Why DIY Travel Can Cost You Thousands

Did you know that by NOT booking with a travel agent, you’re ultimately paying for a service you never received? Keep reading to find out why!

Booking Online = More Money

You might think hours of research will help you find the best deals, but ultimately, you’ll pay more by booking online. This is because online booking engines don’t have access to special pricing that a travel specialist does. In fact, agents receive exclusive offers and pricing that booking engines aren’t sharing online.  

Too Many Options

Your research only goes so far. A travel specialist has years of combined experience in the travel industry and can match you with the perfect vacation in your budget by just asking you a few questions! And oftentimes, travel consultants visit resorts throughout the year so they can share their experiences with you –way better than trying to sift through the best deals on your own!

No Personal Connections

When you book a vacation on your own, you’ll miss out on valuable insight a travel pro would offer. They’ve spent years building a strong rapport with resort staff, touring companies, transportation companies, etc. so that everything is tried and true before you travel AND so that you’re getting the best deals possible.  It’s never a good thing to book something blindly, so trust the pros who eat, sleep, and breathe travel!

The “Forgotten” Costs

A travel agent will work every little detail of your trip around a budget so there are no surprises along the way. Most DIY travelers forget to factor in things like gratuities, transfers, service fees, etc. These things add up and can send you WAY over your budget –so let the pros work it all out FOR you.

Of course, there’s NO SERVICE FEES to work with us, so be sure to consider using a travel specialist the next time you want to book a vacation! Questions? Message us here to get started.

7 All-Inclusive Resorts That Provide the Best Value

For the best value vacations in Mexico and the Caribbean, look no further than these amazing properties!

El Dorado Royale

This beachfront paradise is known for its 5-star Gourmet Inclusion –where adults will have the opportunity to indulge in world-renowned cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and picturesque views! The best part? It’s all included.

Hard Rock Riviera Maya

Named one of the best family-friendly resorts out there, at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, you’ll enjoy everything from its Rock Spa and Rock Star suites, to lively entertainment, incredible food, and fun activities for the whole family. A great value, indeed!

Royalton Riviera Cancun

This family resort is designed to accommodate guests of all ages and is comprised of three sections: the lively general resort area, the exclusive Dimond Club area –and Hideaway, an elegant adults-only oasis. A great option for the budget-conscious and discerning traveler!

Hilton La Romana

Enjoy spectacular beaches and sunshine at this noteworthy property! This newly renovated retreat is the ideal destination for families with a brand-new waterpark, family-sized guest rooms, and included amenities what will have you amazed! So much fun packed into one!

Royalton Negril

Enjoy “all-in” luxury at this fabulous Jamaica property! Take advantage of personalized service, fabulous dining options, and activities that will keep you busy for days. This resort also features a separate section for the adults, as well as a general area for any age!

Moon Palace Jamaica

The generous resort credits to the spa, exciting tours and excursions, golf outings, and its laid-back style, make this Jamaica property a family-favorite. Be sure to ask us how your kids can stay free!  Ya, mon!

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos

Your adult guests can enjoy signature hospitality and Unlimited-Luxury at Secrets Puerto Los Cabos! Set along the Pacific coast within an exclusive community in Puerto Los Cabos, this property is a great escape for golf and spa lovers!

Interested in learning more about one of these value-added properties? Then, click here to request a quote from us today!

4 Things No One Tells You About Destination Weddings

If you haven’t thought about a destination wedding yet, then keep reading. Here are some things that might pleasantly surprise you:­­

It’s More Affordable Than Traditional Weddings

You can have a beautiful and elegant destination wedding for under $10,000 –about a third of a traditional American wedding. We can also help you customize the perfect wedding package to fit just about any budget, too! The best part? You don’t have to pay for your guests, making it a great opportunity for couples looking to save some money.

There’s a Wide Variety of Options

Most of the wedding resorts we work with will provide you with a free wedding package, which presents a plethora of options. From the décor and flowers, to the private dinner reception, officiant, venue, and more. You might also find you’d like to add-on to your wedding package to reflect your own unique style –which is great, considering all the options available!

Favorite Vendors Can Come Along

Have a glam squad back home you can’t imagine having your big day without? Then, bring them along! Most resorts won’t charge you for outside vendors, which couples really appreciate. We’ll help you navigate the process along the way, too!

Very Easy to Plan

The idea of a remote wedding can sound difficult to plan, sure –but with our years of combined experience in the destination wedding industry, we’ll make the process for you a breeze!

For more information on planning a destination wedding, just CLICK HERE to get started.

3 River Cruise Experiences Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re looking for a river cruise with the kids or for something ultra luxurious –we’ve got you covered in this post!

For Families: Adventures by Disney with AmaWaterways

Experience one of Adventures by Disney's 30+ itineraries across 6 continents on one of its innovative river cruise ships. Here, you and your family will have an immersive vacation packed with fun and adventure around every corner. Bring the entire clan along and explore the world through various itineraries and excursions and immerse yourselves into the people, places, and culture of wherever your journey may take you!

For Active Travelers: AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways is known for their innovative spirit and attention for detail. In fact, the famous river cruise line is set on providing guests with more experiences, more amenities, and more choices in their amazing itineraries. They also have a higher staff-to-guest ratio –meaning guests are provided with the best level of service possible. The active travelers in your group will love the variety of included tours, whether it’s a guided bike tour along the canal or a hike up to an ancient castle.

For Luxury-Seeking Travelers: Uniworld

Designed to be as unique as its guests, Uniworld presents travelers with a more sophisticated sailing experience. The one-of-a-kind boutique design give passengers a “resort-like” atmosphere, with their cabins and suites each reflecting destination-inspired interior décor and elegant amenities. The stylish floating hotel offer a wide-variety of enchanting itineraries, as well as phenomenal dining and service.

