I don’t know where I want to go !!

I don’t know where I want to go!                            

 

As a professional travel concierge I’m often contacted by people who tell me I don’t know where I want to go, but I want to go somewhere. Honestly, this statement often confuses me and frustrates me! My goal is always to help you plan your perfect vacation. However, if we get the destination wrong, the rest of it doesn’t really matter. If there is one thing I have learned, even if you don’t know where you want to go, you probably know where you don’t want to go! It never fails, someone will tell me “I’ll go anywhere that has a nice beach”, and I make a suggestion only to hear them say “oh, I don’t want to go there, I’ve been there” and on it goes…. With literally over a thousand beaches just a plane ride away, you can see this could make for a long process.

Any time someone says “I don’t know where I want to go”; I reply “sure you do, you just haven’t realized it yet”; most of the time that response is met with silence. This silence is golden; it gives me the opportunity to start asking the questions that will help us find the perfect destination. The questions and answers may not always make much sense to you, but to me, they are very telling and help streamline the destination selection significantly. There are some questions you can ask yourself, once you know those answers, and I ask my additional questions, this becomes a very easy process for both of us!

Five questions to ask yourself when trying to figure out where you want to go include:

Where don’t I want to go and why?

It is important to know “why” you don’t want to go somewhere as those reasons may be relative to other destinations as well. For example, you don’t want to go on a cruise because it is summer and you are concerned about hurricanes. (This by the way is not necessarily a real concern for cruisers). That rationale would also suggest you not travel to many other destinations in the Eastern or Western Caribbean.

How long do I want to be gone?

If you only have time for a 5 night vacation, it may not be wise to choose a destination that involves all day travel to get there, and all day travel to get home.

How many hours am I willing or able to travel on each travel day?

If you aren’t the kind of person who likes to make connections during air travel, that is an important consideration in destination selection. If you have any special needs or physical conditions, those may also play a role in the destination selection with regards to the length of your travel days.

What was my favorite vacation you have ever taken and why?

While you certainly may not want to repeat that same vacation, there are characteristics of it that we may be able to incorporate in to your next vacation.

What is my realistic working budget?

Don’t say you don’t have one, or you don’t know how much things cost – everyone has a budget! You don’t have to give a specific amount, but you at least need to have a range! Some sample ranges are less than $5000, $5000-$7000, $7000-$10,000 and over $10,000. Setting a budget will help you with realistic expectations. The purpose of a budget is not to spend every bit of it, but to help know what is and isn’t possible. For example, if your budget is less than $5000, you aren’t going to some of the more exotic vacation destinations such as Bora Bora or an African Safari.

 

The answers to the questions above may not tell you your exact destination, but it will certainly help me to quickly narrow down the choices for a more efficient and effective planning process.

 

Happy Travels,

It’s all in the details !!

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 !!

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

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.

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 ??

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

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 !!!

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 ??

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,

Did you know that you can give back on Vacation ?

Did you know that you can give back on vacation?  There are actually volunteer programs that you can participate in while you are on vacation!    Some examples are helping at animal shelters in other countries, or helping a child learn to read English in another country.

One of the vendors that I work closely with for shore excursions on cruises has a number of volunteer opportunities for you.  In addition to their own volunteer activities the vendor has recently joined forces with a non-profit organization, based in California, which, also has a number of volunteer-based activities already setup throughout the Caribbean.

Have you ever wondered what the heck to do in Cozumel?  What about volunteering for a few hours at a local animal shelter?  There is an excursion that will allow you to do just that!  Here is a brief description of how you can help:

Volunteer opportunities:
• Animal Care
• Grooming, bathing and feeding animals
• Walking dogs
• Assist moving animals to different areas of the facility

This facility is about working to help the animals in our community and we have been doing just that since 1996. This clinic, which opened in April 1996, began with two rooms, no electricity, 24 kennels, one vet and one kennel worker. Today, they have 14 employees and care for over 300 animals per month, either found astray or given up by their owners for a variety of reasons. The staff does their best to care for them and place them in good, loving homes.

Are you stopping in Belize and not really in to the water sports?  What about giving back through community development?  We can set you up to volunteer though a reputable association in a well-respected facility for just a few hours.

Volunteer Opportunities:
• Soup Kitchen
• Information Education Communication in schools and other community based organizations
• Fire Victims Support
• Feeding and taking care of elderly
• Protected Schools Brigade (First Aid and Disaster Preparedness and Response in Schools)
• Cleanup Campaigns
• Children Home Visit, Reading and Donations

Although some charities are often envisioned on an all-encompassing scale, this volunteer opportunity provides you the chance to experience it at its ground level. This association is a firm believer that their extraordinary efforts are made possible by potential volunteers like you and are gracious of any contribution no matter the size or effort. No matter what your skill set is, we will place you with a memorable experience at our facility!

Sandals, the parent company of Sandals, Beaches, and Grand Pineapple resorts has The Sandals Foundation.  The Sandals foundation gives back to the islands through a variety of programs.  One of the ways that you can help is through the Sandals Reading Road Trip when you are staying at one of their resorts.

Take a Journey to help:

  • Children between the ages of 5 – 7 years to improve their abilities in listening, comprehension and reading skills
  • “Give back” while on vacation
  • Extend the philanthropic work of the Foundation through the educational focus of its mandate
  • Available to guests staying at Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts ages 8 years and up, Reading Road Trip is a two-hour program that takes you into the community to one of the Foundation’s participating adopted basic and primary schools in Saint Lucia, Antigua, the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos or Jamaica to engage small groups of children in active reading strategies. Facilitators will be on hand to guide participants on how to engage and encourage children during this visit.

Reading Road Trip is offered every Thursday from 9am until 11am when schools are in session, September through mid-June. The cost is US$20 per person, which covers round-trip transportation and all supplies. Children 8-12 years of age can participate at no charge but must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers are encouraged to bring along a favorite new or gently-used book to donate to the library of the school they visit

Volunteerism does not have to be difficult and is no longer limited to your local boundaries.  If you ever want to give back while you are traveling, let me know!

Safe Travels,