2020 was a tough year. There’s no denying that. On the bright side, a new year is right around the corner. 2021 is going to be the year to thrive and reconnect with loved ones and friends. It will be the time to make up for those celebrations, milestones, and get-togethers that were all put on hold.
Here are the most popular group trip themes that you should experience in 2021.
#1 Group Trip Theme – Wellness Retreats
After a year like 2020, we all deserve a getaway to recharge, relax, and return to positivity. Wellness Retreats are the key vacation in 2021. Wellness retreats range in focus from health, fitness, or mindfulness. Some great destinations for wellness retreats are Costa Rica, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Hawaii.
#2 – Family Reunions
Remember all the good times you used to have with your family? Well, it’s time to make new memories! 2021 is a great year to reconnect and catch up with family on vacation. Some great vacation options for family reunions are river cruises, wine tours, all-inclusive resorts, and safaris.
#3 – Friends Getaway
Similar to your family, did you have to take a break from seeing close friends during quarantine? 2021 will be the time to splurge a little and travel to reconnect with all your friends. All-inclusive resorts are great for friends getaways because everything is included!
#4 – Birthday Celebrations
Did you celebrate a big milestone in 2020, like a 30th birthday? It may have looked a lot different than you were hoping. Don’t let that big milestone pass you by without celebrating. 2021 will be the year to make up for any missed birthday celebrations. Breathless Resorts are great for birthday celebrations with their ‘Birthday Bash’ package.
#5 Group Trip Theme – Destination Weddings
The number of weddings put on hold in 2020 due to COVID19 was enormous. Make the rescheduling a little easier on yourself by switching to a destination wedding. Your travel agent and wedding coordinator will take care of most of the work for you, so you just have to focus on enjoying FINALLY getting married! Mexico and the Caribbean have a lot of resorts that work well with destination wedding couples.
Which group trip theme do you want to experience in 2021?
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What’s it like to travel during a pandemic? Well, I decided to find out! At the end of July 2020, my husband and I traveled from Colorado to Antigua to celebrate my birthday and see what it’s like to travel right now in 2020. This was our first time traveling since February before the pandemic hit. Although quite a few policies and protocols have changed, traveling right now wasn’t as drastically different as I thought it would be.
Here is an overview of what it’s like to travel right now (summer 2020).
**Note- Policies are continually changing, so if you have questions about travel when you’re reading this, please reach out and I’ll be happy to share what I know.**
Domestic Air Travel
At the start and end of our trip, we flew domestic flights, so we were able to see what it is like to travel right now domestically. From Colorado to Antigua, we flew on American Airlines with a 23-hour layover in Miami. From Antigua back to Colorado, we flew Delta Airlines with an overnight in Atlanta.
Parking
When flying, we normally park our car in long-term parking at the airport. A few days before our trip, I realized that most of Denver International Airport’s parking lots are shut down due to social distancing issues on shuttles from the parking lots to the airport. We ended up riding Lyft to the airport instead. All Lyft drivers and passengers are now required to wear masks and most Lyft drivers now have partitions between the front seat and the back seat to protect everyone.
Airports
The airports were not as busy as normal, but busier than I anticipated. We flew through Denver, Atlanta, and Miami, which are normally some of the busiest airports. There weren’t many lines at all. Most restaurants were not open. If they were, they spaced out the tables and chairs to make for social distancing. Throughout the airports, everyone was doing their best to social distance and wearing masks.
Airlines
American Airlines currently does not have any seat restrictions. When we boarded our flights, there were three people to a row. Luckily, our flights were not full, so once everyone barded, we were able to spread out and it was just my husband and myself in a row.
Delta Airlines is restricting all middle seats on all flights, which is only putting their flights at max 60% capacity.
Both American Airlines and Delta Airlines are not doing food/beverage services in the main cabin. When you board American Airlines, they hand you a baggie with water, snacks, and hand sanitizer wipes. When you board Delta Airlines, they hand you hand sanitizer wipes, and then when in the air, they walk around with baggies with water and snacks inside.
Biggest Changes to Domestic Air Travel Right Now
Restrictions on parking at airports.
Masks required in the airport and on planes.
Scan your own ticket at TSA.
Delta Airlines is restricting seating to no middle seats.
American Airlines flights were not full, so we were able to spread out.
Biggest Challenge
It’s always difficult to get from Colorado to the Caribbean. During normal times, most flights leave Denver at 1am. With the pandemic and way fewer flights happening, our biggest challenge was finding decent flight itineraries that got us to Antigua and home. This is why we ended up with an overnight in Miami on the way to Antigua and an overnight in Atlanta on the way home.
International Air Travel
Antigua was one of the first Caribbean islands to reopen for tourism after the pandemic shutdown. At first, they weren’t requiring negative COVID tests upon arrival, but now they are.
Biggest Changesto International Air Travel Right Now
Before boarding the plane, travelers must show a negative COVID test, passport, and Antigua entry form.
No food/beverage service. You receive a baggie when boarding with water, snacks, and hand wipes.
International Travel
Obviously, each country has its own new policies on reopening for tourism. Antigua was one of the first Caribbean islands to reopen after the pandemic shutdown and although they have made slight changes to policies along the way, the process has been going smoothly. It is wonderful to see these islands (safely) accepting tourism again to help the local economy.
For Antigua, they are now requiring negative COVID tests taken within 7 days of arriving. Also, they are reopening resorts in phases and each resort must pass a certification process to reopen. Land and water-based excursions are reopening in a phased approach similar to the resorts. You can go on excursions with approved vendors that have passed appropriate inspection, training, and certification y the Ministry of Health and Tourism Officials.
Biggest Changes to International Travel Right Now
Must show a negative COVID test upon arrival.
Fill out an additional entry form.
Temperature checks upon arrival to airport and resorts.
Masks required in all public places.
Overall Biggest Changes to Travel Right Now
There really isn’t much of a difference from what you are doing at home to stay safe than what you would do while traveling.
Where a mask.
Social distance.
Sanitize.
Wash hands.
Overall, we felt very safe traveling. Airports, airlines, customs, and resorts are going above and beyond to keep people safe and everything clean. I was very happy we were able to travel to Antigua for my birthday. It was great to celebrate a new milestone while supporting the locals during what has been an incredibly difficult year for a country that relies on tourism for income.
What have been your experiences traveling right now in 2020?
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There are endless possibilities for where to go for your honeymoon. If you’re not set on one destination, it can be hard to narrow it down all the options. Here are some of the current top honeymoon destinations around the world. Hopefully, it will help you envision the perfect destination for YOUR honeymoon!
Top honeymoon destinations around the world:
1. In the USA: Hawaii
If you don’t want to worry about a passport, Hawaii is a great honeymoon destination. Each island has something different to offer so whether you want adventure, relaxation, city life, or a mix of everything, you will find it in Hawaii. If you are budgeting your honeymoon to be one week, you can easily check out 2 of the main Hawaiian islands. If you’re looking to go to Maui, here are some great options for hotels, and here is a list of places to stop along the Road to Hana.
2. Wine & History Lovers: Italy
Whether you want to eat and drink your way through the Tuscan Countryside or bask in the history of architecture and art, you will fall in love with Italy. A country that is very easy to get around (hello trains) and many different city options, Italy is a great destination for a more active honeymoon. And since it is such a large country, it will be a great place to return to for future anniversaries.
3. Adventurous Couples: Costa Rica
Are you a couple that loves to constantly be moving and experiencing new things? Costa Rica is the perfect destination for thrill-seeking newlyweds. You can walk through the rainforest, zip-line through a cloud forest, hike a volcano, surf in the ocean, horseback ride on the beach, and so much more. There is no shortage of adventure in Costa Rica. Here are some hotels to choose from when heading to Costa Rica for your honeymoon.
4. Popular Right Now: Greece
One of the most requested honeymoon destinations I see right now is Greece. This country has it all from beautiful, historic buildings, to pristine white sandy beaches, to the best Mediterranean food, and of course the picturesque whitewashed villages. This is a great destination for a honeymoon between the months of May and October.
5. Beach Lovers: Antigua
It’s going to be hard to beat Antigua for beaches. Antigua has hundreds of beaches. They like to say they have 365, one for every day of the year. Still a little under-discovered, this destination is great for a quiet, romantic, beach honeymoon in the Caribbean.
6. All-Inclusive: Jamaica
Jamaica is a great island for honeymooners. There are a lot of all-inclusive resort options throughout the island. You can stay in Negril if you are a beach and sunset lover. Montego Bay is great for more of a city vibe. And Ocho Rios is ideal for adventure seekers. The people are nice, the food is great, and the island vibe is abundant. One Love!
7. Bucket List: Maldives
If you’re looking to go big for your honeymoon and check off a bucket list destination, head to the Maldives. Located just west of India, it is quite a trek to get here. But it is SO worth it! The overwater bungalows are abundant. There is no bluer water in this world. And the experience is one you will never forget. What a great way to start off a marriage!
Do you have questions on these honeymoon destinations? When you’re ready to see what it would look like for your honeymoon to be at one of these destinations, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I am here to help you plan and book your dream honeymoon!
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If you want an all-inclusive experience for your honeymoon, there are A LOT of options out there. But there are a few resorts that cater specifically towards honeymooners. You know you will be getting the extra special treatment when staying at these resorts for your honeymoon.
The best all-inclusive resorts for your honeymoon:
1. Sandals Resorts
Locations: Jamaica, Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, and Barbados
Sandals Resorts are 5-star luxury all-inclusive resorts located throughout the Caribbean. Currently, there are Sandals Resorts on Jamaica, Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, and Barbados. If you want the ultimate form of adults-only luxury for your honeymoon, head to Sandals. There are room options with exclusive butler service, your own private pool, overwater private bungalows, complimentary rides from the airport in luxury vehicles, unlimited premium liquors, unlimited land, and water sports, and so much more.
