Whether you’re daydreaming about strolling through European streets, taking in the historic landmarks and vibrant culture, or relaxing in the Caribbean, soaking up the sun and crystal-clear waters, the big question always lingers: “How far in advance should I plan?” For many of us, the excitement of planning a trip can be just as thrilling as the journey itself, but knowing when to start making arrangements can be a daunting task. Should you book your flights and accommodations a year in advance, or can you get away with making last-minute plans? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including your destination, travel style, and flexibility. In this post, we’ll break down the key considerations to help you determine the perfect planning timeline for your next adventure.
Cruises
Cruises for both oceans and rivers typically release their itineraries 18-24 months in advance. While it’s not always essential to book this early, if you’re aiming to travel during busy periods like Christmas or Spring Break, it’s advisable to book as early as possible. For other times, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance. Doing so allows you to select your preferred cabin, take advantage of early booking discounts, and choose the perfect itinerary. If you book with us, this timeframe also ensures that we have enough time to arrange unique cultural experiences, secure preferred dining times, and fully prepare for your trip.
Europe
To fully enjoy the historic landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine of Europe without feeling rushed or stressed, we recommend planning your trip 9-12 months in advance. This will give you the best chance to find great deals on flights and accommodations and secure reservations for popular attractions. If you’re booking with us, this timeframe allows us to carefully plan your itinerary and coordinate with our trusted partners to ensure everything is ready for your arrival.
All-Inclusive Resorts
For a stress-free all-inclusive vacation, we highly advise planning 3-9 months prior to your intended travel dates, and even earlier for peak seasons like Christmas and Spring Break. This proactive approach gives you the best chance to find the most suitable accommodations at the best resorts, and so much more. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to secure the most desirable room categories and amenities, take advantage of early-bird discounts and promotions, and ensure the availability of popular activities and excursions. Planning ahead also allows you to make informed decisions about travel insurance and other essentials, avoid last-minute rushes and potential price increases, and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable planning experience.
Domestic Vacations
We don’t book all domestic locations, but we specialize in planning trips to stunning national parks, the beautiful beaches of the Hawaiian islands, and one of my favorite places on earth – Alaska! We recommend planning these types of trips 3-6 months in advance. This gives us the opportunity to book flights at reasonable prices, secure accommodations in popular destinations, and plan any necessary excursions. If you’re booking with us, this also gives us enough time to craft the perfect itinerary enriched with hidden gems and expert insights.
Keep in mind that these timeframes are just a starting point, as every traveler’s preferences and flexibility are one-of-a-kind. That’s why we specialize in curating customized journeys that cater to your distinct style and needs. We’re thrilled to help you plan your ideal getaway, and we look forward to tailoring every detail to make your travel dreams a reality! To get started, click HERE.
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/charlotte-noelle-98WPMlTl5xo-unsplash-scaled.jpg16392560Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2024-08-09 16:12:482024-09-10 10:46:53How Far in Advance Should you Plan a Vacation?
Last August, a Travel Agent friend mentioned a FAM Trip to Tanzania. (FAM = Familiarization Trip. These are trips that Travel Agents attend to become familiar with a destination or resort) She had applied a year earlier, and the trip was canceled, so they were rebooking her for 2023. She mentioned she knew other travel agents who may be interested, and they encouraged us to apply.
The trip was hosted by TATO – The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators in cooperation with the Tanzanian Government with funding from the United Nations Development Programme. Like many parts of the world, Tanzania was hit hard by COVID, and this FAM is part of their effort to rebuild tourism.
Fast forward to March of 2023, and I received word that I was accepted and would be going to Tanzania for 14 days! Yikes. What did I sign up for? 14 days is a long time to be gone. 14 days in Africa? What was I thinking?
By July, it had set in that I was going to Africa on safari. I was scared yet more excited. I started shopping for clothes and preparing. While Africa had always been on my bucket list, and I had many dreams of safari, realizing it was finally happening frightened me. I’m not sure what exactly I was afraid of. Being eaten by a lion? Catching some flesh-eating bacteria? Dying of malaria, cholera, dysentery? (Spoiler alert: it was all in my head – this is not the Oregon Trail!)
