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5 Unforgetable and Unique Luxury Hotels in Europe

Europe is known for its history and culture and is home to many of the world’s most iconic landmarks. These luxury hotels in Europe double as destinations unto themselves, with everything a traveler would need to feel comfortable and pampered.

If you are heading across the pond, one (or more!) of these five-star accommodations will make your European escape even more memorable.

1. The Dolder Grand – Zurich, Switzerland

Consistently ranked one of the world’s greatest hotels, The Dolder Grand also houses an impressive collection of art from the likes of Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, and others. The original building dates back to 1899, and two modern wings that were added in 2008 seamlessly blend the old and the new. Not to be overlooked are the sweeping views of the Alps, an expansive world-class spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

2. Hotel Santa Caterina – Amalfi, Italy

Beauty is not just on the outside of Hotel Santa Caterina, which is sculpted into the side of a cliff on Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast. Colorful accents and antiques bring the perfect amount of character to the heavenly white linens and curtains found in each suite. This intimate, picturesque property is a honeymooners paradise, dotted with citrus groves and terraces to enjoy quiet moments.

3. 41 – London, England

Visitors are not far from royalty here, both literally and figuratively. Located opposite Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews, 41 is setting a new standard in service, with 24/7 butler service, and two staff members for each guest. In the past year, this chic boutique hotel earned accolades from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast and TripAdvisor as one of Europe’s finest.

4. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – Budapest, Hungary

One of the luxury Four Seasons brand’s grandest properties, this Art Nouveau landmark wows guests with stained-glass windows, mosaic tiles, and breathtaking views of the Danube River. Rooms feature high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and balconies to soak up even more of the city’s historic center.

5. Le Meurice – Paris, France

This 19th-century-palace-turned-luxury-hotel is a Parisian masterpiece, and for those that appreciate elegance, this is the place to stay in the City of Light. It is ideally located between the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden, and near Paris’s upscale shopping districts. Ultra-luxury travelers can splurge on Belle Etoile Suite, which features rich marble finishings and 360-degree views of Paris from its private terrace.

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4 Reasons Why You Should Experience the Beauty of Alaska This Summer

Travelers have long dreamed of witnessing the vast wilderness of the Great North and checking another state off their bucket list. The 49th state is home to the most pristine and beautiful landscapes in our country and this summer is the time for summer vacations to Alaska.

1. ALASKA IS A RECORD-SETTING STATE

Don’t let the map fool you, Alaska is the largest state. With almost twice the square miles of Texas, there’s more to see and do than you can imagine. It’s also the home to the tallest peak in North America, Mt. Denali, which tops out at just over 20,000 feet. Alaska also contains the largest of the United States’ National Parks, the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve. According to NationalParks.org, with 13.2 million acres, this park is larger than Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and the country of Switzerland combined. 

2. YOU CAN STILL TOUR ALASKA BY TRAIN

Train travel is one of the best ways to take in the journey as you venture from town to town in Alaska. With large windows, comfortable seating, and the flexibility to move around the car, train travel allows you to sit back, relax and take in the sights. With trusted cruise lines Holland America and Princess offering land packages with rail, seeing Alaska by train is one bucket-list item that can still be achieved this summer!

3. SEE AMAZING AND UNIQUE ANIMALS

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Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife species, including bears, moose, caribou, wolves, whales, sea otters, and many others. It is also home to several rare and endangered species, such as the Steller sea lion, the North Pacific right whale, and the short-tailed albatross. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see these animals in their natural habitats and seeing them in the wild is a rare and unforgettable experience.

4. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN ADRENALINE RUSH, THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE

Alaska is a great destination for adventure sports like kayaking, rafting, and dog-sledding! With more than 6,600 miles of coastline, Alaska is a paddler’s paradise. You can explore pristine waters, glacial fjords, and remote islands by kayak or canoe. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Alaska has some of the wildest whitewater rafting in North America, with rivers ranging from mild to extreme. My favorite activity in Alaska is dog sledding! Dog sledding is a quintessential Alaskan experience, and there are many opportunities to try it for yourself. You can take a guided tour or even learn to mush your own team of sled dogs.

