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

Breathtaking Views!

My clients, John and Cheryl enjoyed a 12 day Alaskan Cruise Tour last month. A cruise tour is basically what it sounds like, it allows vacationers to experience land and sea. Their cruise tour started with 5 days seeing the sights of Anchorage, Denali and Talkeetna that included guided tours, lodge stays and some down time to enjoy themselves. For the next 7 days, they enjoyed time at sea on the Radiance of the Seas with Royal Caribbean which included sailing through the Hubbard Glacier, stopping at Juneau, Skagway, Icy Straight Point, Ketchikan and then finally cruising through the Inside Passage.

Before John and Cheryl left, the three of us met to discuss what they wanted to experience on their trip and planned out their excursions. We paid close attention to their options to ensure they would experience as much of Alaska as possible with a wide selection of activities. After looking at all of the options, they had decided on a Salmon Bake, Gold Panning, Whales Galore Tour, Kayaking the Coast and a Wilderness Tour.

Upon their return, I had asked them of all the excursions they'd experienced on their trip which one was their favorite. Just when I thought I knew which excursion was the favorite, they would think of another one and then could not decide between the two. I couldn't have been more happy when they could not decide on their favorite excursion because then I knew they truly loved it all!  I thoroughly enjoyed sitting down with John and Cheryl to hear all about their vacation! I have to admit, it was a tease to me as I do have an itch to go to Alaska myself after seeing their fabulous pictures.

 

A Cruise Tour is a perfect way of experiencing Alaska . . .  

A destination wedding to the fullest . . .

 

These photos truly say it all  . . .

love

beauty

beach

commitment

connection

passion

 

 

 

 

From the moment I met Jeremiah and Amanda I knew they had something special.

 After looking at many resorts they selected the Elcellence Playa Mujeres just north of Cancun it is a beautiful adults only resort.  This resort offers many fine dining options, romantic suites, and beautiful pools. The two of them and 16 of their friends and family headed down this last April.

 Not only did we arrange a beach ceremony, and a reception their guests enjoyed a full day adventure excursion snorkeling and zip lining. 

I knew from meeting with them the the ceremony was very important , and by having Jeremiah's father marry them made it so memorable and special.  

I am excited for the two of them to be returning to this resort to enjoy it and look back at their wonderful memories once again!

 

I wish the two of you nothing less than happiness and love each day in your married life together.  Thank you for allowing Destination Vacation be apart of your special day!

2 Year Celebration!

We love to Celebrate our years in business and right now we are celebrating 2 Awesome years!!

Thank you for all  your support and referrals. Where I have gone, what I have learned and who I have met in the past 2 years is amazing. I love visiting new and old places it helps when planning your vacations. Training is so important in this business and keeping up to date on new resorts, remodeling, activities for you to enjoy and so much more.  One of my favorites is when I hear ohh " name" gave me your information, approximately 85% of my business is referrals. Thank you so much for that, your referral never goes unnoticed.

This time of the year we are in full swing of planning tropical getaways and last minute fall trips. This winter St. Lucia, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic are hot destinations. We have more direct flights into the Dominican Republic, and the flight times have been improving for St. Lucia.
Travelers are not forgetting Mexico it is always a great value for your dollar and no matter where you go they are always adding and updating.

Do not forget that we offer affordable down payments and groups of 10 or more receive a discount.
If you are thinking of a vacation this winter, contact us for your planning our expertise and knowledge will guide you to the best resort for your travel dreams! We look forward to working with you.

Call 320-241-0355 or email destinationvacationtravel@gmail.com and ask for Nichole

Do not forget to "LIKE" Destination Vacation on Facebook for additional tips promotions.

Where does the summer go?

Do you ever ask yourself why the summer months fly by but those winter months seem like they can take forever?  I feel like evey summer goes faster,  I hope you are enjoying yours. August is just about here and many of you will start to think about your winter vacation. Where to this winter? Is it something new or the same? I cannot wait to hear. 

Maybe you want to sneak in a fall vacation it is a beautiful time of the year!

Disney World has extend their FREE DINING Program it offers you and your family huge savings on your Magical Vacation!

Enjoy meals included for every night of your visit!
Now through September 29, 2012, buy a non-discounted Magic Your Way Package for 6 nights and 7 days at select Disney Moderate Resorts at the Walt Disney World Resort for arrivals most nights Sept. 30 – Oct. 4, Oct. 19 – Nov. 1, Nov. 9-15, Nov. 23-29 and Dec. 10-13.

                                                 

This above picture is my daughter and nieces meeting Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. I thought this trip would be only magical for the little ones however I loved every minuted of this Vacation. The twinkle in these three girls eyes when they would meet a princess was priceless. I should really mention that they waited in line for almost 2 hours to meet them, what a little girl will do for a princess?

