9 Beach Vacation Ideas

 When it comes to go on your beach vacation, it can

be very hard to pick a destination.  There are many

places you can go, whether you want to explore the

beaches of Hawaii or just play golf in Georgia. 

Below, you'll find 9 ideas to help you decide on

where to go for your vacation.

1.  Hawaii resort

You can choose to put your frequent flier miles to

good use and take a beach vacation on the island of

Hawaii.  Here, you can relax on the beach, swim in

the ocean, play golf, and even indulge in one of

the many innovative spa treatments.  Hawaii enjoys

some of the best weather in the world - making it

a great choice for your beach vacation.

2.  Golf and Beach in Georgia

Popular among the East Coast, the Cloister at Sea

Island in Georgia offers you 54 holes of championship

golf, sandy beaches, and a wide array of things for

you to do. 

 

3.  Oahu beach vacation

At the Kahala Mandarin Oriental you can expect to be

pampered like never before.  You can visit the spa,

take scuba diving classes, or choose to swim it up

with the dolphins.  The resort is conveniently

located 15 minutes away from Honolulu and Waikiki

Beach.

 

4.  Virgin Islands vacation

At this vacation destination you can enjoy blue

waters and sandy beaches.  The Ritz Carlton, and

St. Thomas resorts offer you the best of luxury

hotels during your beach vacation in the Virgin

Islands.

 

5.  Half Moon Bay California

Located just 30 minutes by car away from San

Francisco, the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay is a

quick beach vacation away from the normal busy life

of the city. 

 

6.  Luxury Beach Resort of Bermuda

Two hours away by flight from New York City,

Bermuda is a quick and ideal vacation away from the

East Coast.  Ariel Sands offers you 47 guest rooms

with gourmet food and breathtaking views.

 

7.  Romance and seclusion in Jamaica

With unique rooms and splendid views of the

Caribbean, gourmet cuisine and amazing beaches,

The Caves resort in Jamaica helps to set the beach

vacation mood like never before.

 

8.  Lakeside Resort Georgia

Near Atlanta Georgia, the Lake Lanier Islands offers

a golf course for golf lovers and a waterpark with

several water rides, slides, and water attractions

the entire family will enjoy.

 

9.  Family fun in Hawaii

The Kona Village Resort in Hawaii offers you

several vacation activities that include snorkeling,

kayaking, sailing, volleyball, tennis, fishing,

scuba diving, and glass bottom boat tours.

Until Next Time, 

Jeané Elliott Bennett

Elliott Exquisite Vacations

Air Travel and Pets

Do you have to travel by air in the near future?  If you do, are you a pet owner who needs to bring your pet along with you?  Although most of us leave our pets at home, you may not want to do so or your purpose for travel may be to move, as opposed to taking a fun filled vacation.  Regardless of your reasons for wanting or needing to travel with your pet or pets, there are a number of important points that you will need to keep in mind.

The first step in traveling with a pet is to make sure that you can do so.  Although a good number of airlines will allow pets on their planes, not all will. You may be in a predicament if you plan to depart from a small airport with only one or two airlines.  If they do not accept pets or if their rules and restrictions are too much for you to handle, you will want to examine other nearby airports, especially those that are larger in size.

When traveling by air with your pet or pets, it is important to remember that you will be charged an additional fee.  Unfortunately, many first time pet travelers believe that they can use their pets and their pet carriers to count towards as a carry-on bag or a checked bag.  This isn’t how it works though.  You will, almost always, be charged an extra fee for traveling with a pet.  This extra fee will likely depend on the airline in question and well as your pet’s location, such as in the cabin or in the baggage compartment. 

That leads to another important point.  Even with some of the airlines that allow pets, like cats and dogs, aboard their flights not allow pets to be in the cabin with other passengers.  This is particularly common on small planes where allergies may be a big concern.  If you cannot part with your pet, be sure to search for an airline that will allow you to keep him or her in the cabin with you.  With that said, remember that the size of your pet will also play a huge factor in your options.

Regardless of where your pet is stored for the plane ride, you will need to have a pet carrier or crate for them.  Many airlines have specific rules and restrictions on what type can be used.  Resections often include materials used, as well as size.  Most will provide you with that information when asked.  Speaking of pet crates and carriers, it is important to make sure that you give your pet enough room to stand and move around a little bit.  In fact, most airlines will refuse to transport pets that they feel are unsafe from small pet crates and carriers.

