<![CDATA[Vacation Hot Spots, LLC

<![CDATA[Vacation Hot Spots, LLC - Blog]]>Sun, 15 Mar 2026 01:24:31 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Passport Processing]]>Wed, 06 Dec 2023 16:26:07 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/passport-processing

Important Updates from the DOS
Monday, November 6, 2023 (release date)

The Department of State is committed to providing the best possible service for our passport customers.
We encourage all Americans to:

check their passport expiration date before making plans for international travel, and
renew their passport well in advance of international travel.

Current Processing Times: Processing times have changed several times in 2023. As of November 6, we are processing routine applications in 7-10 weeks, and expedited applications in 3-5 weeks. Processing times begin when we receive your application at a passport agency or center, and do not include mailing times. It may take up to 2 weeks for us to receive your application after you mail it to us, and up to 2 weeks for you to receive your completed passport after we mail it to you.

]]><![CDATA[How to Prevent Blood Clots When Traveling]]>Wed, 06 Dec 2023 16:13:27 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/how-to-prevent-blood-clots-when-traveling

When traveling to a distant destination, whether it be by plane, car, bus, or train, sitting for prolonged periods in cramped spaces is pretty much a given. And while you may have considered what snacks to pack and what movies to load on your phone, you may not have given much thought to an important health consideration: how to prevent blood clots when traveling.

Why do flights cause blood clots?According to the American Society of Hematology, sitting immobile in a confined space with little leg room during long flights and other lengthy travel can cause blood clots to develop in the large, deep veins (those below the surface that are not visible through the skin), a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The risk of clot formation increases on long trips largely due to reduced leg movement. This limited activity lessens muscle contractions in the legs, which are essential for maintaining good blood circulation. As a result, slower blood flow occurs, heightening the risk of clots developing.
And on planes, in particular, changes in air pressure and reduced oxygen levels in the cabin can also contribute to an increased risk of clots. The longer the flight (or other mode of travel), the higher the risk for developing a clot, with flights of 8 to 10 hours or longer posing the highest risk.

Many times a blood clot will dissolve on its own, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, in some cases, a part of the clot can break off and travel to the lungs causing a blockage. Known as a pulmonary embolism (PE), this situation can be fatal — according to the CDC, an estimated 60,000 to 100,000 Americans die each year from DVT/PE.

Who is at risk of DVT?A variety of factors can put a person at increased risk for developing DVT. In addition to sitting for prolonged periods of time without getting up and walking around, according to the CDC and American Society of Hematology, these factors include:

Having had a previous blood clot
A family history of blood clots
A known clotting disorder
Recent surgery, hospitalization, or injury
Use of estrogen-containing birth control or hormone-replacement therapy
Current or recent pregnancy
Older age (the risk is increased for people over 60)
Obesity
Cancer or cancer treatments such as chemotherapy
Serious medical conditions such as congestive heart failure (CHF) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Smoking
Trauma
Chronic inflammatory diseases
Diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Prior central line placement

Symptoms of DVTSometimes there aren’t any noticeable symptoms of DVT, according to the Mayo Clinic. When symptoms are present, they may include:

Leg swelling
Pain or discomfort in the leg, frequently beginning in the calf area
Altered skin color on the affected leg, which may appear red or purple
Sensation of warmth in the leg that is impacted

According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include:

Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Cough with blood
Lightheadedness
Fainting

Seek medical attention right away if you develop any of the symptoms of DVT or a pulmonary embolism.

Pre-travel preparationsFortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing blood clots during long-distance travel.
Be sure to make an appointment with your healthcare provider to take place at least a month before your trip. In addition to keeping you up to date on any vaccines that may be recommended for your destination, they can go over any special precautions you may need to take to help avoid blood clots on your travels. Let your doctor know if you think you may be at increased risk of clots.
Before and during your flight (or other method of transportation), it is important to stay hydrated by consuming adequate fluids. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, this is about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids each day for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids each day for women from both food and beverages. Before and during travel, avoid alcohol and caffeine (both of which can contribute to dehydration), notes the Willis-Knighton Health System, as well as salty snacks. Also avoid sleeping pills or other tranquilizers, which could discourage you from moving. Additionally, make sure you take any medications you should be taking, such as any blood thinner you may have been prescribed if you are at high risk for clots.

In-flight strategies to prevent blood clotsOnce you’re in the air (or on the road or rails), there are a variety of strategies you can use to help keep your blood pumping and reduce your risk of DVT.
First off, according to RWJBarnabas Health, you should wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes. In consultation with your doctor, you may also want to consider using graduated compression stockings, which apply pressure to the lower legs, helping to reduce swelling and maintain blood flow.
Make a point to get some movement by walking around every two to three hours and changing position in your seat. Whenever possible, choose an aisle seat so that you can easily get up and move around. If you’re traveling by car, experts recommend stopping for at least 15 minutes roughly every two hours.
While you’re seated, exercise your calf muscles by stretching your legs and doing seated leg exercises. The CDC recommends the following:

Raise and lower your heels while keeping your toes on the floor.
Raise and lower your toes while keeping your heels on the floor.
Tighten and release your leg muscles.

Also, store your luggage overhead so that you have the maximum amount of legroom possible, and do not sit with your legs crossed.

Post-travel careOnce you’re at your destination, it’s important to continue monitoring for symptoms of DVT and pulmonary embolism for about a week or two and to call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you are showing any signs of either condition.

Miles high, risk lowWhile traveling, and especially on long flights, it’s essential to be mindful of your health and take proactive steps to prevent blood clots. DVT may not always be at the forefront of our minds when planning a trip, but it’s a serious condition that can be mitigated with simple, thoughtful actions. Remember, the key to a successful and enjoyable journey lies not just in the destination but also in ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

About the author: Diane Fennell, a New York City-based editor and writer, served as the Editorial Director of the Wellness Division for Diabetes Self-Management and its sister publications, covering diabetes and related health conditions for more than 20 years. A graduate of Columbia University, she is a proud pharophile and enjoys traveling to visit lighthouses in her spare time.

]]><![CDATA[6 Best Tropical Honeymoon Destinations]]>Mon, 24 Oct 2022 21:13:21 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/6-best-tropical-honeymoon-destinationsHoneymoons are a must. Dreaming of a romantic honeymoon but not sure where to go?
There are plenty of options out there. Maybe you are currently in the midst of planning yours right now, if so you’re going to want to check out my latest article on these 6 honeymoon locations that are ideal for a romantic and memorable honeymoon.

St. Lucia

Known as the Hawaii of the Caribbean, St. Lucia is the emerald of the Caribbean isles! Lush green tropical rainforests, waterfalls, active volcanoes, Sulphur springs, and beautiful beaches, St. Lucia really does have it all!

What To Do in St. Lucia?

If you are going to have your honeymoon in St. Lucia, it’s a must to do at least 1 excursion to see the magnificent beauty of this Island. From hiking the famous Pitons and rain forest, ziplining adventures, soaking in a volcanic Sulphur spring, or actually visiting the active volcano, the memories you will make are endless!

Plenty of Bucket list Resorts For Your Honeymoon

St. Lucia hosts a variety of amazing resorts, from 5 Star Luxury to All-inclusive elegance. You will not have a problem finding a resort that will blow you away for a luxurious, romantic, and pampering honeymoon.

Pros: Bucket List sights and views, over-the-top romantic resorts, so many incredible excursions to do together.
Cons: Longer travel times due to the distance from the U.S. More expensive than other popular honeymoon locations.

Antigua:

If you and your honey are beach lovers, then there is no better place than Antigua. Antigua is famous for its 365 pristine white sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, historical Dickenson Bay, bustling shopping, and once-in-a-lifetime resort options.

Where to Stay For Your Honeymoon in Antigua

Antigua has some opulent and stunning resort options that will give you the perfect blend of romance, pampering, fun, and luxury to make your honeymoon dreams a reality. You will have your choice of ultra-all-inclusive resorts, to glorious beachfront villas.

What to do on Your Honeymoon in Antigua

Of course do what honeymooners do.. LOL, but also many of Antigua’s resorts offer many included water and beach sports, but if not, or if you are looking to explore Antigua, you can easily do some incredible excursions such as… visiting historic forts, shopping at local markets, hiking with phenomenal views, zipline on a canopy tour, sail on a catamaran cruise, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and incredible scuba dives!

Pros: Amazing beaches, incredible romantic resorts, historic sights, and incredible views.

Cons: Not always the best airfare schedule, more expensive than other honeymoon destinations.

Riviera Maya Mexico

Located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, along the Caribbean sea, Cancun & Riviera Maya is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Mexico, offering miles of white sandy beaches, a seemingly endless number of local sites to see and explore, and a plethora of activities for you and your wedding guests to see and do!
Cancun includes the famous "hotel zone" where some of the most famous resorts in Mexico reside, on powder white sand beaches contrasting turquoise blue water!

Where to stay for your honeymoon in the Riviera Maya?

The Riviera Maya is about 30 minutes and beyond south of Cancun and the resorts here are more spacious and spread out from each other. The beaches are a little more natural here, due to protections set up by the government to protect the natural coral and beach areas. The resorts here in the Riviera Maya have a more charming, romantic, & authentic cultural vibe. You can find 5-star luxury both in all-inclusive and EP (European Plan), as well as something just under and ALL will give you a dream honeymoon experience.

Must-Do For Your Honeymoon:

One of the best things about this part of Mexico, is that there are literally endless excursions and activities you and your wedding guests can do from swimming in an authentic Cenote, checking out Mayan ruins, spending the day shopping in historic Playa del carmen, or enjoying Xel Ha's authentic eco water park. The most difficult part will be choosing what activities you want to do from the list available
Pro: Dollar for dollar Mexico offers the BEST value in resort quality and service in the entire travel industry. There is also so much to see and do, you will NEVER get bored.
Cons: Can take longer to figure out which resort is best for your honeymoon, due to the sheer number of resorts in the area. Mexico tends to get a bad rap for possible things that could go wrong that usually never happens.

Mexico: Los Cabos

Located in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Cortez, pristine beaches, beautiful palm trees, and incredible desert landscapes, Los Cabos represents some of the best Mexico has to offer and brings a blend of up-level luxury mixed with authentic Mexican culture for the ultimate honeymoon getaway.

Where to Stay For Your Honeymoon in Los Cabos?

Do you want a poolside or beach cabana? How about a luxurious & romantic suite that includes a private terrace with an ocean view? Imagine having a private oceanside dinner for two while a mariachi band plays and the ocean waves gently wash up on the shore, or how about floating mixologists who deliver their latest inspiration & fruit skewers to you while you enjoy your three-tiered infinity pool? You can find this and more at some of the divine resorts Los Cabos has to offer.

Things to do Together on Your Honeymoon in Los Cabos

The beauty of Los Cabos is that you can just relax and enjoy a couples massage at the spa, hang out by the pool and get catered to all day long, or you can jump off of the resort and try jet skiing, scuba diving, parasailing, horseback riding, snorkeling, bungee-jumping, and even go for a camel ride or ATV tour. There is no shortage of memories you and your new spouse will make together.

Pros: If you live on the west coast of the U.S, there is no simpler honeymoon destination than Los Cabos! Some incredible resort options, and some of the best wine and cuisine you can find in all of Mexico.

