Hotel Xcaret is an ‘all-fun’ inclusive resort which means not only do you receive the typical benefits of an all inclusive resort, but also unlimited access to the Xcaret parks and tours.    What exactly is included in the Hotel Xcaret ‘all-fun’ concept?  Full access to Xcaret parks, Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xavage, Xoximilco, Xenses, and the Xenotes and Xichen tours, in addition to food and beverages, transportation between parks and airport shuttle.​  

​Let’s start with the Hotel Xcaret resort itself.  Hotel Xcaret is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Mexico.  This resort has unique architecture and prides themselves on sustainability.  I’ve toured over 170 all inclusive resorts in Mexico and have to say this resort stands above many others for multiple reasons.  The beauty, the service, and the dining are all exceptional.  The only problem I can think of is that because you are so drawn to the outside activities you don’t have enough time to enjoy the resort itself.  Think this resort is just for families?  Think again.  With a separate adult only suite section, romantic dinners at Las Cuevas, adult activities such as spas and nightlife, it is a place everyone will enjoy. ​

​Xplor
Your resort stay includes transportation from the resort, bbq buffet, and activities.  The activities here include amphibious vehicles, zipline, underground cave swimming, river rafting, bbq buffet and more.  It’s a place to get your adrenaline rush!  Tip:  If you can do both Xplor and Xplor Fuego, do it!  The night time version (Fuego) gives you a completely different feel than during the day.

​Xel-Ha
Your resort stay includes transportation, food and beverages at the park, and most activities. Xel-Ha is a water park with snorkeling, water slides, river floats, and more.  Some activities come at an extra cost such as spa services or the submersion speed boat.  It’s a place to enjoy nature and beauty and relax in a hammock.  Reservations are required as it’s a 45 minute bus ride.  You depart around 9:30am and return at 6pm.  Tip: The ‘adrenalina’ boat ride is more of an submersion experience so get the details on what you are signing up for.

​Xcaret
Your resort stay includes transportation, food and beverage at the park, most activities, and ‘Xcaret Plus’. Activities such as the Dolphin experience, Sea Trek, etc. are extra.  One big attraction of this park is the underground river float.  There are places to lay by the beach, snorkel, and swim.  If you love animals and the culture of Mexico, you will want to spend significant time here.  Tip:  Don’t miss the Aviary.  

​Xichen Tour
Your resort stay includes transportation, food and beverages, and tour guides.  Chichen Itza is one of the seven wonders of the modern world and this is the way to see it!  Although you are given some time for ‘siesta’ on the bus, your tour guides do a great job keeping you entertained and providing information.  At Chichen Itza your guide is with you for about the first hour and then have free time to explore on your own.  This is an absolute must if you have not seen Chichen Itza and are staying at Hotel Xcaret.  Tip:  It is a 2.5 hour bus ride each direction so prepare for a long day.

General Tips:

• Be sure to bring natural sunscreen.  If you don’t, you can exchange your ‘non natural’ sunscreen for natural sunscreen at the park entrance.
• It’s quite possible to leave your camera at home.  Want to know why?
• Some of the parks and resort restaurants require reservations.  I can help you make those in advance.
• You will want to avoid the vacation club/time share presentation as it only takes up your precious vacation time.
• I recommend a stay of at least a week to enjoy everything the resort has to offer

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #xcarettravelagent #hotelxcarettravelagent #hotelxcaret #xcaretvacation #familymexicovacation

Taking your kids to Europe is a wonderful way to expose them to new cultures.  Here are some tips for the cities of Venice and Athens to make it even more enjoyable for them.  After all when the kids are happy, the parents are too!

Choose the right tours.  The majority of kids do not rank museums and tours as their activity of choice.  But, if you choose the right tour and guide it can really help connect your children to the area.  Bliss Travel Service can assist you with booking the right types of tours.  Here are some examples:

1. Venice – Family walking tour.  This tour is based on a scavenger hunt around the city.  You will see where Marco Polo lived and get to taste tiramisu.
2. Venice – The Doges Palace has a ‘secret itineraries’ tour.  This tour appeals to kids more than the regular palace tour as you explore secret passageways, torture rooms, and the attic prison where Casanova was held.
3. Athens – You don’t want to miss the mythology tour of the Acropolis and other ancient burial sites.  Most kids have either read or seen the Percy Jackson series and that will help to make the ancient sites come alive.

Kids don’t like to wait in line so make sure you plan ahead. In Venice if you plan on going up St Mark's Bell Tower or inside St Mark’s Basilica, have Bliss Travel Service purchase your skip the line tickets in advance.  These are TRUE skip the line tickets that allow entry via a different door.  The only rub is that you have a 10 minute window to use them.  You choose the time frame.

