Selecting the Right Travel Agent for you!

These days when planning your vacation there are so many options on how to plan. Starting with doing research online, or finding a travel agent, it is actually over whelming.

Many travelers start with planning on line then start to wonder if that is too good of a deal to be true, do can they trust certain websites, or how do they know if this is even a good resort. That is where some of you turn to a Travel Agent.

Here are a few TIPS to help find the right travel agent. Do know they can make the difference in your vacation.

1. Try a get a referral from a friend on who their agent is.
2. Google or Look in the phone book for a local travel agent.
3. When contacting a travel agent ask a few questions, such as, what are your fees (if any), what is your experience and last how long have you been an agent.

Here is the answers to a few of our TIPS about the agents at Becker World Travel. Starting with our agents having a degree from a travel agent school or have been trained by and experienced travel agents. Together our agents have been in the business for over 20 years, and keep their education updated.

Our agency does not charge much in fees if any at all, most of our vacation packages we do not charge our clients fees. That is because we work with so many travel suppliers. We take price in no fees and feel as if it is giving our clients a free service of our knowledge and experience.

Our favorite things we do to keep ahead of the rest is travel many times thru the year, tour resorts, stay at the resorts we suggest, and try out excursions.

This past year Stefanie traveled Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, toured many resorts and tried a variety of excursions, such as swimming with the dolphins, speed boating and snorkeling. I (Nichole) traveled to Cancun- TWICE!, Las Vegas and Cabo San Lucas, not only toured many hotels, I had a blast touching a shark on a catamaran cruise, snorkeing in Cabo, and visited the botanical gardens at the Bellagio. In addition I will be visiting Belize, Roatan, Cotsa Maya, and Bahamas.

My favorite thing to tell clients is the minor details that can make a difference in their vacation.

We wish you all happy and safe travels for 2010. Call us today we would love to help you.

Happy Holidays

Picture taken New Years 2009

Crown Paradise Club;Cancun, Mexico

Nichole Winter and her family.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

From all of us a Becker World Travel

We wish you and your family a very magical holiday season full of fun and family.

Thank you for being such a great support to Becker World Travel !

Nichole Winter and Stefanie Epperly

The most Engagements happen Christmas thru Valentines Day . . . .

Brent and Avril's Destination Wedding at the Riu Santa Fe, in Cabo San Lucas.

November 21, 2009



Most Bride and Grooms love the Beautiful backdrop a Destination Wedding offers for thier Wedding,





It is that time of the year, we are all so busy planning the Holidays with so much shopping , wrapping, baking and parties. Some of us do not even know that our special men in our lives are planning how to pop the question and surprise us to the fullest.

My husband as many men ask me to marry him on Christmas Eve, 11 years ago. I will always remember it, he snuck it into my stocking. I did not even notice that there was anything in my stocking. Right after the holidays I started planning, I found that we were asking ourselves what kind of wedding do we want, where, and when. There was so much to think about.

When talking together you may find that you want a destination wedding. Over the years they have become so popular and bride and grooms find it easier for everyone. With a destination wedding your guests get a bonus a Vacation! Since the popularity of destination weddings have grown resorts have made it also easier with so many options.

Here are a few tips to get you started.

1. Destination weddings can be more relaxing for you and your

guests. So remember to pre-plan and keep everyone in mind. Meaning

destination, flight options, amenities of resort and budget.

2. Find a resort that specialized in Weddings, it will help your planning. Many of resorts offer Weddings but may not host a large number of weddings therefore may hinder your plans.

3. Plan early Resorts book up fast for wedding ceremony times. Also it

allows your guests to save money for the trip.

4. You do not have to do this on your own. Find a Travel Agent the specializes in Destination

Weddings. They know the destinations and resorts that cater to Weddings, and typically have personal contacts.

5. Are there children attending? This is something to think of since they are important too. Sandals is an excellent resort to get married at however are children going that will not work. Sandals is adults only. Possibly think of Beaches or Dreams.