Locally owned and only found in Jamaica, Couples Resorts have a smaller, boutique, island vibe to them. There are four Couples Resorts. Couples Swept Away in Negril, Couples Negril in Negril, Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios, and Couples Sans Souci in Ocho Rios. These resorts include a lot in their all-inclusive price, like catamaran rides, glass-bottom boat tours, off-site excursions, as well as complimentary honeymoon packages, and more. If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate adults-only, all-inclusive resort feel, Couples is a great option.
One of my favorite resorts, UNICO 20*87 is a great resort for couples that like to do excursions and spa treatments. In other words, included in your all-inclusive experience at UNICO are certain excursions and spa treatments. You only have to pay a 25% service fee. In addition to this unique all-inclusive experience, the food is amazing, there is a Vacation with a Cause Program, and the onsite activities keep you as busy as you want on your honeymoon.
4. Secrets Resorts
Locations: Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America
Secrets Resorts are an adults-only resort brand that commits themselves to Unlimited-Luxury. As a result, they are found on some of the best-rated beaches in the world (like Maroma Beach in Mexico), have a variety of room options (like swim-up suites), and have great daily and nightly activities. These resorts are located in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Jamaica, St. Martin, and Spain.
5. Hard Rock All-Inclusive Resorts
Locations: Mexico and Dominican Republic
Hard Rock All-Inclusive Resorts are perfect for newlyweds that love music and want party vibe for their honeymoon. Similarly to UNICO 20*87, Hard Rock Resorts include spa and excursions in their all-inclusive price. You just pay a 25% service fee. Some Hard Rock Resorts have adults-only sections, but most are family-friendly resorts. Just keep that in mind!
Do you have questions on these resorts? When you’re ready to see what it would look like for your honeymoon to be at one of these destinations, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I am here to help you plan and book your dream honeymoon!
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As a travel advisor, I get a lot of answers about all-inclusive resorts. Each resort is unique, but there are quite a few questions that are general enough to apply to each one. I wanted to compile a resource for you to go to whenever you have a question about vacationing at an all-inclusive resort. For this blog, I am focusing on the traditional all-inclusive resorts located in Mexico and the Caribbean.
Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions about all-inclusive resorts.
Where are all-inclusive resorts located?
Traditional all-inclusive resorts are located in Mexico, Jamaica, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and a few other Caribbean islands. There are some traditional all-inclusive resorts sprinkled throughout the world, like where I went for my honeymoon in the Maldives, but most are found in Mexico and the Caribbean.
How do you choose a resort? How does one compare the different resorts?
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know which one would be a good fit for your vacation. This is where working with a travel advisor comes in handy. For example, I visit and tour all-inclusive resorts, build relationships with the staff, and take classes to learn about each resort. All of this helps me know which resorts to recommend to you, and which ones are best to avoid. You can try and compare resorts online, but photos can be deceiving. It’s best to consult with people who have actually visited these resorts and have first-hand experience.
Are all-inclusive resorts worth it?
Like most things in life, this isn’t a simple yes or no answer. It all depends on the type of vacation you are looking for. I go into great detail on this question here. Check this blog out and if you still are wondering if an all-inclusive resort is the right choice for your next vacation, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com, and I can help answer your questions.
What is included at an all-inclusive resort?
For the most part, all food, drinks, non-motorized water sports, onsite activities, and accommodations are included at an all-inclusive resort. The type of quality of these inclusions depends on the resort.
Room service is sometimes included. Some resorts, like Sandals Resorts, only allow room service for certain room categories. If this is important to you, make sure to check with the resort or your travel advisor prior to booking.
What is not included at an all-inclusive resort?
Most of the time spa treatments, excursions off-site, motorized water sports, specialty services like a private dinner on the beach, and airport transfers are not included in the price of your stay at an all-inclusive resort.
Is alcohol included at all-inclusive resorts? If so, is there a limit on how much you can drink?
Yes, alcohol is included at all-inclusive resorts. Some resorts include top-shelf liquor in their all-inclusive price, and some you have to be in a preferred status room to get top-shelf liquor or pay an additional cost. There aren’t limits on how much you can drink, but the staff definitely have the ability to cut off anyone who is over drinking.
How do they deal with dietary restrictions?
Many resorts are very conscious of dietary restrictions. For the resorts I have visited, the staff will ask you about any dietary restrictions while seating you for your meal. When it is a buffet style situation, they often have signs sharing what is in each food item. If you have any concerns, just make sure to ask!
Do you have to tip?
That is completely up to you. I personally always bring about $50-$100 per trip for tipping for exemplary service. I recommend tipping $5 for transfer drivers, $1-$3 per bag for bellmen, $1 per drink for the bartender, and $1-$3 per person at a meal. If you do get a butler, it is recommended to tip. You can tip each day, or do one large tip at the end of your stay. If you tip at the end of your stay, I recommend tipping $20-$30 per person.
Some resorts have tipping included in the price. For example, Sandals Resorts do not allow you to tip, unless you have a butler. The staff that accept tips at these resorts can actually get fired. Another resort brand that does not allow tipping is Couples Resorts, located throughout Jamaica.
Are there adults-only all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, there are all-inclusive resorts that are adults-only. These are perfect for travelers that need a break from the kids at home, honeymooners, couples getaway, groups like Bachelorette parties, and adults celebrating big milestones, like birthdays. Here are some of the best resorts for an adults-only vacation.
What are good all-inclusive resorts for families?
Some of my favorite all-inclusive family resorts are Grand Velas Resorts, Dreams Resorts, Hyatt Ziva Resorts, and Beaches Resorts. These resorts provide a great variety of entertainment for family members of all ages. I think it is important for resorts to have plenty of variety from food options to beach activities to pools and nightly entertainment in order to make a family vacation memorable for everyone.
Is there a list of onsite activities to choose from or do you plan those yourself?
Yes! Each resort shares their daily onsite activities. Some resorts have an app that they update daily. Others will print out a daily list of onsite activities. These activities can range from morning group fitness classes to afternoon tequila tasting, to evening live music.
If you don’t want to participate in planned, group activities, you can always use the non-motorized water sports at your leisure, hit the gym for a workout, or play games like ping pong that can normally be found around the resort.
How can I support the local economy besides the resort?
Go on an excursion or take a tour off the resort! There are plenty of quality local tour guides that you can book an excursion with. If you need help finding a reputable company to book an excursion with, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.
Some resorts, like UNICO 20*87, provide easy ways for guests to help support the local economy. UNICO 20*87 has a program called Vacation for a Cause. It is a very simple volunteer program. They provide a list of needed items on their website and all you have to do is bring those items to UNICO when you visit. The staff then brings the donations to local non-profit organizations in their community. Before heading to your resort, check to see if they have any programs like this that you can participate in.
What are some good tips to know when vacationing at an all-inclusive resort?
Bring cash for tips
Bring a reusable tumbler One of the best tips I have for vacationing at an all-inclusive resort is to bring your own insulated tumbler for drinks. This helps keep your drink cold at the pool all day long and cuts down on the number of trips to the bar.
Clothes & reservations for restaurants Some restaurants have a dress code and require reservations. Make sure to check on this before arriving at the resort.
Sunscreen Some resorts provide sunscreen, but most do not. Don’t forget to pack your own because purchasing sunscreen the onsite gift shop can get very pricey.
Book excursions & activities on-site or with your travel agent before You can book off-site excursions right at your resort. If you know exactly what you want to do on vacation, ask your travel agent to book the excursions for you beforehand.
No need to bring a beach towel There is no need to waste space in your luggage with a beach towel. The resorts provide them for you.
Activities schedule If you don’t get a schedule of onsite activities when you check-in, make sure to ask for one! You want to make sure to take advantage of everything the resort has to offer while on vacation.
Just ask If you forgot something, need something, or have a question, just ask! The staff at all-inclusive resorts want to help provide the best experience possible and will often go out of their way to help.
Need help booking your next vacation? Fill out this questionnaire, and I will contact you shortly!
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This 8-day Lowcountry Road Trip has you experiencing the beautiful scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture of the South. You will get a chance to see Atlanta, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic site. Explore historic Charleston, including the famous Boone Hall Plantations & Gardens. Stop for a horse-drawn carriage ride through Beaufort. Visit the American Prohibition Museum with a drink in the speakeasy and sightsee by trolley through Savannah. And take a guided trolley sightseeing tour through Jekyll Island.
The trip has you starting in Atlanta, but if you are traveling to this part of the country, I recommend just flying into Charleston or Jacksonville, Florida to start if you don’t want to do a ton of driving. Both airports are pretty easy to find flights to. Do this road trip outside of the summer season if you want a break from the hot summer heat.
Here is a day-by-day guide of the best Lowcountry Road Trip.
Head towards Charleson with a stop at South Carolina’s Capital, Columbia. Take a tour of the State House. Make your way to Charleston for the evening where you can stroll the historic district, sample fresh seafood, or take a ghost tour to learn about Charleston’s past.
Day 4: Charleston
In the morning, take a tour of one of the most photographed plantations in the USA, Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens. Spend the rest of your day exploring Charleston, like the City Market, take a scenic cruise of Charleston Harbor, or eat your way through many delicious southern cuisines.
Day 5: Charleston → Beaufort → Savannah
Make your way to Beaufort for a horse-drawn carriage guided tour of the town through narrow, oak-lined streets past the former homes of wealthy cotton growers. In the afternoon, head to Savannah to tour the American Prohibition Museum and sip a cocktail in the speakeasy.
