5 Caribbean Retreats to Add to Your Bucket List Today

We don’t know about you, but this time at home has us dreaming up our next big trip! Keep reading for some of our bucket list “musts!”

The Caves, Jamaica

The Caves is a handcrafted hideaway encompassing the natural beauty of Negril, with a modern, metropolitan style and carefree vibe. Located just minutes from Negril’s 7-­mile beach, The Caves is where adventure and enchantment become one for an authentic and laid-back vacation. It features 12 cliffside cottages, a grand villa, 2 dining gazebos, private caves, a rum bar and spa –all of which are nearby views of the glittering sapphire sea.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Aruba

Not only has Aruba made significant efforts to "go green" over the years, but Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort was announced the very first carbon-neutral hotel in Aruba just recently! Here, you’ll receive a net zero carbon emissions experience –meaning its guests leave no carbon footprint. In addition, adult travelers can enjoy the resort’s tranquil setting and world-class dining for the ultimate romantic getaway.

Royalton Resort, Antigua

Recently making its grand entrance last spring, Royalton Antigua will captivate you from sunup ‘till sundown. Their attention for detail and relaxing atmosphere make this new resort a perfect vacation for romance –and now, couples can live in complete luxury in their very own overwater suite! Here, you’ll enjoying picture-perfect views of the Caribbean Sea, a master bedroom with a seating area, a dining room, swim-out plunge pool, over-water hammock, and so much more!

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Jade Mountain Resort’s bold architectural design, custom accents, and art pieces represent its philosophy of building a property in harmony within the Caribbean setting of St. Lucia. Details like rugged-stoned faced columns, grand entryways, and open 3-wall concept, make it a truly unique resort experience. Super romantic setting for honeymoons, anniversary trips, and intimate getaways!

Alexandra Resort, Turks and Caicos

Situated on world-acclaimed Grace Bay Beach of the Turks and Caicos islands, Alexandra Resort is the cozy all-suites property you won’t want to leave. Known for its spacious rooms with full kitchens and all-inclusive amenities, this retreat is perfect for families, couples, and corporate travelers.

To inquire about one of these dreamy Caribbean vacation spots, click here to get in touch with a travel specialist.

Once-In-A-Lifetime Savings at Select Playa Resorts

Right now, Playa Resorts is offering incredibly low rates at some of our favorite vacation properties. Keep reading to learn more!

What are the savings?

In light of everything right now, Playa Resorts has temporarily slashed prices, making it a great time to book your future getaway. They’re currently offering things like free nights and excursions, spa credits, and even an automatic suite upgrade with a $25 resort credit for every room night booked. You could even wind up saving up to 60% at select properties.

What resorts are participating?

Hyatt Ziva and Zilara resorts in both Mexico and the Caribbean are offering phenomenal rates right now. The Hilton, Jewel Resorts, and Panama Jack are running specials at select properties now as well.

What is included?

Playa Hotels and Resorts have some of the most amazing all-inclusive vacation experiences. From innovative swim-up suites, to authentic dining experiences, spas, and live entertainment –they mean it when they say “all-inclusive.” Some examples include:

·         Unlimited dining/drink

·         24-hour room service

·         Romance concierge

·         Kids clubs

·         Fitness center

·         Daily activities

·         Culinary tastings

·         Pool Games

·         Select excursions

·         And more!

What are the terms?

These special Once-In-A-Lifetime savings apply for bookings made through May 31, 2020 for travel July 1, 2020 through April 30, 2021. Other terms may apply, so please feel free to reach out for additional questions.

For more information on these special low rates, please click here to request a quote. We look forward to planning your future vacation!

How Hotels and Airports Are Keeping Us Safe During The COVID-19 Outbreak

Curious what hotels and airports are doing to keep us safe right now? Then, keep reading for a closer look in:

Hotels

If you will be checking into a hotel or resort in the near future, you can expect many hotels to be very proactive about their cleaning efforts. In addition to their usual cleaning and disinfecting protocols for guest rooms, resorts like Hilton, The Marriott, and many others are increasing the frequency of cleaning in public spaces, with a large focus on the lobby, elevators, door handles, bathrooms and room keys. They’re also encouraging guests to do a quick wipe down of their own upon arrival in case the staff has touched spots once housekeeping has passed through. This includes “high touch” things like TV remotes, lamp switches, soap dispensers, toilet handles, etc.

Airports

Airlines are also taking the necessary precautions to protect travelers during the COVID-19 outbreak. Delta Airlines, for example, has recently outlined their new guidelines for keeping travelers safe –from the moment you arrive at the airport, to the flight itself. All kiosks, ticket counters, gate areas, help centers, and baggage areas are cleaned multiple times a day with disinfectant. Multiple hand sanitizer dispensers have also been put in at all Club entrances, food service stations, and restroom areas. On flights, some airlines have been equipped with state-of-the-art air circulation systems, blending fresh outside air that is sterilized and filtered. Some have also added a fogging process to disinfect all transoceanic flights. Crews have also increased cleaning –including tray tables, seatback screens consoles, and other common areas.

As always, we are here to guide you in making the smartest travel decisions for you and your family. If you have any questions for us regarding a current or upcoming trip, or just need travel advice in general, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Cancel vs. Postpone: What Should I Do About My Upcoming Trip?

Wondering what to do about your upcoming travel plans? Here’s some suggestions from the travel experts!