On Friday, September 15, my husband drove me to Chicago. The following morning I boarded a flight on Ethiopian Air to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and then to Kilimanjaro Airport in Arusha, Tanzania. Luckily I had my travel agent friend Erin with me, because it was quite an adventure!
It was a VERY long day of travel. The flight was a three-ring circus. The bathroom door came off on the plane, and it was carried through the aisle, a woman trying to steal someone else’s seat while that seat occupant was in the bathroom. People were yelling at each other across the cabin. Guests throwing their trash all over the floor. We made it to Tanzania safely (with lots of crazy stories )
Tears ran down my face as I stepped off the plane and saw the Kilimanjaro International Airport sign. Africa has always been on my list, and to be here is a dream come true. After a very long process of getting our visas approved, we made it through the airport to meet our guide Elisha.
We didn’t know then what a huge role he would play in our adventure or how lucky we were to have been placed with him. Seeing his smiling face, I was immediately at ease and knew I was in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Even though we hardly slept on the plane, it was nearly 4pm when we arrived at our hotel and we knew we needed to stay awake. Our hotel – Four Points Sheraton Arusha had a beautiful pool. (Watch a room tour HERE.) We decided to take a dip, and it sure woke us up…it wasn’t heated!!! While at the pool, we met another American. Tyler worked for the Commerce Department and was in Arusha for a conference. We ended up having dinner with him and many more meals over the next few days. We met our first friend of the trip!
Our First Full Day in Arusha
Like most hotels in Arusha, ours included breakfast. It was a great cold buffet with fruits, yogurts, cereal, and more. The hot station consisted of things like stewed vegetables, bacon, sausage, hard-boiled eggs, and potatoes. There was also an egg station where you could order eggs any way you’d like. I learned this is the norm throughout Tanzania.
Elisha picked us up, and we started the day at Sanaa. This non-profit organization trains and employs the marginalized in Tanzania to create arts and crafts. We were able to tour the facility and see everything from shoe, bags, clothes, rugs, and blown glass being made. A kind deaf gentleman even showed me how to make a glass bead. It was an experience that touched my heart and was simply amazing! I picked up some of the handmade jewelry pieces I will cherish forever. Probably the most incredible thing was the handmade safari bags. I purchased one for my husband and we both absolutely love it!
2023-09-18 03.17.07
2023-09-18 03.16.16
2023-09-18 03.17.16
2023-09-18 03.18.03
2023-09-18 02.48.49
2023-09-18 02.54.14
2023-09-18 02.58.12
2023-09-18 03.13.35
Then we toured the incredible Gran Melia Arusha a fantastic property that you would stay at upon your arrival in Arusha before you go out on safari or upon your return from safari before you head home. This luxurious hotel offered incredible views and plush accommodations.
2023-09-18 02.29.52
2023-09-18 04.23.50
2023-09-18 04.27.13
2023-09-18 04.19.45
2023-09-18 04.19.54
2023-09-18 04.42.47
2023-09-18 04.38.57
2023-09-18 04.45.33
2023-09-19 02.06.30-1
We had lunch at the rooftop restaurant and met the other half of our group. I was traveling with Erin and Denise with our guide Elisha. Erin, Denise and I all met almost 3 years ago to the day on a FAM trip to Cancun. Denise is the reason we were all here together! The other half of our party was Mia, a travel agent from San Diego (my hometown); Francis, a travel agent from Philadelphia; and Vlado, a travel journalist and influencer from Croatia.
I sat next to Vlado, which would be a theme over the next two weeks. We enjoyed teasing each other but also enjoyed each other’s company and had lots of great conversations. Vlado suggested I try the fried crocodile – when in Rome right? Honestly, it tasted like chicken and I’m glad I tried it!
Fried crocodile
We finished the day with a networking event where I met with over 50 safari companies, resorts, and more. It was like speed dating! Afterward, there was a cocktail reception where we got to speak to everyone in greater detail and begin to form relationships.
2023-09-18 07.32.31
2023-09-18 11.23.05
2023-09-18 15.05.49
While this trip had many amazing parts, the biggest takeaway was networking with owners and operators on the ground in Tanzania. I have people whom I’ve met in person who I can work with to give my clients a first-class experience. There was a news segment produced about the event that you can watch HERE.