Day 6: Savannah
In the morning, enjoy a trolley tour of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the city on your own. Stroll through Forsyth Park, visit the Telfair Museum of Art, or shop along Broughton Street. For more details on a longer stay in Savannah and more tips on what to do during your free time in Savannah, click here.
Day 7: Savannah
Today you get to visit Jekyll Island. Take a trolley tour of the Club Historic District where you will get to see a cluster of 19th-century mansions. In the afternoon, visit nearby St. Simon’s Island, home to beautiful beaches and charming communities.
Lowcountry Road Trip Day 8: Savannah → Atlanta
Travel back to Atlanta. Depart for home.
Is exploring Georgia and South Carolina on your USA travel bucket list?
When you’re ready to start planning your own customized Lowcountry Road Trip, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help with all the details!
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This blog post includes affiliate links for travel books – which means I earn a small commission if you use purchase through them. It doesn’t change the price on your end, but rewards me for sharing with you!
I love to read. I think it boils down to my love for travel. Both reading and travel bring me to a different place. I get to experience a different life, a different story when reading and traveling. So when I am not traveling and find a good book that combines a good story with travel, I am in my happy place. Since we can’t be traveling right now, it is the perfect time to dig into a lot of good travel books. I put together a list of seven travel books you should read, but I’d love to add more to my list. Let me know what travel books you love to read in the comments.
Here are the best travel books to read during the COVID-19 isolation!
This may be one of my favorite travel books. It’s definitely a feel-good book about the power of travel and giving. A couple decides to pack up and sell all their belongings and go travel the world. Before they leave, a neighbor gives them a yellow envelope with money inside. Their instructions are to give the money away to those they encounter on their journey. The story is about learning money isn’t always the most important thing you can give another person. The Yellow Envelope is a story about how travel stretches and pushes a person and the power of giving more than just money. It will definitely give you a different perspective on the world and those around you the next time you travel.
Ok, this is my second favorite travel book. Instead of the normal self-help and research books out there, this one is written by a journalist. Eric Weiner takes on a different perspective when searching for what makes someone happy. He travels through many different countries, that are all on different parts of the happiness scale. It’s interesting to see what makes people happy in Iceland is completely different than what makes people happy in Switzerland. Is there really a “right” answer to finding happiness? This book makes me want to go on my own journey around the world of finding out what makes each country’s people happy!
This one is darker and a heavier read than the first two I recommended. It is based on a true story of a woman’s experience being captured and held hostage in Somalia for 460 days. It is amazing to read of this woman’s true experience and what helped her get through an incredibly horrific experience.
You have probably heard of this book and/or seen the movie created based on the novel, Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. I actually read the book and then watched the movie on the plane ride to Italy! This book is a memoir of the author’s trip to Italy, India, and Indonesia after her divorce. Travel is an incredible gift that can help anyone going through a difficult time or change in their life. Read this story to see the journey Elizabeth Gilbert goes on while searching for her own true happiness. It will also probably make you want to go visit at least one of the three countries she visits throughout the book!
This is another book that has been turned into a movie and another book about going on a personal journey after great loss. Wild is a memoir about Chery Strayed’s journey of losing her mother, then her marriage and family and going on a trek on the Pacific Crest Trail to heal. It’s a pretty good book filled with suspense, sorrow, and laughter and makes you feel like anything is possible. After reading this book, you will feel like you can overcome any obstacles thrown your way
I haven’t read this book yet, but I have heard so many good things about it that I had to add it to my list. This is a story about three girls coming up on their 30th birthday and decide to leave everything to travel the world for a year. They travel to four continents and push themselves out of their comfort zone in hopes of finding inspiration and direction. Traveling and exploring the world with some best friends sounds like an amazing book to me. I can’t wait to read it!
When we can’t physically be traveling, books are a great way to be taken to a new place and a new world. What books have you read that inspires you to travel or visit a new place? I’m always looking for new books to add to my list.
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There are many reasons to want to get away to an adults-only resort. For example, you need a break from your kids, you are going on your honeymoon, it’s your bachelorette party, or you’re celebrating your 30th birthday with all your friends to name just a few reasons. No matter the reason, there are plenty of adults-only resorts to choose from for your trip. However, deciding which resort will be the perfect fit for your next vacation is the tough part. I rounded up five of the best adults-only resorts to help you decide which one would be best for your next adults-only vacation.
Here are my recommendations for the best resorts for your next adults-only vacation.
Ideal for: Honeymoons, anniversary trips, and private, romantic, relaxation vacations
Hammock Cove Antigua is a brand-new luxury boutique resort with only 42 private villas, all with private infinity pools. If you’re looking for true top-shelf liquor, gourmet dining, and a romantic place to reconnect with your loved one, this resort is perfect. The rooms were so nice I never wanted to leave! Click here for full details on what it is like to have an adults-only vacation at Hammock Cove.
Le Blanc Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
Located: Cancun and Los Cabos, Mexico
Ideal for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and girl’s trips
Do you want to be treated like royalty while on vacation? Head to one of the two Le Blanc Resorts, one in Los Cabos and one in Cancun. One great benefit to this resort brand is the butlers. They are available to help you unpack or pack, draw you a relaxing bath, iron, make dining reservations, and so much more.
In addition to being waited on hand and foot, Le Blanc has top-quality food all day long, 24-hour room service, gorgeous accommodations, and some incredible infinity pools. When you’re ready to vacation in luxury, Le Blanc will be waiting!
Sanctuary Cap Cana
Located: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Ideal for: Honeymooners, couples, and luxury travelers
Sanctuary Cap Cana is located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Cap Cana is a double-gated community for extra security and has some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic. This is a really unique resort, where you can stay in a castle! Each suite and villa is designed around Spanish Colonial architecture, and some room categories include a butler.
Along with delicious food at the resort, you also have a chance to dine and shop at Sanctuary Town. This is a group of 9 shops, restaurants, and bars right across the street, each with unique decor and ambiance.
Couples Resorts
Located: Negril and Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Ideal for: Honeymooners, elopements, anniversaries, and romantic getaways
Couples Resorts are located in Jamaica. There are currently four of them, Couples Negril and Couples Swept Away located in Negril and Couples Sans Souci and Couples Tower Isle located in Ocho Rios. The Couples brand is locally owned therefore has a true authentic Jamaican, island vibe. These resorts are ideal for honeymooners, anniversaries, elopements, and romantic vacations.
One great benefit to staying at a Couples Resort is all the inclusions. A lot of all-inclusive resorts charge extra for excursions and additional activities, but not Couples. They include a lot of extras. Along with 24-hour dining, unlimited premium bar selection, in-room dining, and nightly entertainment like beach bonfires, piano bar, and reggae dance classes, depending on which resort you stay at, these extras are also included:
PADI- Certified scuba dives
Kayaking
Paddleboards
Snorkeling
Glass bottom boat rides
Kneeboarding
Waterskiing and wakeboarding
Windsurfing
Sailing
Unlimited golf, including green fees and transfers
Complimentary off-site excursions
Shopping shuttle
Trip to Margaritaville
Catamaran Cruise
Dunns River Falls
Trip to popular sunset bar
Transportation to and from the Montego Bay Airport
If you’re a couple that likes to stay active and have a lot of options on your trip in addition to romance, Couples Resorts are a really great option adults-only vacation option.
Located: Jamaica, Bahamas, Antigua, Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia
Ideal for: Destination weddings, honeymooners, and romantic getaways
For couples looking for the ultimate luxury all-inclusive experience, Sandals is your go-to. The levels of luxury at these resorts are unparalleled to others. For example, you can stay in ultimate luxury suites like the over-water bungalows, millionaire suites, skypool butler suites, and private plunge pool suites. Or what about having your own personal butler service throughout your stay? In addition to some of these luxury experiences, With some room categories at Sandals, you will be escorted from the airport to your resort in a private BMW luxury transfer. And so much more.
Sandals Resorts also include a lot in their all-inclusive experience:
5-Star gourmet dining
Unlimited premium liquors
Stocked bars in every room
Padi-Certified scuba diving
Snorkeling trips
Private off-shore islands
Green fees
Motorized water sports
Kayaks
Paddleboards
Roundtrip airport transfers
All tips, taxes, and gratuities
With locations throughout the Caribbean, Sandals is the ideal luxury romantic getaway for couples. Click here for an overview of Sandals Grande Antigua.
Ideal for: Bachelorette parties, girl’s getaways, honeymooners, and group trips
If you know me, you know I LOVE UNICO 20*87. This is an adults-only resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico with a sophisticated, luxury feel. It is perfect for a girl’s getaway, honeymoons, and group trips. Click here to read more about my personal experience staying at this resort.
UNICO 20*87 is a luxury resort with locally-inspired decor, cocktails, cuisines, art, and activities. There are three pools throughout the resort to provide whatever experience you’re hoping for in the moment, from quiet serenity, to active and fun.
UNICO 20*87 is a perfect resort for your next adults-only vacation, whether it be with your girlfriends, significant other, or a big group!
Secrets Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
Located: Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Costa Rica, St. Martin, Aruba, Spain
Ideal for: Honeymooners, anniversaries, romantic getaways, and group trip
Secrets Resorts are ideal for romance. This is a great resort to consider when looking for a vacation with your significant other. Secrets Resorts pride themselves on romance and sensuality amid luxury beachfront settings. They can be found all over Mexico and the Caribbean and now in Central America and Spain.
Secrets Resorts focus on the Unlimited-Luxury experience, which includes:
Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required
Unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits
Unlimited natural fruit juices and soft drinks
24-hour room and concierge services
Pool and beach wait service
Daily refreshed mini-bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer
Daily maid service
Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment
Theme parties, oceanfront bars, and entertainment venues
No wristbands required
All taxes and gratuities
Enjoy free Wi-Fi. The mobile app also allows guests to view the schedules of all events, activities, and restaurants at the resort.