It is also important to make sure that you get your pet checked by their vet.  You will want to make sure that your pet has all required vaccinations and that they are fit for travel.  Also, all airlines require that you receive a health certificate, which will state that your pet is healthy and safe for travel. 

The above mentioned points are just a few of the many that you will want to take into consideration when traveling with a pet.  Added tips include booking direct flights, making sure your pet’s collar is marked with the proper identification, as well as their pet carrier.

Until Next Time,

Jeané Elliott Bennett

Elliott Exquisite Vacations

Adventure Sailing is More Fun When You Own The Yacht

 You can charter adventure sailing vacation to almost any destination in the world. The only problem is that it will cost you a lump sum paying for the crew, the meals and the fuel for the trip. You can probably save money on a sailing vacation when you own the yacht but only if you know how to navigate and control it.

The advantage of owning a boat is that you can go on a sailing vacation at anytime. You don’t have to call your travel agent or make any reservation online since the boat is just sitting at the dock waiting for you to come aboard. The only thing you have to do is buy food and fuel which should be enough to get you back to port.

The boat also brings financial benefits because when you are not using it, this can be rented out to those who want to go on their own sailing vacation as long as they are able to pay your rate. This of course means additional revenue for you so the ship stays in good shape.

This makes it also ideal for those who want to conduct business on board because this is a tax deductible once you register your boat as a place of business. To see how this works, get in touch with your tax advisor

Another financial benefit of owning your own yacht is the fact that this is considered to be a second home. This is as long as the boat has at least one berth, a permanent galley and a head which is the requirement of the IRS.

If you can’t buy your own yacht, there is something called fractional boat ownership which means for a certain period during the year, you can do whatever you want with the boat. This will allow you to use it to go on a trip with your family.

The best thing about this is that a group of you share the cost of owning the yacht which already includes its maintenance, insurance, moorage, equipment, fuel and repairs.

This can only happen of course after you have completed a boating safety class and a safety orientation. This will not be a problem for you if you are already certified to sail a boat and know how to use all the equipment like charts, compass and GPS on board.

The other option is to join a boat club. Unlike part time sharing, you don’t get to own a boat. But as a member, you are entitled to up to 4 advanced reservations at any given time and access to powerboats or to sailboats that are up to 30 feet in length. The club for its part will shoulder all  the other expenses such as maintenance, cleaning, storage and insurance.

There are many of then around so you won’t have a hard time choosing one. Some cater to one market while others cater to all. They also offer boating classes for those who want to do this for fun or commit themselves in the sport.

Adventure sailing vacation is truly better when you own the yacht as the only thing you have to do is drive on over to the docks, stow your gear on board and then sail off into the sunset.

Until Next Time,

Jeané Elliott Bennett

Elliott Exquisite Vacations

Traveling to Amsterdam is always an Exciting Adventure

Let's start with the do's and don'ts to make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

DO:

1. Explore the Canals: Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, we encourage you to take a boat tour or rent a bike to leisurely explore these beautiful waterways. Take a canal cruise, rent a pedal boat, or simply stroll along the canal belt, known as the Grachtengordel. Each canal has its own charm, and you can discover hidden gems and picturesque spots along the way.

Visit the Museums: Amsterdam is home to some world-class museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Make sure to explore these cultural gems to get a deeper understanding of Dutch art and history. Including Rembrandt's "Night Watch."

Sample Dutch Cuisine: We encourage you to savor traditional Dutch dishes like haring (raw herring), stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs). You can also visit local markets to try some fresh cheeses and other delicacies. Delve deeper into Dutch gastronomy by highlighting some must-try dishes. We recommend local treats like poffertjes (mini pancakes), croquettes, Dutch apple pie, and the traditional Indonesian-influenced rijsttafel (rice table) for a unique culinary experience.

Take a Day Trip: Amsterdam is ideally located for day trips to nearby attractions like the beautiful tulip fields of Keukenhof or the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans. You can enjoy the scenic countryside just a short distance away. You can take a short train ride to the charming city of Haarlem or visit the fascinating Anne Frank House in nearby Amstelveen. Additionally, the picturesque village of Marken and the historic city of Utrecht are also within easy reach.