Overall, Alaska has something to offer for everyone, whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or just getting away from it all. So why not consider making Alaska your destination this summer?

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Icon of the Seas: Bigger, Bolder Cruising

Royal Caribbean has earned a reputation in the cruise industry for incredible vacations at sea thanks to a commitment to innovative creative ventures accompanied by a constant reimagining and redefining of the cruise experience. Royal Caribbean has upped the wow factor yet again, bewitching excited cruisers and breaking single-day sales records with the all-new, incredibly dazzling Icon of the Seas ℠. 

 A Royal Caribbean ship has never been bigger or bolder than this towering new addition to the line’s fleet, the massive Icon of the Seas ℠. So, what makes this ship a stand out on the horizon?  

Royal Caribbean Ship Cutaway

WONDERFUL WATER FUN 

Royal Caribbean has always ensured plenty of places to splash on board, but the largest ship in the fleet promises larger-than-life water play for all ages.  

  • Category 6 Waterpark, which features six brightly colored slides, tempts passengers to come play on Deck 20. Thrill-seekers will flock to Frightening Bolt, the tallest waterslide at sea, which launches riders into the abyss when the slide’s floor drops from under waiting feet. Pressure Drop℠ is another heart-pounding option – it’s an open, free-fall water slide that is equally as exhilarating. Families can also splash and shriek together careening down Hurricane Hunter℠, the first group raft ride at sea. 
  • There’s also a pool for every day of the week, including the wow-worthy largest swimming pool at sea, Royal Bay in Chill Island℠. For the adults, secluded Cloud 17℠ allows access to The Lime and Coconut Bar where colorful frozen concoctions await. Splashaway Bay℠ and Baby Bay make water play fun for the smallest sailors. 
  • At the largest swim-up bar at sea, Swim & Tonic℠, bartenders concoct refreshing beverages while guests cool off on the in-water loungers. It’s the perfect combination of ways to beat the Caribbean heat. 

NEW SPACES  

When Royal Caribbean introduced the neighborhood concept on the Oasis Class, passengers loved the unique atmosphere and amenities each area provided. On Icon of the Seas ℠, new neighborhoods and accommodations are making their debut.  

  • A newly imagined neighborhood, Surfside℠, is a paradise for families, complete with colorfully playful décor, an arcade, a carousel, and an array of family-friendly food.  
  • Suite Neighborhood feels exclusive, but never stuffy, with its two-story deck, private pool and hot tub, and upscale dining for suite guests. 
  • The familiar and fun AquaTheater has been reimagined as AquaDome℠, a space dedicated to dazzling water displays, death-defying dive shows, and delicious dining. 
  • The three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse truly takes family accommodations to new heights. A karaoke station, in-suite slide, cinema room, and private patio are just a few of the amenities that might make it hard to leave your stateroom…until you remember how incredible the rest of the ship is too! 

A FRESH (THRILLING!) PERSPECTIVE 

Endless onboard entertainment has always been a hallmark of a Royal Caribbean cruise, but a new activity is sure to send passengers over the edge…literally!  

  • For a heart-pounding experience accompanied by stunning sea views, creeping along the Crown’s Edge sky walk and obstacle course is both a memorable activity and great vacation story! Stay focused and watch your step…the floor could drop out from under you at any moment! 

For a cruise vacation sure to please all members of the family, Icon of the Seas ℠ promises plenty of thrills and chills so you can get your fill of fun. Let’s get you booked on Icon of the Seas today!!!

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The most romantic all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean!

The ultimate romantic getaway means not having to think about a thing…except enjoying yourself with your sweetie. These all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean will sweep you off your feet with picturesque views, thoughtful service, and special touches to make your visit extra dreamy.

1. JADE MOUNTAIN – ST. LUCIA

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This high-end hillside resort is perfect for the couple wanting to be wowed. It’s easy to be intoxicated by the mesmerizing views of the Caribbean and of St. Lucia’s pitons, and even easier from your own private infinity pool. Tropical wood flooring and other organic architectural features accentuate the surrounding natural beauty.