For any couple looking for a romantic getaway, like a honeymoon, anniversary or to escape the kids, Secrets Resorts would be a great option.
Breathless Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
Located: Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica
Ideal for: Celebrations, Bachelorette and Bachelor parties, solo travelers, and group trips
If you’re looking for a party atmosphere with plenty of daytime and nighttime entertainment, a Breathless Resort is the ideal destination. Currently, there are four Breathless Resorts. They are located in Cabo San Lucas and Riviera Maya, Mexico, Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Above all, these resorts are focused on a social, club-like atmosphere. You can count on a live DJ at the pool every day and themed events throughout your stay. A lot of the restaurants include communal tables to enhance the social experience. Also, when celebrating a milestone, they have special packages for Bachelorette, Bachelor, Divorce, and Birthday Parties.
Breathless Resorts focus on their Unlimited-Luxury experience that includes:
Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required
Unlimited international and domestic beverages and top-shelf spirits
Unlimited natural fruit juices, soft drinks, and beverages
24-hour room and concierge services
Pool and beach wait service
Daily refreshed mini-bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer
Daily maid service
Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment
Theme weekly and monthly parties, oceanfront bars and entertainment venues
No wristbands required
All taxes and gratuities included
Enjoy free Wi-Fi and free international calling. The mobile app also allows guests to view the schedules of all events, activities, and restaurants at the resort.
Located on pristine beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Punta Cana, Montego Bay, and Riviera Maya, Breathless Resorts are an ideal destination for adults that want to party on their tropical vacation.
Which resort are you going to pick for your next adults-only vacation? When you’re ready to look into your next trip, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for expert help in planning and booking your ideal adults-only vacation.
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Well, this one has been a doozy I don’t think any of us saw coming in 2020! Coronavirus, you may win for now, but THIS TOO SHALL PASS! Some people have chosen or been forced to reschedule or cancel their travel plans for the next few weeks. Don’t worry! In the meantime, I have put together a list of travel ideas for you to enjoy while stuck at home until you can get out there and explore again!
Here are ways to enjoy travel from home while waiting out the coronavirus.
Make Photo Books of Your Past Travels
I can’t be the only one who has all my photos of past vacations just sitting on my computer?! Now would be a great time to actually do something with those vacation photos. Find a photo book company where you can upload your travel photos and either have them automatically made into a photo book or if you are feeling a bit more creative, you can organize them yourself into a photo book. Then have them printed and in a week or two, you will have all your vacation photos physically printed out. These also make for great coffee table books. Some of my favorite photo book companies are Mixbook*, Artifact Uprising*, Chatbooks, and Blurb.
Check Out Pinterest and Think About Where You Want to Travel Next
One of the best sources of travel planning and travel dreaming is Pinterest. You can find just about anything you need on there and it’s visually pleasing. Make your own boards and pin inspirations for the trip you want to take next. You could make a board for US destinations, a road trip around New Zeland, honeymoon dream destinations, or bucket list trips. The options are endless! I’ve gathered quite an array of travel inspiration on my Pinterest page. Click here to follow me and browse my Pinterest boards.
Prepare for Future Vacations by Purchasing Travel Insurance
I always recommend purchasing travel insurance for your vacation, but especially now. You just never know what is going to happen where you will need help protecting your vacation investment. You could have a death in the family, you could go to the ER the night before your vacation, you could lose all your luggage, or coronavirus could spread throughout the world causing mass panic and trave cancellations.
The travel insurance I recommend to my travel clients is Allianz’s Cancel for Any Reason policy. If you have to cancel your trip for an uncovered reason (like the fear of traveling during the spread of coronavirus), you will at least get 80% of your trip investment back. From what I have been hearing, most other travel insurances aren’t covering anything for coronavirus.
Contact me at hello@thekeystotravel.com to get a travel quote for your next vacation and to ask your travel insurance questions. I will help as best as I can!
Learn a New Language
Now is a great time to brush up on that language you learned in high school or learn a completely new language! If you have plans to travel to Mexico or Germany at the end of this year, for example, it would be a great time to learn a few key phrases to use while traveling. One of my favorite language apps is Duolingo. It is free (there is also a paid version) and makes learning a new language fun, like playing a game!
Online Shop to Prepare for Your Upcoming Trip
If you have a trip coming up later this year, now would be a great time to (online) shop for new travel clothes and accessories!
One of my favorite travel accessories is the travel scarf from Waypoint Goods*. These travel scarfs have a secure pocket where you can keep your phone, passport, money, and credit cards while you travel. It is a perfect accessory for destinations like Europe, so you don’t have to hang on to a purse.
*affiliate links – which means I earn a small commission if you use it. It doesn’t change the price on your end, but rewards me for sharing with you!
What are some of your favorite travel-themed clothing items and accessories you are looking to purchase for upcoming vacations?
Virtually Visit a Museum
Do you love visiting new museums? Google Arts & Culture teamed up with over 500 museums and galleries around the world to provide virtual tours and online exhibits that you can view right from your home. Some of these museums include the Guggenheim in New York City, National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, and art in The White House.
Click here to browse through these virtual museums all over the world. Which one are you interested in seeing?
Road Trip to a National Park
Make sure to go outside and get fresh air and sunshine while waiting for all this madness to blow over! Fresh air and exercise helps you stay healthy, mentally and physically. Turn this time into an excuse to take a quick road trip to a US National Park near home. Currently, there are 62 national parks in the US. A lot of them are located in the West, so if you aren’t nearby a National Park, go find a local park to explore!
What is your favorite National Park? I think mine is Olympic National Park in Washington. You get the best of both worlds, beach + jungle and hiking.
What do you plan on doing while waiting out the coronavirus? Will you be looking to enjoy travel from home?
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In Central and Eastern Europe, you’ll find some of the most spectacular landscapes, architecture—castles, churches and war memorials—as well as some of the most colorful, inviting cultures in the world. But what’s the best way to see it all? A river cruise (like AmaWaterways) down the Danube River, of course!
Here are 7 countries you could get to explore on a Danube River cruise.
Germany
The journey begins with a guided tour through the beautiful medieval city of Nuremberg where you’ll see the Imperial Castle, the famous town wall and the legendary fountain of the Market Square. For history buffs, there’s a guided tour of the city’s most significant WWII sites, including the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the Nuremberg Trials Memoriam and Courtroom 600 (if the courtroom is not in session).
Next, you can savor traditional Franconian specialties including Nuremburger bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). While en route to the next destination, Regensburg, you’ll cruise through the man-made Main-Danube Canal.
At Regensburg, you’ll be treated to a guided walking tour through one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. While in Regensburg, you’ll see all the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. And if all that walking makes you hungry, there’s the old Bavarian specialties to satisfy you—beer, sausage, and pretzels.
Next, take a bike tour to Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.
The journey continues as you cruise to lower Bavaria’s city of Passau, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour along cobblestone streets and see Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral. If you’re looking to work in a little exercise, choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress.
Austria
Continuing down the Danube on your river cruise, you’ll next stop at the scenic town of Melk, which is celebrated for its magnificent Benedictine Abbey. The abbey contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg, Austria’s first ruling dynasty.If you’d like something more active to do, you can join a guided bike tour that takes you through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley; or go on a walking tour along Dürnstein’s cobblestone streets to the famed Baroque church tower, Stiftskirche. Later in the day, set sail through the vineyard rich Wachau Valley.
No trip to Austria would be complete without a stop in Vienna, “The City of Waltzes.” Vienna is a treasure trove and your tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride to Klosterneuburg Monastery.
Hungary
The city of Budapest is known as the Queen of the Danube. Your tour begins with a visit to the Great Market Hall. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. Alternatively, hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city. Cap the day off with an illumination cruise.
Continue your trek through Hungary with a pitstop in Puszta. Known as the Great Hungarian Plain, tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by world-champion carriage-drivers. Afterward, be treated to an unforgettable performance of horsemanship and then experience the Hungarians’ warm hospitality, along with a traditional lunch complete with authentic goulash.
From Puszta, set sail to Mohács. Here you’ll enjoy a scenic morning cruise past a town sprinkled with magnificent churches, including the 18th-century Baroque Protestant church, the Roman Catholic church (1776), the Serbian Greek Orthodox church, the votive church (1926), and the Avas church with its bell tower.
Next, you’ll cruise to Pécs, a city founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. In Pécs, you’ll find a city filled with historic architecture including the Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. For wine connoisseurs, there’s the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary. Szekszárd was established more than 2,000 years ago.
Croatia
The beautiful Baroque Croatian city of Vukovar is situated at the banks of the Vuka and Danube Rivers in the region of Srijem/Syrmia. Known as the “hero town” for the valor of brave Croatian civilians and volunteers during the 1991 war with Serbia, your city tour will include important war landmarks such as Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Castle. Or, you can opt to go wine tasting in Ilok. Ilok has been a center of wine production since Roman times. Here you’ll sample its famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. Back on board, cruise to Novi Sad, sometimes called the “Serbian Athens.” Discover Novi Sad on a walking tour to Dunavski Park and through Stari Grad, the Old Town center. If you prefer a more active exploration, join a guided biking or hiking tour. During the evening, visit Petrovaradin Fortress.
Serbia
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour that includes the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Later, choose from three intriguing excursions. Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Serbian Royal Family; and then tour the House of Flowers, the mausoleum of Marshal Tito, who became the first President of Yugoslavia. Or enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, Šlivovitz, and delicious local delights at the Quburich Distillery. For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour.
Romania
Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising as you pass through the Iron Gates, one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. At the Iron Gates, the Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.
Bulgaria
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. As you continue on to Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, you can hike around its most spectacular rock formations. Or, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle.
Finally, you will visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture. Afterward, visit the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings.
