(UPDATE - We also stayed at this property in March 2009, and it was fantastic.  I can help with any questions on the property)

A great pick for this winter!

We were in Punta Cana earlier this month, and yes, the hotel we stayed at was fantastic.  I also toured a number of other resorts and for the most part I saw what I expected to see - some great properties on a breathtaking beach… something for everyone. 

One resort in particular, though, just blew me away with it’s feel, the look and layout, and the amenities offered!   It is actually two resorts, but for business purposes only… in effect, it’s one property, and all of the amenities are shared.  

What resort am I referring to?  

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Carnival is the King of Cruising

Recently I had the opportunity to enjoy a dinner that was hosted by Carnival Cruise Lines.  The keynote speaker was Jeffrey Weinstock, their VP of International Sales and Marketing.   He had plenty of data on cruising, and also shared some fascinating insights.

The cruise industry is actually very young,  and really got going in 1980 (right around the time the ”Love Boat” television show became popular - coincidence?).  100 Million people have cruised since then, but 40% of them have been in the last 5 years!  This is a testament to the growth in cruising, the fastest growing segment of the travel industry.  A third of those guests sailed on Carnival, the most popular cruise line in the world.

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WHERE ARE WE?

A man and his wife were driving their Recreational Vehicle across the country and were nearing a town spelled Kissimmee. They noted the strange spelling and tried to figure how to pronounce it - KISS-a-mmee; kiss-IM-mee; kiss-i-MMEE. They grew more perplexed as they drove into the town.

Since they were hungry, they pulled into a place to get something to eat. At the counter, the man said to the waitress:

“My wife and I can’t seem to be able to figure out how to pronounce this place. Will you tell me where we are and say it very slowly so that I can understand.”

The waitress looked at him and said: “Buuurrrgerrr Kiiiinnnng”.

Westjet drops Fuel Surcharges

In response to dropping fuel costs, WestJet has done the unthinkable and removed the the recently added fuel surcharges.  Now, that’s refreshing!  While the major US legacy carriers continue to add on fees and remove service while wallowing in self pity, our very own (not so) ’little Canadian airline that could’ does the right thing and continues to win more fans and stay profitable while doing it.  Nice.

Why else should we love WestJet?

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Tour operators are working hard at building up their future bookings right now, and are offering deep discounts to make it happen!  Here is just a sampling:

Sunwing is offering 10,000 VACATIONS starting at $495 plus tax (book by Sept 26)

Transat and Nolitours are offering NO FUEL SURCHARGE for your booking, a savings of up to $300 per couple (offer can end at any time). 

Sunquest is also offering a similar NO FUEL SURCHARGE promo, as well as their FALL VACATION SALE  (book by Sept 30).

These promos will or have expired, but just contact me for info on the latest promo and for help with deciding when the best time is to book YOUR getaway!  There are some GREAT prices out there for fall, and now is the time to book for Christmas and New Year’s trips as well.

Remember,  I offer service, information and advice, at internet rates.  I will also match any rate that you find for all inclusive vacations.

Going through security at the airport can be a dignity stripping experience. Here are some pointers to make it faster, and easier:

1. Pack your laptop so you can easily remove it and send it through the X-ray machine. Don’t forget to label it, they are one of the most frequently forgotten items at screening checkpoints.
2. Store all undeveloped film and cameras containing film in a carry on bag. Ask for a hand inspection if you want to ensure that your film is not damaged by the X-ray machine. (more…)

It`s been a great week so far at the beautiful RIU Palace Macao in Punta Cana!  Lisa, Keo, and I are enjoying the fabulous beaches and pools, the great food and service, and having lots of fun in the sun.  We can`t wait to come back soon!  I have also toured 15 resorts this week and have learned many things that will help my customers.

Just some of the things I have learned this week:

• The beaches in Punta Cana are at least as beautiful as the pictures, and maybe more!
• Hurricane season in the Caribbean can be a great time to visit.  Pricing is amazing, and there is still a lot of sun.  Yes, it is a risk, but the pricing may just make it a worthwhile one.
• If you are bored of the buffet after a week, you probably aren`t doing it right… you don`t have to eat EVERYTHING at each meal!

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Maui is an irresistable tropical paradise that has repeatedly been voted “Best island in the World”.   The island can be invigoratingly rugged, or outrageously luxurious.

Where will you stay?  I’ve got just the place!  A 3 bedroom 1450 sq ft condo right on the ocean.  It’s been completely updated, and it’s owned by a good friend of mine so I know it’s well taken care of. HERE is the listing, but contact me to book as I can get it for you at a lower price than is listed!  (more…)

Royal Caribbean builds INCREDIBLE, and you can start booking it on September 3!

The Oasis of the Seas won’t be ready until late 2009, but the anticipation is already at a fever pitch!   RCI’s newest Mega Ship will hold 5400 guests and reach 16 decks high, but the true marvel of this ship is it’s unique take on the passenger experience.  The Oasis of the Seas features 7 unique ‘neighbourhoods’, and 5 of them have been unveiled so far:

1. 1. Central Park - the ship’s town square is as long as a football field and features lush tropical gardens, various dining options including el fresco, and Rising Tide Bar, the first LEVITATING BAR at sea!

2. Royal Promenade - the heart of the ship, with dining, shops, a mezzanine level, and a bridge.

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