2. COUPLES SANS SOUCI – JAMAICA

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Savor every blissful moment together at the secluded Sans Souci resort on Jamaica’s northern shore. The award-winning spa is a perfect way to unwind together after a day of snorkeling, kayaking or even scuba-diving – all of which are included!

3. SANDALS – GRENADA

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Pink Gin Beach is the home of the luxurious and exotic Sandals LaSource Resort & Spa. Foodies will find themselves will full of dinner-date options to choose from, and afterwards can enjoy a soak in their suite’s Skypool, a solar-heated plunge pool with an infinity edge.

4. COUPLES SWEPT AWAY – JAMAICA

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Every day is Valentine’s Day at this all-inclusive haven situated on western Jamaica’s Seven Mile Beach. Active couples will find it easy to kindle the romance at the resort’s massive fitness complex, an endless list of activities, and private verandas overlooking lush gardens.

5. SUGAR BEACH, A VICEROY RESORT – ST. LUCIA

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Views just don’t get any more breathtaking than at Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort, which is tucked in between the island’s two iconic pitons. Opt for the all-inclusive package so you can relish Sugar Beach’s gourmet cuisine, and for a suite with a private terrace for prime sunset watching.

6. SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA – ANTIGUA

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Sandals has romance down to a science, and Sandals Grande Antigua is no exception. Mediterranean style meets Caribbean luxury here on the silky white sand of Dickenson Bay, Antigua’s most famous beach. From the scenery alone, you can see why the resort has consistently been named among the most romantic in the world.

Contact me today to learn more about these romantic destinations.

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The 4 top dive destinations for scuba divers!

Some travelers aren’t satisfied with just an ocean view. They want to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks and the vibrant, diverse ecosystems that inhabit our oceans. Today, scuba diving is a multi-billion dollar industry and one of the world’s fastest-growing recreational sports.

These dive destinations are among the top places to travel for scuba divers:

BONAIRE

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This low-key island in the south Caribbean draws divers back again and again. The waters surrounding the entire island, known as the Bonaire National Marine Park, are calm, and protected and contain dozens of dive sites. Bonaire is known as the shore diving capital of the Caribbean because reefs begin just yards out from the shore.

ST. LUCIA

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This honeymooners’ paradise is also home to colorful, easily accessible reefs and calm waters year-round. Nature-loving travelers can pair their dives with hikes through the island’s lush rainforest or whale-watching excursions. With a selection of chic restaurants to choose from, St. Lucia is a must-visit destination for serious adventurers with serious appetites!

HONDURAS

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The islands of Roatán, Utila and Guanaja, roughly 40 miles off of mainland Honduras, boast a location on the world’s second-largest barrier reef system. Wreck dives, drift dives, shark dives and even whale shark dives are all popular here. With more than 300 dive sites, scuba divers have reason to make return trips to the region too.

TAHITI

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A bucket list destination for many, the Tahitian islands offer world-class beauty both above and below water. Currents flowing between the islands attract many different species of shark, including hammerheads, whitetips and blacktips. Clear waters also allow for easy viewing of sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays.

Tell us what you think! Are you a scuba diver and are these destinations on your list?

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5 trips to take with friends

With summer right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning a vacation together with friends! Meeting in a special destination offers an escape from the day-to-day while experiencing a new destination and genuine quality time with one another. Sipping on coffee or wine. Chatting until long after the sun sets. Touring a new city together, popping in and out of boutiques. Relaxing side-by-side with an amazing view. Dancing into the wee hours of the morning. The sky’s the limit when planning a getaway for groups of friends!

Here are five ideas for trips to plan with friends:

Iceland


ICELAND FOR ADVENTURE

Catching the sweeping beauty of the Northern Lights, bathing in geothermal waters, hiking rugged landscapes, and road-tripping The Golden Circle make for an awesome adventure in the Arctic Circle when friends plan an adventure in beautiful Iceland.

