Off the Beaten Path

Many years ago- before I got into the business of being a Travel Planner, I used to plan my own outings and would relish in being able to do something so tedious down to the penny and enjoy it! And then- it happened- a horrid trip gone bad by using a Travel Agent, and yet it was not all that horrible after the fact when I stumbled upon this off the beaten path locale. Now- because I am an adventurer, on this date while sitting in a Denny's drinking coffee and slurping away on a waffle, i pulled out a map from the gas station, closed my eyes and threw my finger on a destination. When I looked down, I noticed I had landed on an area called "Mexico Beach". Now- of course I found that odd. I even thought to myself in a quirky kind of way- a piece of "Mexico in Florida?"

I figured looking at the distance to where I was if I did not like it, I would not be far from Panama City Florida, I could always drive there. I asked a waitress and she told me I was basically 45 minutes away and gave me easy directions there. I must say- that since that error of the Travel Agent, I have been a loyal visitor of Mexico Beach every year since then. Words cannot describe the scenic beauty of the drive through what seems to be a back road to the ocean. Warm waters, no under tow, no wild parties, tattoo parlors- it is serenity. complete bliss. Take a look at their website, and plan a trip there. You won't be sorry!

Click on the words: Mexico Beach Florida

Travel Tips or a Busted Suitcase

Ever get to a point that you end up in a frazzled panic state of what to pack and what not to pack? I have seen on numerous boards where people are stressed so much by trying to figure out what to pack that by the time they leave for a much deserved vacation, they no longer have that anticipating feel because they are constantly looking over their shoulder trying to figure out what was left behind or not.

Relax! That is my motto. If you mistakenly forget something, there is always a venue according to your destination that can assist with your left over needs. However, one should never forget those essentials of the must haves.

Before your trip scour the internet and do a little Trip Education according to your destination. See what the weather is like in that area for the time you are traveling. This will help in eliminating tons of extra clothing being piled into your suit case. Look for clothes that are light and perhaps wrinkle free in the event you cannot bring an iron- or will have a hard time finding one.

2 pairs of shoes should be all you need. A casual pair for dinner outtings, and a pair for those rough terrain areas of hiking. Flip flops are also great to add in- as they are light weight and can be easily tucked under something. Swimsuits are a must for perfectly every vacation taken, in this case take 2. Why? because when one is drying you wont miss a swim day- you can put on a clean one while the other is drying and switch out.

Pack your bathroom essentials in zip lock bags! Ever opened a suitcase after being shoved on an aircraft only to find your Listerine has now fumugated your clothing? Exactly! Zip lock bags come in handy when it comes to keeping things like that in tact- and enclosed in a certain area should something explode at high altitudes. Lest we not forget a trashbag. Use this to pack dirty laundry.

Medications. All medications according to US customs and other International entries need to be enclosed in their own container with the information on the bottles. This is a must and will prevent any mishaps while at the airport being screened.

And the list I am sure can go on and on! Pack Smart and Light not Heavy and Bulky!

~callie

Spring Break Hoopla

What to do- where to go for the Spring Hoopla ?! It seems that numerous places within the US have decided to do more "family" catering than the full swing teenage parties that Spring Break is normally known for.

No longer are the parties wilder on the beaches- but now you will find more Hotels and Facilities that are wanting family business. How about taking the family for a much needed car drive through a state or two. Log cabin rentals await for those wanting to engage in the Mountain escapes where you can fish and perhaps do a little river rafting. Theme parks abound with thrilling rides and magical escapes such as Walt Disney, Knotts Berry Farms, Sea World, and for that extra special escape maybe a trip to Africa by visiting Bush Gardens.

Looking for that sea side escape? Look no further with many beaches awaiting and beckoning you with the sounds of the sea and the taste of salt air.

Whatever you choose to do- get out there and enjoy the new bloom of spring! After all, the hoopla is whatever you want it to be.

Custom Travel? Of Course You Can!

Did you know that more and more people are beginning to branch out in their travel experiences and go Custom? Travelers want more and in order to want more value for the buck why not opt to do the things that you want or like to do.

You would rather go scale a mountain and shout "RICOLA!" while others wait in line to hop a tour bus? Go for it! You would rather take a secret cave dive in an off the beaten path kind of way? Go for it! Today's Travel Agents are able to customize what ever clients can think of. It's your dream!

The easiest way to bring that dream into reality is to first make a list of things you want to do and where you would like to go. Example-Are you wanting to visit the island of Hawaii and not stay in a Hotel-but something a little more low key? Shark Diving? Cliff Diving? or just lounge away on a beach area with a good book and the sound of waves?

Let your Travel Agent help you customize an itinerary according to what is within your budget and a list of things that you would like to do!

Travel- it's not about just sitting on a tour bus and letting someone else tell you what your looking at, it's about you getting out there and telling others what you have seen!

