Expert Family Travel

Why you should use a travel agent to book Sandals Resorts

I was recently marveling — to myself — at how much variation there is among the Sandals and Beaches Resorts, located in the Caribbean.  I can count 8 of the Sandals/Beaches Resorts I’ve personally stayed at or inspected, and I can certainly remember each one distinctly. Each one also has its own uniqueness…the energy level, the menus (though I never[…]

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Irene damage results in resort closures

Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort, located in Nassau Bahamas will reopen Sep 28.  This is an adults only, couples only luxury resort with its own private island. Breezes Bahamas Resort, located in Nassau Bahamas will reopen Nov 1.  This is an adults only moderate all-inclusive resort that is ideal for singles traveling together or a couple looking for an economical, all-inclusive[…]

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The Christmas Conundrum

I get this question a lot… Q: How much should I expect to pay for a vacation over the Christmas break? A: Christmas holiday period is considered prime/peak season.  In other words, you are paying top dollar to travel during this very special travel period.  The most popular is generally 26DEC until 02JAN, though the “end date” depends on what[…]

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Divers Rejoice: Rangiroa Hotel Kia Ora set to reopen Sep 2011

An atoll island in French Polynesia, Rangiroa is best known for its amazing lagoon and drift diving.  However, the last year Rangiroa has been without any decent accommodations, since the Hotel Kia Ora closed for a complete rennovation. But yay, good news!  The Hotel Kia Ora is scheduled to open on time — September 2011.  Bungalows and public buildings were[…]

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Bora Bora Pearl Resort, Tahiti

Bora Bora Pearl Resort sits on a motu island facing the picturesque island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. This gem of a resort is characteristically Polynesian in style and offers bungalows over the water, along the beach, and among the gardens. The bungalows are thatch-roofed, spacious, and feature woodwork and touches unique to the Tahitian culture. Don’t worry, you won’t be roughing[…]

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Couples Sans Souci, Ocho Rios Jamaica

Looking for a romantic getaway or a second honeymoon?  Couples Sans Souci Resort in Ocho Rios Jamaica might be the answer for you.  This adults only, couples only all-inclusive luxury resort has been under Couples Resort management for the last few years, and continues to excel as a leading spa resort in the Caribbean. I love this place. There’s enough of[…]

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Top Five Resorts in Maui (Hawaii)

Swaying palm trees, glorious beaches, Polynesian ambiance:  this is Maui the “Magic Isle.”  You will quickly fall in love with this tropical island for its natural beauty and charm. Watch humpback whales in the winter.  Snorkel molokini year-round.  Enjoy the sunrise atop the Haleakala Crater.  And in the evening partake in a luau.  Maui is excellent for families as well as couples. Here[…]

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Getting to know Fiji

Perhaps you’re looking for a unique once-in-a-lifetime romantic trip. Or maybe you’ve already experienced Caribbean and Hawaii, and you want to try a new destination. The beautiful islands of Fiji are unspoiled and genuinely friendly. Fiji is a 10 hour flight from LAX airport, and is a great destination on its own, or can combine easily with longer itineraries to[…]

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Cook Islands: Polynesian Escape

If you are wanting a laid back, ldyllic tropical vacation where the beaches are untouched, the locals super-friendly, and the water crystal clean, the Cook Islands might be for you.  This is a good choice for folks looking to truly get away, and for those who have already visited Tahiti or Hawaii and want more of that Polynesian experience. Of[…]

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Puerto Rico/South: Resort picks

Puerto Rico lends itself to a multi-destination itinerary with a rental car.  Start your stay in San Juan or the beachy Northeastern area, then drive southwest towards Ponce for a few days’ stay there. There are two resorts I recommend in South Puerto Rico, both of which are four star upscale and beachfront. Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort (253[…]

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