Montreal


MONTREAL FOR FOOD

For trendy bars and a hot restaurant scene, foodie friends should make the journey to Montreal, Canada’s second most populated city. Second only to New York City for restaurants per capita in North America, options abound for whatever craving strikes.

Napa


NAPA VALLEY FOR WINE

The heart of California’s wine country calls to friends who long to chat over glasses of red or white. Pedaling bicycles to local wineries on a guided tour is a fun way to spend the day. Reservations for indulgent spa services before dining al fresco will feel luxurious.

Nashville


NASHVILLE FOR MUSIC

Quirky and friendly Nashville welcomes tourists to its small town with a big city vibe. Visitors are greeted with strumming guitars and microphone checks of its toe-tapping music scene. Small venues, large venues, and everything in-between host a variety of live music of all genres, and this bustling scene is the draw to Nashville. The trip is complete with tasty southern comfort food, icy beers, and perhaps a celebrity spotting or two.

Sedona


SEDONA FOR THE SOUL

The red rocks of Sedona provide the setting for luxurious boutique hotels, exquisite outdoor dining, and dazzling sunrises that soothe the soul. Known worldwide as an area for spiritualism, energy and soul work, restorative retreats, and metaphysical practitioners, Sedona is the perfect destination for friends to find their Zen.

Planning group travel (especially trips with friends!) can be a fun and a great way to reconnect with friends! To learn more about group travel, and start planning a getaway with your friends, contact us today!

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Disney Cruise Line Announces Inaugural Sailings to New Island Destination in the Bahamas

Disney Cruise Line has announced the inaugural dates and itineraries for its new island destination in The Bahamas!

In June 2024, Disney Cruise Line will debut its newest Bahamian destination on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point! Guests will discover a vibrant beach retreat designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.

On June 6, a three-night preview cruise on the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale will offer a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point with limited access to some areas. On June 8, the Disney Fantasy will sail the inaugural sailing visiting Lighthouse Point. This itinerary will feature two stops at Lighthouse Point and one day at Castaway Cay.

Following the inaugural voyage, Lighthouse Point will be a port of call on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and the Caribbean on the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale. These itineraries will vary stops between Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with five special departures including both Disney Cruise Line island destinations.

Contact us today to book your next Disney Cruise where you can visit the incredible new island destination, Lighthouse Point!

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Meet Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Icon of the Seas!

This is more than a vacation upgrade. It’s the best family vacation in the world. Introducing the new Icon of the Seas — a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean adventure where you’ll have the time of your life, multiple times a day. Let your adrenaline surge at the largest waterpark at sea. Pick from seven unique pools to satisfy any mood, and fuel bolder bonding at Surfside, the ultimate stay-all-day family-friendly neighborhood right onboard. And delight your appetite with 40 different ways to dine and drink. This is the Icon of Vacations — arriving early 2024.

Royal Caribbean’s turned up the adventure on board the new Icon of the Seas with new thrills and reimagined favorites in Thrill Island, including a new take on its signature rock wall. Everyone in the family is in for the ultimate rock climbing expedition, which features the cruise line’s highest vantage point yet, racing lanes for friendly competition and endless ocean views.

n Surfside on the new Icon of the Seas, the neighborhood dedicated to young families, little ones can set their sights on new twists to favorites like a beach-themed carousel. More in store includes a slideable, climbable Playscape and the Splashaway Bay aquapark. 

The new Desserted will be the cherry on top of a day braving the fastest, tallest and surprising thrills at Thrill Island on the new Icon of the Seas. Vacationers can choose from a lineup of Insta-worthy milkshake concoctions, including spiked options for the adults. 

Surfside Eatery will debut as the dedicated buffet in Surfside, the new neighborhood designed for young families sailing on Icon of the Seas. More Royal Caribbean firsts include a spot for a quick stop between adventures, Surfside Bites, and specialty restaurant Pier 7 for beachside favorites. 

Adults and kids alike can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner – and laidback vibes – at the new Pier 7 on Icon of the Seas. In Surfside, the neighborhood dedicated to young families, the specialty restaurant will serve up beachside bites like mango shrimp tostadas and surf ‘n’ turf. 