DON'T:

1. Forget to Watch for Cyclists: Amsterdam is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, and cyclists have the right of way. You are reminded to look both ways before crossing the street and be mindful of bike lanes. Always look out for bikes, use designated pedestrian crosswalks, and avoid sudden movements without looking around.

Overindulge in "Coffee Shops": While Amsterdam is famous for its lenient stance on cannabis, we remind you to approach the "coffee shop" culture responsibly. We encourage you to be aware of your limits and respect local laws. Consuming cannabis is only legal in licensed establishments and to be mindful of personal health and safety.

Rely Solely on Credit Cards: Some smaller establishments in Amsterdam may prefer cash payments, so carry some euros to avoid any inconvenience.  It's always good to have some cash on hand, especially when shopping at local markets, smaller cafes, or paying for public transportation like trams or buses.

Disrespect Local Customs: Remind your readers to be mindful of Dutch customs, such as greeting with a handshake, being punctual, and taking off shoes when entering homes or certain establishments. Here are some cultural norms and etiquette to foster a positive experience for you. Greet locals with a polite "Hallo" or "Goedemorgen," observe recycling practices, and avoid walking in designated bike lanes.

When you are ready to take a trip to Amsterdam, contact us at 909-990-1124. We are ready when you are.

Why Cruises Are a Great Multi-Generational Vacation Idea

Why Cruises Are a Great

Multi-Generational Vacation Idea 

Planning vacations can be tricky–especially when trying to accommodate all your family’s interests and needs. If you’re stuck on where to head for your family vacation this year, look no further than a cruise! Cruising is the ideal multi-generational vacation for all members of your family to ensure that everyone has fun at their own pace!

Something for everyone

The best reason to go cruising with your family is the never-ending entertainment options! No matter what you and your family enjoy, you can feel confident that there is always something that each member of your family can have fun doing. While each cruise ship is different, there are some staples that most cruise lines typically offer:

●      Watch a show: Cruise lines pay to have actors, singers, and entertainers come along for the ride to perform in nightly shows. In fact, you can even check out some Broadway shows (like Mamma Mia!) on Royal Caribbean’s ships. The best part? All these shows are included in the price of your cruise fare! And they’re the perfect opportunity to have fun with the family or keep it just to the adults.

●      Have a spa day: For family members looking to relax, the spa is the perfect destination. Cruise ships offer spa treatments and packages ranging from facials to massages and more. If you don’t want to spend the extra money on a treatment, simply head into the sauna to sweat it out!

●      See a movie: Almost all ships will offer nightly movies out on the outdoor decks. It’s a great opportunity to watch a film, hear the sounds of the ocean, and gaze up at the gorgeous night sky above! Plus, you can bring any food or drinks from the buffet or casual restaurants.

●      Take a dip: If you’re going cruising, you'll have to take advantage of the pools and jacuzzies on board! Ships will have at least one pool on the lido deck featuring one or more hot tubs adjacent to the pool. Some ships will also have a second pool at the back of the ship to overlook the water. By the pool, you’ll be able to soak up the sun, grab a bite from the food stands, and rinse off in the outdoor showers at the end of the day. If your whole family wants to lounge by the pool, make sure to get there early enough to snag chairs next to each other before it gets too busy! For your more adventurous family members, some ships will even have water slides to keep the fun going all day long!

●      Take an educational class: Did you know that many cruise lines offer courses in skills such as cooking, photography, videography, languages, and lectures on a variety of topics? This is an amazing offering that every member of your family can take advantage of to learn something new while out at sea!

Freedom to explore

When on a cruise, the ship will usually make several stops (otherwise known as a port of call) at different countries/locations along the route. During these stops, you are free to head off the boat and explore the destination. Many cruises will also plan excursions for port days that you can participate in with the whole family. While you’re always able to hop off the ship on port days, you also have the freedom to stay aboard a typically less crowded ship. When a cruise ship is docked, most people get off to relax on the beach or explore the area which means the pools are less crowded and the spas usually offer a discount.

The freedom to explore or relax on port days makes cruising ideal for family members of all ages. Plus, if your family does decide to split up for the day, you can always meet back up at night for a delicious dinner on the ship and some nighttime entertainment! 