The Benefit of Postponing

As of now, we recommend postponing any travel plans you had made for April and May instead of cancelling. Reason being, is depending on your resort or insurance company’s cancellation policy, you could potentially lose money for cancelling. Postponing your vacation to a later time allows you to put that money toward a future trip, PLUS give you something to look forward to when it’s safe to travel again.

When to Rebook?

For any vacations in April and May, we recommend you rebooking for fall 2020. Any travel plans booked after then is still too early to determine at this time, but we will notify you as soon as we know.

Will There Be Penalties for Changing?

This all depends on the date you purchased airline tickets and your accommodations. Some airlines are offering change fee waivers and vouchers for future travels, but you must complete travel by a certain date. Hotels might also offer flexible options, so just be sure to ask.

If you have any questions regarding your current or future travel plans, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to helping you travel well again!  

5 Tropical Cocktails to Make at Home

If you can’t get to the beach, bring the beach to you. Here’s some fabulous cocktail recipes for your staycation:

*These recipes were among some of our favorites via FoodNetwork.com 😊.

Recipe & Image via Food Network

Strawberry Daiquiri

·         One 12-ounce bag frozen strawberries

·         6 ounces light rum 

·         4 ounces lime juice 

·         5 tablespoons sugar 

·         6 fresh strawberry slices, for garnish 

In a blender, combine the frozen strawberries, rum, lime juice and sugar. Blend until smooth and divide among 6 highball or hurricane-style glasses. Garnish each glass with a strawberry slice and serve immediately.

Recipe & Image via Food Network

Margarita

·         1 lime, halved

·         Kosher salt

·         1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (5 limes)

·         2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 lemon)

·         1 cup Triple Sec

·         1 cup white tequila

·         2 cups ice, plus extra for serving

If you like margaritas served in a glass with salt, rub the outside rims of 6glasses with a cut lime and dip each glass lightly into a plate of kosher salt.Combine the lime juice, lemon juice, Triple Sec, tequila, and ice in a blender and puree. Place extra ice in a cocktail shaker. Fill with margarita mix, shake well, and strain into glasses.

Recipe & Image via Food Network

Long Island Iced Tea

 2 cups ice cubes

·         1 ounce vodka

·         1 ounce gin

·         1 ounce white rum

·         1 ounce white tequila

·         1/2 ounce Triple Sec

·         2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

·         1/2 cup cola, or to taste

·         2 lemon wedges

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour the vodka, gin, rum, tequila, Triple Sec, and lemon juice into the shaker. Cover and shake vigorously to combine and chill. Pour the mixture, ice and all, into 2 glasses or beer mugs and top off with the cola. Garnish with lemon wedges. Serve.

Recipe & Image via Food Network

Mojito

Ice

6 ounces light rum

12 mint sprigs, or spearmint, 8 roughly broken apart

6 tablespoons fresh lime juice

4 tablespoons sugar

Club soda

4 slices lime

Place ice in beverage shaker then add in the rum, 8 broken up mint sprigs, lime juice and sugar. Shake well and serve over ice in a high ball glass. Top off each glass with a splash of club soda.

Recipe & Image via Food Network

Pina Colada

·         1 1/2 cup ice

·         1/2 cup diced pineapple, frozen

·         2 ounces pineapple juice

·         2 ounces Coco Lopez coconut cream

·         1 1/2 ounces white rum

·         1 ounce dark rum

·         Pineapple slices

Put the ice, frozen pineapple, juice, coconut cream, and the white and dark rums into a blender. Blend until smooth and frosty. Pour the drink into 2 glasses and garnish the rim with pineapple slices.

We hope this brings a little slice of paradise to your home! And be sure to reach out to us if you have any requests for future travel!

Dreamy Destinations to Inspire Wanderlust

Mental vacation, anyone? Here’s some dreamy destinations to inspire your future travels…

Hawaii

When you think “paradise,” nothing else comes to mind quite like Hawaii. Its waters and beaches will mesmerize you the moment you arrive, while its forests and volcanoes are sure to take your breath away. This is a must-see on the exotic destination bucket list!

Maldives

The Maldives is a uniquely gorgeous island country situated in the Arabian Sea. Experience everything from jet skiing and boating, to spa days and romantic outings. This is the ultimate place for adventure and romance!

Thailand

From the vibrant non-stop city of Bangkok, to the stunning beaches of Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Pattaya –Thailand is full of little places exploring! We recommend this destination for couples looking to kick married life off with a little adventure!

Greece

Did you know that Santorini is popular among honeymooners for its beautiful beaches, ancient cities, incredible cuisine, and active volcano? Be sure to explore the area’s quaint villages and delectable fresh cuisine for an authentic and exotic adventure!

St. Lucia

It is not surprising Saint Lucia has earned this title, with its volcanic beaches, reef diving sites, fishing villages, and luxury resorts. The Pitons, tapered mountains on the West Coast, and the spectacular waterfalls of the Toraille flow over a cliff into lush gardens, are sites not to be missed!

Seychelles

If you’re looking for an exotic archipelago that’s far from the modern world, then you’ll love Seychelles! The natural beauty of Seychelles is a breathtaking spot just east from Africa’s mainland, offering honeymooners tropical scenery and an abundance of marine life.

Croatia

Most recently seen in the popular “Game of Thrones” tv-series, Dubrovnik also gets its fame for its winding streets, cliffside beach bars and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town.

Bali

Not only does Bali offer great beaches, surf spots, and dozens of natural sites to visit and explore, but its "high-value-for-the-money" ratio is one of the many reasons honeymooners come back year after year! Better add this one to your list!

As always, we’re happy to help you navigate your future getaway. To connect with an expert, click here.