Thursday, December 24, 2015
Monday, November 30, 2015
Cruising With Kids
How many trips can you make to Disney World for that family vacation with the kids, shelling out hundreds of dollars just to walk your family through the gates, standing in line in the hot sun, buying Mickey Ears as a souvenir – then throwing them in the bottom of the closet when you return home? Does this sound like a vacation to you?
Why not make the
whole family happy, from the kids to the grandparents? It’s time to
look at cruising – not only is it the best vacation value around,
but everyone in the family has a great time. Cruise lines know that
kids need to be occupied, and they also know that parents need a
break. So how can one vacation accomplish both needs?
The new megaships
are built for families in mind. Parents can sit by the pool while
their kids are enjoying the water slides and fun activities, and the
best part is there is no extra charge for the fun.
If your kids are
more adventurous, why not check out the many other activities
available onboard. How about rock climbing, surfing, zip lining,
basketball, putt-putt golf, bungee jumping, ice skating, game rooms,
bowling and more! Yes, you can do all these activities on a ship!
But wait, there’s
more! Are you looking for a few hours to chill by the pool, get a
massage or simply want to take a spin class? While you do that, your
children will be occupied with learning and enriching activities.
There is a program for children of all ages. Examples of some of the
fun in store at the kids’ camps include:- Toddlers (ages 2-5) – splash pool, fun family games, cartoon time, toys, learn your colors, counting games, sponge painting, indoor beach parties, pizza pig out, drawing contests, sing-alongs, bingo, face painting, arts and crafts, cookie decorating
- Juniors (ages 6-8) – talent show, face painting, cartoon time, indoor fair, sea animals, trivia, ice cream sundaes, cookie decorating, button making, puppet show, beach party, outdoor fun and games
- Intermediate (ages 9-12) – t-shirt painting, photography, jewelry making, board games, dance class, video game tournament, ping pong, talent show, volleyball, show time, scavenger hunts, meet the entertainers back stage, breakfast fun
- Teens (ages 13-15) – ping pong, pool party, teen dance, dance class, talent show, pizza party, indoor beach party, skin care and hair-dressing demonstration, photography
Cruising is not just
for adults anymore – it’s the vacation where EVERYONE gets to
have fun.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Hiking Vacations
If you love nature and enjoy getting a great workout, a hiking tour may be for you. Hiking tours are about much more than just walking. They take you to exciting places that can only be reached by foot. Hiking tours are extremely flexible and versatile, allowing you to choose the style of hiking, sights you want to see, and intensity of the exercise. All travel entails some risks. Hiking tours have additional risks associated with outdoor physical activity. For these reasons, you will want to work with a responsible and safety-conscious tour operator that your professional travel agent can confidently recommend.
Stay safe on your hike:
 |
| #travelwithdianeg |
- Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and don"t push yourself beyond your physical limits.
- Follow all the rules that your tour operator sets out for you. These rules are made for your own safety.
- Respect the environment, the tour operator, your hiking companions, and anyone you meet on the trip. Be friendly and do not go off by yourself, away from approved hiking areas. Do not pick up or remove plants or animals from their natural environment. Do not litter. Strive to leave the environment just as you found it, or better.
- Use good equipment - especially good hiking shoes. If your tour operator offers you equipment, make sure it is safe and in good condition. If you buy your own, make sure you buy the correct equipment from a qualified store. Get a salesperson to help you.
- As with all travel, good trip interruption and medical insurance is highly recommended. Remember that your own medical insurance policy may not cover you for out-of-country travel.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
What Kind of Packer are You?
The Perils of Packing
So, what kind of packer are you? Some travelers pack several weeks worth of clothes in their bag for a weekend trip. Others pack lightly and end up forgetting those things that are most important. I used to be a terrible packer. Boy could I over pack. Clothing was only half the story. I would also bring a hefty stack of guidebooks, maps; a pile of magazines; books; two cameras, including lenses, headphones; iPad; cell phone; power cords; foreign outlet adapters; and the list goes on and on. I finally have this packing thing worked out. I'm still a far cry away from being "just a carry on" traveler but I would define myself as a "savvy" packer. Print the packing list below to help you on your next travels.
