Lets have a party !!

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Travel and celebration go hand in hand!  Personally, for me, any and all travel is a celebration.  You can travel and celebrate with a group of your family and friends, or it can be a small intimate celebration for just a couple or even an individual.  The occasions to celebrate are limitless, pretty much whatever you can think of can be turned in to a celebration!  Just about any type of travel is suitable for celebrations as well.

 

          

 

Destination Weddings, Vow Renewals, Girlfriend getaways, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and reunions are just a few examples of some group travel celebration occasions.  Your group can be large, or small, it’s all up to you.  Destination, resort, and cruise travel are all great options for larger group celebrations.  We can do some really fun options for your group celebration!

 

        

 

Can you picture getting married or renewing your vows on a beautiful beach or near a waterfall?  How about a private, exclusive party onboard a cruise ship for your group? What about a private tour or excursion just for your group?  Do you want to take your whole group to a special private dinner?  Sometimes just traveling with your friends and family is a celebration in and of itself, no special arrangements required.

 

Looking for a smaller more intimate celebration?  Destination Weddings, honeymoons, anniversary, birthday, life milestones, and bucket list travel are perfect occasions for smaller private celebrations.  Any occasion can be a celebration!  Any type of travel is well suited for your smaller more intimate celebrations.   Destinations, Resorts, Cruises, River Cruises, Escorted or Guided Tours, and Independent Travel with or without planned activities are all great options for your couples celebration travel.

How about a couple’s massage for that special anniversary or honeymoon?  Dinner on the beach or on your balcony is a very nice way to celebrate an occasion.  Can you imagine watching the sunrise or sunset from your over the water bungalow or safari camp?    Want to get away from it all and have a celebration of yourself and by yourself?  Many people choose to go it alone for their celebrations.  Some are celebrating a life milestone or achievement; some just need to get away.

 

                         

There are some great options out there for the solo traveler.  How about a spa vacation? Escorted or Guided Tour in Europe? Cruise?  Join other like-minded guests for a bicycling tour, or walking tour in North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, or even Africa!
Special events can be arranged whether you are a large group, a small group, a couple or a solo traveler.  Only your imagination is the limit for your travel and celebration.  If gifts are in order for your celebration, you can even set up travel gift registries to make gift giving easier and to help defray the expense of travel and celebration.
Travel and Celebration go hand in hand!

Kelley

 

Did you know ??

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Did you know that there have been a couple of significant developments and changes in travel recently?  I thought I’d share a couple of them with you so you will be “in the know”.
First and probably most importantly,

 

Did you know        The Houston Passport Agency closed for renovations on Monday September 23, 2013 and is not scheduled to re-open until early2014?  How does this affect you?  Hopefully, you will plan ahead and it won’t!  All of the other passport acceptance agencies are still open and accepting applications and renewals as always.  There could be a slight delay in processing as now one of the major processing offices is closed.  They are not projecting huge delays, but in my opinion, that remains to be seen.  (We also have a potential government shut down, or more possible furloughs on the horizon.)  Please plan early and do not wait until the last minute to apply or renew your passport.  Applicants in the greater Houston are that are in need of emergency passport services for immediate travel should schedule an appointment with the closest passport agencies located in Dallas, El Paso, and New Orleans. Appointments at passport agencies and passport information can also be obtained by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.

 