6. My favorite is remember that you are combining your wedding and honeymoon together, look into staying a few days longer than your guests. It gives you time alone to enjoy each other. You are already there it typically does not cost much more.

Congratulations on your Engagement !

Happy planning, just remember have fun with it.

Give us a call today we would love to help you plan your destination wedding or honeymoon.

If you need addition services for your planning visit http://www.idoido.org/, for some of Central Minnesotas best Wedding Vendors!

January is full of hot Deals . . . .

It is not too late to book a warm vacation for January. There is some great deals on many resorts.

Start with savings up to $150 with an air and hotel vacation to the new Barceló Los Cabos Palace Deluxe in Los Cabos, Mexico. This all-suite resort.

Barceló Los Cabos Palace Deluxe offers 619 suites. This beachfront resort is wrapped in refreshingly stylish touches and innovative design featuring upscale accommodations, a cigar lounge, 34 specialty swim-up suites, 7 themed restaurants, a world class spa, and exceptional personalized service.

or try

RIU Hotels & Resorts vacation and take advantage of huge savings to 8 beachfront destinations in Mexico and Jamaica.

$50 on vacations of $999 - $2,999
$100 on vacations of $3,000 or more

Call today for these great offers!

It is official . .

Here in Minnesota this morning is 17 degrees . . . and that means it is time to start thinking about warm places.

Imagine this . . .

exchanging your winter coat for a swim suit . . .

or hot chocolate for a Margarita on the rocks . . .

or a stressed out work day for an afternoon nap on the beach.

It was been a busy week here at Becker World Travel and with that we have found a few great specials.

Starting with Cabo San Lucas, great Saturday to Saturday charter flights. Cabo has many great priced hotels. A few of my favorites are the Royal Solaris, Riu Santa Fe and the new resort Barcelo Palace. The Barcelo Palace have just opened and being a 5 star resort it is an excellent value right now.

Also like many past winter seasons January is a great value time to travel. Typically we see more affordable air prices and hotel prices. That means you are getting so much more of your vacation out of your money!

We still have many MLT coupons for a variety of hotel and destinations. This can be a savings of up to $150 per reservation. This is good thru December.

Call to today at 320-241-0355.

What to think about?

You know you want to go on Vacation, and for most of us from Minnesota we know this time of the year we are thinking a warm destination.

So you ask yourself where do I start and how do I plan the right vaction for me?

Here are a few tips and questions that may help you in your planning.

1. First think about where you have gone or have not gone.
Do you want to go somewhere new or do you like to re-visit a destination

2. When you think of your vacation can you describe it in 3 works?
For example " warm, beach, & relaxing" or maybe it would be "shopping, active, & food"

3. We know there are many ways you can plan you vacations first what some to mind is the service of a travel agent or booking online. It is o.k. to do your research but remember travel agents are trained in helping you. I know most travelers think agents charge large service fees, so when calling just ask do not be afraid, and keep in mind some agents do not charge.

4.When you seek for the help of a travel agent it is o.k. that you may not know where you want to go, remember it is our job to help you!

5. Back to your research think about amenities at your resort, activities in the area, do you want night life or relaxing ? Do you want an oceanview room? Think about your flights are you ok with a layover or straight flights are a must?

This is a great START to helping you plan your next vacation. Give us a call today to help you enjoy 320-241-0355. We look forward to working with you.

A few updates

I have been talking about Cabo so much, I need to update you on a few other exciting things. Each day I am doing research for my clients helping them not only plan a vacation but lifetime memories and experiences. Every time someone calls me I get so excited to see what I can plan next.

This winter travel season I have noticed a few great travel itineraries to share with clients. First one is the wonderful straight flights into Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This for the travelers that loves to go from Saturday to Saturday, and stay at some pretty amazing resorts for amazing prices. The last 3 couples I worked with paid under $2,500 per couple for a week long all inclusive vacation.