Which of these 7 countries along the Danube River would you be most excited to explore? If you would like to join us on a Danube River Cruise, our European Christmas Market River Cruise is taking place in December 2021. Read more information here. We would love for you to join us!
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Most Popular Group Trip Themes to Experience in 2021
/in Group Vacation2020 was a tough year. There’s no denying that. On the bright side, a new year is right around the corner. 2021 is going to be the year to thrive and reconnect with loved ones and friends. It will be the time to make up for those celebrations, milestones, and get-togethers that were all put on hold.
Here are the most popular group trip themes that you should experience in 2021.
#1 Group Trip Theme – Wellness Retreats
After a year like 2020, we all deserve a getaway to recharge, relax, and return to positivity. Wellness Retreats are the key vacation in 2021. Wellness retreats range in focus from health, fitness, or mindfulness. Some great destinations for wellness retreats are Costa Rica, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Hawaii.
#2 – Family Reunions
Remember all the good times you used to have with your family? Well, it’s time to make new memories! 2021 is a great year to reconnect and catch up with family on vacation. Some great vacation options for family reunions are river cruises, wine tours, all-inclusive resorts, and safaris.
#3 – Friends Getaway
Similar to your family, did you have to take a break from seeing close friends during quarantine? 2021 will be the time to splurge a little and travel to reconnect with all your friends. All-inclusive resorts are great for friends getaways because everything is included!
#4 – Birthday Celebrations
Did you celebrate a big milestone in 2020, like a 30th birthday? It may have looked a lot different than you were hoping. Don’t let that big milestone pass you by without celebrating. 2021 will be the year to make up for any missed birthday celebrations. Breathless Resorts are great for birthday celebrations with their ‘Birthday Bash’ package.
#5 Group Trip Theme – Destination Weddings
The number of weddings put on hold in 2020 due to COVID19 was enormous. Make the rescheduling a little easier on yourself by switching to a destination wedding. Your travel agent and wedding coordinator will take care of most of the work for you, so you just have to focus on enjoying FINALLY getting married! Mexico and the Caribbean have a lot of resorts that work well with destination wedding couples.
Which group trip theme do you want to experience in 2021?
What It’s Like To Travel Right Now In 2020
/in Travel TipsWhat’s it like to travel during a pandemic? Well, I decided to find out! At the end of July 2020, my husband and I traveled from Colorado to Antigua to celebrate my birthday and see what it’s like to travel right now in 2020. This was our first time traveling since February before the pandemic hit. Although quite a few policies and protocols have changed, traveling right now wasn’t as drastically different as I thought it would be.
Here is an overview of what it’s like to travel right now (summer 2020).
**Note- Policies are continually changing, so if you have questions about travel when you’re reading this, please reach out and I’ll be happy to share what I know.**
Domestic Air Travel
At the start and end of our trip, we flew domestic flights, so we were able to see what it is like to travel right now domestically. From Colorado to Antigua, we flew on American Airlines with a 23-hour layover in Miami. From Antigua back to Colorado, we flew Delta Airlines with an overnight in Atlanta.
Parking
When flying, we normally park our car in long-term parking at the airport. A few days before our trip, I realized that most of Denver International Airport’s parking lots are shut down due to social distancing issues on shuttles from the parking lots to the airport. We ended up riding Lyft to the airport instead. All Lyft drivers and passengers are now required to wear masks and most Lyft drivers now have partitions between the front seat and the back seat to protect everyone.
Airports
The airports were not as busy as normal, but busier than I anticipated. We flew through Denver, Atlanta, and Miami, which are normally some of the busiest airports. There weren’t many lines at all. Most restaurants were not open. If they were, they spaced out the tables and chairs to make for social distancing. Throughout the airports, everyone was doing their best to social distance and wearing masks.
Airlines
American Airlines currently does not have any seat restrictions. When we boarded our flights, there were three people to a row. Luckily, our flights were not full, so once everyone barded, we were able to spread out and it was just my husband and myself in a row.
Delta Airlines is restricting all middle seats on all flights, which is only putting their flights at max 60% capacity.
Both American Airlines and Delta Airlines are not doing food/beverage services in the main cabin. When you board American Airlines, they hand you a baggie with water, snacks, and hand sanitizer wipes. When you board Delta Airlines, they hand you hand sanitizer wipes, and then when in the air, they walk around with baggies with water and snacks inside.
Biggest Changes to Domestic Air Travel Right Now
Biggest Challenge
It’s always difficult to get from Colorado to the Caribbean. During normal times, most flights leave Denver at 1am. With the pandemic and way fewer flights happening, our biggest challenge was finding decent flight itineraries that got us to Antigua and home. This is why we ended up with an overnight in Miami on the way to Antigua and an overnight in Atlanta on the way home.
International Air Travel
Antigua was one of the first Caribbean islands to reopen for tourism after the pandemic shutdown. At first, they weren’t requiring negative COVID tests upon arrival, but now they are.
Biggest Changes to International Air Travel Right Now
International Travel
Obviously, each country has its own new policies on reopening for tourism. Antigua was one of the first Caribbean islands to reopen after the pandemic shutdown and although they have made slight changes to policies along the way, the process has been going smoothly. It is wonderful to see these islands (safely) accepting tourism again to help the local economy.
For Antigua, they are now requiring negative COVID tests taken within 7 days of arriving. Also, they are reopening resorts in phases and each resort must pass a certification process to reopen. Land and water-based excursions are reopening in a phased approach similar to the resorts. You can go on excursions with approved vendors that have passed appropriate inspection, training, and certification y the Ministry of Health and Tourism Officials.
Biggest Changes to International Travel Right Now
Overall Biggest Changes to Travel Right Now
There really isn’t much of a difference from what you are doing at home to stay safe than what you would do while traveling.
Overall, we felt very safe traveling. Airports, airlines, customs, and resorts are going above and beyond to keep people safe and everything clean. I was very happy we were able to travel to Antigua for my birthday. It was great to celebrate a new milestone while supporting the locals during what has been an incredibly difficult year for a country that relies on tourism for income.
What have been your experiences traveling right now in 2020?
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Top Honeymoon Destinations Around the World
/in HoneymoonThere are endless possibilities for where to go for your honeymoon. If you’re not set on one destination, it can be hard to narrow it down all the options. Here are some of the current top honeymoon destinations around the world. Hopefully, it will help you envision the perfect destination for YOUR honeymoon!
Top honeymoon destinations around the world:
1. In the USA: Hawaii
If you don’t want to worry about a passport, Hawaii is a great honeymoon destination. Each island has something different to offer so whether you want adventure, relaxation, city life, or a mix of everything, you will find it in Hawaii. If you are budgeting your honeymoon to be one week, you can easily check out 2 of the main Hawaiian islands. If you’re looking to go to Maui, here are some great options for hotels, and here is a list of places to stop along the Road to Hana.
2. Wine & History Lovers: Italy
Whether you want to eat and drink your way through the Tuscan Countryside or bask in the history of architecture and art, you will fall in love with Italy. A country that is very easy to get around (hello trains) and many different city options, Italy is a great destination for a more active honeymoon. And since it is such a large country, it will be a great place to return to for future anniversaries.
3. Adventurous Couples: Costa Rica
Are you a couple that loves to constantly be moving and experiencing new things? Costa Rica is the perfect destination for thrill-seeking newlyweds. You can walk through the rainforest, zip-line through a cloud forest, hike a volcano, surf in the ocean, horseback ride on the beach, and so much more. There is no shortage of adventure in Costa Rica. Here are some hotels to choose from when heading to Costa Rica for your honeymoon.
4. Popular Right Now: Greece
One of the most requested honeymoon destinations I see right now is Greece. This country has it all from beautiful, historic buildings, to pristine white sandy beaches, to the best Mediterranean food, and of course the picturesque whitewashed villages. This is a great destination for a honeymoon between the months of May and October.
5. Beach Lovers: Antigua
It’s going to be hard to beat Antigua for beaches. Antigua has hundreds of beaches. They like to say they have 365, one for every day of the year. Still a little under-discovered, this destination is great for a quiet, romantic, beach honeymoon in the Caribbean.
6. All-Inclusive: Jamaica
Jamaica is a great island for honeymooners. There are a lot of all-inclusive resort options throughout the island. You can stay in Negril if you are a beach and sunset lover. Montego Bay is great for more of a city vibe. And Ocho Rios is ideal for adventure seekers. The people are nice, the food is great, and the island vibe is abundant. One Love!
7. Bucket List: Maldives
If you’re looking to go big for your honeymoon and check off a bucket list destination, head to the Maldives. Located just west of India, it is quite a trek to get here. But it is SO worth it! The overwater bungalows are abundant. There is no bluer water in this world. And the experience is one you will never forget. What a great way to start off a marriage!
Do you have questions on these honeymoon destinations? When you’re ready to see what it would look like for your honeymoon to be at one of these destinations, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I am here to help you plan and book your dream honeymoon!
Top All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Honeymoon
/in Honeymoon, HotelsIf you want an all-inclusive experience for your honeymoon, there are A LOT of options out there. But there are a few resorts that cater specifically towards honeymooners. You know you will be getting the extra special treatment when staying at these resorts for your honeymoon.
The best all-inclusive resorts for your honeymoon:
1. Sandals Resorts
Locations: Jamaica, Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, and Barbados
Sandals Resorts are 5-star luxury all-inclusive resorts located throughout the Caribbean. Currently, there are Sandals Resorts on Jamaica, Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, and Barbados. If you want the ultimate form of adults-only luxury for your honeymoon, head to Sandals. There are room options with exclusive butler service, your own private pool, overwater private bungalows, complimentary rides from the airport in luxury vehicles, unlimited premium liquors, unlimited land, and water sports, and so much more.