Cons: Rougher water unless you are on Medano Beach. Not all resorts offer a swimmable beach.

Bora Bora

Bora Bora is considered the Jewel of the Islands that make up Tahiti & French Polynesia.
The minute you arrive and see the turquoise waters, lush tropical green peaks and surrounding Motus, sugar-white sand beaches and coconut trees, and most importantly, overwater bungalows!!!... It is truly love at first sight!

Where to stay on your honeymoon?

Tahiti and Bora Bora is known as the birthplace of overwater bungalows. So if you are going to travel this far and invest this much into your honeymoon you can’t stay anywhere else except in an overwater bungalow that is some of the world’s best! Some of these overwater suites include their own infinity plunge pools, 24-hour room service, even glass-bottom floors to spot the colorful tropical fish swimming below. If an over the water experience isn’t quite your style, then there are also some unbelievable beach villas you can stay at as well.

What to do on your honeymoon in Bora Bora:

When in your in an overwater bungalow with the one that you love, you’re probably not going to worry about doing much, but on the off chance you would like to get out and explore, which I always advise you to do, you will have an abundance of excursions available to you such as… Full day lagoon tour, ATV-quad tours, Jet skiing, snorkel cruise, catamaran sunset sail, and even swimming with sharks & stingrays!

Pros: Bucket list honeymoon experiences! Incredible resorts and overwater bungalows, first-class luxury, and pampering.

Cons: Very long travel times, should stay for at least 10 days if you decide to honeymoon in Bora Bora. Pricey. But totally worth it!

Costa Rica:

Costa Rica has the perfect blend of beauty, nature, & romance! You’ll fall in love with the beautiful beaches, endless mountains, lush rainforests, waterfalls, nature reserves, giant trees with monkey sighting tours, and vibrant culture. Costa Rica has so much to offer for you to have an amazing honeymoon. The vibe is low-key and relaxed, but you can also find plenty of upscale luxury resorts and plenty of excursions & activities to do.

What to do in Costa Rica:

Costa Rica has a perfect blend of ocean-side resorts and hidden jungle hideaways that are perfect for luxury, romance, and pampering. Depending on your style, you can choose from a 5 star all-inclusive or EP (European plan) to a rustic cottage Inn. You won’t have any trouble finding the perfect resort for what you are looking for.

PROS: Unbelievable sights & nature excursions, great beaches,

CONS: Longer travel times due to distance, a little more expensive than other popular honeymoon locations, most resorts will have natural wildlife that visits the properties as it is illegal in Costa Rica to kill wild animals.

We hope you found our list of honeymoon locations helpful. Remember, this is only a shortlist and it only includes a few of the best honeymoon locations out there. But each of these will provide you with great memories and cause you to look back on your honeymoon fondly for years to come. If you are still undecided or need more information, click HERE to schedule a free 30 Minute Consultation with me today!

]]><![CDATA[How Much Does It Actually Cost To Go On A Luxury Honeymoon?]]>Mon, 24 Oct 2022 19:52:36 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/how-much-does-it-actually-cost-to-go-on-a-luxury-honeymoon

Most couples only have a general idea of how much their wedding will cost, and don't have a clue about the honeymoon cost. For example, you might know your reception cost $10k-15k but you have no idea what it would take to go on a honeymoon. If you’re curious to know what to expect for an average luxury honeymoon, then read on, because these five elements work together to determine your honeymoon costs. ENJOY!

1. YOUR HONEYMOON DESTINATION:

A romantic & luxurious honeymoon starts with a great location! Maybe you choose locations that are closer to the continental U.S, such as Mexico & the Caribbean, or you may be looking for a more exotic honeymoon local, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Bora Bora, or even Europe. Usually, the more exotic and less populated a honeymoon destination is, the more expensive it can be.
NOTE: if you are still trying to decide on your honeymoon locale, check out our blog - 6 Best Tropical Honeymoon Destinations.

Average Airfare Prices:

Obviously, airfare can take up a chunk of your honeymoon budget. Also generally speaking if you are flying to a tropical island during “high season” (Dec-April), Flights are going to be more expensive than low Season, (May- Nov).
With that being said, here are some current averages based on May 2023 honeymoon travel:

Depart From Midwest or East coast to the Caribbean or Mexico: $450-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From Midwest or East coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From Midwest or East coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Departing From West Coast to the Caribbean or Mexico: $500-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From West Coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From West Coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.

PRO TIP: There will always be fluctuations in price based on the time of year and even the day of the week. If you find an unbelievable air deal, double-check the type of seat it is and the air schedule. Many really cheap tickets have incredibly harsh restrictions as well as horrible air itineraries that could get you to your resort so late at night that you miss all of your first day at your resort, therefore ultimately wasting money and delaying the start of your honeymoon bliss!

2. HONEYMOON RESORT CHOICE:

The resort you choose for your honeymoon will take up the majority of your honeymoon costs.
Every resort offers different honeymoon amenities, room options, restaurants, activities as well as food and beverage plans. AI (All-inclusive) resorts include all of your food and beverages with your package price. EP (European Plan) resorts offer an ala carte menu where you pay for each meal or beverage just as you would going out to dinner or bar stateside.
You definitely need to take your time looking through all the available options so that you can make sure you get the best resort for your unique honeymoon wishes and wants.

3. THE HONEYMOON ROOM YOU CHOOSE:

Remember that the room or suite you choose will impact the overall cost for your honeymoon stay. For example, you could love resort (A) with a base price of $3700 that includes a “standard room.” But you choose a swim-up suite for your room option. The price for your honeymoon package at the resort (A) will now be $5,550, because of the room you choose.

PRO TIP: Never go with a standard room for your honeymoon! Start Deluxe and go up as you can afford it because it will make a difference in your honeymoon experience. I know I say it a lot in my articles, but it is TRUE! This is your honeymoon, not just another trip or vacation! If you can bring some WOW to your honeymoon, do it!

Below is an average cost you can expect to pay for different luxury honeymoon resort stays for 7 nights based on current rates: Because I won’t send anyone to a resort that is average or below quality, you can assume that all of these prices are going to be 4 stars and higher in quality.

Luxury Resort: Adult Only AVERAGE RATES based on 7-night stay:

                       Deluxe Room: $4,500-$5,500
                       Suite: $6.000-$8,000
                       Butler: $8,000-$11,000
                       Highest Room Category:
                       Think over the water bungalows or Four Seasons
                       type quality & experience: $16,000-$25,000

If you are looking for some honeymoon resort inspiration, check out the 6 Top Honeymoon Resorts now!

4. THE HONEYMOON PACKAGE & AMENITIES YOU CHOOSE:

Most high-quality resorts will have some type of honeymoon package that will be included in your stay, such as a special honeymoon welcome package, candlelight dinner, breakfast in bed, couple’s massage, etc.

NOTE: Most of these honeymoon packages have requirements to receive additional amenities, such as a minimum night stay, or that you indicate it is for your honeymoon when you book your resort, so make sure you read the fine print.
Check out this post on the 4-Amazing Honeymoon Packages For Romantic and Stress-free Experience.

5. ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS:

Most of your honeymoon is going to be all about relaxing, romancing, and getting pampered at the resort you are staying at. But depending on you and your new spouse’s personality, you may want to get off the resort and explore a little. Maybe doing an ATV tour, visiting a waterfall, bathing in hot mud baths, shopping in a local village, zip lining, rum tasting, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, etc. You get the idea!

NOTE: There are MANY tour companies out there, but only so many reputable companies. Usually the lower the price the more sketchy the company. Only go with companies that are licensed and insured, and have great testimonies. One of our industry partner is well known in the Caribbean and Mexico. They have licensed and insured tours that you can trust. They aren’t the cheapest, but they are one of the best!

For a good quality tour, you can expect to pay around $120 per person and up, depending on the type of tour, and all the different activities that are included.

ULTIMATELY IT IS UP TO YOU!

Your Honeymoon can be whatever you and your new spouse want it to be. If you plan ahead and are smart about where to splurge on your honeymoon, you can have a WOW-type honeymoon without killing your budget. The most important thing is that you have a relaxing, pampering & fun honeymoon that will start your marriage off with incredible memories.

If you’ve been struggling or frustrated trying to get this honeymoon thing all figured out, and you’re ready for a little help, schedule a free honeymoon consultation with me today, so that you can get unstuck and get your “dream honeymoon” booked!

]]><![CDATA[How Much Does A Destination Wedding Really Cost?]]>Mon, 24 Oct 2022 17:47:00 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/how-much-does-a-destination-wedding-really-costYou’re excited about the idea of having a destination wedding, and you have been putting in hours trying to figure out what everything is going to cost. Your eyes are hurting from the amount of scrolling you’ve had to do searching out prices for resort wedding locations & venues. And you’ve read enough mixed reviews for every resort venue you are interested in to make your head spin. You need to have a well-rounded breakdown of how much your destination wedding will actually cost you! Knowing this can save you a ton of wasted time looking at the wrong locations & venues that may or may not fit your budget. Here’s a breakdown to help you know what you can expect to pay for a typical destination wedding.

YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING LOCALE:

An Instagram-worthy destination wedding starts with a great location! Maybe you choose locations that are closer to the continental U.S, such as Mexico & the Caribbean, or you may be looking for a more exotic destination wedding locale, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Bora Bora, or even Europe. Usually, the farther away & more exotic a destination is, the more expensive it can be.

AIRFARE PRICES:

Obviously, airfare can take up a chunk of your guest's budget but only a small portion of your overall destination wedding budget. And if you’re flying during “high season” (Dec-April), Flights are going to be more expensive than low season, (May- Nov).

With that being said, here are some current averages based on May 2023 travel:

Depart From Midwest or East coast to Caribbean or Mexico: $450-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From Midwest or East coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From Midwest or East coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Departing From West Coast to the Caribbean or Mexico: $500-$1000 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From West Coast to Hawaii: $600-$1600 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.
Depart From West Coast to the South Pacific: $2000-$2500 per person, round trip, depending on flight itinerary & destination.

PRO TIP: There will always be fluctuations in price based on the time of year and even the day of the week. If you find an unbelievable air deal, double check the type of seat it is and the air schedule. Many really cheap tickets have incredibly harsh restrictions as well as horrible air itineraries that could get you to your resort so late that you miss all of your first day at your resort, therefore ultimately wasting money and delaying the start of your “wedcation” bliss!

2. DESTINATION WEDDING RESORT VENUE:

Every resort offers different wedding locations, amenities, room options, restaurants, activities, as well as food and beverage plans. AI (All-inclusive) resorts include all of your food and beverages with your package price. EP (European Plan) resorts offer an ala carte menu where you pay for each meal or beverage just as you would going out to dinner or bar stateside. In general, an All-Inclusive resort will usually offer you a better value for your wedding group,
You definitely need to take your time looking through all the available options so that you can make sure to book the best resort wedding venue for you and your unique wedding vision.

YOUR ROOM OR SUITE:

The room or suite you choose will impact the overall cost for you & your guest's destination wedding stay. For example, you could love resort (A) with a base price of $1500 for 4 nights that includes a “standard room.” But if you choose a swim-up suite for your room option. The price for your resort stay at resort (A) will now be $2,000 for 4 nights because of the upgraded room option.