Hotel Destination Voila!

Consider a moment where you just did not have alot of monetary funds to pack a suitcase- hop on a plane to a remote island and just sun bathe yourself senseless. I know. It just does not seem like a vacation or a get away unless your "somewhere" other than your living room. How about a weekend retreat Hotel style?

Many Hotels offer that weekend get away and can include some really great weekend package deals.

Marriott Hotels offer such packages at great costs and often include amenities:

Escape! Romance package Elegantly simple. Simply elegant.
• Champagne for a private toast
• Breakfast for two

Escape! Honeymoon packagePampering and dreams for two.
• Breakfast for two
• Champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries
• Extras – free parking, late checkout

Escape! His 'n Hers packageGolf and spa! A stroke of genius.
• A round of golf for one
• A luxury spa treatment for the other
• Breakfast for both

Interested in something more upscale and dazzling? Why not try The Ritz or one of my favorites- Fairmont Hotels which offer packages in exotic destinations- or even from your own city! That get away doesn't really have to be far from home- but a destination in your mind!

Bed and Breakfasts

What is the difference between a Bed and Breakfast and Hotel? In my opinion which I do have many of- it would be the level of Personal Service as well as amenities in more of a home comfort type atmosphere.

In my personal experiences as a Travel Consultant- Destination Specialist I have found that visiting a Bed and Breakfast is a must at least once. Most of these types of accomodations are family owned and very intimate in detail and services. Some offer breakfast, some may offer tea times, and perhaps a little cocktail get together with you and other guests. Most offer quaint facilities in areas that are easy to get around town for shopping and dining pleasures, or perhaps just for the intake of beautiful scenery.

So if your looking for more than the average Hotel stay- and long for more one on one attention to detail- give a Bed and Breakfast a try! Turn Down Service will never be the same!

Viva Las Vegas!

What happens in Vegas - Stays in Vegas is the motto- yet it never fails because anyone and everyone that goes to Vegas always comes back with a story of what they did or where they went. Vegas is one of the top ten in destinations because of it's abundancy in nightlife as well as low key adventures.

Vegas offers many things to do which range from Casinos, to top notch shows which may include but not limited too- Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, Prince and many more starlit shows for your entertainment. When your not wanting to see a live show- take in the sights of the Las Vegas strip, or visit one of the many hotels to check out the architectural designs and or dazzling light shows like that of the famed Bellagio Hotel. Thinking about popping the question to that someone special? How about doing it Italian Style by proposing on one of the gondola rides at the famed Venetian Hotel?

Vegas caters to adventure whether it be race car driving, hot air ballooning, or even roller coaster riding inside the New York- New York hotel over a replica of New York Harbor. Food abounds in Las Vegas to cater to every budget and palate- ranging from foot long hot dogs, to multiple food buffets and gourmet dining. Think Big when contemplating Vegas!

Who says that what happens in Vegas has to remain there? For more information contact me or your nearest Travel Agent!

Featured Destination- Couples Resorts Jamaica

Ahhhhhhhhhh..As I type this I can already smell the salt air, hear the steel drums play as I sip my pina colada from a nice cool pineapple. Oh- back to reality! I cannot be there- but YOU can! Jamaica my friends. The land of mystery and paradise. Our feature today is the lovely and romantic resorts of Couples Resorts Jamaica.

Established in 1984 these resorts are named the best of in Conde Naste and other top tier Magazine Chains and culinary events. Imagine being tucked away for that honeymoon, or perhaps you both need some time to re-kindle an old flame? This is where it happens. You can choose from 4 different resorts:

Couples Ocho Rios
Couples Sans Souci
Couples Swept Away
Couples Negril

One set price-All inclusive with many different restaurants to choose from, or perhaps you would rather have that candelight dinner by the pool or a cascading waterfall? Luxury Bars, watersports, fine and casual dining- all are included with your romantic accomodations set just for the two of you. The possibilites are endless! But beware- the sound of never ending patter of tiny feet of children is not found here- just the sound of the ocean waves and your heartbeats.

For more information click on the bold text: Couples Resorts

Feature of the Day- Mexico

Depending on where you live in the United States stepping back into a culture of ancient times is not far at all. Such as it is with Mexico. Mexico carries a vibrant fluidity that is exotic and yet majestic in a sense. It is one of the most top rated destinations and is always producing more in tourist accomadations and venues. What makes Mexico unique is the short distance and yet versatility of being able to self navigate if you so choose.

What does Mexico offer? Sun. Music. Romance.Diving. Culinary experiences for the Palate. History. and more.

Top featured destination: Brisas

Brisas Resorts has been around since 2000 and has become a top notch tier for Properties in Value, Service and Quality. Brisas offer colorful and distinct locations to choose from along with amenities to make your trip even more special.