I am also finding some excellent prices to the great little town of Ixtapa. If you are a traveler that loves simple and relaxing this may be the place for you. Ohh and I forgot to mention the one of my favorite resorts there is the Barcelo and I have a discount for the Barcelo Resorts.

For those of you who know me I am a fan of the Riu Resorts, they are a great value for your money. Did you know there is a new Riu resort in Mazatlan, Mexico?

Give me a call today I would love to help you plan you next vacation filled with great memories. Nichole Winter 320-241-0355 and when you call ask about our referrall program to take advantage of extra savings!

p.s. If you or someone you know is getting married,

visit My Minnesota Wedding Expo Saturday November 14th.

Follow the link and you will see and offer for free admission!

http://www.myminnesotawedding.com/

Impressing Tour at the Royal Solaris in Cabo

Royal Solaris, San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico
Kids play area, lots of options for the children.

Main pool area.




Lunch area with a view of the Ocean.


One of the many dining options.

While I was in Cabo San Lucas I toured the Royal Solaris. What a great resort, there were a few things I noticed during my tour the friendly staff, many dining options, new kids area, the main pool was also new, a large beautiful beach and a very clean resort. I just really enjoyed the entire resort and was excited to share this with you.


This resort has 5 restaurants, a large swimming pool, kids pools, adults only pool, themed nightly shows, room service, spa, kids and juniors clubs, gym and so much more. All the guest rooms are very spacious with balcony's and has mini bar in room.


I am excited to help you plan your next trip to Cabo San Lucas and enjoy your time at the Royal Solaris!

Amazing stay at the Riu Santa Fe

Riu Santa Fe

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

I just stayed at the Riu Santa Fe Resort in Cabo, it was impressive from the moment I arrive and thought my entire stay.

Things I noticed, were the spacious and clean rooms, many large pools always with views to remember, excellent dining options with menus sure to please any guests pallet, how perfect the grounds landscaping was, and last I was very pleased with the service thru the entire resort.

You can spend you day laying around one of the pools, enjoying a cold cocktail at the swim up bar, playing beach volleyball, or taking a break from the sun and slipping into the spa for a message. Once the evening hits head off to the sports bar, the evening entertainment or Pacha night club for some dancing.

Right now you can save up to $125 at Riu Hotels and Resort in Mexico and the Caribbean.

I look forward to helping you plan your next amazing vacation.

Visit back for many more articles on Cabo San Lucas, while there I toured Resorts, experienced excursions and found a fun cantina downtown Cabo.

Cabo San Lucas Bound. . .

I am excited to tell you that Stefanie and I (Nichole) will be visiting Cabo San Lucas, Mexico for a few days next week!

Cabo is at the very southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, so the water from town is always south. The distinctive sea arches at Land's End, are to the southwest. If you see land ahead of you it has to be east or north; check where the water is and you will know for sure.

Downtown is two areas-Heading to the east, you will arrive in the downtown area. Split into two sections, one of these, the block adjacent to the marina, is considered the marina district, while the rest is considered downtown. These separate areas within the town center have different characters and attractions.

Downtown is full of wild bar scenes and restaurants with a partying atmosphere this district is almost exclusively filled with tourists in places like Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo or the El Shrimp Bucket, which has appealed to locals for many years. Do not forget to visit a tiny markets here and experience the friendliness of the people.

The Beach -
Undertow warnings should be posted wherever there is danger. Don't ignore them.


Shopping -
Cabo has an abundance of shops selling all types of Mexican handicrafts, silver, and all kinds of beautiful ceramics. There is a new mega mall, Puerto Paraiso. As more shops open in Puerto Paraiso the mall gets more popular with tourist. Shop anywhere in town for tee shirts, wood carvings, unique objects, pure vanilla and designer sportswear at duty free prices.

Visit back soon to hear more about Cabo and see pictures. I am exited to help you plan you next vacation to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!

Too Many Discounts to List !

Yesterday I attended MLT University. I sat in many classes learning about new and old destinations, resorts and excursions. WOW so much going on in so many places it is amazing!

