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!

One of my Favorites . . . .

 Ocean Coral and Turquesa

 This resort is a all inclusive property located in Puerto Moroles Mexico.You may have heard me talk about Puerto Moroles in the past it is a small fishing village about 25 minutes south of Cancun. I love the quaintness of the area; laid back shopping and small authentic Mexican dining.

 The Ocean Coral and Turquesa all inclusive offers:

- All meals, drinks and snacks included - 7 a la carte dining options, 1 buffet and room service.
- Pool and beach waiter service
- 4 swimming pools
- 3 Outdoor Jacuzzis
- In room Mini Bar (water, soft drinks and beer)
- Activities program
- Nightly Entertainment
- Gym
- Kid's Club and Wading Pool
- Teen Club
- Complimentary Wireless Internet in lobby area
- Selected Non-motorized water sports (1 hour a day)
- All taxes and gratuities

 As I toured this property I noticed how well kept this resort was, clean and beautiful landscape. The rooms are all Jr. Suites and the details were not forgotten.

 With 4 large pools on the property you are sure to find a relaxing shady spot to read all afternoon or the perfect spot in the sun to enjoy the warmth!

 Each restaurant has their own theme, which you will experience a different kind of dining every night. 

If you are looking for a family vacation, a trip for your group of friends or just you and your loved one, this resort is great for all.

A love for travel . . . .

Many of us love to travel and we even know when that love started. For me, it was my honeymoon but when I really look back, it may have been in Junior High or High School when I would travel with my dad in his semi truck (he is an over the road truck driver). I spent many week long rides in his truck hitting about 20 states just along for the ride, checking out the views and having slug bug contest with my dad!!! At this time, I never knew my love for travel would grow and that these road trips would be the start of it. I always just thought is was quality time with my dad!

When I was done with high school, I went off to college and traveled during that time too. Although I had these other opportunities of travel, I always look back at my honeymoon, which was over 12 years ago, being the most memorable vacation I had ever taken.

Honeymoons are one of my travel planning specialties; I get so excited when a couple calls for a honeymoon! Most likely because of my own honeymoon experience, I remember getting on that plane with my new husband just being the two of us for the next 8 days, doing whatever we wanted (we pretty much laid at the pool or the beach for 8 days). Based on a referral from friends, we stayed at Sandals in Negril, Jamaica.

For those of us who love to travel, we know when that love began! The neat thing about traveling is what you get from it...for some, it is a relaxing week away from it all, sometimes we learn from a new destination or experience, or maybe it is much needed family or couple time and sometimes, it is a get away just to kick back and have fun with friends!

Wherever your travels may take you and whatever you get from it...Enjoy!

Top 5 Reasons Why To Book With A Travel Agent

Often I get asked, "Why would I book with a travel agent when I can do it myself?" or "What is the difference between booking with you verses online?". Both are great questions. My funny answer to this is, "I do not cut my own hair; I leave it up to my stylist. Yes, I could probably cut it myself but it is not worth the risk or will it turn out like I envision it? I want a professional who is trained, to do it."

Top 5 Reasons to use a Travel Agent:

1. Saves You Time: Did you know that over 20% of travelers that book online put over 5 hours into planning? With that statistic, I find myself wondering if they got the full vacation experience they were looking for? We all have busy lives, why not leave it up to the experts to plan your vacation and then, you can enjoy your weekend or free time.

2. Expertise and Knowledge: I understand that it is fun to look at all the vacation options at first, then reality may sink in that you have never been to that certain resort nor have you even heard of it before. Most travel agents have the opportunity to travel through the year learning about the destinations and resorts as well as attending trade shows and training. It is such a great feeling when I can tell a client a personal tip from experience about their vacation plan.

3. Real Person: Often times when calling the mass travel websites you will get an automated answering system, get passed from person to person, or if you have to leave a message that a travel agent calls you back in a timely manner. It is just not that common any more to speak to a actual person without getting transferred around or getting a timely call back. We know what a great feeling it is to get a person on the phone and better yet, they make you feel important and that you're just not another caller. Also, if you should have any problems with your travels then it is all the more important to speak directly to a person. When booking online sometimes it is even hard to find a phone number much less get a real person on the phone.

4. They Think of the Whole Package: A "great" travel agent will start to think about how to make your trip more of an experience for you from the moment you called to discuss your vacation. For most of us, this is so important and it is what makes it not just a transaction. These key points of interaction is where you build that relationship and trust. It makes you proud to have a Travel Agent on your side!! Remember it is not just about the plane ticket you need.

5. Save You Money: Many travel agents do not charge a fee to do the research and even book your vacation. I like to look at it like our knowledge to help plan your vacation is free! What a bonus.

If you are thinking about a vacation, consider using a travel agent, one that is excited and honored to help you plan your experience.

We look forward to working with you!

 

 

Nichole Winter

Travel Specialist/Owner of Destination Vacation

320-241-0355

destinationvacationtravel@gmail.com