A Negril Jamaica Classic

 

Would you jump 35 feet?

 

Here I am watching the Jumpers!

Since 1974 Ricks Café has been a icon in Negril Jamaica for travelers to go to chill out and enjoy a Rum Punch, listen to a local Reggae bands while enjoying the sunset or be daring and jump a 35 foot cliff into the ocean.

Live music every night.

Back in 1974 it was Richard Hershman who opened Ricks Café and at the time Negril was still a small fishing village with no running water or electricity. Ricks Café was the fist public bar of its kind to open.

 Negril is known for their beautiful sunsets!

 Almost 2 weeks ago my husband and I vacationed in Negril and headed over to enjoy the sunset at Ricks Café. The last time we were at Ricks Café was over 13 years ago on ourr honeymoon! That time we took the Catamaran Cruise over to the hot spot and my husband did take the 35 foot jump!

Look out someone is JUMPING!

I really enjoyed returning to Ricks and learning a bit more about this local hot spot! No neither of us jumped this time but we did enjoy a few cocktails and a beautiful sunset!

Perfect for a family!

A family friendly resort that has thought of all the details! This last spring I was fortunate enough to get the chance to tour the beautiful Azul Sensatori. This resort is located in the Puerto Moreloes Area of Mexico!

 

As I walked into this lobby I right away notice they did not

forget any details, at the lobby counter is a step up for small children to see and they can check in! How fun to involve those little ones.

 

 

This is a all suite resort with whirlpools in every suite.

You will find a family section and an adults only sections with many different room options, ocean views and swim out rooms.

Do not worry about bringing your little ones you can request a crib, changing table, fisher price toys to have in your room, a bottle warmer and so many more details.

 

 

3 pools  with in the resort; Family pool, adult-only pool & premium section pool

Kids splash pad and waterslide

3 swim up pool bars

Poolside waiter service, lounge chairs, umbrellas, towel service

 

For the kids is a zero entry pool full of fun water features, a kids program with cookie making classes, rock wall, a playground on the beach

and so much more! The teens even have a club area with a pool table and more~

 

 

 

This resort offers many dining options, and even more bars and lounges! Featuring the Gourmet Inclusive by Karisma concept, which is very impressive.

If a family vacation is your plan this winter I would consider looking at this beautiful property!
 

 

 

A Destination perfect for just about any . . . .

With almost hosting 4 million travelers to Riviera Maya, Mexico in 2012 makes for a popular vacation destination spot.  Why you ask?

The Riviera Maya area is over 100 miles in distance, with many different small towns and fishing villages. Within this area there are many all inclusive properties to offer and even a few boutique style hotels. There are resorts that cater to the romantic traveler in adults only resorts others that offer fun family filled activities and just about any style in between!

What attracts many travelers to this destination is the convenience to get there, the beautiful blue waters, variety of activities and resorts!  There is also a wide variety in budget points.


A few areas:

Puerto Morelos:  Only 25 minutes from the Cancun airport. This small fishing village offers a laid back style. In the center of town is a park, market style shopping, and relaxed atmosphere dinning on the beach or a patio!

Playa del Carmen: About 45 minutes from the Cancun airport This is considered the heart of the Riviera Maya. 5th Avenue is the hot spot of Playa Del Carmen, this single street is full of shopping, dining and night life! 

Tulum: 90 minutes from the airport. This is one of the most southern spots of the Riviera Maya.  Here you will find fantastic snorkeling,  thatched roofs, and the Tulum Ruins and beach.

Maybe your next vacation can be to the beautiful Riviera Maya, even if you have been there before select a different area and it will feel like a completely different vacation.  Try relaxing at the beaches of Maroma, snorkeling in Tulum or enjoying fresh fish tacos in Puerto Morelos! 

Where has the time gone?

Here we are full swing in October, the kids have been back to school for a month already, the leaves are turning colors, and many of us are already dream about what tropical vacation you will enjoy this winter.

I hope you had a fun filled summer with your friends and family! For some reason this summer seamed a bit shorter than normal. I am blaming it on the cooler days.  However my family and I did make the best out of the few hot days that we did have, on the lake either tubing, wake boarding or enjoying my new activity stand up paddle boarding.

As the leaves fall to the ground the crisp air has us thinking of where to this winter?  Vacations for some offers priceless family memories,  or a week of rest and relaxation in the sun with friends,  and for others vacation is recharging their relationship by being unplugged in a tropical dream destination.

With so many destinations and resorts options remember that Destination Vacation is here for you!!
To listen and to ask questions to help you create the vacation your are dreaming of.

Maybe this winter you want your vacation planed around an activity?