Below is an average cost you & your guests can expect to pay for different types of room stays for 4 nights based on current rates:

NOTE: Most destination wedding guests will stay 3 to 7 nights for a destination wedding, with the average being 4 days. It will really depend on how much each guest wants to spend on their stay.

Because I won’t send anyone to a resort that is average or below quality, you can assume that all of these prices are going to be 4 stars and higher in quality.
Luxury Resort: Adult Only AVERAGE RATES based on 4-night stay:
Deluxe Room: $1,500-$3,500
Suite: $4.000-$8,000
Butler: $8,000-$11,000
Highest Room Category:
Think over the water bungalows or 4 Seasons
type quality & experience: $16,000-$25,000

GOOD NEWS FOR YOU:

The good news is, that many resort wedding venues will offer you free nights and room upgrades depending on the size of your wedding group! In many cases, you can get either part or ALL of your stay and even possibly parts of your wedding comped because you’ve earned so many free nights and extras from your wedding group.

If you are looking for some destination wedding resort inspiration, check out our blog post entitled "5 Fantastic Resorts For a Dream Destination Wedding" now!

3. THE WEDDING PACKAGE & DECOR YOU CHOOSE:

Most high-quality destination wedding resorts will have stunning wedding packages that will include your ceremony location, music, lighting, cocktail party, decor, wedding cake, reception location, entertainment, food & cocktail menu, and an open bar.

NOTE: You have to make sure that your wedding group is going to be set up correctly in order to earn the wedding amenities and free nights. Booking directly with the resorts will not always get you this information, as most resorts don’t seem concerned with letting you know what you can earn. Booking with a destination wedding specialist will guarantee that your wedding group is set up properly to earn everything you qualify for.

Click to go to our blog post on 7 AMAZING Locations for your Dream Destination Wedding.

4. ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS FOR YOUR GROUP:

A great way to connect with all of your wedding guests and to give them a memorable experience during your wedding week is to do a group activity. Depending on your location, you can do an ATV tour, visit a waterfall, bathe in hot mud baths, shopping in a local village, zip lining, golf, rum tasting, scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming with the dolphins, etc. You get the idea! Due to the size of a wedding group, I recommend you book your group activity in advance

NOTE: There are MANY tour companies out there. Usually the lower the price the more sketch the company. Only go with companies that are licensed and insured, and have great testimonies. We are partnered with one of the best names in the industry for tours. They have licensed and insured tours that you can trust. They aren’t the cheapest, but they are one of the best!

For a good quality tour, you can expect to pay around $120+ per person, depending on the type of tour, and activities that are included. Contact us for options for your group excursions and tours.

ULTIMATELY IT IS UP TO YOU!

I hope this post has helped you understand some of the costs that come with planning a destination wedding. You’ll also want to check out these smart ways to splurge on your destination wedding while also staying on budget, here.

If you’ve been struggling or frustrated trying to get your destination wedding all figured out, and you’re ready for a little help, click here to schedule a free destination wedding consultation with me today so that you can get unstuck and moving forward on with your destination wedding planning!

]]><![CDATA[7 Amazing Locations For Your Dream Destination Wedding]]>Mon, 03 Oct 2022 22:06:58 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/7-amazing-locations-for-your-dream-destination-wedding
If you picture yourself saying “I do” with the waves crashing behind you, a remote, exotic beach might be the perfect spot. We’ve rounded up our top destination wedding locations that allow you to tie the knot in unique and unforgettable locales: Check out our list of the most beautiful destinations in the world to get married.

Turks & Caicos

If you’re looking for the quintessential destination wedding in paradise with both exotic white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, look no further than Turks & Caicos.

Your wedding photos will be stunning with a backdrop of dazzling white sand and turquoise blue water that will almost look fake! If you and your guests are beach lovers, Grace Bay beach ranks among the top beaches in the world.

Where to Get Married in Turks & Caicos:

There's a nice variety of fantastic resort wedding venues in Turks & Caicos, especially on Grace Bay in the Providenciales. These resort wedding venues offer amazing wedding packages, luxurious accommodations and great activities for both you and your guests.

What to do With Your Wedding Group:

Activities available for you and your group are world-class diving & snorkeling, Hobie Cats, Aqua Trikes, on the Providenciales, and hiking & horseback riding, and historic sites on Grand Turk.

Pros: Turks & Caicos is also one of the most accessible destinations in the world, making it easy for all of your family & friends to EASILY travel to your wedding!

Cons: More expensive than other locations, most motorized water sports like glass bottom boats, water or jet skiing, are prohibited due to the Marine National Park

Mexico: Riviera Maya/ Cancun

Located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, along the Caribbean sea, Cancun & Riviera Maya is one of the most popular wedding destinations in Mexico, offering miles of white sandy beaches, a seemingly endless number of local sites to see and explore, and a plethora of activities for you and your wedding guests to see and do!

Where to Get Married in Cancun/ Riviera Maya:

Cancun features the famous "hotel zone" where some of the most popular resorts in Mexico reside, on powder white sand beaches contrasting turquoise blue water! There is an abundance of great resort options in Cancun for your wedding. You can choose from ultra-chic & modern, to more laid-back and casual. Cancun has more nightlife, shopping, and powder white sand beaches, but you’ll also face more crowded beaches and resort areas.
The Riviera Maya is about 30 minutes and beyond south of Cancun and resorts here are more spacious and spread out from each other. The beaches are a little more natural here, due to protections set up by law to protect the natural coral and beach areas. The resort venues here in Riviera Maya, are going to give you a less crowded atmosphere and a more authentic natural vibe.

Must-Do With Your Wedding Group:

One of the best things about this part of Mexico, is that there are literally endless excursions and activities you and your wedding guests can do from swimming in an authentic Cenote, checking out Mayan ruins, spending the day shopping in historic Playa del carmen, or enjoying Xel Ha's authentic eco water park.

Pro: Dollar-for-dollar Mexico offers the BEST value compared to any other destination wedding area.

Cons: Having a Legal Wedding in Mexico has a lot of extra hoops you have to jump through. I always recommend doing a symbolic wedding when getting married in Mexico.

Mexico: Los Cabos

Located in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Cortez, beautiful palm trees, and incredible desert landscapes, Los Cabos brings a blend of up-level luxury and endless things to see and do for the ultimate wedding away.
Los Cabos offers something for everyone looking to have a destination wedding. Here you have your choice of stark desert landscapes intermingled with mountains and beautiful coastlines.

What to do with your wedding group:

Do you want a poolside cabana, maybe a beach cabana? How about a private terrace with an ocean view, or an infinity pool that looks like it disappears into the ocean? Well, you can have all of this and more at one of the many fantastic resort properties here in Los Cabos. Luxury is the main focus at many of these resorts which is a win for both you and your guests! These resorts also have some alluring and brilliant wedding packages to give you a dream destination “I Do”.

Pros: If you live on the west coast of the U.S, there is no simpler honeymoon destination than Los Cabos! Some incredible resort options, and some of the best wine and cuisine you can find in all of Mexico.

Cons: Rougher water unless you are on Medano Beach, so you won’t have a swimmable beach at most resorts.

St. Lucia

If you are planning to get married in St. Lucia, it is a must to do some type of excursion with your wedding group to see the magnificent beauty of this Island. From hiking the famous Pitons or the rainforest, ziplining adventures, soaking in a volcanic Sulphur spring, actually visiting the active volcano, or even sharing a round of golf together, the memories you can make with your wedding group are endless!

Where to Get Married in St. Lucia:

You’ll have a wide range of accommodations to meet every budget for your destination wedding. You can go ultra-high-end or beautiful & balanced with many resort wedding venues St. Lucia has to offer. All of these resorts will do a great job for your destination wedding, it just depends on your style and budget.

While I usually recommend doing a symbolic wedding, for most locations, St. Lucia is one of the easier Caribbean locations to get legally married in.

PROS: Bucket list excursions and activities that will make lasting memories for your wedding.

CONS: St. Lucia is in the southern Caribbean, so it is about a 5-6 hour flight from the states. St. Lucia is more expensive than other locations in the Caribbean.

Costa Rica

If you love lush green vistas, mountains, wildlife, beautiful beaches, and an emphasis on eco-protection, then Costa Rica may be the perfect destination for your wedding. Located between the Caribbean sea on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, Costa Rica can offer many different experiences.

Where to get married in Costa Rica?:

Costa Rica is home to many unique and beautiful resort wedding venues. You can host your wedding at a beachfront resort, or at a resort tucked away in a jungle paradise, it really depends on what you and your wedding group are looking for. All of the resort companies in Costa Rica have great wedding packages and accommodations to give you a wedding you’ve always dreamed of.

Must Do’s With Your Group:

Costa Rica is rich in sightseeing and eco-activities: You can see the active volcano, go on a coffee plantation tour, Zipline through the rainforest, hike in the mountains, look for wild monkeys in a biological reserve, or just whistle the Jurassic Park theme song as you slide down a mountain in an open face water slide. The memories you make with your wedding group will be priceless!

Pros: Beautiful, movie-like scenery and activities: Plenty of great resort wedding venues for a magical wedding: Easy to do a symbolic wedding!

Cons: Farther away, longer flight times for you and your guests. More expensive than other Caribbean destinations, and requirements for a legal wedding.

Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the most diverse wedding destinations in the entire world, offering you sun, sea, sand, rivers, and waterfalls. Jamaica has a relaxing and fun vibe that flows throughout the island no matter where you get married.

Something For Everyone in Jamaica:

From the nightlife and party atmosphere of Montego Bay to the more relaxed vibe of Negril’s world-famous 7-mile beach, to the romance and adventures of Ocho Rios, you literally CAN have it ALL in Jamaica!

Where to Get Married in Jamaica?:

When deciding where to get married in Jamaica you’ll want to consider the best fit for you and your wedding guests. For example, if you are more of a lively party type of crowd, and don’t want a long drive to your resort, then Montego Bay is a great location for your wedding as most resorts are within 5 minutes of the airport and there are some beautiful beach locations. Montego Bay is known for its shopping and nightlife as well.

If you are looking for a perfect beach, and a more relaxing vibe, then Negril could be just the spot. And if you like more mountainous terrain near some of Jamaica’s most famous activities, such as Mystic Mountain with the Bobsled ride, and Dunns River Falls, then a resort in the Ocho Rios area may be more to your liking. No matter what area of Jamaica you choose, there will be a resort wedding venue that will give you everything you need for a dream destination “I Do!”

Must Do’s With Your Wedding Group in Jamaica?

I had mentioned above, there is an endless list of cool things to do with your wedding group in Jamaica, including white water rafting, horseback riding, rum tasting, waterfalls, amusement rides, shopping and even visiting the Bob Marley museum. Scheduling one or more of these excursions is sure to create some bonding and memories from attending your wedding.

Pros: Easy to get to, not too far from the states. Very easy to have a legal wedding in Jamaica. Many great resort wedding venues to choose from. Great shopping, restaurants, Jerk chicken…need I say more?

Cons: Jamaica is a large island, so if you are staying in one part of the island, such as in Negril, and you want to do an attraction in Ocho Rios, it could be a long drive to your attraction.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the second-largest and most diverse Caribbean country. Just two hours south of Miami, and less than four hours from New York, this under-the-radar wedding destination offers gorgeous beaches, coral reefs, swaying palm trees, rich history, and culture, spectacular outdoor activities that make it a magical option for your destination wedding!