Please call Destination Vacation to help plan your families next Magical Vacation!

Soon we will be Celebrating our 2 year Anniversary of Destination Vacation stay tune for some fun! We love celebrating and sharing it with you.

Wedding in Paradise!

I truly enjoyed being apart of Abe and Jenn's journey to Marriage! I have known Abe since grade school and I remember telling him once he started dating Jenn to hang on to her!  So when he finally proposed I was SUPER excited when Jenn told me that they are having a Destination Wedding!

After listening to what they wanted for their wedding I knew Couples Tower Isle is the place for them! The two of them and 17 guests enjoying a week in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Couples Tower Isle is a beautiful, romantic adults only resort. They selected the grassy gardens for their ceremony which had a beautiful backdrop of the ocean.

Upon their return may favorite story was when Jenn was scheduled to meet Abe at a certain time in the lobby to get ready for the wedding. That morning Abe and all the guys went deep sea fishing needless to say right when they were to head back in they caught a Marlin. Bringing in a Marlin is not a easy task, 45 minutes later the Marlin was in the boat and back and the resort Jenn was getting a little nervous.  With every love story there is a happy ending, with the help of guys that can get ready fast the wedding ceremony was perfect

and on time.

Congratulations to the two of you, I wish you a lifetime of happiness!

Destination Vacation has almost 13 years in the Wedding Planning business and over 5 in travel planning, if you are considering a Destination Wedding we would love to meet with you and help you decide if it is right for you!

It is very important to find a professional to help you with you wedding, this is one of the most important days of your life. Destination Vacation is a two time award winner, for providing exceptional wedding services from the Central Minnesota Wedding Association.

Please read our reviews from past clients:

http://www.idoido.org/users/destination-vacation

What is the perfect beach . . . .

                                            What is the definition of a perfect beach?

For some people this is the most important aspect of their vacation.  Blue water is #1 on the list! The Caribbean is full of turquoise blue waters. Each destination is just a different shade.

 Walkable is another factor in the importance of a beach. After relaxing in a chair all morning many travelers enjoy a mid-afternoon walk on the beach. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic offers one of the longest most beautiful beaches I have been on, you would see people walking all day. I was able to travel to the Dominican Republic back in February and toured 8 properties all which had amazing beaches. (all the pictures are from the Dominican Republic)

Soft Sand is also a request. You know it when you walk on it! Just white and gentle on your feet.  When your toes hit that sand you know you are in paradise.  

When a client tells me they want the perfect beach, I will ask them to describe to me how they imagine it? For everyone it is Different!  This is why traveling to so many of these destinations is important, I have toured almost 30 properties in the last year. By doing this I will help you find your perfect beach vacation.


We want to hear from you . . . . What do you see in your perfect beach?  Please leave a comment in our comment section.

Running for a Cause . . . .

No Lump Left Behind 3/5K was this last Saturday in Becker. It was our pleasure to sponsor this event for a amazing cause. Anna and Kimberly are walking the 3day for Breast Cancer in August and this 3/5K was a fundraiser. They are two teachers in our school district. With a few teachers surviving and battling breast cancer it was all the more important to be there. We have some pretty awesome teachers in Becker and it is nice to take the time and give back to them!

We had a cool breeze and temps, perfect running and walking weather! The turn out was awesome many teachers, friends and family attended.

The top picture is Anna and I, and the middle and bottom pictures are the runners and walkers that Destination Vacation sponsored for them to also join in on the fun morning!

                                            Hope you make it a great day!

A Day of Fun in the Sun

Recently my family and I enjoyed a day at Xel-Ha. It is located in the Riviera Maya area of Mexico and is a natural aquarium park adjacent to the ocean. You can enjoy a day full of activities from snorkeling, relaxing down the lazy river, zip lining into the water, cliff jumping, caves and so much more. The park is all inclusive which means your drinks and meals are included. If you want to take your experience to the next level you can swim with the Dolphins, Sea Trek (walk under water), visit with the Manatees, and Snuba (a combo or snorkeling and diving).  During our visit there my son and I swam with the Dolphins, this has been on my bucket list for a while now, what an amazing time we had!

Xel-ha is great for families, couples and groups. I noticed right away different options for all age groups. Beside the Dolphin swim my favorite was the snorkeling. We were not in the middle of the ocean therefore no large waves and was easy for my kids to learn how to snorkel!  We spent the entire day just going from one thing to another, and of course not enough time. My oldest just kept wanting to find new spots though the park to snorkel.

 Next time you are down in the Riviera Maya area consider a day at Xel-Ha!

                                                             Dylan ready to snorkel!