Think about . . . .  Zip lining
                              Biking thru a rain forest
                              Deep Sea Fishing
                              Diving thru a Shipwreck
                              Bamboo River Rafting

Maybe a week on the beach is just what you are looking for?

A few fun destinations . . . .  Hawaii
                                              Costa Rica
                                              Roatan
                                              Belize
                                              St. Lucia
                                              Aruba

The options are unlimited!

  

Where ever you want to go or whatever you want to experience we are here to help you from the early planning to your return home!

 

We look forward to working with you!

Nichole

320-241-0355

destinationvacationtravel@gmail.com

 

SAVINGS: October 7- 11. Book Air and Hotel Package

(3 night minimum) Mention this Blog and Save up to $250 on your package.

Discount is based on package price.

 

 

CELEBRATION!

It is time to Celebrate . . . . .

 

 Destination Vacations 3 year Anniversary!!

 

 

I would love to Thank all of our clients for your business over the past few years!

 

Looking back on the vacations we have planned makes me feel honored to be apart of your planning. Crossing dreams of your bucket list, making memories with your children, helping couples celebrate their new marriage or their special anniversary or just to get away with friends when it is below zero in Minnesota. Whatever your reason, Thank You!

 

In Celebration now thru August 29th

Book any Air and Hotel Package of 3 nights or more

and receive $50 off your vacation.

 

We are in full swing in planning winter vacations it is not to early to start planning!

 

Not All are Created Equal

Reflecting on a busy winter season and just returning from a family vacation to Ixtapa, this blog hit me!

 

Many travelers overall just want to get out of the Minnesota winter for a week and enjoy the warm weather, the beach and a few cocktails. For most, an all inclusive vacation is their favorite way to travel. All inclusive means your meals, drinks and maybe even some activities are included in the resort's price to stay there. The "all inclusive" resorts vary quite a bit in what they offer in cocktails, services to even the extras that may or may not be included.

 

Hotels go by a Star Rating of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best. What does that all mean to the average person? Well, many people think it just means basic to fancy. However, when you stay at an all inclusive, this can mean more than just how plush the resort can be.

 

Here are a few differences in the typical all inclusive options. This can help you select the right resort for your vacation.

 

1. Meals - There are a few things to consider; yes, your meals are included. That being said, many all inclusive properties offer a buffet and ala carte dining. Some resorts put restrictions on how many times you can eat ala carte during your stay. Here are some things to consider when picking your next all inclusive. Are you a foodie? Do you enjoy fine dining and new kinds of foods or are you more traditional?

 

Lastly, each resort handles dining reservations differently. At some resorts, the
dining reservations are taken daily. While other resorts, they are required 2 to 3
days in advance or you do not have to make reservations at all.

 

Tip: When you think of your meals and dining experience, what are your
expectations?

 

2. Beverages/Alcohol - The brands are very different in Mexico and the Caribbean from the US alcohol brands. If it's only Bacardi you drink, you may find that your resort only offers their local rum.

 

Tip: When talking with your travel agent, let them know what is important to you concerning your beverages.

 

3. Services – Room Service is not a standard service at all resorts. Some resorts
offer room service at limited times such as breakfast only, 24 hours or only offers it to certain room categories.

 

Another service that comes to mind is pool or beach service: some resorts offer
both, one or none. For some, not having that service isn't a big deal as they know there is always a bar nearby!

 

The last service that comes to mind is small but makes a big difference is an in-
room mini bar. Not all hotels offer this service. Again, like many services, each
resort will restock differently (i.e. daily, only certain beverages, etc.).

 

Tip: Think about what are your must have services!

 

Some upgraded and unlimited amenities will cost more money for your stay and then the next resort will surprise you! During our recent trip to Ixtapa, I knew the resort we were staying at was family friendly and affordable. I figured we would receive average beverages and services but much to my surprise, they were definitely above average.

 

I write this blog to educate you that not every all inclusive resort is made the same. So the next time you decide to go on vacation, remember, sometimes it is the little things that make a big difference!

 

From our family to yours we wish you many memorable vacations!

 

 

Dylan (11yr) Lauren (8yr) & Devin (13yr)

 

Perfect Way To Celebrate

 

The sun was shining both on the water and at the Golf Course for Lou and Susan. Recently they celebrated their 10 year wedding anniversary, relaxing together in the Dominican Republic!

 

They enjoyed the Barcelo Barvaro Beach; adults only and all inclsive resort.

 

Here is what Susan and Lou had to say:

 

OK, so once we arrived, it was a seamless transition from airport to the hotel. We were able to check in right away. Rooms were clean, cool, and nice. The resort itself was clean, well kept, and very safe. The beach and pool area were immaculate. The concierge and information desks were very helpful. There was some sort of entertainment at both resorts each night. The casino was fun. The disco tech was fun. Didn't do a lot of shopping.