Where to Get Married in The Dominican Republic:

The Dominican Republic has some of the newest and most sophisticated wedding resort venues in the world. Because the Dominican Republic is a relatively newer player in the tourism industry, compared to Mexico or some of the other more popular tourist locations, new resorts on some of the most amazing beaches and properties are still being built for an amazing experience for both of you and all of your guests! You can relax and know that there is a resort venue in the Dominican Republic that will give you a magical wedding day!

Must-Dos For Your Wedding Group in The Dominican Republic:

The Dominican Republic has a wide variety of activities and excursions that you can do with your wedding group to make amazing memories! Horseback riding, ATV tours, waterfalls, Casinos, catamaran cruises, snorkeling, and ziplining! Doing any of these activities with your wedding group will create lifetime memories!

Pros: Easy for you and your guests to get to. New & contemporary resort wedding venues to host your destination wedding at. Great beaches & views. Your wedding pics will be stunning!

Cons: Limited English with staff and service at certain resorts. Legal weddings are challenging, so symbolic weddings are recommended.

Conclusion:

One of the most important aspects of a destination wedding is choosing the right destination. Each has its own unique offerings, so do your research and consider everything that each destination or resort has to offer.

If you are still in need of help in finding the BEST fit for your destination wedding that includes plenty of stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, rich culture and a chance for adventure for your guests to enjoy; then click HERE to schedule a free 30 Minute Consultation with me today!

]]><![CDATA[You SHOULD be Splurging on These 4 Things for Your Honeymoon]]>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 19:00:28 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/you-should-be-splurging-on-these-4-things-for-your-honeymoon

When planning your honeymoon, there are SO many things to think about: Where to go? What activities? How much to spend on other things like food and excursions? The most important thing is to make sure that you have a memorable time together. These are memories that will last a lifetime and are worth spending a little more on. In this blog post, we’re going to explore EXACTLY what you should splurge on for your honeymoon!

Your Room:

This is your honeymoon, and a regular resort room just isn’t going to do the job! Especially if you’ve been living together already, you will want to invest in a suite or maybe even a villa that is catered to romance and pampering! You will also want to consider maybe a private plunge pool right outside your room, and even an ocean front view, for an extra WOW factor!
PRO TIP: Make sure the suite you choose also comes with 24-hour room service for those nights you just want to stay in and spend some extra cuddle time together.

Food/Drinks:

When you are deciding where to go for your honeymoon, look for plenty of great restaurant & bar choices! Being on a honeymoon is like having a romantic date every night, so you will want to have restaurants that offer great food and drink options, but also a great experience too! Look for restaurants and bars that also offer live entertainment such as piano bars, steel drum bands, or other events that add excitement to the night.

Higher Level of Service:

One of the easiest ways to hit a honeymoon home run is to upgrade your stay to a higher level of service, such as butler service or VIP Club of some sort. These types of upgrades can offer you a special club area that may offer snacks, beverages, & meals that are not available to anyone else. For example, if you are booked for a VIP club experience, you could access a special lounge that has food & drinks anytime you want them, whereas regular guests can only go to the regular restaurants and bars during the hours they are open.
PRO TIP: For maximum WOW having your own butler to wait on your every need, is something ALL couples should experience at some point in their life. Why not on your honeymoon??

An Off Resort Excursion:

There will be no better way to make memories on your honeymoon than doing some type of off-resort excursion with your new spouse. Horseback riding, a sunset cocktail cruise, helicopter tour, wine tasting, visit waterfalls, snorkeling or scuba diving, ATV Buggy Tour, Zip Line, Parasailing, so many great options! Whichever you choose, pick an option that fits both your personalities while still allowing for some new challenges too. Some of the best memories are made by trying something new and discovering how much you loved doing it.

BONUS TIP:

If you can make it work, do your best to book a direct flight from the city you are departing from to your resort locale. It may cost a little more money, but getting to your honeymoon destination as quickly as possible allows you to start enjoying your honeymoon investment as quickly as possible, as opposed to having a flight with several layovers, and possible checking into your resort at 9 pm at night, being exhausted, pretty much losing your first day at the resort.
I hope that this post helps you in deciding what to splurge on for your honeymoon in order to make it as dreamy as possible! Ultimately splurge on what is going to make memories you and your new spouse will treasure together forever!

If you are struggling or feeling frustrated trying to plan the perfect honeymoon, that will give you everything you are looking for, then I would love to talk through your honeymoon struggles with you and see if I can’t help you quickly get unstuck and move forward in your honeymoon planning. Just use this link HERE to schedule your free 30-minute consultation with me today!

]]><![CDATA[4 Things You Should Splurge on at your Destination Wedding]]>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 18:51:06 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/4-things-you-should-splurge-on-at-your-destination-wedding

Are you worried about getting the most out of your destination wedding budget? Are you wondering what aspect of your destination wedding you should splurge on, and which one you should save money on? In this post, I will discuss the most important aspects of your destination wedding that you should splurge on that can make the difference between a good destination wedding, and an AMAZING destination wedding.

Spend More On Your Wedding Decoration:

Yes, most of your guests are going to be with you at your resort for at least two days before the ceremony, so even though they are already having a memorable time with you, you really want your ceremony, cocktail, & dinner decor to stand out!. Your guests are only a few feet away from centerpieces, tableware, flowers, and your other decorations, so you want them to be memorable. Anything that your family and friends can see up close, touch or feel, is worth going the extra mile for.
Spend More On Special Events:

Another area you definitely want to splurge on, is any type of special event you are going to host at the resort venue: Maybe your own special welcome reception, complete with your own unique mixologist or specialty cocktail made exclusively for your wedding group. You may want to have a fire show put on for your group or your own special beach party. You may want to go on a special excursion to a historic sight, play a round of golf at a championship golf course, or do rum or tequila tasting! Whatever is unique to your group. You want it to be quality all the way to ensure that everyone in your group creates memories that will last a lifetime!

Spend More On Entertainment:

You definitely want to splurge on your top entertainment package for your reception. This was the main event that everyone traveled to celebrate, and giving them rocking receptions will culminate your entire destination wedding on a high note! Make sure you can have input on the music list, and either you or your destination wedding designer should vet the DJs by looking at their reviews, and talking to the resort wedding coordinator, to make sure you book the dj you think will do the best job for your reception: Getting a lighted dance floor always adds a flash of fun and color to the mix, as well as having a firework show at the end of the night. The point is you want to send your family and friends home with a high from your wedding they won’t soon forget.

Spend More On Your Wedding Photographer:

When you are getting married in a gorgeous tropical location, with powder white sand, turquoise blue water, and lush green palms, you want the beauty of your special day to come through in your photos. You’ll also want a photographer who is a true professional and knows how to capture those special moments throughout the day that others would miss: These photos represent one of the best days of your life and your photos should display that.

A destination wedding is an amazing time to celebrate your marriage, in a stunning locale, with all of your closest friends and family. When you splurge on the right elements of your destination wedding, it will be an unforgettable experience that you and all of your guests will cherish forever!

If you are getting frustrated or overwhelmed trying to figure out your destination wedding, you don’t have to do this on your own! I would love to talk with you and see where I can help you get everything in place for your wedding so that you can just enjoy the wedding process! Click HERE to schedule a free 30 Minute Consultation with me today!

]]><![CDATA[4 Amazing Honeymoon Packages For Romantic and Stress-Free Experience]]>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 18:31:24 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/4-amazing-honeymoon-packages-for-romantic-and-stress-free-experience

Every couple wants a pampering and romantic honeymoon! I've put together my selection of 4 incredible honeymoon packages you have to see before you book! Whether you want a couples massage, candlelight dinner on the beach, a romantic jacuzzi tub in your suite, or some other activity that appeals to you more.

These top 4 honeymoon packages are just the tip of the iceberg of the variety of packages you can find for your honeymoon. Of course, deciding your honeymoon destination is still the first step in planning your honeymoon, so if you’re still hashing out which destination you should go to for your honeymoon, check out my recent post on Top 6 Honeymoon Destinations.

Best Honeymoon Package 1

(Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($699 Value)
Honeymoon Inclusions:
• Welcome letter
• A bottle of sparkling wine upon your arrival
• Fruit basket and exotic fresh flowers in the suite when you arrive
• Champagne breakfast in bed (one per stay)
• Petit fours with your turndown service each evening
• A private romantic beachfront dinner followed by a bubble bath in the candlelight with essential oils ready for you
• Look Inside Ritual Massage 40 min: A journey into a peaceful dream, starting with a rosemary, eucalyptus, and other blends of essential oils in a releasing scalp, neck, and shoulders massage, followed by a lavender soothing balm to relax in gentle movements your facial muscles
• 15% discount on your photo package, and get 5 complimentary digital pictures from your photo package (does not apply for wedding packages)
To qualify for this complimentary honeymoon package, you will need to stay a minimum of 6 nights in a required room category or higher. The package is only valid if you request it when reserving your stay and you need to travel within 3 months of your wedding date. To purchase this package (if you don’t qualify) is $699 per couple.

Honeymoon Package 2:

Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($750 value)

Honeymoon inclusions:

· The Personal Service of a Romance Concierge
· Private gourmet four-course candlelit dinner on the beach
· Romantically decorated suite with rose petals and aromatherapy
· Breakfast in bed on your day of choice
· Beachfront sky massage 2 X 1 offer
· In-room amenity upon arrival
· 15% discount on spa services
· Floral arrangement in room
· One-Night anniversary return stay voucher
To qualify for this complimentary honeymoon package, you must stay in a qualifying room category or higher for five nights. You will need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate (or wedding invitation with a wedding photo) at check-in. This package can be reserved for up to 90 days after the wedding date for honeymoons and within 30 days before or after your wedding date for anniversaries. The cost to purchase this package if you don’t qualify is $750 per couple.

Best Honeymoon Package 3

(Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($800 Value)

Honeymoon Inclusions:

Specialty petit fours
Two keepsake bathrobes & slippers
Special Honeymoon breakfast in bed with premium sparkling wine
25-minute back massage for two
Late check-out (subject to request and availability)

To qualify for this complimentary pampering honeymoon package, the request for the package must be requested either by you or your honeymoon consultant upon reserving your trip. A 4-night stay or longer is needed and proof of marriage via a marriage certificate will be requested at check-in. Travel must take place within one year of your wedding date and blackout dates of December 23 - January 3 apply.

Best Honeymoon Package 4

Complimentary if you book a qualifying room! ($1,099 value)

Honeymoon inclusions:

Sparkling wine, fresh fruit, and flowers in suite upon arrival
Romantic breakfast in bed with Mimosas one morning (reservation with concierge required)
Tension Release Massage for two (25 minutes)
Choice of European Facial for two or Salt Glow Body Scrub for two
Private beachfront dinner one evening, including a bottle of domestic wine and a meal from the Silver Menu
Private petit fours each evening at turn-down
Free Anniversary Nights (stay a minimum of 5 nights over the first anniversary date and receive 2 additional nights free or stay 4 nights over the first anniversary date and receive 1 additional night free)

To qualify for this romantic honeymoon package, you or your honeymoon consultant will need to request it at the time of booking the reservation and you will need to stay in a required room category or higher for a minimum of 7 nights.