Meals for foodies and picky eaters alike

It’s not uncommon for a family to have different food preferences and dietary restrictions which can make planning meals difficult. On a cruise, you don’t have to worry about any of that! Many people say the 24/7 access to delicious food and drinks is one of the best parts of cruising, and they are not wrong! From buffets to ice cream shops to fully loaded bars, you can truly never go hungry (or thirsty) on a cruise.

Quality family time

Unlike other vacation options where you spend a lot of time on your feet, cruises are a great opportunity to really get some quality time with all your family members. You will be stuck on a boat together after all! From pool days to excursions at your stops to spa treatments and dinners, there is plenty of time to catch up with your family and have some fun together. Most vacations do not offer this level of time spent together which makes cruising the ultimate multi-generational vacation idea. 

Ten Reasons to Visit Dubai

Ten Reasons to Visit Dubai 

If you’re tuned into the world of travel or have scrolled through social media lately, chances are you’ve probably seen loads of people either traveling to Dubai or planning to travel to Dubai. So, why is Dubai such a popular vacation destination? This city has more to offer than meets the eye and boasts something for every member of your travel group!

1.     Delicious food

Dubai is truly a melting pot of cultures which makes it any food lovers’ dream. From Thai to Turkish to Japanese to the country’s own Emirati cuisine, there is always an option for any craving you may have. While Dubai does offer a range of foreign cuisine, don’t miss out on trying some of the amazing Emirati dishes the city has to offer. A few must-try foods include samboosa, Arabic coffee, chebab, and luqaimat.

2.     Security of safety

In 2020, Dubai was ranked one of the safest cities in the world for travelers. The crime rate (especially directed at tourists) is extremely low, and the city is heavily monitored. As with traveling to any international destination, just be smart about your decisions and always be mindful about following local laws and regulations.

3.     High-end shopping

You can’t talk about Dubai without mentioning the insane shopping options the city has to offer. In fact, Dubai is home to the second-largest mall in the world, The Dubai Mall, that is not only known for its shopping but also its offering of entertainment from an ice rink to an aquarium. The Mall of the Emirates is another huge mall boasting over 500 stores and is most famous for its indoor ski slope. And while there is no shortage of luxury shopping in Dubai, make sure to visit the city’s famous night market to stock up on good food and beautiful textiles.

4.     Booming art scene

Dubai has never been known for its art scene, but it has been steadily growing throughout the past few years. Because Dubai is known for being extravagant, you can be sure that the art lives up to the same hype. The stunning exhibitions and galleries are truly a must-see for any art lover or simple admirer alike.

5.     Turquoise beaches

The city and the beach? What more can a traveler ask for?! Dubai is known for its gorgeous turquoise beaches spanning over 600 miles of sandy shores. There is a mix of private and public beaches for you to visit! If you do decide to relax on the gorgeous beaches of Dubai, just remember to be respectful of the country’s customs. Only wear a bathing suit when you’re on the beach or by the pool and do not take any photos or videos on public beaches.

6.     Easy transportation

Being one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world, Dubai makes it really easy to get around. The best way to get to your destination is by taxi or Uber as the prices are relatively low and it’s usually the quickest route. Dubai also has an amazing metro system that services almost 50 stations including the airport. You can also travel by boat if you’re looking to cross the Dubai Creek. It’s super cheap and the views are unbeatable. While you can rent a car in Dubai, it’s not usually recommended for tourists as navigating the city can be difficult for first-timers.

7.     Breathtaking skyline and architecture

You’ve most likely seen pictures of Dubai’s incredible skyline, but nothing compares to seeing it first-hand. The architecture of Dubai is truly one-of-a-kind with tall buildings and unique silhouettes. Make sure to view the skyline at night for a truly breathtaking view.

8.     One-of-a-kind desert expeditions

There are three total deserts in the UAE–Al Badayer, Rub’ al Khali, and Liwa Oasis. Liwa Oasis and Al Badayer are the closest deserts to Dubai being about a 3 ½ hour drive and half an hour drive respectively. If you’re looking to go desert driving or quad biking, look no further than Al Badayer with its famous dunes. You can also camp under the stars and wake up to the gorgeous sunrise over the sandy desert. Liwa Oasis is a bit of a farther trek but is totally worth it to get an authentic taste of living in the UAE. Liwa Oasis is home to crucial farms and pastures and aside from being beautiful, it really immerses you in the world of desert living.