Here is a few things I want to share with you:
1. Cancun is Mexico's #1 visited destination
2. Riu Resorts is the leading all-inclusive chain
3.All year is a perfect time to vacation in Hawaii it always averages 70's to mid 80's
4. MLT's top Honeymoon hotels are:

a. Sandals Grand Ocho Rios
b. Sandals Negril
c. Moon Palace Golf and Spa

. . and there was so much more

In addition to all the classes, I was able to attend a trade show of many vendors and meet alot of the actual hotel contacts. By meeting these people it helps me plan a custom vacation for you, because it is all about the small details.

Last I am able to offer my clients EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT OFFERS!

Here are just a few to show you:
1. Save up to $150 at Couples Resorts in Jamaica
2. Save up to $125 at the Barcelo Hotel & Resorts in Mexico, Costa Rica and the Caribbean
3. Save up to $150 at the El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma in the Riviera Maya
4. Save up to $125 at the Riu Hotels & Resorts
5. Save up to $125 to Cozumel
6. Save up to $125 to Riviera Nayarit

and so many more.

Give me a call today, I would love to help you plan you next vacation and take advantage off the new discounts!

Maximum us is 5 discount per offer and per agency!

It is not Just about Gambling amymore . . .

Las Vegas . . .

There is so much more these days, starting with visiting all the uniquely decorated hotels, in each one you will experiencing amazing shopping and one of a kind dinning.

Take a walk down the strip full of amazing, free entertainment, starting with the Pirate show in fort of Treasure Island, next the Exploding Volcano in front of the Mirage, ending with the Fountains of Bellaigo.


End your night by taking a trip to the top of the Stratosphere to enjoy an amazing views of the strip and downtown. If you like a bit of fun and extreme try one or all of the three rides they have on the top.


If you find yourself enjoying the decor of the hotels, two of my favorites is the Botanical Gardens of the Bellagio and the views of the Venetian. Try taking those views in by a romantic ride in down the Grand Canal in an authentic Venetian gondola.



Last, take time and head down to Freemont Street, for the Freemont Experience. You will enjoy themed lights and entertainment. While your down there enjoy dinner and shopping.

Whenever you visit Las Vegas there is always something new going on. Take the time to research or ask your travel agent about all the different activities.

Las Vegas is a great long weekend getaway with may different price points for all travelers!

What is one of the most memorable Vacations you can take?

. . . Your Honeymoon

One of my specialties as a Travel Agent is planning Honeymoons. However I have yet to discuss that as any of my blog entry's. For those of you who do not know me well, I have been in the wedding industry for the last 10 years from being a bridal consultant to owning a custom wedding stationery company.

When I look back at my wedding one of the biggest memories of them all was getting on that plane with my new husband, swimsuit packed and nothing planned all I knew was we were in need of some serious relaxation (after a wedding of over 400 guests).
Planning our honeymoon we did what most couples do is talk with friends and got referrals. From there the decision was made, SANDALS NEGRIL was the choice.

Now it is 9 years later, as a married couple we have traveled to so many destinations, but in the end we still talk about our honeymoon and that being the vacation that will always be on top of the list.

When it comes to planning your honeymoon remember a few things. . .

1. It will be your first Vacation as a married couple make it special.

2. It will be needed to relax from that pre-wedding stress.

3. It is a time for you two to really enjoy each other (alone).

4. It does not matter the destination it is just that you go!

5. It is never too early to start planning.

. . . My husband and I are planning to visit Sandals Negril for our 10 year!

Continue to visit for more articles on Honeymoon destinations, resorts, and tips.

I did it!

To continue on the Packing light, I just got back from Las Vegas for 4 Days and followed the packing in one bag article I earlier posted. For me it was thinking a bit different, and at a few times it drove me crazy not having a selection of clothing items to pick from.

As I started to pack for my departure, I would think back to what I read, so I began pick out outfits all revolving around black. This really helped for the fact if I would have pack brown then there would be the adding in of brown shoes and purse. Right there saves room!