This package isn’t available from Christmas to New Year and is subject to availability. You’ll need to provide a copy of either your wedding invitation or marriage certificate. You must stay within 90 days of your wedding date. The cost to purchase this package if you don’t qualify for it is $1,099.

As you can see, there are some great options these days for the best honeymoon packages. All you have to do is choose the resort that best suits your taste and budget, and pack your bags for a romantic getaway. If you are still trying to decide where you want to go for your honeymoon, then click here to check out my post on the Top 6 Resorts for a Dream Honeymoon!
If you are in the middle of planning your honeymoon and getting nowhere or you’re on information overload, I currently have a few openings this month for a complimentary honeymoon strategy session. Just use this link to schedule now!

]]><![CDATA[These 5 Mistakes Spoil More Honeymoons than You'd Think]]>Thu, 01 Sep 2022 23:00:49 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/these-5-mistakes-spoil-more-honeymoons-than-youd-think

Your honeymoon is a significant event in your life. You want everything to be just right, especially when you're paying thousands of dollars for your resort & flights! In this post, I’m going to talk about five mistakes I see wedding couples make all the time that can absolutely ruin your honeymoon!
Before we get into the mistakes to avoid, allow me to share 2 “pro tips” as you plan your honeymoon.
First, don’t be cheap. This is your honeymoon, not just any old trip, it should be special. If you can’t do it right, postpone it to later in the year.
Second, get travel insurance. These days you just never know, and this is an investment worth protecting. You could opt to get a coverage plan that gives you a voucher for future travel (which is the more economical choice), or a plan that gives you cash back if your reason to cancel is covered under the policy! If you have any questions about insurance, feel free to reach out to me below, and I will get back to you!
Alright, let’s jump into the common mistakes I see couples make when planning their honeymoon.

Mistake #1: Trusting the online reviews.

We’ve all experienced the frustration of looking at reviews that range from 1 star to 5 stars, from “I wouldn’t send my dog to this hotel” to “This was the best vacation ever!”
Reviews are good to look at but don’t allow them to have the final say. People are people. Some people are negative, and they will find one thing wrong and then be on a hunt for something else.
Additionally, when you read the reviews, you’ll often find that the situation was fixed on-site, but the guest was still upset, so they gave a bad review even after the hotel management made it right.
I also believe reviews can vary drastically because of expectations. This leads me to the second common mistake.

Mistake #2. Managing Your Expectations

hat you see online isn’t always what you get. It is so frustrating to see images of perfection on the websites of a resort when you know that the photo is so edited it is nearly fake. But unless you’ve been there personally, you don’t find this out until you get there.
With your expectations crushed, this can sour your mood which can then spiral into a negative experience.
I believe this is what we see often when it comes to negative reviews. If you are expecting one thing based on what you see online and then getting something not even close to it, you’re bound to be upset and not give a good review.
Beyond this, I would suggest expecting that nothing is perfect. Decide in advance that you are going to make your honeymoon experience good, not wait for someone else to make it good for you.

Mistake #3. Not Realizing How Far Your Resort is From The Excursions & Activities You Want to Do

This mistake is an easy one to make. If you have specific activities or sites you want to see on your honeymoon, it is advised to ensure your hotel is not hours away. This can be hard to figure out by looking at a map, especially when it possibly isn’t that far mileage-wise.
If you want to have specific experiences on your honeymoon, take the extra time to research how far away your selected hotel will be before booking it. For example, if your honeymoon resort was in Negril Jamaica, and you were hoping to do the Mystic Mountain Bobsled adventure as well as Dunn's River Falls, you would have at least a two-and-a-half-hour ride there and back again. Along those lines, also make sure that there will be available transportation to and from where you want to go!

Mistake #4. Leaving the day after your wedding

I know it is exciting to think about jet-setting out for your honeymoon right after your wedding, but if you are having a late-night wedding reception, you may want to rethink that idea.

Most flights are super early in the morning, so you literally could have a 3 or 4 am wakeup to get to the airport in time for your 6 am flight.

Not to mention that preparing for your wedding day and packing for your honeymoon will result in a big checklist.

Do yourself a favor and have a day or two cushion in between.

Mistake #5. Missing Out on Honeymoon Amenities

If you are planning on staying at a resort for your honeymoon, you will be surprised to see what some of the honeymoon packages offer.

A lot of couples don’t realize that they must adhere to the resort’s terms and conditions to qualify for the honeymoon package.

If you think it is automatic and then show up assuming you’re getting breakfast in bed and a candlelight dinner, but you didn’t “follow the resort's guidelines, and miss out on your honeymoon perks, that would definitely be upsetting.

The best thing to do is work with a honeymoon specialist to ensure that your honeymoon is set up properly and you earn all the fun amenities you deserve!

In the end, the best way to ensure that your honeymoon is everything you want it to be is to take your time in the planning. Try using these tips to help guide you through the process, while avoiding the mistakes that can ruin your honeymoon!

By the way, if you are feeling overwhelmed or discouraged with your honeymoon planning, you can schedule a free 30-minute honeymoon strategy session with me so that we can get this off of your shoulders and move forward to honeymoon bliss. Click here to schedule now!

]]><![CDATA[How to Avoid 5 Crucial Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Destination Wedding]]>Thu, 01 Sep 2022 20:53:35 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/how-to-avoid-5-crucial-mistakes-that-can-ruin-your-destination-weddingAre you planning a destination wedding? If so, this blog post is for you!

When couples set out to plan a destination wedding, it can be challenging to navigate all the components that go into getting married in a different country.

Not only is there the wedding side of things, but there is also the travel side of things and if you are bringing guests with you, there are logistics that need to be planned.

I’ve seen couples make several mistakes when planning their destination wedding without the help of an expert, and I wanted to point out the 5 MOST COMMON MISTAKES and how you can AVOID them when planning your destination wedding.

Here are the top 5 most common mistakes couples make when planning a destination wedding:

1. Not Choosing a Resort That is a Good Fit For All The Guest's Needs

When hosting a destination wedding group, you have to remember that your guests are going to be at the resort venue for more than just one day. You’ll need to know the needs of your guests to make sure that the location & resort you selected will fulfill those needs.

For example, You’ll want to Find out any special dietary needs or food allergies your guests have like a vegan or gluten-free diet. You’ll also want to ask if anyone has any physical limitations. Some resorts are set on a cliffside and have a lot of stairs and hills, or don’t offer elevators.

Determine the needs of guests with children. Most resorts offer kids programs for ages 4-12, but not all will have services for children younger than that. You’ll want to find out if there are nanny services available and if those are done at a space at the resort or if they can be offered in the guest’s room.

2. Not Pre-Arranging Airport Transfers (Shuttle Service)

As a destination wedding specialist, one of the services I offer is setting up the roundtrip airport shuttle service for the guests. A mistake I see couples make is not considering this and/or leaving it up to the guests. This can result in families being stuck at the airport overpaying for help to get to the resort or getting suckered into a timeshare promo just to get a ride! This can really start your wedding celebration off on a sour note!

3. Not Asking Your Guests to Arrive Two Days in Advance

There are so many little things that make destination wedding travel go smoothly and one of those is having your guests arrive two days prior to the wedding date. If guests arrive the day before the wedding, they risk missing the wedding. How? Well, if a guest misses a connection or there are mechanical issues with their plane, and they can’t get on a flight until the next day, they will be put on whatever flight is available and that may get them to the destination too late to be a part of your celebration.

4. Not Holding a Block of Rooms

When hosting a group of people at a resort, if at all possible, you SHOULD hold a block of rooms. If you leave it up to chance, the resort could sell out, guests could book inaccurate dates, and guests can possibly book themselves at the incorrect property.

Beyond this, there are great perks for hosting a group at a resort, and if not set up right, couples can easily miss out on the opportunity to earn things like free rooms, free upgrades, free events like a cocktail reception, and more.

These extras can save a wedding couple thousands of dollars on their destination wedding!

As you might imagine, mistake number 4 is one of the main reasons that couples choose to hire a destination wedding specialist like myself to assist them with planning a wedding away.

This leads me to mistake #5…

5. Not working with a destination wedding specialist.

Many couples will choose to work with either a traditional wedding planner or a travel planner, but the best option for couples planning a destination wedding is to work with a destination wedding specialist.

This way you get the best of both worlds – a travel planner who can handle the logistics and nuances of setting up and managing group travel, as well as an expert who understands the ins and outs of planning a destination wedding abroad.

A destination wedding specialist has connections and first-hand knowledge that will not only help couples save thousands of dollars, but will save them a ton of time, and have venue recommendations that a couple may not find on their own.

BONUS: MISTAKE ALERT: Booking Your Wedding Directly With the Resort
As I was putting this list together, I thought of one more REALLY IMPORTANT mistake I see couples make, that is just too IMPORTANT to leave out. Many couples will try to book their destination wedding directly with a resort, the problem is these resort & wedding staff agents are MAXED OUT and even more so right now during this new travel boom after COVID! This leads to poor response times, frustrated guests, and bad contracts that can leave you owing penalties and fees!

It’s better to let a destination wedding professional help you put everything together, set up a favorable contract, set up a room block, and ask your guests about any special needs they have.

As you can see, when you're planning a destination wedding, there's no shortage of details to keep in mind. From booking the travel and accommodations to choosing the correct resort to host your wedding group. It can definitely be an overwhelming process! Fortunately, once you've considered these details ahead of time, the actual event will run more smoothly. You'll have a greater chance of having your destination wedding go off without a hitch!

Always remember, if you want an AMAZING destination wedding, but don’t want ALL the stress of putting it all together, there are destination wedding professionals, like me and others who can take the logistics off of your shoulders! We will set up a favorable contract, hold a block of rooms, handle all of the bookings for your guests, check on any of their specific needs, as well as provide prompt customer service!

I personally offer a complimentary 30-minute strategy session to help wedding couples, just like you, figure out the best plan to bring your destination wedding to life! If you are stuck or feel like you’re hitting a wall in your planning, just use this link to schedule with me today, and we can get you moving forward in your wedding planning.

]]><![CDATA[The Top 4 Destination Proposal Packages To Say, "Will You Marry Me?"]]>Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:28:56 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/the-top-4-destination-proposal-packages-to-say-will-you-marry-me

Planning to pop the question and want it to be unforgettable? Whether you are marrying your high school sweetheart, or your partner for many years, one thing remains constant — there is no way better to ask “Will You Marry Me?”’ than with a destination proposal! Here are 4 incredible destination proposal ideas for you to pop the question in style.

Best Destination Proposal Package 1:

If you want a surprise proposal that gives you a personally designed experience of your choice, then this is the package for you.
· Your choice of settings – beachfront gazebo, a romantic dinner under the stars, a
  beachfront teepee or a garden tent, each decorated with candles and rose petals
· Your choice of how the ring will be presented – a magician, perhaps a diver coming up
  from the ocean, or maybe have it hidden in a surprise dessert.
· Personal Help from a Romance Concierge to design your one-of-a-kind proposal.
· Package cost currently is $550 but can fluctuate.
This tailor-made proposal package will make you look like a rock star! Locations of proposal venues will vary by resort. A 3-night minimum stay at the selected resort is required.