The buffet at the adults only resort, was average. Nothing special. Some days better than others. The "dining" at the the family resort was fabulous. We did steak, then seafood, then Italian, then Mexican. The Mexican and Italian places were to die for. Excellent food. The steak and seafood places were good, but not great.

The weather was amazing!

We went on the reef excursion. That was a 5 hour event. We boated to a floating island. There were massages, kayaks, knee boards, snorkeling with sting rays and fish, sharks, and coral reef. It was a cloudy day and not super warm, but still a fun time.

Golf course was AWESOME!!!! It's very well kept. Nice course. Loved the golf.

All in all, it was fabulous. Loved it. It was relaxing and crazy fun too.

Thank you again, Destination Vacation, for getting us booked!

 

Susan and Lou, thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're glad you had a fabulous time celebrating your anniversary!!

What's in your luggage?

 

With most airlines charging for luggage these days, it has made travelers think twice about what they are packing. Most of us already over pack and in the end do not want to pay extra fees for additional or over weight bags.

Here are a few tips for the next time you are packing for your trip.

1. Consider your destination's climate. It is a great idea to check the weather before you leave.

2. Plan each day's outfit rather than just throwing items into your suitcase.

3. Plan those outfits in a black or brown color scheme. This will save on shoes and even accessories you will need to pack.

4. Roll your clothes before putting them into your suitcase. This tip really saves on space and it even saves on wrinkles!

5. Pack toiletries and other liquids in plastic baggies. It will save on a mess from any leaks that may have occurred while in flight. Also, since the bags are clear it will be easy to find things.

6. Split your clothes with your Spouse. For many years, I have put half my items in my husband’s suit case and half of his in mine. At least, you will have half of your clothes should you luggage get lost.

7. Make sure you put all important travel documents, passport, cash, credit cards, jewelry and other valuables in your carry-on.

8. Add a extra outfit and swim suit (if you are going somewhere tropical) to your carry-on. This may save you a shopping trip and money if your luggage happens to get delayed or lost.

9. Consider how long you are going to be gone when selecting your toiletries. You do not need full size shampoo if you are only gone for 7 days.

10. Do not forget to visit your airlines website for additional details for both checked and carry on luggage.

I hope these tips help you pack more organized to avoid over paying in fees.

Happy Packing!

Sandals Grand St. Lucian

 Last month my husband and I traveled to St. Lucia. It was our first time visiting this island. In the recent year, I have had many requests for couples wanting to vacation there. I needed to experience this island myself. Sandals Grand, St. Lucia was the resort we decided on. There are three Sandals properties on the island each of them beautiful in their own way.

Pictured: The main pool and swim-up bar 

It was a one and a half hour drive from the airport to the resort. There was a constant view of the ocean, mountains and the locals - even driving thru part of the rain forest. Upon arriving to a new destination, I love just taking it all in.

 

This island is full of many activities to enjoy such as zip lining, catamaran cruises, a tour around the Pitons, hiking, volcano, the Botanical gardens and so much more.

 

Right away, I fell in love with the size of this resort - not too small but not too large. It offered just the right amount of amenities for you to enjoy during your stay there.

 

The dining was very enjoyable and everything we had was great. This resort offered dining options that were more casual. The pub for lunch right on the beach or for a more formal experience, the Italian restaurant or their Butler exclusive restaurant called Gordons.

Pictured: Outside the Rondoval Suite, very private! 

We started our week in a Lagoon View Concierge room, which offered room service, a full mini bar, balcony and a sitting area. The last two nights we were upgraded to a Rondoval Suite with private pool and whirlpool. This room was amazing and not missing a detail.

 Pictured:Inside the Rondoval Suite

 

 Picture: Caoncierge Lagoon Room

 

 Pictured: View of resort from the water

 

 Pictured: I enjoyed Paddle boarding everyday!

 

The included water sports were endless: kayaking, hobie cat sailing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, diving, water skiing and a glass bottom boat tour. You could experience something new every day. For me, I enjoyed paddle boarding every day. It was my first time and loved it!

 

All good things must come to an end and this time our Butler walked us

to our private transfer in a BMW, all guests enjoy this service when having a butler.

Pictured: My husband and I.

 

Pictured: The hotel from a mountain view. This is a neat feature of the resort

ocean on both sides. 

I will be back one day to visit this island as it really made an impression. When I think of my clients visiting this island, it is great for so many: the outdoorsy person, beach lovers, honeymooners and destination weddings. I am excited to help you plan a vacation to St. Lucia!