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

Are you fit to travel ??

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As a professional Couples Travel Concierge, my consultations and conversations cover a wide variety of topics with my clients.  Quite often, Future Vacation Travelers will express concerns about getting fit or healthy before their vacation experience.  Believe it or not, with some time, dedication and working with a professional, you can improve your fitness before it is time to travel.  Some travelers tell me they want to lose weight; others tell me they need to increase their endurance or level of fitness because they want to have a very active vacation.  Whatever your fitness or health needs are, it is great to address them before travel so you can make the most of your vacation experience
Many of us have tried to get fit and healthy on our own with varying degrees of success. Being a professional myself, I always encourage the use of professionals in any given field.   If you are looking for a professional to help you, I’d like to introduce you to 2 ladies that have slightly different approaches to fit and healthy lifestyles. I personally know both of them and either one can provide great motivation and support for you.   I recently interviewed each of these ladies about their approaches to getting fit and healthy for travel and I’d like to share with you their thoughts.

 

Robin Roberts
Robin Roberts, Certified Health Coach and Certified Consulting Hypnotist specializing in helping people get on track toward optimal health with lifestyle programs and customized hypnosis sessions.  Robin says “Travel and vacations oftentimes find us more physically active than the rest of the year. To get the most out of your trip (and not be sore or uncomfortable) use the rest of your year to get in, and stay in great health! Get in shape before you go by incorporating healthy foods, healthy portions and physical activity into your daily life. With this new routine when vacation time rolls around you’ll be ready to play those rounds of golf, go zip-lining through the tree tops, climb high mountains or swim in the ocean with great ease! (Btw – hypnosis is great for improving your golf score!).”  Need guidance?

For more information contact Robin at: Robin@RobinRobertsCH.com  or 979 739-7143

 

                                                                                                                                                                      Regina Rowley

Regina Rowley, Personal fitness coach.  Regina says “As your Team Beachbody Coach, I can help you achieve your health and fitness goals. Decide. Commit. Succeed!  Transform your body and your life before your big event or vacation experience! Get support and personal coaching as well as the tools you need to achieve real results”. For more information, contact Regina at reginarowley@gmail.com  or 713-569-2189. You can also visit her website at www.beachbodycoach.com/reginarowley  Regina also founded KUTA Empowered Women and is dedicated to stopping violence against women.

You can find more information at www.reginarowley.com

 
Whatever your pre-travel goals may be, with focus and determination, you can make them a reality!

Kelley

 

Are you a Smart Traveler ?

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When it comes to your vacation experiences, are you a Smart Traveler??

SMART TRAVELER

Smart Traveler, the official State Department app for U.S. travelers, invites you to see the world with easy access to frequently updated official country information, travel alerts, travel warnings, maps, U.S. embassy locations, and more.

With Smart Traveler, you can create personal itineraries, add notes, and organize your trips.

Smart Traveler also provides access to the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Free STEP enrollment enables the State Department to better assist you in emergencies such as natural disasters, unrest in foreign countries, or lost/stolen passports overseas. During your travels, STEP can help family and friends reach you in an emergency.

Smart Traveler also provides quick access to the Department’s Consular Affairs Facebook and Twitter pages. And for a bit of fun, you can shake your device to get information on a random country!

Application is available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for iPhone and Android devices    (search term: Smart Traveler).

 

Link to create account on state.gov website =

https://step.state.gov/STEP/Pages/Common/CreateAccountStart.aspx

I highly recommend that anyone traveling outside of the USA become a Smart Traveler!

Kelley

 

 

Which All-inclusive resort is right for you ??

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We all know that when it comes to vacation travel, the All-Inclusive resorts remain a very popular choice.  All-Inclusive resorts offer some of the best value for your money; the choices are vast and there is a resort out there to suite any traveler interested.  The all-inclusive resorts of today cover a wide variety of styles, budget, and clientele.   When choosing your resort, it is important to understand the differences and options available.
All-Inclusive resorts are located in many of the sun-drenched islands and countries of the Caribbean and Mexico.  The largest concentrations of all-inclusive resorts are in Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.  There are many others scattered throughout the Caribbean – such as St Lucia, Antigua, The Bahamas, and Costa Rica, to name a few.