Best Destination Proposal Package 2:

This paparazzi proposal package is ideal for the couple who wants those Instagram-worthy photos for their save the date cards or just because!
· Twilight photoshoot for 45 minutes with a professional photographer
· Props and custom staging available for your photoshoot
· Private dinner on the beach
· Package cost is $690 (price is subject to change)
Since this package includes the photoshoot, you may want to let your partner know that you’ve scheduled some photos with one of the photographers that are walking around the resort. That way it sounds a bit more unplanned and casual.
A 3-night minimum stay at the resort is required.

Best Destination Proposal Package 3:

If you are looking for a beach proposal idea, look no further! This package has it all plus it will look like you did all the work!
· Romantic rose petal and candle “path” decoration leading towards the proposal spot on the beach
· “Will you marry me...” message carved in the sand
· 1 bottle of sparkling wine
· 1 bouquet of roses
· 1 door banner:: “Just Engaged!”
· Engagement photo shoot with 5 photos included
· $299 or complimentary when staying 5 nights or longer in a required room category or higher

This proposal package must be requested at the time of booking. Blackout dates and restrictions apply, and the offer is subject to availability.

Best Destination Proposal Package 4:

If you are looking for a custom proposal idea to pop the question, want it to be stress-free and you’re not 100% confident in pulling it off by yourself, then this option is for you.

Work one-on-one with a Concierge to craft the perfect proposal
Let the experts put everything together behind the scenes to pull it off without a hitch
Simply reserve your vacation and we’ll connect you with a concierge to get started
Concierge service is free, any elements involved in designing your special moment will be charged a la carte. For example, you would pay for each element, such as a romantic candlelight dinner on the beach, fire dancers, a photography package, etc.

I really hope that this article has provided you with some inspiration on how you can propose to your partner in paradise. These packages will make you look like a hero and send them the message that they mean everything to you and feel like the only person in the world! My wish for you is that your proposal is a magical moment that will have lasting memories!

By the way, if you aren’t sure where to propose, you may want to check out some of my other posts on fantastic honeymoon destinations. They also make great proposal destinations as well!.

Bonus tip: If you are considering doing a destination wedding, I suggest using your destination proposal as a scouting trip of sorts. While there are several great resorts and proposal packages available, it is wise to consider a proposal destination that could potentially be your destination wedding venue as well. As a destination wedding travel specialist, I can assist in arranging a meeting with the onsite wedding team if needed.

If you aren’t sure where to have your destination “I Do,” you may want to check out some of my other posts on the fantastic destination wedding location, they also make great proposal destinations as well!.

I’m happy to help you set up your surprise proposal getaway in paradise. If you’re ready to get started, simply schedule a complimentary consultation with me. I’ll help you find the best location and proposal package for you.

]]><![CDATA[An Unforgettable Hawaiian Honeymoon. YES! It’s Worth The Trip]]>Thu, 21 Jul 2022 16:00:07 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/an-unforgettable-hawaiian-honeymoon-yes-its-worth-the-trip

A definite romantic paradise & bucket list location for an unforgettable honeymoon, there is no place on earth quite like Hawaii. There are six unbelievable islands to choose from, and each island offers its own unique experience and adventure. Volcanoes, waterfalls, golden sand beaches, lush green mountains, incredible valleys, coffee plantations, hiking… Hawaii has it all! You get to choose how adventurous or low-key your honeymoon will be! One thing is for sure, you and your new spouse will have no end of incredible memory-making moments when you choose Hawaii for your honeymoon.

Discover Your Perfect Island:
Here is a brief description of what each Hawaiian Island has to offer for your honeymoon.

Maui:

Maui is a Conde Nast “Best island in the U.S” award winner for the last 20 years and a honeymoon hot spot. Maui offers over 30 miles of world-famous beaches, where you can surf, swim, snorkel and sunbathe. During the winter months, you can even see migrating humpback whales on a whale-watching tour. You can also do a nature hike in the famous Iao Valley or have lunch or dinner at one of the many farm to table restaurants. A helicopter tour is a great way to see ALL of the amazing beauty and geography of each island as well! And if you want to see a bucket list sunset… Maui is your Island!

World-Class Resort Options in Maui

Maui is home to many properties that will give you a romantic & pampering honeymoon. 5-star restaurants, poolside butler service, in-room jacuzzi tubs, dolphin shows, the options are endless! As I always tell my clients, the best resort for your honeymoon is the one that fits you and your fiancée’s honeymoon vision the best! It really depends on what type of experience you and your new spouse are looking for. Make sure you and your fiancée research the honeymoon properties together so that you book a room and a resort that is a true reflection of your honeymoon vision.
I recommend Maui for your honeymoon if you are the type of couple who enjoy unique dining, enjoy nature hikes in beauty beyond compare, but also want the luxury, pampering, and romance of a 5-star resort!

Kauai:

Accurately described as the “Garden Island”, Kauai is covered in lush green valleys, pointed mountain peaks, and stunning jagged cliffs! As Hawaii’s oldest island, years and years of the perfect amount of sunshine and rain have produced miles of tropical rainforests, flowing rivers, and majestic waterfalls! Kauai also offers some of the most incredible natural sights that go beyond imagination, such as the famous Napali Coast, Wailua River, Poipu Beach, Waimea Canyon, and the Kokee State Park. With so much to offer, Kauai will give you and your new honey plenty of new memories.

Luxurious & Romantic Honeymoon Properties in Kauai:

Kauai offers a wide variety of amazing resort options for a romantic and pampering honeymoon. Kauai has some amazing 5 and 4-star resorts & villas that offer amenities focused on allowing you to relax, rest, and get pampered. You’ll have no problem finding gourmet dining, golf, and spa facilities to give you a full honeymoon experience!
I recommend Kauai for couples who love to get out and explore, hike, have some adventure, and want to experience “Bucket List” natural beauty!

Oahu:

The third-largest Hawaiian island, Oahu is known as “The Gathering Place” which the majority of Hawaii’s population calls home. From hopping city life to laid-back surf towns, you’ll discover a little of everything here! Oahu is also home to the world-famous Waikiki & Makaha beaches, as well as, the best surfing anywhere in Hawaii! You and your new spouse will have an array of things to do, such as hiking, golf, incredible snorkeling, sailing excursions, sport fishing, skydiving, and even whale watching (during winter months).

Great Resort Options For Every Couple & Budget

Oahu is also home to a large number of fantastic resort choices from 5-star luxury, with all kinds of amenities, to more value-oriented properties. Most of Oahu’s resorts are located in Waikiki, with fantastic shopping, nightlife, & some of Hawaii’s best beaches. Depending on your budget and the type of experience you want to have, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect resort for your honeymoon. With that being said, REMEMBER, this is your honeymoon, this isn’t the time to be cheap! If you’re going to make the investment of going to Hawaii, then at the very least I wouldn’t book anything lower than a 4-star resort.
I recommend Oahu for couples who love water sports, big-city shopping, and nightlife, while still being able to experience the physical and cultural beauty of Hawaii on their honeymoon.

Lanai:

Lanai is the smallest of all Hawaii’s inhabited islands and offers a more “private hideaway” type of vibe for your honeymoon. With world-class accommodations, championship-level golf, off-the-beaten-path 4-wheel drive experiences, and indulgent pampering, Lanai will give you both serenity & adventure at the same time! Plus, you can take a ferry to Maui for a day out!

5-star Indulgence!

Lanai is home to only two resorts: The Four Seasons Lanai is an indulgent 5-star property that rivals the top resorts in ALL the Hawaiian Islands! This unbelievable resort overlooks the magnificent Hulopoe Bay, a protected marine preserve that is perfect for swimming, and snorkeling. The Hotel Lanai is a MUCH smaller property, with only 11 guest rooms. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in affordability! It also is home to one of the most esteemed restaurants on the Island, the Lanai City Grille.
I recommend Lanai to couples who are looking for serenity, privacy, and off-the-beaten-path activities to enjoy on their honeymoon.

Molokai:

Molokai is authentic, natural, unspoiled Hawaii offering the world’s highest sea cliffs, a fringing coral reef, and amazing white sand beaches! You won’t find a lot of modern conveniences here on your honeymoon. In fact, most of the people who live on Molokai continue to preserve the tradition of living a more rural lifestyle just like the generations before they did.

Intimate & Rustic Accommodations:

There are no major resorts on Molokai, only a variety of charming & quaint ocean-front hotels, cottages, and bed & breakfasts.
I recommend Molokai as an island to visit on your honeymoon, instead of your main honeymoon stay. But if you’re the kind of couple who loves a more authentic & rustic experience, then Molokai may be the perfect Island for you!

The Island of Hawaii

Confusing I know, but yes, the youngest and largest of ALL the Hawaiian islands is named Hawaii. Also known as the “Big Island” Hawaii offers amazing natural variety & adventure. Lush & tropical valleys, snow capped peaks, active volcanoes, black sand beaches, a 420-foot waterfall, and even world-famous Kona coffee, are all here to give you a unique & adventurous honeymoon!

Wide Variety of Great Resort Options:

The island of Hawaii offers a wide variety of accommodations for an indulgent & rejuvenating honeymoon. The resorts along the Kohala Coast are located on some of Hawaii’s best beaches, and offer world-class pampering suites, renewing spa treatments, restaurants, golf, water sports, and so much more! No matter what type of luxury or adventure you are looking for, there will be a resort that will accommodate your honeymoon desires!

Hawaii Honeymoon Pro Tips:

Stay at least a FULL 9 days, 8 nights!
Because Hawaii can have long travel times, 10-12 hours from the East Coast & Mid-West, as well as around 5 hours from the West Coast, I recommend that you stay at least a FULL 9 days 8 nights for your honeymoon.

Pre-Purchase Breakfast:
There are no All-Inclusive resorts in Hawaii, so you will want to choose a resort package that includes breakfast if available. Be sure to have dining budgeted into your honeymoon stay. An example is that some breakfast buffets can be $75 a person.

Honeymoon Island Hop!
It’s going to be impossible to see every Hawaiian island on your honeymoon unless you are staying there for at least 21 days. I always recommend that you try to at least see at least two different islands if possible. So if you were to have a 9-day, 8-night honeymoon, I would recommend staying 5 days on one of the Islands, and 4 days on another island.

Wait if needed:
Hawaii is a bucket list honeymoon destination, but if you just don’t have the money or time to go to Hawaii, then I suggest that you wait until you do have the money and time to go. Maybe for a special anniversary or even a vow renewal!

I think it’s easy to see that there's no place like Hawaii! If you're looking for an unforgettable honeymoon destination, one or more of these six beautiful islands could be your PERFECT honeymoon spot. Whichever Hawaiian island you choose, you're sure to have memories that last a lifetime.

Ready to make your dream honeymoon a reality? Schedule your complimentary consultation and let’s get started today!

]]><![CDATA[Why Hawaii is Still a Top Destination Wedding Hot Spot]]>Thu, 07 Jul 2022 21:03:41 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/why-hawaii-is-still-a-top-destination-wedding-hot-spot

The Hawaiian islands offer the perfect backdrop for a dream destination wedding. The choices are endless — from a sunset wedding on the beach to a Hawaiian luau, a magical waterfall, and everything in between. Whatever your dream setting might be, there's a spot that's just right for you in Hawaii.