Heading out to the bush!
On Tuesday, September 19th we headed out to the bush. I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was excited! We were really going on safari. Little did I know what was in store for us.
We drove about two hours to Lake Manyara. Lake Manyara National Park is about 125 square miles and the sign said: “Home of tree-climbing lions” so that got me pretty excited. Then Elisaha told us that in all of his years as a guide, he’d never seen the lion in the tree. We didn’t either, so that was disappointing.
We saw lots of birds, tons of monkeys and baboons. Even a few water buffalo. The other part of our safari group saw zebras but we missed them
Knowing now what was to come, this park isn’t my favorite. I think I prefer to see animals that could potentially kill me. It’s way more exciting to me. But Lake Manyara is a great park to start your safari adventure.
Lake Manyara
2023-09-19 03.38.15
2023-09-19 04.11.04
2023-09-19 05.20.04
2023-09-19 04.36.41
2023-09-19 04.38.41
Then we headed to lunch at The African Galleria. This was a bit of a tourist trap, but the lunch was tasty.
2023-09-19 07.39.37 copy
2023-09-19 07.38.11 copy
2023-09-19 06.21.17
2023-09-19 06.26.04
2023-09-19 13.47.34
2023-09-19 07.41.52
2023-09-19 07.48.49
2023-09-19 07.52.58
2023-09-19 07.51.34
2023-09-19 07.51.49
Then we toured the Galleria which was full of talented artists and beautiful art. The coolest thing was seeing the craftsman carve the ebony. There was also a huge shop where I purchased some jewelry and other items.
Finally, we headed to our accommodations for the evening – Kirurumu Manyara Lodge This is a tented camp with the most incredible views of Lake Manyara!
2023-09-19 08.47.00
2023-09-19 10.12.19
2023-09-19 23.55.50
2023-09-19 09.57.24
2023-09-19 10.06.09
2023-09-19 10.07.42
2023-09-20 00.56.45
This was our first night in a tented camp. I think I’ve slept in a tent maybe twice in my life and honestly, I was scared. If you know me, you know this is WAY out of my comfort zone. It wasn’t what I was expecting at all. The tent is on a slab and has concrete floors. Our tent even had doors. The bathroom was attached and had concrete walls. We had a toilet, shower, and even double sinks.
The mosquito nets were a little frightening, but yet kind of exotic. Looking back now I can laugh. But at the time I was terrified of the mosquitos and other bugs that were going to eat me alive all night long. Add to that we were sleeping in a tent in the wild. With every gust of wind, the tent flapped, and I was sure a baboon was trying to break in. They weren’t. The Massai tribesmen stood guard all night. If we needed something they were right outside and we just needed to flash our flashlight or scream and they would be there within seconds. Remember that movie City Slickers? That was us but in the bush of Africa.
We had a wonderful evening with our safari mates and guides. This was one of my favorite dinners we had. The food was fantastic and it’s where we all started to get to know each other better. Even though we are all from different corners of the world, we shared a ton of laughs over a great dinner.
All of the details of my trip are saved as highlights on my Instagram.
If you would like more information on going on safari, click here to get started!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-09-20-07.51.55-scaled.jpg19202560Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2023-10-14 12:00:352025-01-17 11:04:39Going on Safari: Arriving in Tanzania!
Different regions and families have their own holiday traditions, and one of the most enticing European traditions is the Christmas Market. In fact, each year thousands of travelers visit European Christmas Markets, but what exactly are they, and how can you go?
WHAT ARE EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS?
Throughout Europe, the tradition of Christmas Markets has persisted for hundreds of years. It is said that these markets go back to the late-middle ages, around 1300, and originated in German-speaking areas, like Germany and Austria. Today, the Christmas Markets can be found throughout the European continent, with most running from late November through Christmas or New Year’s Day.
WHAT CAN YOU FIND AT TODAY’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS?