 

There are 3 main types of All-Inclusive Resorts:

  • Couples Only: Cater to the romance and celebration clients – think honeymoon, destination weddings, and anniversaries.  Of course no special occasion is required to enjoy the adult only atmosphere.  Most often 4 star properties and above
  • Adults Only: Restricted to adults only, but not couples only.  Great for couples, groups of couples, girlfriend getaways, or the “guys trip / mancation”  Most often 4 star properties and above
  • Family Friendly: Large range of family friendly dining, entertainment, and activities  Many have adult only areas or sections  Many are great for couples, girlfriend getaways, or the “guy’s trip / mancation”. Available in all budget ranges

Inclusions are as varied as the resorts themselves – some questions to consider:

  • How important is dining?  Do you prefer buffet or A’ la carte dining?  Are you willing to make reservations?
  • Is room service important to you?  Butler service?  Concierge service?
  • Do you prefer premium brands of alcohol or domestic brands (consider the country you will be in!)
  • Are you a beach bum or a pool person?
  • What type of activities do you enjoy on vacation?  Do you like water sports?
  • Do you like a large mega-resort, smaller boutique resorts, or something in between?
  • Do you want to stay mostly on the resort or do you want to enjoy the area and local culture?

                            

When it comes to budget, as a general rule, resorts fall in to the following categories:

  • Budget – usually 2-3 star properties
  • Moderate – usually 3-4 star properties
  • Luxury – usually 4.5 -5 start properties
  • Exceptional Luxury – usually 5 star +

As a Couples Travel Concierge and Travel Professional, I can help you sort out all of your options.  Don’t hesitate to contact me when you are ready to book your All-Inclusive Resort vacation.
Kelley

Is St.Lucia your Paradise ??

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St. Lucia has become a top favorite destination for couples travel with good reason!   St. Lucia has a year round average temperature range of 75° – 85° and non-stop activities to suit everyone.  The foremost attractions in St. Lucia are great beaches, friendly people, stunning mountain scenery, a steaming volcano, plantations, bird-watching, turtle-watching, all forms of watersports (including scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing and kite-sailing), hiking, tennis and good food.

 

St Lucia is accessible from several US Gateways including Miami, Atlanta, and New York.  United Airlines recently introduced new non-stop service from Newark.  St. Lucia has 2 airports Hewanorra Airport (UVF) handles most long-distance international flights and is located on the southern part of the island, and George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU),  is primarily for flights to other islands in the region and is located on the north side of the island.   Flights from the US will land at UVF, on the southern part of the island.  A passport is required for US Citizens, but no travel visas are required at this time.  The Eastern Caribbean (EC$) dollar is the official currency. However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Be aware that a business may take U.S. dollars but give change in EC dollars. Always ask specifically if prices quoted are in U.S. or EC dollars.  Currency exchange is available at banks, major hotels and the ship terminals. ATMs are widely available except in small villages. Most banks are open Monday-Thursday 8 am-3 pm and Friday 8 am-5 pm.  Major credit cards are accepted by most hotels, restaurants and businesses, especially in tourist areas. Gas stations and small businesses usually do not accept credit cards.
St. Lucia is one of the Windward Islands, located in the middle of the Eastern Caribbean chain. It has a terrain that combines towering mountains, volcanoes, forests, low-lying lands blanketed in luscious green, and beaches.  The breathtaking allure of swaying palm and banana trees, accented by powdery-soft, white-sugar beaches and shimmering, green-blue topaz waters stretching as far as the eye can see is not to be missed.
St. Lucia is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, and the topography is mountainous. The main coastal road is paved and in good condition, but it is narrow and winding, which makes travel slow.  St Lucia is stunning to see from the water; one of my favorite things to do in St Lucia is a sunset catamaran cruise.

 

There is a large variety of accommodations including luxury pampering at its majestic resorts including all-inclusive resorts as well as the traditional European plan resorts.  There are beach front resorts, cliff side resorts, and everything in between; there is truly a perfect resort for every couple.  The uncompromising beauty of St Lucia attracts couples, honeymooners, and those who desire to retreat, relax, rejuvenate, explore, and revel in all that this awe-inspiring island has to offer.