                 Brian, Devin and Dylan are selcting thier life jackets before heading out to snorkel!

The water there was so blue and many fish to see! The kids were always letting us know what they saw.

I hope this makes you think of your Bucket List . . . is there a dream activity or destination you have on your list? There is nothing more fun then crossing something off and always adding something new!
                     

For me and my list I may have crossed off Swimming with the Dolphin's but added a few things:
     1. Drive the road to Hana in Maui
     2. Enjoy Gelato on a Patio in Italy
     3. Zipline & Hike around a Volcano in Costa Rica

                   There is so much to see and do in our lives, lets get out and have fun!

Picture Perfect . . . .

                                      A beautiful setting for such a beautiful wedding couple~

I remember my first meeting with Andrew and Mandi at the time they were still on the fence about a Destination Wedding and wanted to meet and discuss all their options. It did not take them long and they knew a beach wedding was meant to be.

 They selected the Now Sapphire in Puerto Morelos Mexico, they felt it fit who they are! The Now Sapphire is a all inclusive resort perfect for couples and families, upon returning home Mandi did not only expressed to me how PERFECT their wedding was but how much everyone love the resort!

The support from their family and friends were over flowing all so excited to join them for this special day of their lives!


If you are considering a Destination Wedding and are overwhelmed with loads of information and not knowing where to start, please remember that we have almost 13 years in the wedding planning business and over 5 years in travel planning.  We would love to help you plan your Destination Wedding. Please call to set up an appointment to discuss all your options we can help you with the destination, style of wedding, what resort and your budget. We are here to help you with all the details both Travel and Wedding related. Destination Vacation is award winning for our wedding services.  Weddings are our passion!

      We look forward to working with you, Please ask for Nichole Winter 320-241-0355

Love hearing from our travelers~

The Monson family was looking for a family vacation, they only had been on a cruise and was it was time for something new!

Here is what they had to say;

I can not thank you enough for suggesting the trip to Mexico:) We all had a very relaxing time. Everything went great from airline to transfers to excursions and back. The zipline excursion was THE BEST! We ended up buying the video because it was too hard to choose a pic from 138 of them. We have recommended you to everyone we tell about the trip, hopefully they will book a trip soon.

Each day was more exciting than the previous.Sun. we were at the resort by 10:30 and soaking up the sun by 11:00Mon- We went snorkeling for $10.00 a person with some guy from the beach. He also dove down and pulled up starfish, sea urchins, and a puffer fish that we could to hold and take pics of.Tues- we went fishing with the same guy but only caught about a dozen fishWed. went ziplining. WOW!!!!Thurs- went ATV in the mountains and got extremely dusty, but what some views!Fri- rode the bus to town and strolled the flea markets and went to a bonfire on the beach at nightSat -relaxed at pool The people there are all wonderful and so welcoming and we would go back in a heartbeat!! The food, the room, the drinks, the service, all could not have been better.

THANK YOU AGAIN AND AGAIN we know who to contact for our next vacation. It might be a year or two.

Thank you for your business,

It was fun working with you,

Nichole Winter

It is all about family

My kids, Lauren(7), Devin (12) and Dylan (10)

Last week my family and I enjoyed 10 days at the Maria El Cid in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. What a great time we had and made so many memories. The El Cid is a quick 25 minutes from the Cancun Airport and in the small fishing village of Puerto Morelos with the relaxed atmosphere for shopping and fun little restaurants. I even brought my family to one of my favorites for some fresh fish tacos!! We enjoyed the 1 bedroom beachfront suite. One reason this resort is so great for families they offer a standard room and 1,2 and 3 bed room suites. Great for families of any size.

This resorts biggest feature was its 22,000 sq foot pool with rock jumping, a slide, water volleyball, zero-entry for the little ones and a swim up bar for the big ones! One of my sons favorite part of this vacation was jumping into the pool. I wish I could have kept track how times he jumped!

You can also stay busy and enjoy their included activities, kids club, teen club, sailing, wind surfing, kayaking, boogie boards, and much more.

There are 4 dining options. Evening shows, I think the fire show was our favorite! A marina right next door for deep sea fishing. The boys enjoyed a bike tour into town one morning also included in the all inclusive package.

Pictured: Brian, Devin, Dylan, Lauren and I

We took a day and enjoy Xel-ha what a perfect family day it is good for all ages, my son Dylan and I swam with the Dolphins (stay tune I will blog about the day soon!) .

I hope we talk about this vacation for many years, I know the kids have their favorite things they did from fishing, snorkeling for the 1st time or eating homemade Crepes every day! I know I just love enjoying my time with them and seeing their excitement from experiencing new things.

I hope you are able to take your family and create many memories, please feel free to let Destination Vacation help you make that dream come true!