Discover The PERFECT Island For Your Wedding:
Here is a brief description of what each Hawaiian Island has to offer for your destination wedding.

Maui:

Maui will give your special day an idyllic setting for the destination wedding of your dreams! You can be as casual or as sophisticated as you want, from a relaxed beach wedding to a lavish affair at one of Maui’s five-diamond resorts. Maui really can meet EVERY expectation!

Activities For Your Wedding Group:

Maui has an amazing variety of sights and adventures you can do with your wedding group! Some of the top beaches in ALL of Hawaii are here in Maui and offer your group total relaxation or water activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and paddle boarding.
During the winter months, you can see migrating humpback whales on a whale-watching tour You can do a nature hike in the famous Lao Valley, and of course, a helicopter tour is a great way to see ALL of the amazing beauty and geography of each island as well!
It’s ALWAYS fun to plan a one-of-a-kind cultural performance, stage show, or other special events that you just can’t experience anywhere else.

World-Class Wedding Venues in Maui

Maui is home to many properties that will give you a beautiful & memorable destination wedding! You'll have no problem finding amazing 4 and 5-star resorts & Villas offering wedding packages that will make your special day be EVERYTHING you have always dreamed it would be.

As I always tell my clients, the best resort is the one that fits you and your fiancée’s wedding vision! It really depends on what type of experience you and your new spouse are looking for. Make sure you and your fiancée research the wedding properties together so that you book the resort venue that is a true reflection of everything you are envisioning for your wedding day.

PROS: Several wedding venues, great resort options for your guests' accommodations, romantic sunsets, and fun activities to do with your guests.
CONS: More expensive and some areas are more commercial vs. authentic like you’ll find in Kauai.
I recommend Maui for your destination wedding if you enjoy unique dining, enjoy nature hikes in beauty beyond compare, but also want the luxury, pampering, and romance of a 5-star resort!

Kauai:

Kauai’s lush green landscapes and long sandy beaches with sapphire-blue waters make Kauai the PERFECT destination to say “I Do!” A favorite location of Hollywood filmmakers, and where Elvis Presley filmed Blue Hawaii, Kauai offers an amazing array of endless destination wedding venues, sites, and locations to choose from for your wedding.

One thing is for sure, Kauai can give you and your wedding guests EVERYTHING you are looking for in your dream destination “I Do!”

Activities For Your Wedding Group:

Kauai offers a multitude of fun & exhilarating activities you can do as a wedding group. Ziplining through the rainforest is always a favorite, as well as taking a kayaking tour down one of Kauai’s famous rivers. Go mountain tubing down the rivers and streams of Mt. Waialeale, and I would definitely recommend either hiking or driving to see the Waimea Canyon, which is breathtaking! If you can afford it, a helicopter tour of the Napali Coast is something no one will EVER forget!

And I always recommend that you get out and explore some of the local culture, such as doing a Luau, visiting museums and famous historical sights. You can even take a filmmakers tour to the locations of over 60 TV shows & films!

Plenty of Incredible Wedding Venues in Kauai:

Whether you’re looking for a wedding ceremony overlooking the sea, or an intimate garden wedding, Kauai has some of the most amazing resorts, villas, botanical gardens, and other wedding locations for your destination wedding! Each of these wedding venues has a setting filled with either the beauty of lush tropical landscapes or the background of glimmering blue waters against the sandy shores! Finding the PERFECT wedding venue won’t be hard in Kauai.
PROS: Luxury, and World-Class Service & Amenities, Great Wedding Packages, Amazing Natural Sights, And Fun Activities to do!
CONS: Fewer flight options from the U.S.
I recommend Kauai for couples who love to get out and explore, hike, have some adventure, and want to experience “Bucket List” natural beauty!

Oahu:

If you’re considering Oahu for your destination wedding, the options are limitless! Instagram-worthy wedding venues, perfect weather, & world-class wedding packages, your destination happily ever after will be unforgettable!

Great Resort Wedding Venue Options For Every Couple

Oahu is also home to a large number of fantastic resort wedding venues offering 5-star service & amenities all catered to making your destination wedding EVERYTHING you’ve dreamed it to Depending on your budget and the type of ceremony & reception you want to have, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect resort for your destination wedding. With that being said, REMEMBER, this is your wedding, not just another vacation, this isn’t the time to be cheap! If you’re going to make the investment of going to Hawaii, then at the very least I wouldn’t book anything lower than a 4-star resort.

Activities For Your Wedding Group

Endless activities abound in Oahu for your wedding group. You can enjoy incredible golfing, do a luau, go on a shopping tour, enjoy the surf, take a catamaran cruise, a submarine dive, and even visit a nature reserve where you can spend a whole day ziplining, driving ATVs, as well as so much more! You will find something that everyone in your group will enjoy!
PROS: Variety of Resort Wedding Options For Every Taste & budget, Plenty of Activities and NightLife, Easy to get to from the U.S.
CONS: Densely Populated, Wedding Privacy Could be an Issue, Big City Right Next to The Resort Zone.
I recommend Oahu for couples who love water sports, big-city shopping, and nightlife, while still being able to experience the physical and cultural beauty of Hawaii.

Lanai:

Lanai is the smallest of all Hawaii’s inhabited islands and will give you a “secluded” island experience to your destination wedding. Lanai will give you the ultimate in luxury and privacy. Just ask Bill Gates, because he chose to say “I Do!” right here on Lanai!

World Class Wedding Indulgence!

Lanai is home to the incredible Four Seasons Lanai, an indulgent 5-star property that rivals the top resorts in ALL the Hawaiian Islands! This unbelievable resort overlooks the magnificent Hulopoe Bay, a protected marine preserve. Getting married here is first class all the way!

Activities For Your Wedding Group

Lanai doesn’t have a ton of activities, but it does offer championship-level golf, off-the-beaten-path 4-wheel drive experiences, and there is the Lanai Ferry that will take you back and forth to Maui, where you can enjoy all of the activities and sights Maui has to offer. Check out the activities I have listed above in my overview of Maui.
PROS: Privacy, Luxury, and World-Class Service & Amenities, Top Shelf Wedding Packages
CONS: Expensive, Only One Resort Option, Ferry to Maui For Activities and Sights.
I recommend Lanai to couples who are looking for luxury, serenity, privacy, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The Island of Hawaii

The “Big Island” could be just the perfect Hawaiian island for your big day! The island of Hawaii offers endless wedding venue options that will make your wedding unforgettable. Imagine, having a sunset ceremony on the beach, or saying your “I Do” in a botanical garden with a snow-capped inactive volcano as your backdrop. For a little flash and excitement, how about saying your vows in an intimate ceremony with your toes in the sand, as the active volcano is erupting behind you! Your choices of great wedding locations in Hawaii are limitless!

Wide Variety of Great Resort Wedding Venues:

The island of Hawaii offers a wide variety of accommodations for a picture-perfect destination wedding. The wedding resorts here can offer you amazing wedding packages and services so that you don’t have to stress out about your big day! No matter what type of wedding, big or small, extravagant or casual, there will be a resort that will accommodate your destination wedding desires!

Activities For Your Wedding Group:

Known as “Hawaii’s Island of Adventure” No other Hawaiian Island will give you the variety of activities and adventures Hawaii offers. Just imagine you and your guests swimming with manta rays or whale watching. Traveling inland to see a 420-foot waterfall, or stop by one of the black sand beaches. And you definitely have to see the VERY active volcano!
PROS: Privacy, Luxury, and World-Class Service & Amenities, Top Shelf Wedding Packages
CONS: Expensive, Only One Resort Option, Ferry to Maui For Activities and Sights.

#######

Destination Wedding Pro Tips For The Hawaiian Islands:
Stay at Least a FULL 9 Days, 8 nights!
Because Hawaii can have long travel times, 10-12 hours from the East Coast & Mid-West, as well as around 5 hours from the West Coast, I recommend that you stay at least a FULL 9 days, 8 nights.

Get the breakfast package:
There are no All-Inclusive resorts in Hawaii, so you will want to buy a package that includes daily breakfast at your resort. Definitely have meal costs in your budget. An example is that some breakfast buffets can be $75 a person.

Celebrate Your Honeymoon on a Different Island!
How cool would it be to skip off to a new island the day after you say “I Do”? I always recommend that you try to at least see at least two different islands when visiting Hawaii. So if you were to have a 9-day, 8-night trip, I would recommend staying 5 days on one of the Islands, and 4 days on another island.

Wait if needed:
Hawaii is a bucket-list destination, but if you just don’t have the money or time to go to Hawaii, then I suggest that you wait until you do have the money and time to go. Maybe for a special anniversary or even a vow renewal!
The islands of Hawaii are so beautiful; there is no doubt that your choice of location here will result in a stunning and romantic destination wedding. The perfect setting and atmosphere will give you a once-in-a-lifetime wedding celebration. You can make all of your dreams come true on any one of these beautiful islands.

Are you ready to make your dream wedding in Hawaii a reality? Schedule a complimentary consultation with me today and let’s get started!

]]><![CDATA[6 TOP HONEYMOON RESORTS]]>Wed, 04 May 2022 20:16:46 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/6-top-honeymoon-resorts

]]><![CDATA[5 FANTASTIC RESORTS FOR A DREAM DESTINATION WEDDING]]>Wed, 04 May 2022 15:54:35 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/5-fantastic-resorts-for-a-dream-destination-wedding

]]><![CDATA[THE BEST TIMES TO TRAVEL TO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC]]>Mon, 25 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/the-best-times-to-travel-to-dominican-republicBest Weather

March through May. The temperatures stay below 85 during these drier months, so the air has little humidity and the sun is bright and shiny. Similar idyllic weather is found from December to February, but keep in mind that many other travelers have the same idea to escape the cold, so anticipate escalated hotel costs during this time.

Most Affordable Time

March through November. Though least expensive, the months of June through to November are also hurricane season, so expect a lot of rain and potentially dangerous winds. To achieve the best weather for the best price, March through May are your ideal travel months in the Dominican Republic.

Liveliest Time

February holds the honor of being the month of the Dominican Carnival. Across the nation, cities come alive every weekend with parades in vibrant celebration of the historic Carnival. Parade-goers wear ornate masks and extravagant dress to represent different characters within their culture, making the festivities quite a sight to behold. Then later in the day there is local street food and music to be enjoyed as the parades turn into energetic parties. If you’re staying in Punta Cana and are willing to make the almost four hour trek to La Vega, you will be delighted by the largest celebration of Carnival. Or if you’d like the experience, but a quicker drive, head over to the Parade on Malecon in the old world capital of Santo Domingo.

]]><![CDATA[THE BEST TIMES TO TRAVEL TO COSTA RICA]]>Mon, 28 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/the-best-times-to-travel-to-costa-ricaBest Weather

December through April. Late winter to early spring marks the dry season for Costa Rica, which is when the exotic wildlife is easiest to find and the beaches are most pristine. It’s also coolest during this period, with temperatures rarely reaching 80 degrees and the humidity at a minimum.