Because Brisas Properties are so spectacular, my words cannot truly do it justice- why not click on their name for that magical moment of visual bliss? But be forewarned, I am not responsible for lethargic drooling.

~~~~~~~~> click here> Las Brisas

~callie

Whats that you say about Cruisin?

Cruise Cruise Cruise people! If I can say anything of importance here it would be to get out and there and book a cruise. Why? Why should I do that? you ask..... Cruising is becoming a booming industry within the travel field. Where else can you eat all day and night, swim, gamble -drink *if you choose too* and party, and still get to see more than one destination all for one price?

These are just highlights of cruising. Allow me to point out others to cause a small amount of dribbling at the corners of your mouth.

1. Shopping!- Cruise lines offer on board duty free shopping!
2. Dining options- You can either practice your dining skills using fancy cutlery in the main dining room, or you can order room service,buffet line it, or even just eye google it. Food is always abound from the simple- 24 hour ice cream bars, deli sandwich bars, home made pizza eatery, or you can upscale it to sushi!
3. Events, Shows and More! Try your hand at blackjack or video poker, try a game or two at Jackpot Bingo Nights, Maybe perhaps enjoy the lights and action of live glamorous Las Vegas type shows, or late night Comedians! Not your thing? Then put on some party shoes baby and hit one of the many night clubs and dance the night away! Still not your thing? How bout showing those mad skills in the Karaoke Lounge where every body and anybody wants to be John Travolta and Olivia Newton John singing a theme song from the movie Grease. Maybe your a low key singer and prefer eye candy music with a sexy pianist? If that is the case, hit the piano bar! So much to do, all day and night. The possibilities are endless!
4. Sight See! Cruise lines dock all over the world. Now is the time for you to tender into shore and do some sight seeing! Maybe perhaps swim with stingrays, snorkel with dolphins, visit nature scenes and learn the cultures of something different and new!

The point is that Cruises are fun filled and once you go-chances are you keep returning. Cruise lines comes in all different budgets and tastes ranging from the first time budget concerned cruiser, to the upper echelon of Butler and Maid service for the discerning cruiser.

Some interesting responses of "Why I am unsure of cruising"

1. I will get sea sick.
Answer- All Cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers to prevent alot of rocking motion. Although during rough weather sometimes this cannot be helped, but when in doubt keep on hand- Dramamine, or some other type of motion sickness therapies on hand to assist!

2. The cabins are small:
Answer- Most cruise lines offer cabins with sufficient space for as many as up to 4 people in a cabin.






3.I don't know if I will have the time: Sure you do! Just look on your calender- pick a date and your most highly anticipated itinerary and do it! Like Nike. Just.Do.It.

4. What about features for the Disabled?
Answer- Staff and Cruise Lines are capable of catering to the needs of those that may need assistance!

5. I am scared of small- tight places!
Answer- Look at these:


And:

Chances are you won't see your party.

So in other words, take a chance and CRUISE!!!!!!!!!!!

~callie

Passport? Who Me?

Yes ladies and gentleman! It is advisable that if you are an american citizen please obtain your passport while the time is slow. Turn around after applying lately has been 2 weeks versus when I had to get mine done a few years ago- it took a month! whew! But the benefits of it are priceless. It allows access to anywhere in the world and it lasts for up to 10 years! Before showing up at your local post office you must have on you a valid photo i.d. AND a valid birth certificate with a state seal on it. You can easily obtain this by contacting your state of natural birth records division, and requesting this information via mail. Enclose with your request a self addressed envelope with a check or money order for the fee and voila! You should be good to go.

Although there is another delay in *when* to have this requirement, it is not a good idea to wait for the last minute to apply, especially if you have planned a vacation out of country. Take advantage now!

For more information please consult the Travel.state.Gov website by clicking the bold text!

Happy travels!
~callie

Introduction to Travel

So you want to travel? Perhaps thinking about it? Well first you should ask yourself where you want to go and then create a budget plan. Most people not realize that travel can be relatively inexpensive if you know what to look for and how you go about looking.
For example-

1.travel during low season, not peak season. Low season offers much discounted rates, and at times really cool upgrades. I should know! I do it all of the time.
2.book a reservation in advance. What this does and means is that you catch a deal on savings prior to your vacation and it helps alleviate undue stress when financially paying for your trip.
3.Dream Big and journey. I have places in my heart and mind that I would like to go. I keep those on my Future Itineraries list. Don't throw them out. Save them and book it ahead of time and make payments!
4.Consult a Travel Agent. Yes, I hear it all of the time about how easier it is to find things online and things of that nature. However consider the true reasoning of having a Travel Agent. These fine people not only call and scour vendors on your behalf to get you a better deal, but they are also your coach in the corner should your reservations go awry.

So much more and yet so little time. There is a big world out there. Take a chance and venture out and see it. You won't be sorry!

~callie