The next new way of thinking was interchangeable outfits, and since I was not sure what we would be doing in the evening I selected pieces that were not too casual but not overly dressy so no matter where we had dinner I was comfortable. The thought I had was "I would rather be a bit over dressed that under". This worked well.

I also selected carefully jewelry that matched more than one outfit and asking myself do I really need a curling iron? In the end I was just fine with out it.

The biggest thing was purchasing a large black purse that I used for 3 purposes, a briefcase (for the conference I was attending), my purse and carry-on. For a woman that is a big deal.

In the end, I still had a few pieces that I did not wear, and now I know that I can do this again. It was also nice to avoid the checked in luggage fees.

If you are going to try this, please visit your airlines website for all carry-on luggage rules, they are very important.

How to Pack Light

Do you Start Every Vacation saying

"This time I am packing light"

Then all you think about are the Luggage fees you are going to have to pay at the airport?

Last Sunday I read an article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune

"31 Days- 1 Bag"

It really made sence. In all my travels I have never packed light, now I think I can.

I am leaving in a few days for Las Vegas, and I think this is the trip to try it.

Read the article and challenge yourself.

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/travel/57577862.html?elr=KArks7PYDiaK7DUqyE5D7UiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr

Punta Cana features the longest coral reef in the whole island . . .

Dominican Republic

Visit Puerto Plata or Punta Cana






The Dominican Republic is a unforgettable island for your next vacation. Imagine large tropical beaches with many palm trees. This island is excellent for couples and families, with a wide variety of hotel chains there is a resort out there for each traveler the suites your needs.



Once you have relaxed by the beach or pool there are endless activities for you to do. The Dominican Republic is excellent for divers and snorkelers. You may also try horseback riding, bicycling, or a parasailing ride. After all that fun there is many restaurants to enjoy or your can take in some shopping.

The cold Minnesota winter months is an excellent time to visit considering that, the Dominican's

temperatures don’t vary much in, averaging a summery 81ºF to 87ºF in most places for much of the year. The rainy season is May to October.

Give us a call today we would love to help you plan this winters vacation to the breathtaking island of Dominican Republic!

Barcelo Resort Sale

Vacation at Barcelo Resorts

Up to $150 in savings plus award winning resorts and exclusive all-inclusive plus program. Choose from many beachfront destinations, Cancun, Riveria Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa and more.
You will enjoy great savings—up to $150—with their purchase of an air and Barceló Hotels & Resorts vacation to unbeatable destinations in Mexico.
Save:
$75 on packages $799-$2,999
$150 on packages $3,000 or more

Stay at the . . . .

The Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya (Puerto Vallarta) - holds the prestigious AAA 4 Diamond Award for 2008. In addition, the resort was named the "Most Family Friendly Resort in Mexico" by TravelAge West in 2006 and was a finalist for this award in 2009. (photos above are from the Barcelo La Jolla de Mosmaloya)

Barceló Maya Tropical & Colonial Beach (Riviera Maya) - take advantage of the All-Inclusive Plus Plan - you'll receive a helpful concierge service, express check in and check out, and more.

Call today for extra savings at the already great priced Barcelo resorts.

Become a Fan on Facebook

Look for us on facebook and become a Fan of Becker World Travel.

It is a great way to keep up with us on our travels, vacation promotions and new things going on in the travel industry.

Here is the link to our page:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Becker-MN/Becker-World-Travel/52248353098?ref=ts

One you go . . .You will know . . .

Jamaica Sale on Now

7 nights in Jamaica from less than $75 per night + golf, spa credits, and more
Save up to $200...Once you go, you know

You can save up to $200 with an air and hotel vacation to the laid-back island lifestyle, enjoy beautiful beaches and fun activities of Montego Bay, Negril, or Ocho Rios, Jamaica. There are no blackout dates, you can travel any time through Dec 18, 2009.