Most Affordable Time

May through November. Being blanketed by rainforests, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica has a long and very wet rainy season. Some months even see over 12 inches of rain on average. With this, there are often less tourists and therefore greater deals for travel to the region. Beyond saving some dollars, traveling during these months also places you in the middle of the “green season” with no shortage of impeccable views of the dense, lush forests. Plus staying in less-affected areas like Guanacaste means rain will only bother you for a few hours a day rather than your whole trip.

Liveliest Time

October. Another Caribbean Carnival you have to experience at least once, Limón Carnival commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1502 to their tropical shores. It is dressed with local delicacies, music, dancing, parades, and brightly-colored costumes in celebration of the Afro-Caribbean heritage so meaningful to the culture. It’s a spirited and joyous event that even lands in a mini dry season to ensure the show may go on.]]><![CDATA[ST. LUCIA]]>Mon, 30 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/st-luciaBest Weather

December through June. The driest months of the year, December through June also have the best temperatures ranging from about 83 to 87 degrees. The nice temps bring with them cool breezes that help curb the heat, while still feeling nice and toasty.

Most Affordable Time

May through November. With the arrival of devastating hurricanes this season, the potential risks when traveling to the eastern Caribbean during these times are clear. Therefore while it can be very cheap to travel to St. Lucia from July to November, for only slightly higher rates, you can also go between May and June to avoid hurricane season altogether. Plus you’re almost guaranteed more beach time and sunny days during these less rain-ravaged months.

Liveliest Time

The St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, held in May every year, is a time-honored event spanning nearly three decades. It is a week-long festival featuring an array of musical talents playing jazz, R&B, soul, pop, reggae and soca amidst other food and fashion events. The main concert takes place on the beautiful national landmark of Pigeon Island so you can appreciate the natural beauty while taking in the sounds of St. Lucia.
]]><![CDATA[THE BEST TIMES TO TRAVEL TO JAMAICA]]>Mon, 26 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/the-best-times-to-travel-to-jamaicaBest Weather

November through March. These months boast the most comfortable temperatures the island sees between 75 and 85 degrees, as well as the least precipitation of the year. Go any other months and you can bet it will be much hotter and rainier.

Most Affordable Time

Between April and October, hotels in Jamaica offer some sweet incentives for staying, but the rain could put a damper on your beach time. For ideal weather at an affordable price, your best bet is to travel between November and December, but avoid the weeks surrounding Christmas as rates tend to sky-rocket during this peak period.

Liveliest Time

February. As one might expect, Bob Marley is a legend in Jamaica. That’s why February is dedicated to his memory, celebrating his birthday and his extraordinary impact on the island. There are many festivals across the cities in his name, featuring food, drink, and (you guessed it) plenty of reggae music.]]><![CDATA[Best Cruises for Wheelchair Passengers]]>Mon, 28 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/best-cruises-for-wheelchair-passengers

thanks Going on a cruise is easily the best way for wheelchair users to see the world! Cruise ships are becoming more accessible every year, and ports of call are increasingly aware of the need to cater to visitors who both use wheelchairs and have money to invest in their economies. However, picking the right cruise ship AND itinerary can be a bit of a science. You want to find the best combination of wheelchair friendly ship, an itinerary where the ship will dock at ports where you can easily get off the ship, and ports of call with available wheelchair accessible tours – or at least accessible sidewalks and transportation. Here’s a list of the best cruise ship itineraries for wheelchair users that include all three of these features.

1. Royal Caribbean 7-Day Scandinavia and Russia.  The Serenade of the Seas departs from Copenhagen (Denmark) and docks in Stockholm (Sweden), Tallinn (Estonia), St. Petersburg (Russia), and Helsinki (Finland). The ship is very wheelchair friendly, with large accessible staterooms, no-threshold balconies, pushbutton access to public toilets, and designated wheelchair spaces in the theater. Wheelchair accessible tours are available at each port of call, and while independent travel will be difficult to impossible in St. Petersburg (for both visa and logistical reasons), visitors can use accessible taxis, the Hop On-Hop Off bus, or public transportation at the other stops.

2. Princess 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage.  This itinerary is available on four Princess ships – the Island, Star, Coral, and Golden – depending on the departure date. It’s a round-trip itinerary out of VERY wheelchair accessible Vancouver (which is worth an extra day’s stay pre- and post-cruise) and stops in Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay (cruising), and Ketchikan. Technically Princess will tell you that you can dock or anchor at Juneau and Ketchikan. However, in my capacity as a travel agent, I learned directly from Cruise Lines Agency of Alaska that Princess has priority over other cruise lines when it comes to docking. So while a rare emergency may occur that requires Coast Guard vessels to take up precious docking space, chances are you’ll be able to roll off the ship at every port with Princess.

3. Celebrity 12-Night Israel and Mediterranean. It’s true that Celebrity is geared more towards bigger spenders. However, there’s no doubt that the upper-tier cruise line keeps wheelchair users in mind when designing their ships. The public spaces had more than ample room and designated spaces for wheelchair and scooter users – which is good, because there were a lot of us on that cruise. The ship for this itinerary is the Infinity, which departs out of Rome (Italy) and ends in Athens (Greece). All ports of call are docked and include Naples (Italy), Catania (Sicily), Valetta (Malta), Rhodes (Greece), Ashdod/Jerusalem (Israel), Haifa (Israel), and Souda/Chania (Crete). Various tour operators offer wheelchair accessible shore excursions at every stop.

4. Royal Caribbean 7-Night Western Mediterranean. There are dozens of cruise itineraries that cover the western Caribbean, and most of them include the “biggies” in Spain, France, and Italy. However, most of them include at least one stop that requires tendering, so this particular cruise is a gem. It’s also on the Oasis of the Seas, which is one of Royal’s larger ships with a passenger capacity of over 6,000 people. It has a lift for two of its pools and plenty of designated wheelchair seating throughout the ship. The Oasis departs for its round-trip itinerary from the very wheelchair accessible city of Barcelona, and its all-docked ports of call include Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Marseilles/Provence (France), La Spezia/Florence/Pisa (Italy), Rome (Italy), and Naples (Italy).

5. Carnival 7-Night Southern Caribbean (from San Juan). Many travelers are hesitant to make cruise plans either out of or through Puerto Rico for fear of damage from Hurricane Maria last fall. I can assure you that San Juan, as well as the vast majority of the Caribbean, is definitely open for business. This is a more economical itinerary on the Carnival Fascination, which is an older and mid-sized Fantasy-class ship, but it was given a huge overhaul in 2008 that made it shinier – and more accessible, although its pools are unfortunately still lacking lifts. It’s also getting a makeover in mid-February 2018 that will add more dining options. Ports of call include St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands), Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and St. Maarten, all of which have accessible tours available through outside vendors. Carnival is a family and budget-oriented cruise line, so this itinerary would be ideal for couples with children not looking to break the bank.

6. Norwegian 5-Day Pacific Coastal. This one-way cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles is a nice option for US-based travelers who want to stay close to home, and those who don’t have the time to be away for a week or longer. This cruise also takes place on the NCL Bliss, the line’s newest ship going into service in mid-2018, with this itinerary occurring in late September. All NCL ships have pool lifts, and younger family members in particular will enjoy the multiple water slides and two-deck go-cart race track. Ports of call include Victoria BC (Canada) and San Francisco, which means more great news for wheelchair users. Although Canada is not subject to US accessibility laws, it has its own wheelchair friendly laws that make Vancouver and Victoria nice options. San Francisco and Los Angeles are large cities, but they are subject to the ADA and have several choices for accessible tours and transportation.

7. Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean (from Miami). The Symphony of the Seas, a cruise ship so new that the paint is probably still drying. That means it’s super wheelchair accessible (including three pool lifts), and HUGE. It just happens to be the world’s largest cruise ship at the moment, so chances are you’re not going to run out of food to eat or things to do. In addition to offering all-docked port stops at Costa Maya (Mexico), Cozumel (Mexico), and Nassau (Bahamas), it also stops in Roatan (Honduras), which isn’t a typical port of call for a western Caribbean itinerary. During accessible shore excursions, you can experience things like rides on beach wheelchairs, animal interactions, and scenic drives. This cruise is also family friendly, and ideal for large groups.

Are you ready to book a wheelchair accessible cruise, or just find out what your cruising options are? Contact us for more information!

Thanks  Sylvia Longmire for your review....

]]><![CDATA[Riviera Maya Eco Tax]]>Fri, 13 Oct 2017 19:53:33 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/riviera-maya-eco-taxWe have been advised that effective October 1, 2017 the Municipality of Solidaridad will launch a new eco tax to help maintain the beaches and ecosystem in Riviera Maya. Tourism and the natural beauty of the area is an essential part of the regions development, and crucial to its preservation.

In order to maintain and conserve the natural beauty of the destination, upon check out the hotels will be collecting 10.00 Mexican Pesos, approx. 0.55 USD per room per night effective October 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017, and 20.00 Mexican Pesos, approx. 1.10 USD per room per night, effective January 1, 2018.

This new tax will be deposited in an environmental trust fund that has been set up to protect the area and its surroundings.

This tax has just been imposed, and is not included in packages regardless of booking dates. Please be prepared to pay this new tax at hotel check out.

]]><![CDATA[The Countdown to REAL ID]]>Fri, 13 Oct 2017 16:08:25 GMThttp://www.vhstravel.com/blog/the-countdown-to-real-id
In less than one year, travel identification used for domestic flights must be REAL ID compliant. Your clients may be ready, depending on the state they live in. But it never hurts to be 100% sure.
What's the deal with REAL ID?The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 based on the recommendation from the 9/11 Commission to prevent fraudulent issuance and use of driver's licenses and identification cards and to further ensure the safety and security of Americans. The Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards and prohibits Federal agencies (like the TSA) from accepting licenses and ID cards that do not meet these standards.

The goal of REAL ID is to make the issuing and use of driver’s licenses and other state-issued ID cards more secure and less prone to fraud.

When will this affect travelers?The January 22, 2018 deadline is less than one year away. So on January 23, 2018, if your client doesn’t have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license and they’re planning to fly from Dallas to Chicago, they’ll need to show an alternative form of acceptable ID to get through security. This can be:

U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. military ID (active duty or retired military and their dependents, and DoD civilians)

There are a few additional types of acceptable ID, and those are listed on the TSA’s website.
If a traveler cannot provide alternative acceptable ID, they won’t be allowed to pass through the security checkpoint. Imagine the frustration this could cause if your client is all the way at the airport, luggage in hand, only to be turned away for improper ID.

The next deadline to know is October 1, 2020. That’s when every domestic air traveler must show a REAL ID compliant license or another form of ID in order to fly.

What states have compliant IDs?Most states are already issuing REAL ID compliant IDs. To check what your state is up to, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has a color-coded map to make it easy. Green means the state is compliant, yellow means they got an extension to become compliant and red means they’re not compliant. Click on your state to find more details and deadlines.

If your client isn’t sure if their ID is compliant, there are a few ways to tell. DHS recommends that states adopt a general design marking to show compliance. The initial recommendation is a gold star, but it can vary by color, lettering and/or format. Kentucky, for example, adds a white star in a gold circle in the upper right corner of compliant IDs. But Wisconsin got creative – some compliant IDs have a gold star and some have a black one.

For more information contact Vacation Hot Spots, LLC at 240-472-5020.
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