the number of included experiences in your tour.   On your traditional or first class options, you will have accommodations in city centers or centrally located; on your more budget-minded options, your accommodations will be on the outskirts of the city or even outside of the city.  There is often some difference in quality of accommodations as well.  For example, on a budget-minded tour, you will not be staying in a castle, but more of a 3 star commonly known brand hotel.

Compared to Trafalgar’s other trips, more of the experiences on CostSaver guided holidays are optional. Seeing iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum are a given. But it means you can tailor your trip with a range of extras that take you deeper into a country’s culture, like an elephant ride through the jungle in Northern Thailand or attending a sumo tournament in Japan.  Or you can use the free time to explore by yourself. Of course, you’re never really on your own. Not with the added expertise of your Travel Director, who’s always on hand to give you their recommendations or to point you in the right direction.  The guided tours of today give you a great balance of scheduled tours and free time to explore.

 
Elephant Trekking in Thailand                              Trafalgar Travel Director

                                  

 
Travel Directors know their homelands like the back of their hands. It’s their native instinct and years of experience which means they’re able to introduce you to families in their homes; give you insights into local customs and trades; and feed you the true flavours of the places you visit, through home-cooked food and dining at less-touristy restaurants.

Your tour guides are the insiders – there to show you a different side to every place you visit.

I hope this has given you some insight to the value of a guided tour!    If you have any questions, or you are ready to start exploring the world, give me call!

Safe Travels,

Are you using a Couples Travel Concierge ??

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As a travel professional, I’m often asked why people should use a travel agent.  There are literally hundreds of answers to this question; today, we are going to talk about specifically why people would use a Couples Travel Concierge.  As a Couples Travel Concierge,

I help couples celebrate and embrace the special moments in life.  I believe every vacation should be a vacation experience – not just another trip away from home or time away from the office.  As a Couples Travel Concierge, I’m here to help you create your perfect vacation experience and start creating future memories!

I firmly believe you should be taking your perfect vacation – not the “picture perfect” vacation you see in brochures or on the internet.  Unfortunately your real life vacation won’t have Photoshop to make imperfections look perfect!  The last thing you want to happen is to show up on your honeymoon or landmark anniversary expecting that beachfront suite like you saw in the picture and find you have a view overlooking the roof next door, or worse.

When you start thinking about your next vacation, it is important to remember that it is “your” vacation.  It is not a vacation in a brochure, not a trip on the internet, not your friend’s trip, not your co-workers trip, and not anyone else’s vacation but yours!  Remember, it shouldn’t be a trip at all; it should be a vacation or travel experience!

Working with a professional travel concierge will insure your vacation experience meets your expectations.  Most couples want to have their trips planned to their exact specifications.  Many couples want special activities or events planned during their vacation.  How about that romantic dinner on the beach?   Or that private, personalized guided tour in your destination?  Are you not the “shuttle bus” kind of person – How about private transfers?  Perhaps you are a honeymoon couple or a landmark anniversary couple and want to be recognized as such during your honeymoon or anniversary trip.
Travel with a group can present some challenges and a professional travel concierge knows just how to hand them!  Are you traveling with a group of couples?  Would you like to have a private event just for your group?  Is this a special occasion – do you want gifts delivered for members of your group?  Do you want to make sure staterooms on the cruise ship are in close proximity?  (Balcony row, as one of my groups refers to it!) Do you want private transfers just for your group?
The vast majority of vacationers that return disappointed are disappointed because their experience did not meet their expectation.  A brochure and the internet cannot match expectation and experience.

Don’t let this happen to you!

Safe Travels,