The most prominent aspect of a Christmas market is the vendor stalls. Businesses and individuals sell a variety of wares from these stalls, usually items that are traditionally made in the area or are related to the Christmas season. Market mugs, handmade cards, ornaments and hand-carved wooden artwork, like nutcrackers, toys, and wall art to name a few items
Along with handmade and traditional goods, one of the best parts of a Christmas market is the food! Gingerbread hearts, punch, mulled wine, and other regional specialties are favorites among visitors who are looking to dive into a location’s food scene. Many markets also feature Christmas displays, ice skating rinks, and musical performances to entertain guests while they shop, eat, and explore the market.
HOW CAN YOU CRUISE TO EUROPE’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS?
An Avalon Waterways river cruise is one of the best ways to visit Europe’s Christmas markets. The Danube River and Rhine River have many popular Christmas market cities, such as Vienna, Budapest, Basel, and Strasbourg, along their banks, giving you the chance to visit cities that have been hosting these markets since their founding well over 500 years ago. With tradition on their side, the markets in this region are some of the best you will find anywhere in Europe, particularly those in Germany and Austria.
Avalon Waterways hosts a variety of cruises on both the Danube and Rhine River ranging in length and activities. Some cruises are as short as four days while others, like Christmastime from Budapest to Basel, are 17 days long with the option to add cruise extensions.
WHY AVALON?
Along with their stellar Christmas market cruises, Avalon Waterways’ onboard experience brings a new level of relaxation and convenience to your vacation. River cruising allows travelers to experience the scenery and culture of Europe without the hassle of repacking suitcases and making travel arrangements. Instead, you sail in the evenings or while you sleep. This also means that you get to spend more time in port exploring the cities and markets.
And Avalon’s ships are suite! Their Panorama Suitessm offer the offer floor-to-ceiling windows so that you can take in the view from the comfort of your bed. The Avalon Fresh program brings local flavors for the chefs to prepare regionally-inspired dishes with the freshest ingredients possible.
Along with their onboard experience, Avalon offers three types of excursions for guests to choose from, Classic, Discovery, and Active. This variety means you can customize your experience while being sure to receive the quality of experience guests expect with Avalon.
Are you ready to experience one of these amazing Christmas markets for yourself? Let’s start planning your exceptional vacation with Avalon Waterways today! We will help you manage pre- and post-cruise hotels and travel logistics to ensure every moment of your trip is taken care of.
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Christmas-Market-Germany-Europe.jpg366999Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2023-07-18 09:00:002023-07-08 15:52:48Cruising to Europe’s Christmas Markets with Avalon Waterways
When the days get shorter and we see the first snowflake fall, we know one thing: winter is officially here. For some of us, this means dreading slushy streets or the stress-filled hustle and bustle of the season, but it also brings time-honored traditions and beloved holidays.
It is a time for celebration, for being with your loved ones, for making life-long memories, and of course, for travel.
Cities across the globe illuminate their skylines as they celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the winter solstice. Here are some of the most breathtaking destinations to celebrate the holiday nearest and dearest to you.
NEW YORK CITY
The city that never sleeps doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to winter festivities. If you celebrate Christmas, you’ll surely love the amazing display at Rockefeller Center and the annual Christmas Spectacular at nearby Radio City. Or take a stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the famous window displays and even do some holiday shopping.
New York is also a premiere destination to celebrate Hanukkah with one of the world’s largest menorahs in the Grand Army Plaza (Manhattan and Brooklyn) lit nightly. The celebration includes music and latkes each night at the Brooklyn location.
Kwanzaa, a celebration of African-American heritage, is also celebrated in New York City. The American Museum of Natural History hosts a celebration with traditional African performances and crafts. Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater, a bucket-list destination in itself, hosts family-friendly activities with dancing and music.
ENGLAND
The city of Bath during Christmas will transport you to the time of Charles Dickens’s AChristmas Carol. From the famous Bath Christmas Market with homemade crafts to lacing up your skates at Bath on Ice, this trip would melt even Scrooge’s heart.
Journey to London for a Hanukkah you’ll never forget. People gather at Trafalgar Square to watch menorah lightings, taste delicious food, and listen to local music performances. Many local Jewish groups also host their own events, so there is no shortage of ways to celebrate.
You have undoubtedly heard of one of England’s most famous landmarks, Stonehenge, but did you know people from all over the world come to this prehistoric monument to celebrate the winter solstice? People gather to watch the sunrise as they play music, dance, do yoga and even kiss the famous stones.