Think one of these river cruises could be for you? Then, CLICK HERE to request a quote from one of our travel experts, today!

Family Resorts with Adult-Only Options

You can’t please everyone –but in this case, you can! Keep reading to discover some of our favorite family resorts with adult-only options.

Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Cap Cana

Situated perfectly on Juanillo Beach lies two brand-new, all-inclusive retreats: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana for families and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana for adults. The two are located within walking distance in the secluded community of Cap Cana, offering incredible beaches and luxurious all-inclusive perks. Guests at both resorts can all enjoy infinity pools, swim up bars and suites, a waterpark, and a lazy river. In addition, the two properties are in close proximity to the international airport and championship golf course –not to mention some of the area’s best deep-sea fishing and surrounding eco parks. A great option for travelers looking to accommodate every age group and preference, yet still remain nearby.

Generations Rivera Maya & El Dorado Royale

Another popular choice for destination wedding groups and multigenerational trips is Generations Riviera Maya and El Dorado Royale –the family and adult sister properties owned by Karisma Resorts. Generations guests can take advantage of everything from the kids club and water activities, to gourmet bites and entertainment –while the adult guests at El Dorado Royale can relax in a more upscale setting. Both properties also offer a fabulous Gourmet Inclusive experience, including butler service, cooking shows, and delightful cuisine. The perfect option for families to come together during the day and have the adult guests separate at their own leisure.

Hideaway at Royalton Resorts

Hideaway is an adults-only oasis dedicated to couples looking for a bit of added privacy and romance on vacation. And while Royalton Resorts was designed for all ages, they also understand the importance of “adult time, “too. The main difference Hideaway has with the options above, is that it’s actually located on the premises –whereas the others are two separate properties. Hideaway is located on site, but has its own little section dedicated just for the adults. Perks include private pools, complimentary perks and more.

Interested in arranging your next family and adult-only getaway? Then, MESSAGE US today to request more information and a quote!

Your European Vacation Planning Timeline

Thinking of heading to Europe this year? Then, keep reading for our handy planning timeline to keep you on track!

12+ Months Before Departure: Your Budget & Wishlist

Decide your budget range and preferences so you can narrow down where in Europe you want to visit. Also consider the type of trip you’re looking for –whether it’s tropical and relaxing or active and adventurous. We also suggest selecting your top three destinations and determining places that are definitely out.

DESTINATION TO BOOK NOW: Greece

9 Months Before Departure: Contact a Travel Pro

Always utilize a travel pro to help you do the planning. We’ve been to a majority of fabulous destinations ourselves and can provide you with numerous suggestions at the very best prices.

DESTINATION TO BOOK NOW: Spain

7 Months Before Departure: Travel Documents

Make sure your passport or visa is up-to-date, as well as any medical paperwork you might need. We also recommend purchasing travel insurance. Lastly, make sure you get vaccinated depending on the country you’re visiting.

DESTINATIONS TO BOOK NOW: Italy and Paris

3-6 Months Before Departure: Activities

Now would be a great time to start planning your European itinerary! This includes everything from activities and excursions, to spa and restaurant reservations, tour bookings, transportation, and more. You’ll also want to consider booking any inter-Europe flights, car rentals, and rail travel passes at this time. The best part? We’ll help you with all of that!

2 Months Before Departure: Shopping

Plan on getting a little shopping out of the way so you don’t have to run around looking at the last minute. This also includes any travel gear you’ll need like a duffel bag or suitcases or even electronics like a new set of headphones for your flight.

1 Week Before Departure: Final Checks

It’s getting down to the wire! Make sure you have all your paperwork, travel documents, and airfare in order. We also suggest making copies of your passport, exchanging your currency and begin packing so you’re not scrambling. You also might want to look into an international phone plan, so you don’t get hit with a big bill when you return home.

Day Before Departure: Ready to Go!

Yes! Your European getaway is finally here. The day before, you’ll need to check in for your flights, print your boarding passes, and make sure your carry-on has anything important in there like medication, your passport, and valuables.

Well, there you have it –the ultimate European vacation planning timeline! To start planning yours today, click here to connect with a Europe travel pro.

The Top 5 Luxury Resorts in Jamaica

For a vacation experience that embraces the pulse and rhythm of Jamaica –look no further than one of these top luxury resorts.

Half Moon Jamaica

Situated on two miles of beachfront, Half Moon Jamaica offers individually-appointed rooms and suites with views of the Caribbean Sea and 5, 6, and 7-room villas.  Enjoy everything from an award-winning spa, an 18-hole championship golf course, an equestrian center, and Sugar Mill –Jamaica’s best restaurant.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas

Round Hill Hotel and Villas welcomes guests to its 110-acre private enclave of luxury villas, boutique waterfront rooms, and award-winning seaside dining and spa. Here, families can enjoy quality time in many watersports and excursions, while couples escape into their own private paradise at the spa or watching a sunset.

Jamaica Inn

Jamaica Inn has been greeting travelers with antique-appointed bedrooms since 1950 and is ranked among one of the top luxury hotels in the Caribbean. Nestled in Ocho Rios on one of the private beaches in Jamaica, the intimate suites and cottages showcase romantic views and a relaxing ambiance that can only be found in paradise.

Golden Eye

GoldenEye is a collection of private villas, cottages and beach huts, surrounded by tropical gardens, private beaches and secluded coves. Here, travelers will feel an immediate sense of home the moment they arrive, with cozy accommodations, fun activities, and delightful cuisine. Become one with nature at this breathtaking and luxurious oasis.

The Caves

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.

Interested in one of these luxurious Jamaican retreats? Then, message us today to request a quote!