Blog

An All-Inclusive resort vacation sounds like a dream! White sand beaches. Great service. Delicious food. Everything you could need is at your fingertips.

To keep that dream from turning into a nightmare, make sure to avoid these costly mistakes.

1. Choosing the wrong resort.

While all-inclusive resorts vary widely based on service, food, amenities, and activities, the biggest considerations are location, theme, and guest demographics. It’s important to have a clear picture of what you want and do your research from that lens.

2. Overindulging.

Just because you can eat three pounds of prime rib and a gallon of ice cream doesn’t mean you should. The same goes for trying every specialty drink on the menu. Use moderation in what you eat and drink as you want to both enjoy and remember your vacation.

3. Staying at the resort the entire time.

Get out of your comfort zone! Most all-inclusive resorts are in a specific destination because of the beauty and culture, so plan an excursion to explore the area.

4. Not getting to know the staff.

Learning the staff members’ names and a smile will go a long way toward making your vacation more enjoyable. Staff members who feel “seen” often go out of their way to help the people with whom they make a connection.

This can be especially helpful if something goes wrong and you need a little extra help.

5. Staying “plugged in”.

It’s time to put the phone down and turn the computer off. Remember your motivation for planning your vacation, and be fully present in the moment.

We would be remiss if we didn’t share what we think is the most important mistake to avoid: Skipping Travel Insurance! Did you know your medical insurance doesn’t cover you once you are off American soil? That’s right. You’re not covered in case of a medical emergency. Trust me. Get travel insurance!

Ready to turn your all-inclusive daydream into reality? Contact us. We’re ready to help.

The sun is out, days are longer, and there is a sense of anticipation in the air. It’s summer, the time when we traditionally think about going on a vacation. Here are some of the best locations in the United States to inspire you.

White water rafting through the Grand Canyon is the perfect option for adventure seekers who truly want to get away. Did you know that visitors to the Grand Canyon only spend 15 minutes looking over the rim but will spend 30 minutes in the gift shop? We don’t think those numbers work well to really experience the Grand Canyon. Instead, spend three, four or even seven days rafting through the canyon. Guides provide all of the gear, prepare the meals, and even share facts and stories as you float undisturbed, marveling at the canyon. Although you won’t have cell service while on the river, you will quickly relearn how to have face to face, authentic conversations with the others on your trip. In fact, this may turn out to be your favorite part!

Looking for a location that has something for everyone? Look no further than Disney World! Their 50th Anniversary Celebration is still in full swing. To make sure everyone in your party enjoys their vacation, make a list of your “must do” experiences. Do those things first, and everything else will be the cherry on top. Also ask for input on what amenities are wanted in the hotel and plan accordingly. A great pool for afternoon breaks to beat the heat might be preferred to one with evening campfires.

An Alaskan cruise is a great way to beat the heat if you want to get away from rising temperatures. It is also an outstanding option for multigenerational trips. No matter their age, everyone will love to see glaciers calve or whales breach. You will also have a wide variety of cruise lines from which to choose, ranging from traditional to luxury or even expedition-style cruising.

Cheers to Napa Valley! Self-proclaimed foodies will love the pleasures of eating and drinking which are celebrated here daily. Napa Valley is home to over 150 eating establishments, 357 wineries, and 90 urban tasting rooms to visit. You will find everything from a mouth-watering “hole in the wall” to Michelin Star restaurants. The hardest part will be deciding which of the locations to visit.

Hot Springs, Arkansas, is just what the doctor ordered if you are looking to do nothing but relax. Named for the thermal waters which run in their area, you can visit one of the local bathhouses. For hundreds of years, doctors prescribed the mineral rich waters as therapy for their patients. The springs are said to have healing powers which leave their visitors feeling rejuvenated. When you’re finished, there are several golf courses in the area, or you might enjoy one of the hiking trails at Hot Springs National Park.

We hope this has inspired you to pack your bags and take the trip. Summer is waiting for you!