CANADA
The city of Old Quebec transforms into a quaint Christmas village in December. Seasonal décor adorns the stone buildings, and the smell of roasted chestnuts from the German Christmas Market fills the air.
When the Christmas season comes to end, the Quebec Winter Carnival takes hold. With parades, ice canoe races, snow sculptures, and Bonhomme’s Ice Palace you’ll never want to leave this winter wonderland.
Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest is an entire theme park of winter merriment. The Toronto park is reimagined and enchanted with lights and decorations for the holiday season. Entertainment, delicious treats, gift shops, ice-skating, and rides are just a few of the many attractions for guests. The Season of Lights is a dazzling light display honoring Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Christmas.
To fill your winter with wonder and experience these destinations and more during the holiday season, contact me today to start planning!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/artem-kniaz-OuhA7RAMWd0-unsplash-scaled.jpg17072560Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2023-07-11 09:00:002023-07-08 13:57:02Celebrate the Winter Holidays Around the World
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/EuropeanHotels-LeMeuriceEdit.jpg299600Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2023-06-26 09:00:002024-12-09 11:46:435 Unforgetable and Unique Luxury Hotels in Europe
So you have decided where you want to go, and your calendar has dictated when you can go. Do the two intersect at a time when you’ll have good weather? If not, you might want to reconsider your plans. After all, you don’t want your dream vacation to become a nightmare. Here are some of the most popular travel destinations along with their best and worst months of travel.
Caribbean
Best months: Although average temperatures are between 78-88 degrees year-round, you’ll find that the area is coolest and has more wind from December to May.
Worst months: Mid-August, September and October due to high heat, humidity and the threat of hurricanes. Although hurricane season is technically June through November, June and November have the fewest tropical storms and hurricanes during the hurricane season.
Mexico
Best months: October to May
Worst months: Mexico is hotter during the summer months. In addition, the humidity is higher. If you have the option to visit the Pacific Coast of Mexico (Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas), you will find that there is far less humidity than in the Mexican Caribbean (Cancun and surrounding areas).
Hawaii
Best months: Hawaii’s consistently-warm weather makes it a good destination to visit at any time of the year, with temperatures hovering between 73-86 degrees. With that said, the best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands get the least amount of rain and the warmest temperatures. If you are interested in whale watching, January will be your best bet.
Worst months: Again, there is no bad time to visit Hawaii but you will find that it is wetter and marginally cooler between October and February.
Alaska
Best months: There’s a reason why the cruise ships are in Alaska from late spring to early fall. The best weather is during the summer months. Not only are the temperatures warmer, but daylight is longer, allowing more time for sightseeing. The absolute best time to visit, according to the locals, is June 15-July 15, when it is warm, dry and alive with energy. Daytime temperatures range from 60-80 degrees, and they dip down into the 40s and 50s at night. It’s light outside almost all night long from late May to late July.
Worst months: The days are shorter, the temperatures are colder, and there is more rain/snow from late September through December. The northern lights are visible from August 20 through April 20, but the best time for an aurora vacation is February and March, when the days are getting longer and the snow conditions are best for winter activities.
Florida Best months: March, April, October, November. Temperatures are warm/hot and there is less rain.
Worst months: May to September due to high heat, humidity, and the threat of tropical storms and hurricanes.
Europe
Best months: May through September or October. You will see higher temperatures and crowds during the summer but it is considered to be their peak season. Expect the hottest temperatures in July and August. During the “shoulder season,” April through mid-June and September through October, you’ll enjoy decent weather, smaller crowds and long enough daylight.
Worst months: December to February. Because much of Europe is at Canadian latitudes, the winter can be cold and the days are shorter. However, Europe is known for its Christmas markets, making it a popular destination during November and December.
Dubai
Best months: Dubai offers consistently-pleasant weather between November and March, with daily maximum temperatures in the upper 70s. Mid-December to the end of February is their peak season, with great weather and the crowds to go with it. To avoid high prices and crowds, consider traveling mid-November through mid-December or during March. Temperatures will still be warm but the crowds and prices will be lower.