Kids and adults are the same in that we all love good eats.  Venice is a child foodie’s dream!  Spaghetti, pizza, and gelato, well, it doesn’t get any better than that.  Be sure to allow your child to indulge!  In Athens the gyros usually go over quite well.  Fresh pita stuffed with French fries and seasoned tender chicken or beef?  Yes please.  If you come across the Hans and Gretel ice cream shop you can’t pass up their bubble waffle cone.

What kid doesn’t like to wander?  Venice is the best city to wander in and ‘get lost’.  Since you are surrounded by water it’s impossible to truly get lost although you may feel that way at times.  Explore the carnival mask shops, ride a gondola, and oh did I mention they have gelato?  The Plaka district in Athens is especially fun at night to wander with tiered landscaped restaurants, street music, chocolate walls, shopping, and the Parthenon light up at the top of the Acropolis.

​A Greek Island cruise is a convenient way to see Greece without having to fly or take ferries between the islands.  While you are eating a scrumptous dinner, being entertained in the theater, or maybe trying your luck at the casino, you sail from one port to the next.  Plus, you only have to pack/unpack once for the entire cruise.  Most cruises to the Greek islands sail out of Venice which makes for a fantastic pre-cruise stay.

​Here are some considerations for which cruise line to choose:

1. The ports – Which ports do you want to see?  Is Santorini high on your list?  Are you a Games of Thrones fan and have to see Dubrovnik?  Is the Parthenon in Athens an absolute must?
2. Size of ship – The larger the ship, the more options for restaurants and activities you will have.  However, there will be longer lines to embark, disembark, tender to port, etc.
3. Guest profile – Some of the cruise lines are geared more towards Europeans and other cruise lines are geared more towards Americans. 
4. Time of year – Shoulder season tends to be less crowded while still maintaining good weather.  

​Set the right expectations:

1. Take it easy the first couple of days to give your body time to adjust to the jet lag/time change. 
2. Plan your shore excursions in advance but be prepared for any changes due to weather, etc.
3. Plan for large crowds.  Know in advance how many cruise ships will be in port the same day as you.  Venice, Santorini, etc are experiencing ‘over tourism’ even during the shoulder seasons.  If you can, book private tours to make the most of your time in these places.  In Santorini, the lines for the cable car to get to Fira can be 1-2 hours each way.  You can walk or ride the donkeys up as an alternative.  However, try to avoid riding the donkeys as the animals work under horrid conditions.  If it’s a nice day and you want some exercise, the walk up will most likely save you time.  Walking down is easier and will also save you time.  A tip, if you walk down at night make sure your cell phone has a flashlight to avoid stepping in the donkey ‘droppings’.  The paths are light but dimly.

​Misc tips:

1. If your cruise line allows you to make reservations in advance for dinner and/or shows, take advantage of this to avoid disappointment later.
2. Order yourself a pack of bottled water so it’s waiting for you when you get to your cabin.  Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to help with jet lag and stay energized for your vacation.  It’s a good idea to drink one every morning to start your day.
3. Be aware of the conversion rate when pulling money out of an ATM so you can be sure you are not paying for extra fees.  You should pay no more than $10 (aside from conversation rate) per ATM withdrawal for the convenience.
4. Pack the right converter.  Italy uses a different electrical converter than most other European countries.
5. Research in advance how you will communicate with the other members of your party on the cruise.  Many times the cruise line will have an app for this purpose.  Download in advance so you will be ready to go.

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #greekislandcruisetravelagent #greekislandcruisevacation #bestcruisetravelagent #GreekIslandvacation #Greekcruisetravelagent​

​Adding a land tour to your Alaskan cruise is convenient and will give you more opportunities to view wildlife.  I say if you have the time and means to go for it!    If it’s your first time to Alaska, I recommend at least 2 nights in Denali National Park and 1 night in Fairbanks.  From there you can add more nights to either of those destinations, to Anchorage, and/or to other off the beaten track destinations.

​Denali is really a showcase for the state.  Not only do you have breathtaking scenery but your chances for seeing a wide variety of wildlife are favorable.  Denali is uniquely set up in that the only way you can see it is to take one of the park’s bus tours.  Private cars are not allowed past the first 15 miles of the park, only the bus tours.  They offer three lengths and depending on which length you choose will depend on how far you go into the park.  The range is about 5, 8, or 12 hours roundtrip.  The 12 hour roundtrip ride will take you all the way into the park giving you the best chance for wildlife viewing.   I know it sounds like a long time!  We chose the middle tour (8 hours) and I was surprised at how quickly it went by.  As you can see by the photo below, they are a bit rustic!