Did you know       about the TSA Pre-Check Program?  As stated on their website, “TSA Pre✓™ allows select frequent flyers of participating airlines and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler programs who are flying on participating airlines, to receive expedited screening benefits. Eligible participants use dedicated screening lanes for screening benefits which include leaving on shoes, light outerwear and belts, as well as leaving laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags.”  This is available at select airports, and there are plans to expand the program as well.  I can tell you that I personally LOVE this program!  It has really expedited my airport travels.  For more information, please visit:  http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck
Did you know     Southwest Airlines has begun enforcing their new no-show policy?  As stated on their website:  If you are not planning to travel on any portion of your itinerary, please cancel your reservation at least 10 minutes prior to scheduled departure of the flight. For tickets purchased on or after May 10, 2013, for travel beginning September 13, 2013, Customers who fail to cancel or change a Wanna Get Away or DING! fare segment at least 10 minutes prior to travel and who do not board the flight, will be considered a no show, and all remaining funds on this reservation will be forfeited, including Business Select and Anytime funds.  For more information, please visit:  http://www.southwest.com/html/air/fare-information.html
Did you know       in early summer United Airlines started offering Economy Plus Subscriptions?  The annual subscription starts at $499 per person and be purchased by the traveler or given as a gift.  This subscription allows the passenger access to the coveted Economy Plus seating which has more leg room and is closer to front of the plane.  There are some terms and conditions to be aware of so please check http://www.united.com/web/en-US/apps/products/subscriptions/economyPlus.aspx
The only thing consistent in the world of travel is change!  Working with a travel professional will help insure that you are up to date and prepared to travel!

Kelley

What are you looking for ??

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Well, travel agent training season is in full swing!  It is crazy busy with classes, meetings, and conferences.  Late summer and fall is the travel agent training season – many conferences and events to attend. These events help me serve you better by keeping up with all of the latest industry news and trends.  Just last week I attended a Viking Cruises event and a Sandals WeddingMoons update meeting.  This week I’m attending trainings for Holland America and Crystal Cruises.

 

           
 

One question I am often asked by potential clients is what should I look for in a travel agent?  Or why should I use a travel agent instead of the internet?  Those are great questions!   My first answer to that question is simple, education and experience.  There are formal education programs and certifications for travel agents, but many of them don’t mean much to you the client.  One thing you really need to look for is an agent that is actively involved in the industry and continuing to educate themselves in the industry.  Things change all of the time and keeping up with the current travel trends is essential.  The internet is good at a lot of things, but it cannot replace personal knowledge and first-hand experiences.

I can’t tell you how many times “the internet” has been to Jamaica, but I can tell you I have been there 4 times in the last 13 months.
Earlier this month I attended the Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Specialist Association Fall conference.  I am a proud charter member and on the advisory board of this fabulous organization.  Why is that important to you? As a Couples Travel Concierge, it is important that I stay on top of the latest industry trends with regards to Destination Weddings and Honeymoons.  Even if you aren’t a honeymoon couple, knowing the latest and greatest about all of the resorts is invaluable to your vacation experience.

 

For example, I am a certified Hawaii Destination Specialist and one of our sessions was specifically regarding special occasion venues and resort updates throughout the islands.  I am also a Master Agent with AMResorts and we had resort update sessions directly with one of their business development managers about some of the new resorts they have and will have in their portfolio of brands.
The first weekend of next month I’m off to Jamaica for a week to tour resorts, meet with transfer companies, and attend a conference.  Later in the month is Cruise Planners national convention as well as the inaugural event for the new Royal Princess Cruise Ship.

 

  
It is also important to work with an agent that is actively involved in travel organizations, associations, and works as part of a large consortium.  There is no way I can visit every single destination in the world (but I am trying!), but through my vast network of affiliations and contacts, I can find someone who has been there and tap in to their first-hand knowledge.  You want to work with a travel professional that is engaged and actively involved in the travel community.  It’s one thing to pass a certification test, it’s another thing to continue your education and be involved.
I’m not telling you this to let you know how much I travel (trust me – this is only the tip of that iceberg!), or how many organizations I am in.   I’m telling you because I place a high priority on my continuing education.

 

             

 

 

The more I learn and the more places I visit, the better service I can provide you.   If you are looking for your perfect romantic vacation, relaxing vacation, or looking for a fun, adventurous vacation, I can provide you with updated and accurate information.
When planning your future vacation experience, keep in mind, you are creating memories.  Let a professional help you create your perfect future memories!

Remember, the internet is for looking – Travel Professionals are for booking !!

Kelley

An island with dual personalities. ?

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Have you ever been to an island with dual personalities?  One such island is St. Maarten / St. Martin.