Worst months: June, July and August have unbearably high temperatures, with an average of 106 degrees. It is also humid during the summer. The month of Ramadan usually begins mid-March. Since eating, drinking and smoking in public are banned during this time, many businesses close, making it difficult for tourists who are not observing Ramadan themselves.
Hurricanes
If you’re thinking about a tropical vacation during hurricane season, you’ll want to consider the area you’ll be visiting as well as the month.
Hurricanes in the Atlantic and Caribbean begin around June 1, but it’s rare for a large storm to form. They typically don’t start getting bigger until later in the summer. Statistically, September 10th is the peak in the Atlantic and Caribbean. On a worldwide scale, May is the least active month and September is the most active.
The ABC Islands that are closer to South America (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) are far enough south that they generally aren’t impacted by hurricane season. St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada are also located outside of this region.
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/kyle-glenn-nXt5HtLmlgE-unsplash.jpg13332000Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2022-11-01 16:49:082022-11-01 16:49:11The best time to go to . . .
Sandals Resorts have long been known as the pinnacle in luxury Caribbean all-inclusive vacations for couples. Each offers stunning beachfront settings, luxurious accommodations and the many features that make the Sandals experience a Luxury Included® experience.
The Sandals Royal Bahamian has recently been reimagined and is now offering all new swim-up suites, renovated rooms and suites, 10 restaurants, 3 new food trucks, all new Coconut Grove and the reimagined Sandals Barefoot Cay, their own private island just minutes away from the resort.
Swim-Up Suites. Step from the comfort of your luxurious room right into a gently flowing river pool from a zero-entry platform in your oversized patio.Butler service and exclusive VIP airport transfers are included with this room category.
Renovated Rooms & Suites. In these newly renovated accommodations, you’ll enjoy stylish new furnishings, lavish spa-style bathrooms and oversized terraces and balconies that overlook the ocean.
10 Restaurants & 3 Food Trucks. With 13 dining options, you’re sure to satisfy all your culinary cravings. Six of the ten restaurants are new, offering French cuisine, a British pub, steaks, Pan Caribbean, sushi and fresh seafood. At the food trucks, you’ll find grab and go sweets, coffee, tacos, seafood and Italian classics.
Coconut Grove. This brand new beach club, where you can lounge, dine and play, is a Sandals first. Relax during the day under the shade of the palm trees and join the party at night with live entertainment. Coconut Grove is where you’ll find the food trucks.
Barefoot Cay. With this private island, you’ll feel like you’re enjoying 2 resorts for the price of 1. Barefoot Cay has two secluded beaches where you can relax, go for a swim or explore the Bahamas’ best snorkeling. Throughout the chic Beach Club, you’ll find a pool, whirlpool, swim-up bar, shaded hammocks, private cabanas, a Zen garden with firepit seating and the region’s best seafood house. A short cruise on the Love Runner will have you there in no time.
Sandals Royal Bahamian is located in Nassau, which is conveniently located just a short flight away with nonstop service from many major U.S. cities. Although it’s a quick trip, you will feel like you’re a million miles away with the resort’s easy-going beach lifestyle and irresistibly soothing charm.
Want to be on the beach by noon? No problem. With the resort’s new Breakaway service, arriving early just means more time to enjoy your vacation. Upon arrival, the Breakaway hostess will greet you with a delicious cocktail, and with a quick change into comfortable clothes,you’ll head straight to the beach or swim-up pool bar and leave the Sandals team to take care of everything else.
There’s no better time to get away to the Bahamas, and Sandals Royal Bahamian will bring a redefined luxury experience to your next getaway. Let’s book your stay today!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/download-4.jpeg10001460Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2022-01-30 13:41:012022-08-11 21:36:34Take a look at the Reimagined Sandals Royal Bahamian
Royal Caribbean has announced their Europe deployment for 2023! From April to October, you can choose from itineraries that visit Norwegian fjords, Iceland and Scotland, Spain and France, Greece and Croatia, the Greek Isles, Italy and Adriatic, the British Isles, Western Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Russia, Greece and Turkey.