2. Couples Resorts
Locations: Negril, Jamaica anad Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Locally owned and only found in Jamaica, Couples Resorts have a smaller, boutique, island vibe to them. There are four Couples Resorts. Couples Swept Away in Negril, Couples Negril in Negril, Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios, and Couples Sans Souci in Ocho Rios. These resorts include a lot in their all-inclusive price, like catamaran rides, glass-bottom boat tours, off-site excursions, as well as complimentary honeymoon packages, and more. If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate adults-only, all-inclusive resort feel, Couples is a great option.
3. UNICO 20*87
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
One of my favorite resorts, UNICO 20*87 is a great resort for couples that like to do excursions and spa treatments. In other words, included in your all-inclusive experience at UNICO are certain excursions and spa treatments. You only have to pay a 25% service fee. In addition to this unique all-inclusive experience, the food is amazing, there is a Vacation with a Cause Program, and the onsite activities keep you as busy as you want on your honeymoon.
4. Secrets Resorts
Locations: Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America
Secrets Resorts are an adults-only resort brand that commits themselves to Unlimited-Luxury. As a result, they are found on some of the best-rated beaches in the world (like Maroma Beach in Mexico), have a variety of room options (like swim-up suites), and have great daily and nightly activities. These resorts are located in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Jamaica, St. Martin, and Spain.
5. Hard Rock All-Inclusive Resorts
Locations: Mexico and Dominican Republic
Hard Rock All-Inclusive Resorts are perfect for newlyweds that love music and want party vibe for their honeymoon. Similarly to UNICO 20*87, Hard Rock Resorts include spa and excursions in their all-inclusive price. You just pay a 25% service fee. Some Hard Rock Resorts have adults-only sections, but most are family-friendly resorts. Just keep that in mind!
Do you have questions on these resorts? When you’re ready to see what it would look like for your honeymoon to be at one of these destinations, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I am here to help you plan and book your dream honeymoon!
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Everything You Need to Know for Your First Trip to an All-Inclusive Resort
/in Hotels, Travel TipsAs a travel advisor, I get a lot of answers about all-inclusive resorts. Each resort is unique, but there are quite a few questions that are general enough to apply to each one. I wanted to compile a resource for you to go to whenever you have a question about vacationing at an all-inclusive resort. For this blog, I am focusing on the traditional all-inclusive resorts located in Mexico and the Caribbean.
Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions about all-inclusive resorts.
Where are all-inclusive resorts located?
Traditional all-inclusive resorts are located in Mexico, Jamaica, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and a few other Caribbean islands. There are some traditional all-inclusive resorts sprinkled throughout the world, like where I went for my honeymoon in the Maldives, but most are found in Mexico and the Caribbean.
How do you choose a resort? How does one compare the different resorts?
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know which one would be a good fit for your vacation. This is where working with a travel advisor comes in handy. For example, I visit and tour all-inclusive resorts, build relationships with the staff, and take classes to learn about each resort. All of this helps me know which resorts to recommend to you, and which ones are best to avoid. You can try and compare resorts online, but photos can be deceiving. It’s best to consult with people who have actually visited these resorts and have first-hand experience.
Are all-inclusive resorts worth it?
Like most things in life, this isn’t a simple yes or no answer. It all depends on the type of vacation you are looking for. I go into great detail on this question here. Check this blog out and if you still are wondering if an all-inclusive resort is the right choice for your next vacation, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com, and I can help answer your questions.
What is included at an all-inclusive resort?
For the most part, all food, drinks, non-motorized water sports, onsite activities, and accommodations are included at an all-inclusive resort. The type of quality of these inclusions depends on the resort.
Room service is sometimes included. Some resorts, like Sandals Resorts, only allow room service for certain room categories. If this is important to you, make sure to check with the resort or your travel advisor prior to booking.
What is not included at an all-inclusive resort?
Most of the time spa treatments, excursions off-site, motorized water sports, specialty services like a private dinner on the beach, and airport transfers are not included in the price of your stay at an all-inclusive resort.
Is alcohol included at all-inclusive resorts? If so, is there a limit on how much you can drink?
Yes, alcohol is included at all-inclusive resorts. Some resorts include top-shelf liquor in their all-inclusive price, and some you have to be in a preferred status room to get top-shelf liquor or pay an additional cost. There aren’t limits on how much you can drink, but the staff definitely have the ability to cut off anyone who is over drinking.
How do they deal with dietary restrictions?
Many resorts are very conscious of dietary restrictions. For the resorts I have visited, the staff will ask you about any dietary restrictions while seating you for your meal. When it is a buffet style situation, they often have signs sharing what is in each food item. If you have any concerns, just make sure to ask!
Do you have to tip?
That is completely up to you. I personally always bring about $50-$100 per trip for tipping for exemplary service. I recommend tipping $5 for transfer drivers, $1-$3 per bag for bellmen, $1 per drink for the bartender, and $1-$3 per person at a meal. If you do get a butler, it is recommended to tip. You can tip each day, or do one large tip at the end of your stay. If you tip at the end of your stay, I recommend tipping $20-$30 per person.
Some resorts have tipping included in the price. For example, Sandals Resorts do not allow you to tip, unless you have a butler. The staff that accept tips at these resorts can actually get fired. Another resort brand that does not allow tipping is Couples Resorts, located throughout Jamaica.
Are there adults-only all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, there are all-inclusive resorts that are adults-only. These are perfect for travelers that need a break from the kids at home, honeymooners, couples getaway, groups like Bachelorette parties, and adults celebrating big milestones, like birthdays. Here are some of the best resorts for an adults-only vacation.
What are good all-inclusive resorts for families?
Some of my favorite all-inclusive family resorts are Grand Velas Resorts, Dreams Resorts, Hyatt Ziva Resorts, and Beaches Resorts. These resorts provide a great variety of entertainment for family members of all ages. I think it is important for resorts to have plenty of variety from food options to beach activities to pools and nightly entertainment in order to make a family vacation memorable for everyone.
Is there a list of onsite activities to choose from or do you plan those yourself?
Yes! Each resort shares their daily onsite activities. Some resorts have an app that they update daily. Others will print out a daily list of onsite activities. These activities can range from morning group fitness classes to afternoon tequila tasting, to evening live music.
If you don’t want to participate in planned, group activities, you can always use the non-motorized water sports at your leisure, hit the gym for a workout, or play games like ping pong that can normally be found around the resort.
How can I support the local economy besides the resort?
Go on an excursion or take a tour off the resort! There are plenty of quality local tour guides that you can book an excursion with. If you need help finding a reputable company to book an excursion with, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.
Some resorts, like UNICO 20*87, provide easy ways for guests to help support the local economy. UNICO 20*87 has a program called Vacation for a Cause. It is a very simple volunteer program. They provide a list of needed items on their website and all you have to do is bring those items to UNICO when you visit. The staff then brings the donations to local non-profit organizations in their community. Before heading to your resort, check to see if they have any programs like this that you can participate in.
What are some good tips to know when vacationing at an all-inclusive resort?
One of the best tips I have for vacationing at an all-inclusive resort is to bring your own insulated tumbler for drinks. This helps keep your drink cold at the pool all day long and cuts down on the number of trips to the bar.
Some restaurants have a dress code and require reservations. Make sure to check on this before arriving at the resort.
Some resorts provide sunscreen, but most do not. Don’t forget to pack your own because purchasing sunscreen the onsite gift shop can get very pricey.
You can book off-site excursions right at your resort. If you know exactly what you want to do on vacation, ask your travel agent to book the excursions for you beforehand.
There is no need to waste space in your luggage with a beach towel. The resorts provide them for you.
If you don’t get a schedule of onsite activities when you check-in, make sure to ask for one! You want to make sure to take advantage of everything the resort has to offer while on vacation.
If you forgot something, need something, or have a question, just ask! The staff at all-inclusive resorts want to help provide the best experience possible and will often go out of their way to help.
Need help booking your next vacation? Fill out this questionnaire, and I will contact you shortly!
8-Day Guide to the Best Lowcountry Road Trip
/in United StatesFor: Couples & Girls Trips
Length: 8 Days
This 8-day Lowcountry Road Trip has you experiencing the beautiful scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture of the South. You will get a chance to see Atlanta, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic site. Explore historic Charleston, including the famous Boone Hall Plantations & Gardens. Stop for a horse-drawn carriage ride through Beaufort. Visit the American Prohibition Museum with a drink in the speakeasy and sightsee by trolley through Savannah. And take a guided trolley sightseeing tour through Jekyll Island.
The trip has you starting in Atlanta, but if you are traveling to this part of the country, I recommend just flying into Charleston or Jacksonville, Florida to start if you don’t want to do a ton of driving. Both airports are pretty easy to find flights to. Do this road trip outside of the summer season if you want a break from the hot summer heat.
Here is a day-by-day guide of the best Lowcountry Road Trip.
Lowcountry Road Trip Day 1: Atlanta
Arrive in Atlanta.
Day 2: Atlanta
Spend the morning touring Atlanta and some famous spots, including Centennial Olympic Park, Fox Theatre, the Buckhead neighborhood, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. In the afternoon, head to the Georgia Aquarium or the World of Coca-Cola. Enjoy dinner at Pittypat’s Porch, a restaurant serving traditional Southern food since the 1960s.
Day 3: Atlanta → Columbia → Charleston
Head towards Charleson with a stop at South Carolina’s Capital, Columbia. Take a tour of the State House. Make your way to Charleston for the evening where you can stroll the historic district, sample fresh seafood, or take a ghost tour to learn about Charleston’s past.
Day 4: Charleston
In the morning, take a tour of one of the most photographed plantations in the USA, Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens. Spend the rest of your day exploring Charleston, like the City Market, take a scenic cruise of Charleston Harbor, or eat your way through many delicious southern cuisines.