St. Maarten is the Dutch side of the island and St. Martin is the French side of the island.  Together they share a fantastic island! The island has its own distinct charm, but the combination is a fabulous blend of colonial and Caribbean splendor. Visitors have the unique experience of enjoying 2 distinct cultures on one stunning tropical island.  Dutch St. Maarten is known for being lively and cosmopolitan, while French St. Martin is more tranquil and has the flair of San Tropez.  The island is widely known for some of the best dining and duty-free bargains in the Caribbean!

 

 

St. Maarten / St. Martin is a 37-square-mile, tropical island in the northeast Caribbean with year-round temperatures in the 80’s.  The island is surrounded by spectacular beaches where you can snorkel, dive, windsurf and kayak in the stunning, warm and crystalline waters.  Away from the beach lie colorful open-air markets, sites rich in colonial grandeur, acclaimed restaurants of every flavor and variety, and an artistic community that brings the world’s cultural elite to celebrate this tropical brilliance. This island is ideally suited for beach lovers, foodies, and shoppers.

 

      

 

The Dutch side, St. Maarten, is on the southern side of the island.  It offers a lively atmosphere with an American feel, and fun that includes great beaches, fine dining, bars and nightclubs, and Vegas-style casinos. Nights are the time to experience true Caribbean evening culture on this little metropolitan island. Simpson Bay and the bustling capital of Philipsburg are where you’ll find St. Maarten’s dining and entertainment hubs. Philipsburg is also known for its long streets of quaint shops with terrific duty-free bargains.

The French side, St. Martin, is on the north side of the island and exudes a chic European charm.  Very reminiscent of France it is enhanced by sidewalk cafes and an array of bistros and restaurants that cook up the most fabulous gourmet cuisine in the Caribbean. The beaches are peaceful serene and very European in their atmosphere.  Certain nights at Marigot port and Marina Royale feature many local bands and avant-garde street entertainers. The Marina area is also a hotspot for several chic nightclubs.

 

The capital of Marigot is slower paced than Philipsburg, but the duty-free shopping here and elsewhere is excellent, with French-inspired arcades offering a wide selection of European goods.
When it comes to beaches on St Maarten / St Martin, they are spectacular!  There are 37 white sand beaches that encircle the island. Whether they prefer people-watching, nonstop action, or peaceful seclusion, there is something for everyone. Some beaches feature calm waters perfect for families, while others boast waves large enough for surfing. As a note, there are a number of beaches on the French side of the island that are clothing-optional. Orient Beach is the island’s only official nudist beach. The beaches on the Dutch side are a bit more conservative.
St Maarten / St Martin is an island that lives up to the phrase big things come in small packages!  I hope you have enjoyed your brief overview of St Maarten / St Martin.

 

Let me know when you are ready to start planning those future memories!

Kelley

No- You don’t need a Passport !!

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Did you know that there is no passport required for the US Virgin Islands?  You can visit the beautiful islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix without a passport.  Each island is beautiful and unique in its own special way.   Each island can be an independent destination, or you can combine them for a true Caribbean sampler.  Generally speaking, the best time to visit the US Virgin Islands, and of course peak travel season for the islands, is December – April, but it is a great year round destination.   The average annual temperature on the islands is 75°- 84°F.  Hurricane Season is June – November with peak season being mid-August through mid-October.  December – February fall to the cooler side and are slightly windier.   Since the islands are a US Territory, the unit of currency is the US Dollar.  While there is a wide range of accommodations throughout the islands, all-inclusive resorts are not commonplace.

      
St. Thomas is your island for bustling beaches, nightlife and shopping.  St Thomas offers a wide variety of attractions, beaches and activities such as watersports, golf, tennis, sightseeing, restaurants and nightlife. The capital city, Charlotte Amalie, is a major port of call for duty-free shopping.   St Thomas is a heavily developed island with a definite North American atmosphere and lacks a bit of Caribbean distinction.  Despite this, and largely thanks to the many cruise ship passengers, this island is high-volume tourism (among the highest in all of the Caribbean).  St Thomas is the most visited island of the 3 US Virgin Islands.
       