SAVE:
$100 on packages of $1,199 - $2,999
$200 on packages of $3,000 or more

Call today for further details

Join us at the Becker Parade

We are going to be in the Becker Parade Today.

Parade start time is 10:00a.m.

The Parade route is just of HWY 10 in Becker.

Join us for lots if fun, candy and new 2009 travel brochures.

So bring your friends and family for a day of fun!

Have a happy and safe summer.

Sail Away to Isla Mujeres

Downtown Isla

Ride on the Spinnaker

Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women, where time passes slowly and your dream vacation becomes a reality. Isla is an island 8 miles off of Cancun's coast. Isla Mujeres is only 5 miles long and half a mile wide with a downtown area of just four by six blocks.

I just got back from Cancun and found one of my favorite activities there. It is an excursion full of fun, relaxation, shopping, and snorkeling.

We headed out on our Catamaran at 10 am, first stop was the National Reef for snorkeling. We enjoyed ourselves by seeing sea turtles, stingrays and a barracuda. From there we took a relaxing 45 minute sail to see a shark. Yes I touch it ! Then got back on the catamaran and off to Downtown Isla Mujeres.

This was my first time to Isla and what a tease that was, now I want to spend more time there. I headed north a few blocks to see Playa Norte (the north beach). It was amazing, what a beautiful beach. We spent most of our time taking in the beauty of Playa Norte.

From there we sailed south for a traditional Mexican lunch and relaxing on the beach. The trip ended with a ride on the spinnaker.

If you are interested in an excursion of this excursion, talk with me about it when booking your next vacation !!

Iberostar Quetzal Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

The Iberostar Quetzal is a 4 Star Resort, 5 minutes south of 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen.
The Resort has a tropical forest setting, you will see a variety of animals. Iberostar Quetzal is an all-inclusive resort, It includes your room, variety of food at restaurants, and drinks . The Activities are fun to join in stretching class, a bike ride down 5th Ave, water aerobics and much more. Do not forget the nightly entertainment, you will completely enjoy.

This is a perfect resort for just relaxing or getting involved with the entertainment staff.

Hawaii Sale

Discover more of Hawaii for less than you imagined!

Save up to $300 when you reserve an air and hotel package to Hawaii, America’s paradise, with no blackout dates for travel through October. Plus, they can receive hotel bonus values such as free nights and free meals, for a great return on their vacation dollar.
SAVE:
$100 on packages of $1,399 - $2,799
$200 on packages of $2,800 - $3,799
$300 on packages of $3,800 or more

Call today for more details and pricing !

Beautiful in the Riveria Maya

A resort full of Beauty -

Barcelo Colonial and Tropical Resort : an all inclusive resort

The resort is about 20 minutes south of Downtown Playa Del Carmen. Set on a beautiful beach perfect for taking a relaxing walk. It is also a very large resort featuring 3 pools, with jacuzzi, 7 restaurants, 2 snack bars, 2 lounges, 2 bars in theatre, and 2 swim up bars. Mini Golf, snorkeling, water aerobics, kayaks and so much more to offer you.

Not only does the resort have so much to offer the Rivera Maya has something for all !

visit : http://www.barcelo.com/ for more details.

Think Wednesday or Monday

When planning your vacation right away you think of leaving Saturday maybe Sunday.

However did you know that Leaving a day during the week can save you some money?

Maybe your travel budget is not as large this year, or you really need to get out of this cold weather. Do not think that shortening your vacation to 4 or 5 nights will save you money look at leaving on Wednesday or a Monday. Most destinations still have excellent non-stop flight options out of Minneapolis during the week.

Call me today I would love to help you find that savings!

Right now I am seeing some into Jamaica, Cancun and Ixtapa.

Jamaica Sale

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Save up to $300 to Jamaica . . .
with your air and hotel vacation package to the beaches and laid-back island lifestyle of Jamaica. With no blackout dates, you can travel any time through July.

Call Today to take advantage of this great special.

(The above pictures I took in 2005, views of the spectacular beach and a view at the resort Sandals Royal Caribbean)