Packing List
Packing List
10 Weeks Prior
Finalize vacation
Buy travel insurance Book flights/airport transfers Confirm travel document requirements Determine any neccessary vaccinations Get details information on vacation, dress code Get information on baggage allowance
6 Weeks Prior
Complete pre-registration
Reserve specialty dining Reserve excursions Reserve spa appointments Reserve onboard/land programs Reserve onboard/land childcare & activities Arrrange house care and pet care Arrange childcare (if traveling without children) Arrange mail delivery
3 Weeks Prior
Make appointment for personal care
Review all travel documents Shop for travel necessities
1 Week Prior
Make 2 copies of passport (leave one at home)
Check airline policy Print/order luggage tags Buy extra media cards/batteries Get cash/travelers checks Leave trip information with family/friends Confirm house care Confirm at home childcare (if needed) Stop home deliveries Check phone carrier for international service Refill prescriptions
Review & confirm vacation information
Review & confirm flight information Carry-on 3-1-1: 3.4 oz or less, 1 qt bag, pp Meet with house sitter & childcare provider Contact credit card company |
Day Prior
Drop off pet at pet care
Clear refrigerator of perishables Take out trash Return any borrowed items with fees Pay last minute bills Set light timer Inform family/friends/neighbors Finalize packing Put on luggage tags
Travel Essentials
Airline tickets
Cruise/land documents Travel Insurance information Passport/Visa Vaccination certificate (if required) Driver's license Auto insurance Health Insurance Copy of medical insurance (if needed) Travel Guide Camera, media/memory card, charger Underwater camera Camcorder & charger Portable DVD Player & Charger iPod/MP3, Tablet & Charger Earphones Extra batteries Converter/adapter Prescription First aid kit |
Saturday, January 3, 2015
How to Get the Best Cruise Vacation Deal
How to Get the Best Cruise Vacation Deal
By Diane Gagliardo - Travel Specialist
SHIPANDSHOREVACATIONS.com
Should I wait to book my cruise?
Well that depends on you. Do you have the luxury of traveling at the last minute? If not, contact your local cruise agent and book well in advance. This will assure you the best cabin at the best rate available. That doesn’t mean that the cruise rate won’t change; but if you are dealing with a good agent, they will guarantee to change your rate if the cruise line adjusts the prices prior to final payment.
Well that depends on you. Do you have the luxury of traveling at the last minute? If not, contact your local cruise agent and book well in advance. This will assure you the best cabin at the best rate available. That doesn’t mean that the cruise rate won’t change; but if you are dealing with a good agent, they will guarantee to change your rate if the cruise line adjusts the prices prior to final payment.
How do I know if I am dealing with a good agent?
Check out the company you are dealing with – try using one that has a good reputation or touts they are “Top Producers” with the cruise line of your choice. This typically means that they have buying power and will have special pricing or amenities available.
When is the best time to travel?
If you are traveling to any exotic port, there are usually softer booking periods in which pricing can be hundreds of dollars lower. For example, if you are sailing to Alaska – book in May or September and your savings will be substantial. Caribbean is dirt cheap in the fall – it’s so inexpensive, it’s almost free. Well, maybe not, but it can be less than $100 dollars per day which is cheaper than staying home. Again, choose a reputable, knowledgeable agent who can guide you to these savings.
Check out the company you are dealing with – try using one that has a good reputation or touts they are “Top Producers” with the cruise line of your choice. This typically means that they have buying power and will have special pricing or amenities available.
When is the best time to travel?
If you are traveling to any exotic port, there are usually softer booking periods in which pricing can be hundreds of dollars lower. For example, if you are sailing to Alaska – book in May or September and your savings will be substantial. Caribbean is dirt cheap in the fall – it’s so inexpensive, it’s almost free. Well, maybe not, but it can be less than $100 dollars per day which is cheaper than staying home. Again, choose a reputable, knowledgeable agent who can guide you to these savings.