Kelley

 

Can we afford our celebration travel ??

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Have you heard about a travel gift registry?  It works just like a traditional gift registry for a wedding, only your guests and friends give you gifts to make your honeymoon or other celebration travel perfect.  Travel registries are great for Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, but are also great for anniversaries, vow renewals, milestone birthdays, graduations, even the ever so deserving babymoons.
                  

Many couples are well established and don’t need any more towels, dishes, picture frames or another toaster.  Asking for cash gifts is not always appropriate or acceptable.  A travel gift registry can solve this problem and make it a win-win for all involved.  List anything you want to do on your trip and let your guests and friends pay for a portion of your trip!  Recent data shows that average bride and groom are getting approximately $2500 for their honeymoon registry.  Celebration travel for other occasions is quickly catching up!

 

Sure, towels and a Mont Blanc pen sound nice. But do you ever wish of going to an exotic island and getting pampered by your own private butler? Think it’s out of reach? Not with a travel gift registry!
If you want more information about travel gift registries, please visit http://www.cruisevacationsandmore.com/pages/registry

Beaches, Casinos, and rum drinks with no passport!

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Did you know Puerto Rico is an amazing Caribbean destination with much to offer for your vacation experience  and no passports are required?   Puerto Rico is a US Commonwealth and with a unique blend of Spanish culture, natural beauty, and contemporary lifestyle Puerto Rico has something for everyone.
While Puerto Rico is a great year ‘round destination, December – April are the best months to visit.  The temperatures are in the 70s-80s F during the day and in the 70s at night. You will want to take a sweater for the evenings, especially in the mountain areas or to wear inside in air-conditioned areas. Hurricane season is June-November, when it can be cloudy, more humid and rainy. It seems to rain at least every other day year-round, but most of the rain comes in brief torrents and doesn’t ruin a whole day.  Since it is a commonwealth of the U.S., Puerto Rico uses the U.S. dollar; just don’t be surprised when locals often refer to as a peso.  All major credit cards are widely accepted, however, some smaller shops may not accept American Express or Discover.

 

 

 

Activities and attractions abound in Puerto Rico!  Puerto Rico’s main attractions include deep-sea fishing, gambling, historical attractions, horse racing, culture, nightlife, beaches, rain forests, shopping, golf, tennis, caves, hiking, horseback riding, world-class surfing and watersports (including snorkeling and scuba diving)..  You c        an visit old forts (San Felippe del Morro and San Cristobel are two not-to-be-missed forts), enjoy the shopping and Spanish colonial architecture of Old San Juan, tour the Bacardi Rum Distillery, or try your luck at one of the islands many casinos.

 

            
Bacardi Distillery                                                                    Old San Juan

 

While San Juan is definitely the heart of Puerto Rico, there are other great areas to explore as well.   Ponce is a historic city on the southern coast of the island features attractions such as the Serralles Castle and the Parque de Bombas (old firehouse).   Another great option is to visit the off shore islands of Vieques and Culebra is great for some off-beat adventure. Culebra has a wildlife refuge and coral reefs, and Vieques attracts snorkelers and boasts some of the best beaches.

 

    

San Felippe del Morro

 

A few fun facts about Puerto Rico:
1.Puerto Rico purports to be the largest rum producer in the world.

2. The Caribbean National Forest, dubbed El Yunque in Spanish, is the only tropical forest in the U.S. Forest Service system, and the smallest as well.
3.Puerto Ricans measure distance in kilometers but speed limits in miles per hour.
4. In San Juan, at midnight on St. John the Baptist Day (23 June), people walk backward into the sea (or the nearest body of water) three times. This ritual is performed to wash away the year’s sins and ensure good luck for the following year.
5. The island’s local beer is the award-winning Medalla Light. It’s sold in 7- to 10-ounce sizes to ensure that the beverage can be consumed before it warms.

I hope you have enjoyed this short introduction to the island of Puerto Rico!

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