9.     The tallest building in the world

The Burj Khalifa is Dubai’s most popular sightseeing attraction boasting over 150 floors and standing at over half a mile tall. You can go inside the tallest building in the world and head up to the 148th floor to see stunning views of the city. This is something you won’t want to miss when in Dubai.

10.  Incredible nightlife

Dubai has a vibrant nightlife scene suited for all party lovers. There are gorgeous and luxurious nightclubs and bars that range from a more chill vibe to all-out partying. Make sure to pack your dancing shoes when heading to Dubai!

Dubai is a never-ending city of culture, beauty, and fun which makes it the perfect travel destination for anyone looking to explore an exciting destination. Once you visit Dubai, you’ll want to go back again and again!

Preparing for International Travel

Preparing for International Travel

Depending on where you’ve decided to go, international travel is a big deal.  Believe it or not, your travel days can take a lot out of you.  Here are just a few tips on the best ways to prepare for an international trip. Suppose you're not quite ready for international travel, no worries. You can use these tips whenever you're getting ready for your next trip.

So Let’s Discuss!

Sleep

Rest is a given. In general, a good night’s sleep is a good thing.  But, you should definitely try to get an ample amount of sleep the night before your flight. If you think this or sleeping on the plane might be an issue, bring some melatonin for your flight. You want to feel rested when you get to your destination, not grumpy and sluggish because of the lack of sleep.

Dress in your Comfy Clothes

You will be sitting in a tight spot for hours at a time! You won’t want to wear something tight or have a zipper/button poking into you. Be as comfy as possible. But don’t worry, it's very possible to keep it comfy and cute at the same time.  Pair your comfy loungewear with some great accessories, a lovely colorful top, a 5-minute face, and prepare to travel comfortably in style.

Pack Light

Pack only the things that you need. I get it. Sometimes you aren’t sure what to pack due to planned activities or weather conditions, but the last thing you want is to haul an extra-large suitcase that is bulky and heavy.  Not fun. Pack only what you need to make things easier. A great rule of thumb, if you’re not sure, leave it home.

Get TSA Pre-Check/Global Entry

If you haven’t heard about TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry, you are in for a special treat. Think of Global Entry as a Disney FastPass for the airport. This perk will help you cut the line at security and customs. No more waiting in long lines. You’ll have extra time to walk around the terminals for your last stretch, potty break, or Starbucks fix before your flight.

Put Eyes on Your Passport.

Days or even weeks before you’re scheduled to leave, locate your passport.  Make sure you know exactly where it is. Don’t assume and wait until the last minute to pull it out.  One of the worst feelings is discovering your passport is not where you thought it was hours before your trip.

Arrive at the Airport Early

Most airports suggest that you be at the airport two hours before you depart, but nowadays, you may want to get there even earlier for international travel.  If you have any Covid-19 related documentation to present, (i.e. tests, attestation statements, health waivers, etc.), you will not be able to use a self-service kiosk, and you’ll be in for long lines and wait times.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle with you that is empty BEFORE you go through airport security. You can find a fill-up station or water fountain to fill it up for FREE. You must stay hydrated because the air cabins are extremely dry, and you want to avoid getting a dehydration headache.

Devices, Devices, Devices

When it comes to devices, be sure to bring headphones to cancel out the noise for a more enjoyable flight experience, a laptop/tablet to watch some movies that you download from your favorite streaming account, and an extra charger so you’ll have plenty of juice.

Travel Apps

There’s an app for everything that you can think of, such as maps, translation help, staying in touch with your airline, and much more.  Try adding your airline's app for flight updates and in-flight entertainment, the mobile Passport app for expedited customs options, and Viator to coordinate activities and tours while you're on vacation.

Airport Lounges:

Have a long layover?  Consider purchasing time in an airport lounge.  Listen, those Delta, United, and American airline lounges are not exclusive to cardholders.  If they have space, simply pay to enter and get your relax on!

When you’re ready to take your next international trip, contact me to help you plan, and remember these tips when it’s time to go.