Day 5: Charleston → Beaufort → Savannah
Make your way to Beaufort for a horse-drawn carriage guided tour of the town through narrow, oak-lined streets past the former homes of wealthy cotton growers. In the afternoon, head to Savannah to tour the American Prohibition Museum and sip a cocktail in the speakeasy.
Day 6: Savannah
In the morning, enjoy a trolley tour of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the city on your own. Stroll through Forsyth Park, visit the Telfair Museum of Art, or shop along Broughton Street. For more details on a longer stay in Savannah and more tips on what to do during your free time in Savannah, click here.
Day 7: Savannah
Today you get to visit Jekyll Island. Take a trolley tour of the Club Historic District where you will get to see a cluster of 19th-century mansions. In the afternoon, visit nearby St. Simon’s Island, home to beautiful beaches and charming communities.
Lowcountry Road Trip Day 8: Savannah → Atlanta
Travel back to Atlanta. Depart for home.
Is exploring Georgia and South Carolina on your USA travel bucket list?
When you’re ready to start planning your own customized Lowcountry Road Trip, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help with all the details!
5 of the Best Travel Books To Read During COVID-19 Isolation
/in Travel TipsThis blog post includes affiliate links for travel books – which means I earn a small commission if you use purchase through them. It doesn’t change the price on your end, but rewards me for sharing with you!
I love to read. I think it boils down to my love for travel. Both reading and travel bring me to a different place. I get to experience a different life, a different story when reading and traveling. So when I am not traveling and find a good book that combines a good story with travel, I am in my happy place. Since we can’t be traveling right now, it is the perfect time to dig into a lot of good travel books. I put together a list of seven travel books you should read, but I’d love to add more to my list. Let me know what travel books you love to read in the comments.
Here are the best travel books to read during the COVID-19 isolation!
Travel Book #1
The Yellow Envelope by Kim Dinan
This may be one of my favorite travel books. It’s definitely a feel-good book about the power of travel and giving. A couple decides to pack up and sell all their belongings and go travel the world. Before they leave, a neighbor gives them a yellow envelope with money inside. Their instructions are to give the money away to those they encounter on their journey. The story is about learning money isn’t always the most important thing you can give another person. The Yellow Envelope is a story about how travel stretches and pushes a person and the power of giving more than just money. It will definitely give you a different perspective on the world and those around you the next time you travel.
Travel Book #2
The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner
Ok, this is my second favorite travel book. Instead of the normal self-help and research books out there, this one is written by a journalist. Eric Weiner takes on a different perspective when searching for what makes someone happy. He travels through many different countries, that are all on different parts of the happiness scale. It’s interesting to see what makes people happy in Iceland is completely different than what makes people happy in Switzerland. Is there really a “right” answer to finding happiness? This book makes me want to go on my own journey around the world of finding out what makes each country’s people happy!
Travel Book #3
A House in the Sky by Amanda Lindhout & Sara Corbett
This one is darker and a heavier read than the first two I recommended. It is based on a true story of a woman’s experience being captured and held hostage in Somalia for 460 days. It is amazing to read of this woman’s true experience and what helped her get through an incredibly horrific experience.
Travel Book #4
Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
You have probably heard of this book and/or seen the movie created based on the novel, Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. I actually read the book and then watched the movie on the plane ride to Italy! This book is a memoir of the author’s trip to Italy, India, and Indonesia after her divorce. Travel is an incredible gift that can help anyone going through a difficult time or change in their life. Read this story to see the journey Elizabeth Gilbert goes on while searching for her own true happiness. It will also probably make you want to go visit at least one of the three countries she visits throughout the book!
Travel Book #5
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
This is another book that has been turned into a movie and another book about going on a personal journey after great loss. Wild is a memoir about Chery Strayed’s journey of losing her mother, then her marriage and family and going on a trek on the Pacific Crest Trail to heal. It’s a pretty good book filled with suspense, sorrow, and laughter and makes you feel like anything is possible. After reading this book, you will feel like you can overcome any obstacles thrown your way
Bonus! Travel Book #6
The Lost Girls by Jennifer Baggett, Holly Corbett, Amanda Pressner
I haven’t read this book yet, but I have heard so many good things about it that I had to add it to my list. This is a story about three girls coming up on their 30th birthday and decide to leave everything to travel the world for a year. They travel to four continents and push themselves out of their comfort zone in hopes of finding inspiration and direction. Traveling and exploring the world with some best friends sounds like an amazing book to me. I can’t wait to read it!
When we can’t physically be traveling, books are a great way to be taken to a new place and a new world. What books have you read that inspires you to travel or visit a new place? I’m always looking for new books to add to my list.
The Best Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
/in Honeymoon, HotelsThere are many reasons to want to get away to an adults-only resort. For example, you need a break from your kids, you are going on your honeymoon, it’s your bachelorette party, or you’re celebrating your 30th birthday with all your friends to name just a few reasons. No matter the reason, there are plenty of adults-only resorts to choose from for your trip. However, deciding which resort will be the perfect fit for your next vacation is the tough part. I rounded up five of the best adults-only resorts to help you decide which one would be best for your next adults-only vacation.
Here are my recommendations for the best resorts for your next adults-only vacation.
Hammock Cove Resort & Spa Antigua
Located: Antigua
Ideal for: Honeymoons, anniversary trips, and private, romantic, relaxation vacations
Hammock Cove Antigua is a brand-new luxury boutique resort with only 42 private villas, all with private infinity pools. If you’re looking for true top-shelf liquor, gourmet dining, and a romantic place to reconnect with your loved one, this resort is perfect. The rooms were so nice I never wanted to leave! Click here for full details on what it is like to have an adults-only vacation at Hammock Cove.
Le Blanc Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
Located: Cancun and Los Cabos, Mexico
Ideal for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and girl’s trips
Do you want to be treated like royalty while on vacation? Head to one of the two Le Blanc Resorts, one in Los Cabos and one in Cancun. One great benefit to this resort brand is the butlers. They are available to help you unpack or pack, draw you a relaxing bath, iron, make dining reservations, and so much more.
In addition to being waited on hand and foot, Le Blanc has top-quality food all day long, 24-hour room service, gorgeous accommodations, and some incredible infinity pools. When you’re ready to vacation in luxury, Le Blanc will be waiting!
Sanctuary Cap Cana
Located: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Ideal for: Honeymooners, couples, and luxury travelers
Sanctuary Cap Cana is located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Cap Cana is a double-gated community for extra security and has some of the best beaches in the Dominican Republic. This is a really unique resort, where you can stay in a castle! Each suite and villa is designed around Spanish Colonial architecture, and some room categories include a butler.
Along with delicious food at the resort, you also have a chance to dine and shop at Sanctuary Town. This is a group of 9 shops, restaurants, and bars right across the street, each with unique decor and ambiance.
Couples Resorts
Located: Negril and Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Ideal for: Honeymooners, elopements, anniversaries, and romantic getaways
Couples Resorts are located in Jamaica. There are currently four of them, Couples Negril and Couples Swept Away located in Negril and Couples Sans Souci and Couples Tower Isle located in Ocho Rios. The Couples brand is locally owned therefore has a true authentic Jamaican, island vibe. These resorts are ideal for honeymooners, anniversaries, elopements, and romantic vacations.
One great benefit to staying at a Couples Resort is all the inclusions. A lot of all-inclusive resorts charge extra for excursions and additional activities, but not Couples. They include a lot of extras. Along with 24-hour dining, unlimited premium bar selection, in-room dining, and nightly entertainment like beach bonfires, piano bar, and reggae dance classes, depending on which resort you stay at, these extras are also included:
If you’re a couple that likes to stay active and have a lot of options on your trip in addition to romance, Couples Resorts are a really great option adults-only vacation option.
Sandals Resorts
Located: Jamaica, Bahamas, Antigua, Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia
Ideal for: Destination weddings, honeymooners, and romantic getaways
For couples looking for the ultimate luxury all-inclusive experience, Sandals is your go-to. The levels of luxury at these resorts are unparalleled to others. For example, you can stay in ultimate luxury suites like the over-water bungalows, millionaire suites, skypool butler suites, and private plunge pool suites. Or what about having your own personal butler service throughout your stay? In addition to some of these luxury experiences, With some room categories at Sandals, you will be escorted from the airport to your resort in a private BMW luxury transfer. And so much more.
Sandals Resorts also include a lot in their all-inclusive experience:
With locations throughout the Caribbean, Sandals is the ideal luxury romantic getaway for couples. Click here for an overview of Sandals Grande Antigua.
UNICO 20*87
Located: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Ideal for: Bachelorette parties, girl’s getaways, honeymooners, and group trips
If you know me, you know I LOVE UNICO 20*87. This is an adults-only resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico with a sophisticated, luxury feel. It is perfect for a girl’s getaway, honeymoons, and group trips. Click here to read more about my personal experience staying at this resort.
UNICO 20*87 is a luxury resort with locally-inspired decor, cocktails, cuisines, art, and activities. There are three pools throughout the resort to provide whatever experience you’re hoping for in the moment, from quiet serenity, to active and fun.
UNICO 20*87 is a perfect resort for your next adults-only vacation, whether it be with your girlfriends, significant other, or a big group!
Secrets Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
Located: Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Costa Rica, St. Martin, Aruba, Spain
Ideal for: Honeymooners, anniversaries, romantic getaways, and group trip
Secrets Resorts are ideal for romance. This is a great resort to consider when looking for a vacation with your significant other. Secrets Resorts pride themselves on romance and sensuality amid luxury beachfront settings. They can be found all over Mexico and the Caribbean and now in Central America and Spain.