 

St. John is just about the opposite of St Thomas.   St. John is tailor-made for nature lovers with unspoiled scenery and quiet surroundings with much of the island being a National Park.  St John is just off the coast of St Thomas and is an easy ferry ride away.  This makes for a great day trip, or a combination vacation of the 2 islands.  St John is also a great island to get away from it all and truly relax and rejuvenate.  With plenty of water activities, beaches, and nature trails, there is certainly enough activity to provide the right balance for your vacation.  St John is also the smallest of the 3 US Virgin Islands.
   

 

St. Croix is the largest of the Virgin Islands and retains an unhurried island atmosphere.   St. Croix is most typical of other Caribbean islands.  It has a great balance of attractions and shopping, yet a very relaxed atmosphere and great historic architecture.  St Croix is divided basically in to 4 areas:  Christiansted, the North Shore, the East End, and Frederiksted. The varied terrain includes arid rockiness as well as a verdant rainforest, mango, mahogany, and tree ferns that dot the landscape, while beautifully secluded beaches entice water lovers.   One fun fact, Point Udall on St Croix is the easternmost tip of the United States.

 

   

 

I hope you have enjoyed your brief introduction to the US Virgin Islands and will consider 1 or more of them for your next vacation experience.

Kelley

 

Paradise without a passport! The Hawaiian Islands

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Paradise without a passport!  The Hawaiian Islands

Even without a passport, you can truly experience paradise for your vacation.  The Hawaiian Islands are a great option for you!  Each island has its own distinct personality; if you have more than 5 nights, you can easily experience at least 2 of the islands for a truly unique experience.

Oahu is the most famous of the Hawaiian Islands and by many considered to be the heart of Hawaii.  This is where you find Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head just to name a few.  During the winter months the legendary North Shore is a surfing mecca for the world’s best surfers.  No trip is Oahu is complete without experiencing a traditional Hawaiian Luau!  While there are many, my favorite is the Paradise Cove Luau.

 

 

 

Maui is the magic isle of the Hawaiian Islands.  The historic streets of seaside Lahaina, the beautiful beaches of Kaanapoli, the scenic road to Hana, and the Haleakala National Park, are just a few of the reasons Maui has been voted “Best Island” by readers of Conde Nast Traveler for nineteen years.  During the winter months, Maui is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, the Humpback whales return to the warm waters (by whale standards that is!) year after year.  Watching the sunrise from 9,740 feet atop Haleakala Crater is an experience not to be missed.

Haleakala Crater
Kauai is known as Hawaii’s Island of Discovery. There are the soaring cliffs of the Napali Coast and the vast chasms of Waimea Canyon.  You can explore charming and historic small towns like Hanapepe and Koloa where no building is taller than a coconut tree!  Some of my other favorite spots on the island are Poipu Beach Park (it was once voted America’s best beach!), Wailua Falls, and Opaekaa Falls.  Some of the lush interior of the island is only accessible by air, so you may find yourself taking a sightseeing sky adventure by helicopter or small plane.

 

                      

Mauai                                                                                                             Kauai

 

Hawaii Island, known as The Big Island, isn’t just big, it is still growing!  Hawaii Island is the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands and geographically the largest.  It is home to Volcanoes National Park and one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea.   Hawaii Island also has the tallest sea mountain in the world at more than 33,000 feet (Maunakea), the most massive mountain in the world (Maunaloa) and the largest park in the state (Hawaii Volcanoes National Park). All but two of the world’s climate zones generate everything from lush rain forests to volcanic deserts, snow-capped mountaintops to beautiful black sand beaches.

 

Lanai is considered Hawaii’s most enticing island.  You can definitely escape the crowds, hustle, and bustle of very day life as it is largely an island of untouched tranquility. This romantic island is truly a “get away from it all” destination.  Hulopoe Bay fronts the Four Seasons resort and is a protected bay with incredible tide pools and a great place for dolphin watching.   Kaiolohia, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is located on the northeast coast of Lanai and features a ghostly ship, wrecked off shore.  Lanai City is the central town and features charming shops and local restaurants.
           