How do I find the best cruise deals?
Ask your travel agent if they send out weekly specials. Most competent agents send out a weekly e-mail promotion. This will give you a heads up when they have special cruise deals. In other words, agents regularly have access to cruise line promotions that include: shipboard credit, cabin category upgrades, reduced payment deposits, coupon booklets for onboard savings, and even free gratuities. But you will miss the deal, if you don’t know about it.
Do you want to receive weekly cruise specials? Ask us to add you to our email list dgagliardo@cruiseplanners.com or visit our website www.shipandshorevacations.com to sign up.
Ask your travel agent if they send out weekly specials. Most competent agents send out a weekly e-mail promotion. This will give you a heads up when they have special cruise deals. In other words, agents regularly have access to cruise line promotions that include: shipboard credit, cabin category upgrades, reduced payment deposits, coupon booklets for onboard savings, and even free gratuities. But you will miss the deal, if you don’t know about it.
Do you want to receive weekly cruise specials? Ask us to add you to our email list dgagliardo@cruiseplanners.com or visit our website www.shipandshorevacations.com to sign up.
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Destination Weddings
Not sure you want a traditional formal wedding ceremony? Destination weddings can open up a vista of possibilities. They are the perfect option for people who want both the romance of a traditional wedding, as well as the excitement of travel and sightseeing.
The concept is as simple as it is unique. A typical destination wedding takes place in an exotic locale. The ceremony and reception are held over a long weekend and include a host of fun activities that the entire group can enjoy. Once the formal ceremonies are over, the couple can choose to stay for the honeymoon or travel to a different destination.
But be forewarned…Planning these weddings requires a lot of work. There are several details that need to be worked out in addition to the usual flowers, food, cake, etc. Apart from choosing the location (which itself can be difficult), hotel accommodations, travel itinerary, and group activities also have to be organized. However, at the end of it you have a grand affair with beautiful memories you’ll never forget.
Perhaps the biggest deterrent to more people choosing destination weddings is the financial angle. The general notion is that it is an extravagance that can only be afforded by those who have a bottomless wallet. Most wedding planners and bridal consultants, however, are quick to rubbish these misconceptions.
A four day weekend with a small and private group of guests works out a whole lot cheaper than organizing a lavish meal and reception for 200 people at a hotel in your city. And most of these wedding packages include a rehearsal dinner, a formal sit-down wedding, and a farewell brunch. Now, that is great value!
Besides, the bride and groom are not obliged to pay for everybody’s airfare. It is customary for the guests to buy their own plane tickets, while the couple picks up the tab for accommodations, food, beverages, and any activities they may have organized for the group. If members of the party feel like indulging in recreational activities on the side, that, of course, will come out of their pockets.
When hosting a wedding in a foreign locale, most couples choose to hire an on-site wedding coordinator who is responsible for the entire event. From hiring local vendors to arranging air transportation and even handling last minute disasters, you can leave it all in the capable hands of the coordinator and concentrate on enjoying the most special days of your life.
Destination weddings are fun and exciting; but most importantly, they are a unique and innovative way to start a life with someone you love!
Contact Diane Gagliardo - Your Go To Honeymoon & Travel Expert at 908-905-0555 or send Diane an email.
Visit our website
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Gluten Free Travel Support
The other day I received a phone call from a potential client looking for an all-inclusive gluten-free friendly resort. Her 9 year old daughter has Celiac Disease and therefore is on a Gluten-Free diet. She was referred to me by a client whose vacation I booked this past summer. Her husband and son were gluten intolerant. During our call I realized I had planned several family vacations where a family member needed a gluten-free vacation to be planned. The first few GF bookings required I do a great deal of research. I have since accumulated a great deal of knowledge and a very thick spiral notebook full of information about which airlines, hotels and
resorts, tour companies and cruise lines who cater best to those living a gluten-free life.