At Surfside on the new Icon of the Seas, the neighborhood dedicated to young families, adults and kids alike will find a variety of ways to grab a bite and drinks. The Lemon Post will debut as the bar for the whole family, with a menu of options for grownups and another for kids. 

If you are ready to sail on Icon of the Seas, contact us today!

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Sandals Resorts Announces New Accommodations in Jamaica and Saint Lucia

Sandal Resorts International, owner of the Sandals and Beaches family of resorts, has been a leading all-inclusive brand in the Caribbean since 1981. They recently announced two new expansions for their resort in Negril, Jamaica as well as their property in Castries, Saint Lucia. Both expansions will debut in Spring 2023.

Beaches Negril is adding 12 new butler suites to their property, bringing the room count up to 197 luxury accommodations. Six of the suites, located at the north end of the resort, will be called Firesky Reserve Villas, offering 3,700 square feet of three floors with living areas. The villas include four massive bedrooms, a kitchen, private oceanfront plunge pools and rooftop decks with dining terraces. With accommodations for 10, these villas are perfect for large families or groups..

Located at the opposite end of the resort will be six Eventide Penthouse Collection suites that can accommodate up to 18. The suites are offered with three or four bedrooms and include spacious kitchens, expansive balconies and walkout terraces. 

In addition to the new villas and suites, Beaches Negril’s Pirate’s Island Waterpark will house the resort’s Camp Sesame in partnership with Sesame Workshop, debuting summer 2023. This resort provides the perfect getaway for single families, groups of families, or multi-generational groups, with all that it has to offer.

Beaches Negril Firesky Reserve Villas. (photo courtesy of Sandals Resorts International)

Sandals Halcyon Beach, in St. Lucia, has added 20 ocean-edge Joli Beachfront Suites that feature walkout beach access, private pools, and second-story accommodations with tranquility soaking tubs. The open-air suites are decorated with natural woods, blue hues and soft island floral touches.

In addition to the ocean-edge suites, you will find five new Koko Rondoval Villas located amidst the resort’s lush landscaping, just steps from the ocean. The unique design with rounded walls and thatched roofs provides the illusion that the villa extends onto a chic patio with a plunge pool.

In addition to these two expansions, Sandals Resorts International has announced that Sandals Dunn’s River will launch in May 2023 as well as other new properties in Jamaica, Curacao, St. Vincent & The Grenadines,Turks & Caicos, and more.

Are you ready to book your retreat at one of these resorts? Beaches Negril and Sandals Halcyon’s new suites are currently available for reservations for travel beginning April 6, 2023.

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Disney Cruise Line’s Marvel Day at Sea

What do you get when you combine Marvel Super Heroes and Villains with a Disney cruise? Marvel Day at Sea! Whether you’re a newcomer to the Marvel universe, a lifelong fan,or traveling with someone who is, you will love this action-packed day aboard the Disney Dream, setting sail from Miami January-March 2023.

More than 30 Marvel Super Heroes and Villains will be featured in new heroic encounters and live entertainment throughout the event.

Which Marvel characters will be there? Captain America Sam Wilson, Mighty Thor, Shang-Chi, Marvel, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Kate Bishop, Spider-Man, Iron Man, Black Panther, Captain Marvel, Thor, Loki, Black Widow and more.

Shows and activities include Heroes Unite (a nighttime spectacular with stunts, special effects and pyrotechnics), shows in the Walt Disney Theatre, an interactive training experience, a costume bash with a high-energy party on the upper decks, an adult-exclusive dance party and so much more.

Guests can experience this epic day at sea on the following Disney Dream itineraries in 2023:

Departing Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18 and March 4, 2023, the Western Caribbean itinerary features Georgetown, Grand Cayman and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.

Departing Jan. 16, Jan. 30, Feb. 13 and Feb. 27, 2023, the Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Cozumel, Mexico and Castaway Cay.

These cruises are extremely popular and will sell out. Contact me today if you want more information or you’re ready to book your Marvel-ous cruise.

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