 

Molokai is Hawaiian by nature.   Visit Molokai and travel back to a timeless place with serene seascapes, unspoiled coastlines, and untamed wilderness.  Molokai stays true to its Hawaii traditions tucked away from the hustle of the outside world.  No building is taller than a coconut tree, no traffic, and not even a traffic light!  Molokai is also said to be the birthplace of hula!  You can get to Molakai by air from Honolulu or there is an interisland ferry from Maui.  There is absolutely no public transportation so you will definitely need a rental vehicle; it is best to plan this well in advance as they can be limited.

    
I hope this gives you a brief taste of what the Hawaiian Islands has to offer you!

Kelley

Hurricane Season – How does it affect your travel ??

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Hi Everyone,
Now that we are bringing May to a close, June 1 is fast upon us.  June 1 is significant in the world of travel as it is the official start of Hurricane Season.  This year, experts are predicting a very active hurricane season with 16 named storms; 3 of which are expected to make US landfall.

I’m often asked what travelers can do to mitigate their risk when traveling during hurricane season.  There are ways to lesson your risk, both financially and emotionally.   The financial risks are obvious, but some don’t realize there can be emotional risk as well.

 

What if you have a destination wedding planned on a certain day in a certain port of call or destination?  That can certainly be stressful for you if 1 week prior to your special event a named storm pops up and your destination is straight in its path!

With a little research and assistance from your travel professional, you can determine if your dream destination will be at risk during the time frame you want to travel.  There are certain types of travel less impacted than others and certain destinations less impacted than others by hurricanes.  Cruising for example, is actually a good choice during hurricane season.  Remember that the ships move and can change course to keep ahead or avoid storms.  I’ve been on many cruises where we have had to alter the order of the ports of call, or completely change an itinerary so as to avoid a storm.  If a cruise isn’t your vacation style, there are certain Caribbean destinations less impacted by hurricanes such as Aruba and Barbados.
            
ARUBA                                                                                BARBADOS

Another thing to remember is travel insurance.

Travel Insurance can protect your financial risk in the event of a hurricane.  If you are traveling anytime during hurricane season, it is highly advisable to purchase your travel insurance as soon as book your trip, and absolutely no later than final payment for your best protection.  (The terms and conditions vary, and we can discuss during the planning process)  The important thing to remember, once a hurricane becomes a “known event”, it is too late to insure it.   You can’t wait until the hurricane is on its way then take out the insurance; insurance should be proactive, not reactive.

Above all, be flexible.  Flexibility is the best way to handle any weather related travel issues.  If possible, have a back up plan (such as alternative travel dates if possible), if a back up plan is not possible, flexibility is key.  You may end up on a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean instead of Western, staying a resort for a day longer, or leaving a resort day earlier.
               
Finally, a sense of humor can be the best coping mechanism.   I’ve heard it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly.  I have found one thing to be true.  Those that handle the challenge with flexibility and good humor seem to weather the storms much easier.
Kelley

 

What’s to eat ??

by In Cruise, Destinations, Dining, General Travel Information Tagged , , , , Leave a comment

Kelley’s Travel Times 

 

When it comes to planning your vacation, food can be an important consideration! Can you imagine going to a destination, or taking a cruise, and being hungry the whole time you are gone? Okay, so that has never actually happened to me…but there are destinations, cruise lines, and resorts that are perfect the foodie in all of us.

An important part of your vacation planning should be letting me know your food tastes and styles. If you are a very casual person or have very simple tastes, my recommendations will be slightly different than if you like formal dining or haut cuisine

 

                           

When it comes to cruising, most cruise lines have such a variety of restaurants that there is truly something for everyone.  There are a couple of lines that place more of an emphasis on their cuisine such as Holland America and Oceania.  Holland America has demonstration kitchens and offers a variety of cooking lessons.  Oceania has the legendary master chef Jacques Pépin as their executive culinary director.  Norwegian has partnered with Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakaran and Cake Boss; while Carnival has partnered with Guy Fieri.  These are just a few of the samples.
       