There was something else this phone call made me realize. I had created a niche for myself and until now, I didn't even realize it. Being in the restaurant business for many years I was already very familiar with the gluten-free diet. I worked with Legal SeaFoods, a company that always put that extra attention on understanding and accommodating food allergy awareness. As a manager for the company, it was not just my job but my sincere pleasure to accommodate each and every guest whether they had special needs or not.
Today, it is my sincere pleasure to accommodate the traveling needs of others. I am excited to be able to provide Gluten-Free Travel Services to those who require special assistance during their vacation whether they are gluten-free by choice, gluten intolerant, or have Celiac Disease.
There was something else this phone call made me realize. I had created a niche for myself and until now, I didn't even realize it. Being in the restaurant business for many years I was already very familiar with the gluten-free diet. I worked with Legal SeaFoods, a company that always put that extra attention on understanding and accommodating food allergy awareness. As a manager for the company, it was not just my job but my sincere pleasure to accommodate each and every guest whether they had special needs or not.
Today, it is my sincere pleasure to accommodate the traveling needs of others. I am excited to be able to provide Gluten-Free Travel Services to those who require special assistance during their vacation whether they are gluten-free by choice, gluten intolerant, or have Celiac Disease.
gluten
free by choice, gluten intolerant, or had Celiac Disease - See more at:
http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.tlqMNSK8.dpuf
Lesley
has been especially excited over the last few years about the
opportunity to work with many clients with Celiac Disease, who require
special assistance ensuring the meals on their vacation will be gluten
free. Lesley’s hard work and attention to detail on behalf of her
clients ensures they are able to have a worry-free vacation at the
resort and cruise destinations she helps them select.
When working with Lesley, you can rest assured that she will work directly with the executive chefs in advance of your trip to ensure your gluten free dietary requirements are met. She has established wonderful relationships with many resorts, cruises, and spas -- and can easily reserve spaces for her clients.
- See more at: http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.cpYksDWA.dpuf
When working with Lesley, you can rest assured that she will work directly with the executive chefs in advance of your trip to ensure your gluten free dietary requirements are met. She has established wonderful relationships with many resorts, cruises, and spas -- and can easily reserve spaces for her clients.
- See more at: http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.cpYksDWA.dpuf
Lesley
has been especially excited over the last few years about the
opportunity to work with many clients with Celiac Disease, who require
special assistance ensuring the meals on their vacation will be gluten
free. Lesley’s hard work and attention to detail on behalf of her
clients ensures they are able to have a worry-free vacation at the
resort and cruise destinations she helps them select.
When working with Lesley, you can rest assured that she will work directly with the executive chefs in advance of your trip to ensure your gluten free dietary requirements are met. She has established wonderful relationships with many resorts, cruises, and spas -- and can easily reserve spaces for her clients.
- See more at: http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.cpYksDWA.dpuf
When working with Lesley, you can rest assured that she will work directly with the executive chefs in advance of your trip to ensure your gluten free dietary requirements are met. She has established wonderful relationships with many resorts, cruises, and spas -- and can easily reserve spaces for her clients.
- See more at: http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.cpYksDWA.dpuf
Lesley
has been especially excited over the last few years about the
opportunity to work with many clients with Celiac Disease, who require
special assistance ensuring the meals on their vacation will be gluten
free. Lesley’s hard work and attention to detail on behalf of her
clients ensures they are able to have a worry-free vacation at the
resort and cruise destinations she helps them select.
When working with Lesley, you can rest assured that she will work directly with the executive chefs in advance of your trip to ensure your gluten free dietary requirements are met. She has established wonderful relationships with many resorts, cruises, and spas -- and can easily reserve spaces for her clients.
- See more at: http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.cpYksDWA.dpuf
When working with Lesley, you can rest assured that she will work directly with the executive chefs in advance of your trip to ensure your gluten free dietary requirements are met. She has established wonderful relationships with many resorts, cruises, and spas -- and can easily reserve spaces for her clients.
- See more at: http://www.travel-agent-boston.com/specialty-travel/gluten-free-travel.aspx#sthash.cpYksDWA.dpuf
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