From colorful Mediterranean coasts to whitewashed seaside Greek villages, the best way to see Europe is with the cruise line voted Best Overall for 19 years running. Immerse yourself in ancient Greek cultures. Sample the delights of wine-country wonders throughout France, Spain and Italy. And experience unique itineraries from fjord-filled getaways in Norway to trekking across the Arctic Circle.
Has Greece been on your bucket list? With 227 islands, it can be daunting to put together an itinerary. When you cruise the Greek Isles, all the decisions are made for you. Unpack once and see the best of Mykonos, Santorini, Athens, Zakynthos, Skiathos, Thessaloniki, or, for the first time ever, Olympia. Royal Caribbean has four ships with various itineraries sailing the Greek Isles in 2023.
Perhaps you’re considering a Mediterranean cruise. With Royal Caribbean, you can take a grand tour of all the classics. Indulge in the delicacies of Italy, marvel at famous monuments in France and soak up the sun on the seaside shores of Spain.
Why do people love cruising in Europe? You get to sample a number of countries and ports without the hassle of checking in and out of hotels, and without eating up precious vacation time moving from city to city. In addition, your cruise fare includes accommodations, all meals and entertainment onboard and (possibly) your airfare. You don’t need to worry about exchange rates or currency fluctuations. And let’s not overlook the incredible experience of cruising – wonderful and attentive service, all the services and activities, the variety of dining options and the overall relaxed shipboard lifestyle.
With nine ships sailing throughout Europe, you will undoubtedly be able to find the perfect itinerary for your ideal European vacation. In fact, you will probably struggle to decide which itinerary to choose. Don’t worry! Nobody ever said you can take only one cruise. Contact me to book your European cruise today!
Hard Rock Riviera Maya is the perfect all-inclusive resort for families. Kids love the endless activities and parents love the beauty and serenity of the resort. The whole family will enjoy snorkeling or floating on the lazy river between trips down the water slide or zip line.
However, there are days when the young ones (or young at heart) need a break from the sun and sand. That’s when it may be time to escape to HyperX Gaming Lounge, the new gamer’s paradise at the resort. Boasting high-performance Gaming PCs, gaming consoles, a VR station, and the latest HyperX peripherals, this new addition offers an enhanced experience for any type of gamer.
The HyperX Gaming Lounge is designed, built, and fine-tuned with the gamer in mind. Boasting nine gaming PCs, three Xbox Series X, two Nintendo Switches, a VR station, and a variety of HyperX peripherals, there’s something for everyone.
The lounge, inspired by a futuristic environment with simple and geometric elements, offers a selection of gaming for Everyone, Teen 13+ and Mature 17+. Game offerings and titles are subject to change as titles are always evolving with the latest trends, but you can rest assured that you will find titles such as these:
– Call of Duty Vanguard – League of Legends
– Overwatch – Dota 2
– Minecraft – Warzone
– Among Us – Fortnite
– Fall Guys – FIFA 22
– Rainbow Six Siege – Madden NFL 22
– Rocket League – Mario Kart 8
– Valorent – Pokemon
– Hearthstone – And More!
– Apex Legends
Whether you have a grumpy teenager who needs a little alone time or you want to spend some time together in their world, you will love this new gaming lounge at Hard Rock Riviera Maya! Contact me today to book your next stay!
One of my clients recently returned from the incredible Royalton Mystique Blue on Isla Holbox (pronounced HOLE·bosh). Known for its beautiful sunsets and calm blue water, Isla Holbox is about a 2.5 hour drive from the Cancun airport by car plus a 30-minute ferry, or even faster via a quick chartered flight. There are no cars on this beautiful and low-key island, so you get around by foot, bike, or golf cart taxi.
Isla Holbox has a moratorium on development, so instead of big all-inclusive hotels, you will find lots of smaller boutique hotels. There are tons of great restaurants, from inexpensive and delicious taco stands to modern Mexican small plates, to fresh smoothies and vegan options. The island specialty is lobster pizza, which is made with pesto sauce. My client even took a Mexican cooking class and learned to make ceviche, shrimp tacos, and more.
Check out some of my client’s amazing photos! Contact me for more information and to book your trip to Isla Holbox!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_1965.jpeg20491536Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2021-07-05 09:00:002022-08-11 21:35:28Visiting Royalton Mystique Blue in Holbox, Mexico
)