When it comes to resorts, there are some resorts that really excel in the world of culinary arts.  Karisma Resorts uses the tag line Gourmet Inclusive.  Azul is their family brand and they really know how to keep the food interesting for kids of all ages.  El Dorado is their adult only brand and the food choices are amazing at these resorts.  The Gourmet Inclusive tag line lives up to expectations; truly something for everyone and all high quality.
                
As for destinations, there are many for the foodie in all of us.   Italy and France come to top of mind.  You can do entire culinary oriented tours in both countries!  These are two of my favorite countries for food, but the list is too long to list.

Hopefully I’ve given you one more thing to consider for your vacation planning.  Now that I’ve made myself (and hopefully you) hungry, it’s time to go find my next culinary adventure!

Kelley

 

Are you spending too much or not enough ???

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Cruise Planners
 Are You spending too much or not enough ??Date: April  2013                       Issue #: 9

Kelley’s Travel Times #9

 

Are you spending too much or not enough ??
Dear [fname]

It’s hard to believe we are nearly mid-way through the month of April!  Where does the time go?        

Next Monday is the 15th; we all know what that day means… it’s the deadline for filing your income taxes!

If you are like me, it is this time of year I often look at what I make vs. what I spend.

It can be very enlightening!  Some years in a good way, others … well… you have to wonder…

The one thing I never wonder about is the value I add to my personal vacations and the value I bring to my clients when planning their destination weddings, honeymoons, or vacations. One of my very favorite quotes is by Warren Buffet:

“Price is what you pay, value is what you get.”   Value, what is it to you?

 

For some people, value is time and time is money.  For some people value is convenience.  For some people value is knowledge and expertise.  As a professional travel concierge I work with only the best vacation providers to insure that you have a seamless and flawless vacation experience from start to finish thus providing you with time, convenience, my knowledge and expertise.   I constantly attend meetings and educational events to increase my knowledge and expertise.  When planning your vacation experience and spending your hard earned dollars, the focus should always be on the value you are receiving, not the price you are paying.  That does not necessarily mean that the more expensive things are the better value; price and value are not always equal players.   Aside from the value you receive when working with me, let’s look at some ways to add value items to your vacation experience.

              
Upgraded Transfers:

Do they cost more?  Of course they do, but they can bring considerable value to you.  If you are on a shorter vacation, it can add a couple of hours or more to your vacation if you opt for non-stop or private transfers to your resort.   Also, if you are in a country you are not familiar with, you have an immediate point of contact upon arrival and you aren’t left to wonder, where is that shuttle bus?  Private transfers are also much more relaxing than group bus transfers, after the chaos of the airport it is a nice way to decompress and start your vacation already relaxed!  Are you vacationing in a bustling city?  Private transfers can be a life saver for making that return flight on time!  Are you traveling the day after your wedding and very long wedding reception?  Are you even awake enough to negotiate the airports and seek out the right bus?  Heaven forbid you need to negotiate a cab in a foreign country if you are an inexperienced traveler working on little or no sleep!

Private Shore Excursions for cruise ports:

Do they cost more?  Surprisingly, often they do not!  The independent companies that I recommend provide for a more enhanced in-destination experience.  There are often less people on the tour; therefore the tour can operate more efficiently.   If you choose a private tour, then you can absolutely customize the tour to what you want it to be, not what the cruise line or the rest of the group thinks it should be.  Let’s take Whale watching in Alaska – would you rather be crammed in to a boat with 100 passengers, or have a great day on a smaller boat with only 6 – 15 passengers?  Personally, at only 5’1” tall, I’m going for the 6 – 15 person boat so I can actually see a whale instead of just the back of someone in front of me.

Upgraded Room category or cabin category on a ship:

Yes, of course they cost more.  However, often it is not that much more and you can have a great view of the beach or ocean as opposed to the building next to you.  On a cruise ship it can be the difference of deck and location on the deck.  (very important for first time cruisers!)  Also, if you are mobility challenged, often the better room and cabin categories are more centrally located resulting in less difficulty getting to the activities or venues you want to experience.  Another thing to consider for your resort vacations – room service!  The entry level room categories often do not include the ability to have room service.  This can be a great value if you are having a lazy (or romantic) day and would love to have breakfast or lunch delivered to your room.