Secrets Resorts focus on the Unlimited-Luxury experience, which includes:
For any couple looking for a romantic getaway, like a honeymoon, anniversary or to escape the kids, Secrets Resorts would be a great option.
Breathless Resorts for an Adults-Only Vacation
Located: Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica
Ideal for: Celebrations, Bachelorette and Bachelor parties, solo travelers, and group trips
If you’re looking for a party atmosphere with plenty of daytime and nighttime entertainment, a Breathless Resort is the ideal destination. Currently, there are four Breathless Resorts. They are located in Cabo San Lucas and Riviera Maya, Mexico, Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Above all, these resorts are focused on a social, club-like atmosphere. You can count on a live DJ at the pool every day and themed events throughout your stay. A lot of the restaurants include communal tables to enhance the social experience. Also, when celebrating a milestone, they have special packages for Bachelorette, Bachelor, Divorce, and Birthday Parties.
Breathless Resorts focus on their Unlimited-Luxury experience that includes:
Located on pristine beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Punta Cana, Montego Bay, and Riviera Maya, Breathless Resorts are an ideal destination for adults that want to party on their tropical vacation.
Which resort are you going to pick for your next adults-only vacation? When you’re ready to look into your next trip, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for expert help in planning and booking your ideal adults-only vacation.
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How To Enjoy Travel From Home While Waiting Out The Coronavirus
/in Travel TipsWell, this one has been a doozy I don’t think any of us saw coming in 2020! Coronavirus, you may win for now, but THIS TOO SHALL PASS! Some people have chosen or been forced to reschedule or cancel their travel plans for the next few weeks. Don’t worry! In the meantime, I have put together a list of travel ideas for you to enjoy while stuck at home until you can get out there and explore again!
Here are ways to enjoy travel from home while waiting out the coronavirus.
Make Photo Books of Your Past Travels
I can’t be the only one who has all my photos of past vacations just sitting on my computer?! Now would be a great time to actually do something with those vacation photos. Find a photo book company where you can upload your travel photos and either have them automatically made into a photo book or if you are feeling a bit more creative, you can organize them yourself into a photo book. Then have them printed and in a week or two, you will have all your vacation photos physically printed out. These also make for great coffee table books. Some of my favorite photo book companies are Mixbook*, Artifact Uprising*, Chatbooks, and Blurb.
Check Out Pinterest and Think About Where You Want to Travel Next
One of the best sources of travel planning and travel dreaming is Pinterest. You can find just about anything you need on there and it’s visually pleasing. Make your own boards and pin inspirations for the trip you want to take next. You could make a board for US destinations, a road trip around New Zeland, honeymoon dream destinations, or bucket list trips. The options are endless! I’ve gathered quite an array of travel inspiration on my Pinterest page. Click here to follow me and browse my Pinterest boards.
Prepare for Future Vacations by Purchasing Travel Insurance
I always recommend purchasing travel insurance for your vacation, but especially now. You just never know what is going to happen where you will need help protecting your vacation investment. You could have a death in the family, you could go to the ER the night before your vacation, you could lose all your luggage, or coronavirus could spread throughout the world causing mass panic and trave cancellations.
The travel insurance I recommend to my travel clients is Allianz’s Cancel for Any Reason policy. If you have to cancel your trip for an uncovered reason (like the fear of traveling during the spread of coronavirus), you will at least get 80% of your trip investment back. From what I have been hearing, most other travel insurances aren’t covering anything for coronavirus.
Contact me at hello@thekeystotravel.com to get a travel quote for your next vacation and to ask your travel insurance questions. I will help as best as I can!
Learn a New Language
Now is a great time to brush up on that language you learned in high school or learn a completely new language! If you have plans to travel to Mexico or Germany at the end of this year, for example, it would be a great time to learn a few key phrases to use while traveling. One of my favorite language apps is Duolingo. It is free (there is also a paid version) and makes learning a new language fun, like playing a game!
Online Shop to Prepare for Your Upcoming Trip
If you have a trip coming up later this year, now would be a great time to (online) shop for new travel clothes and accessories!
One of my favorite travel accessories is the travel scarf from Waypoint Goods*. These travel scarfs have a secure pocket where you can keep your phone, passport, money, and credit cards while you travel. It is a perfect accessory for destinations like Europe, so you don’t have to hang on to a purse.
*affiliate links – which means I earn a small commission if you use it. It doesn’t change the price on your end, but rewards me for sharing with you!
What are some of your favorite travel-themed clothing items and accessories you are looking to purchase for upcoming vacations?
Virtually Visit a Museum
Do you love visiting new museums? Google Arts & Culture teamed up with over 500 museums and galleries around the world to provide virtual tours and online exhibits that you can view right from your home. Some of these museums include the Guggenheim in New York City, National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, and art in The White House.
Click here to browse through these virtual museums all over the world. Which one are you interested in seeing?
Road Trip to a National Park
Make sure to go outside and get fresh air and sunshine while waiting for all this madness to blow over! Fresh air and exercise helps you stay healthy, mentally and physically. Turn this time into an excuse to take a quick road trip to a US National Park near home. Currently, there are 62 national parks in the US. A lot of them are located in the West, so if you aren’t nearby a National Park, go find a local park to explore!
What is your favorite National Park? I think mine is Olympic National Park in Washington. You get the best of both worlds, beach + jungle and hiking.
What do you plan on doing while waiting out the coronavirus? Will you be looking to enjoy travel from home?
7 Countries You’ll Explore on a Danube River Cruise
/in Europe, River CruiseIn Central and Eastern Europe, you’ll find some of the most spectacular landscapes, architecture—castles, churches and war memorials—as well as some of the most colorful, inviting cultures in the world. But what’s the best way to see it all? A river cruise (like AmaWaterways) down the Danube River, of course!
Here are 7 countries you could get to explore on a Danube River cruise.
Germany
The journey begins with a guided tour through the beautiful medieval city of Nuremberg where you’ll see the Imperial Castle, the famous town wall and the legendary fountain of the Market Square. For history buffs, there’s a guided tour of the city’s most significant WWII sites, including the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the Nuremberg Trials Memoriam and Courtroom 600 (if the courtroom is not in session).
Next, you can savor traditional Franconian specialties including Nuremburger bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). While en route to the next destination, Regensburg, you’ll cruise through the man-made Main-Danube Canal.
At Regensburg, you’ll be treated to a guided walking tour through one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. While in Regensburg, you’ll see all the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. And if all that walking makes you hungry, there’s the old Bavarian specialties to satisfy you—beer, sausage, and pretzels.
Next, take a bike tour to Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.
The journey continues as you cruise to lower Bavaria’s city of Passau, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour along cobblestone streets and see Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral. If you’re looking to work in a little exercise, choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress.
Austria
Continuing down the Danube on your river cruise, you’ll next stop at the scenic town of Melk, which is celebrated for its magnificent Benedictine Abbey. The abbey contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg, Austria’s first ruling dynasty.If you’d like something more active to do, you can join a guided bike tour that takes you through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley; or go on a walking tour along Dürnstein’s cobblestone streets to the famed Baroque church tower, Stiftskirche. Later in the day, set sail through the vineyard rich Wachau Valley.
No trip to Austria would be complete without a stop in Vienna, “The City of Waltzes.” Vienna is a treasure trove and your tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride to Klosterneuburg Monastery.
Hungary
The city of Budapest is known as the Queen of the Danube. Your tour begins with a visit to the Great Market Hall. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. Alternatively, hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city. Cap the day off with an illumination cruise.
Continue your trek through Hungary with a pitstop in Puszta. Known as the Great Hungarian Plain, tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by world-champion carriage-drivers. Afterward, be treated to an unforgettable performance of horsemanship and then experience the Hungarians’ warm hospitality, along with a traditional lunch complete with authentic goulash.
From Puszta, set sail to Mohács. Here you’ll enjoy a scenic morning cruise past a town sprinkled with magnificent churches, including the 18th-century Baroque Protestant church, the Roman Catholic church (1776), the Serbian Greek Orthodox church, the votive church (1926), and the Avas church with its bell tower.
Next, you’ll cruise to Pécs, a city founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. In Pécs, you’ll find a city filled with historic architecture including the Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. For wine connoisseurs, there’s the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary. Szekszárd was established more than 2,000 years ago.
Croatia
The beautiful Baroque Croatian city of Vukovar is situated at the banks of the Vuka and Danube Rivers in the region of Srijem/Syrmia. Known as the “hero town” for the valor of brave Croatian civilians and volunteers during the 1991 war with Serbia, your city tour will include important war landmarks such as Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Castle. Or, you can opt to go wine tasting in Ilok. Ilok has been a center of wine production since Roman times. Here you’ll sample its famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. Back on board, cruise to Novi Sad, sometimes called the “Serbian Athens.” Discover Novi Sad on a walking tour to Dunavski Park and through Stari Grad, the Old Town center. If you prefer a more active exploration, join a guided biking or hiking tour. During the evening, visit Petrovaradin Fortress.
Serbia
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour that includes the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Later, choose from three intriguing excursions. Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Serbian Royal Family; and then tour the House of Flowers, the mausoleum of Marshal Tito, who became the first President of Yugoslavia. Or enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, Šlivovitz, and delicious local delights at the Quburich Distillery. For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour.
Romania
Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising as you pass through the Iron Gates, one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. At the Iron Gates, the Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.
Bulgaria
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. As you continue on to Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, you can hike around its most spectacular rock formations. Or, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle.
Finally, you will visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture. Afterward, visit the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings.
Which of these 7 countries along the Danube River would you be most excited to explore? If you would like to join us on a Danube River Cruise, our European Christmas Market River Cruise is taking place in December 2021. Read more information here. We would love for you to join us!
Contact me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning and booking your next river cruise!