     

 

Hopefully this helps you to understand that sometimes, price and value are not equivalent.  It’s the value that will enhance your vacation experience.
Kelley

Kelley Austin, ACC

Couples Travel Concierge

936-825-7001   or   1-800-676-8196

kaustin@cruiseplanners.com

www.facebook.com/CruiseVacationsAndMore

www.cruisevacationsandmore.com

www.couplestravelconcierge.com

 

 

Why a cruise?

by In Cruise 4 Comments

IMG_5227It’s hard to believe I’ve been home almost a week from my Panama Canal cruise on the Island Princess!  It was a great 10 night cruise with plenty of fun, relaxation, and education.  Yes, education!  The Panama Canal is a marvel, and I think it should be on everyone’s bucket list!  As you can tell from the picture, we traveled with a very fun group!

As a Couples Travel Concierge, I’m often asked by brides and grooms why they should consider a cruise for their honeymoon; my first response is “Why not”?

First, let’s look at the general benefits of a cruise:

  • You have the ability to visit multiple countries or islands and only unpack once.
  • There are worldwide itineraries and cruises available every week of the year.  Itineraries range from most often thought of Caribbean cruise to the more exotic options of the South Pacific or the Far East and everywhere in between!
  • There are ocean cruises and river cruises – there is something for everyone.
  • Cruising is a great value!  As a general rule, included in your cruise fare are your accommodations, meals, entertainment, and your transportation between the countries / islands.  The entertainment onboard is amazing!  The newer generation ships have taken entertainment to all new levels.  You have comedians, Broadway style shows, Cirque du Soleil style shows, and top name entertainment such as Blue Man Group.

When it comes to romance or celebrations, there are many ways to enhance your cruise experience.  Most of the newer ships have adult only areas if you want a quieter adult only retreat.  Many of the ships also have a “ship within a ship” feel because the suite areas are accessible only be those guests in suites; some have their own lounges, pools, etc…   How about a couple’s massage?  A champagne toast on your balcony is always a great way to start your cruise!   You can also have a private meal on your balcony or try one of the specialty dining venues that offers a quieter more intimate atmosphere.  Who doesn’t like a sunset stroll along the deck?  How about decorations and a party just for your group? These are just a few of the many options to enhance your cruise.

When it comes to cruises, there is an option for every budget range and travel style.    Here are just a few samples of what is avaialable:

  • River Cruises – This is destination immersion at its finest!  Some of the world’s greatest cities are accessible only by river – not by the ocean.  You visit a different city each day and have the entire day and often the evening to enjoy the local area and culture. Cruising the world’s rivers from Europe to Russia and is truly a special experience.
  • Luxury – this can be a luxury destination, a luxury category ship or cabin, or both!  When you cruise on a luxury cruise line, there are generally more inclusions than in your premium or mass market cruise lines.  Some of them are more like an all-inclusive resort at sea really increasing your value.
  • Premium – the premium cruise lines offer a more upscale adult experience and the emphasis is on the adult market.  This does not mean there is necessarily an older age group onboard, but that although they do welcome families, they typically do not have extensive children’s programs, activities, or itineraries specifically tailored for the families.
  • Moderate – the moderate cruise lines offer a great all-around cruise experience and can be couple focused depending on the itinerary, cruise line, and cabin type chosen.
  • Budget – with all of the cruise options now out of Galveston,  soon Houston, and other US ports that may be in driving distance of you, your vacation dollar goes further because you no longer have to fly to cruise on some of the better cruise lines!  The money you may have spent on air can be used to upgrade your cruise experience and try that suite that may have been otherwise out of reach for you.  Perhaps your vacation time is limited, you have 4 or 5 night options out of Galveston that we can also enhance to make it your perfect honeymoon.

My role as a Couples Travel Concierge is to provide you with your ideal vacation experience.   I hope that this brief overview has increased your awareness of the possibilities that a cruise can provide to you.  As your personal travel advisor, we’ll discuss all vacation options available to you and if a cruise isn’t a good fit for you don’t worry – that’s why you have me!