​Fairbanks is a laid back city full of Alaskan culture.  The cruise line typically offers a fun excursion of sailing on a sternwheeler and panning for gold.  There are other things to do in Fairbanks, but since this will be at either the beginning or end of your trip, how about relaxing in your hotel and enjoying a nice Alaskan feast?  If you enjoy seafood and have an opportunity for unlimited snow crab, now is the time to do it!

Your land package in Alaska will be made seamless by the cruise line.  All of your transfers, hotels, and activities will be included so you just need to show up and enjoy. 
Things to keep in mind when choosing your land package:

1.  How many nights do you want your land package to be?  They usually range from 3-7 nights.
2. Which cities/destinations do you want to include?  Denali is a must and you can fill in the rest to your liking.
3. How much of your transportation do you want to be on motorcoach or rail?
4. How many hours do you want to spend in Denali? (you may need to upgrade your excursion)
5. How much do you want included in your package?  Some packages include minimal food/activities where others are ‘all inclusive’.

Always use a travel agent to help you select the perfect package just for you!
​
Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #alaskacruisetravelagent #alaskacruisevacation #bestalaskatravelagent #alaskavacation #alaskatravelagent

​A trip to Israel is on many bucket lists.  The combination of rich history, political and religious significance makes this an especially enriching experience.   Here are some things to consider before you embark on this adventure.  Bliss Travel Service can help make this the best experience for you!

​What do you want to see in Israel?  The myriad of sites feels endless and are located all over the country.  The two largest cities in Israel are Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.  Tel Aviv is home to beautiful beaches, a cosmopolitan lifestyle, night life, etc.  It also hosts the international airport.  Tel Aviv is fairly ‘young’ compared to the rest of the country so you won’t find as much of the rich history here.  For that, you will need to spend time in Jerusalem.

What is your religion?  If you are Christian, you will want to take a Christian based tour.  If you are Jewish, a Jewish based tour.   This is important for the sites you will visit.  For example, when in Bethlehem if you are on a Christian based tour you would visit where Jesus was born.  If you are on a Jewish based tour you would visit Rachel’s tomb instead.

​Visiting Israel is best done with a tour group.  It’s not a convenient country to drive around, park at sites, or ‘learn as you go’.  You want an expert explaining what you are looking at and the significance of it.

Be aware of any holidays (different religions have different holidays) as this can impact your trip.  We happened to be traveling in Israel during Passover.  I appreciated the extra learning opportunities this brought.  However, we did have congestion on the roads and at the sites.

You may be crossing into Palestine territory, particularly if Bethlehem is on your tour.  Depending on the nationality of your guide and their license, they may not be able to join you when you cross between the border between Israel/Palestine.

Since you are traveling all the way to this part of the world, do you want to add on Jordan and/or Egypt?  

Special tip:  If you plan on swimming in the Dead Sea, be sure to bring non slip water shoes as the rocks and mud are very slippery.  Also, do not shave at least 24 hours before entering the water as the water burns any open nicks or wounds.

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #israeltravelagent #israelvacation #bestisraeltravelagent #baptisminisrael #deadseaswim

​Who is an Alaskan cruise right for?  An Alaskan cruise is for anyone who loves cruising and/or nature.  All ages will be captivated by the scenery and animals of this majestic region.  Here are some things to consider for your vacation:

Alaska cruises only sail from May to September with the best weather on average being in the middle of that.

The best ‘values’ for Alaska cruising will be in May and September but this will also be the highest risk for less than ideal  weather.

Alaska cruises are especially popular for ‘multi-multigenerational’ cruising as the range of activities is appealing to all ages.

Alaskan cruises are best reserved at least a year in advance to get the best cabin selection, dining times, excursions, etc.

Another advantage to booking an Alaska cruise early is locking in the lowest rate and promos.  If a better rate or promo comes along, final payment has not been made, and your cabin category is still available, it is most likely you can capture the better rate.  

A balcony cabin is ideal so you can take advantage of the scenic cruising and moments in between to watch for marine life.

Most cruises will either sail round trip out of Seattle or one way between Vancouver and Anchorage area. 

A seven night cruise will typically have 3-4 days on land and 1-2 days of scenic cruising for glaciers.

Glacier Bay National Park is a coveted scenic cruising day.  Only two ships are allowed in per day.  Not only will you see 3-4 amazing glaciers but there is an abundance of marine life.

There are a wide variety of cruise ship sizes, amenities, and ‘energy types’ to choose from.  Do you want a ship that is new, massive, full of activities, amenities?  Or, do you prefer a smaller more intimate experience?

​Always work with a travel agent for the best for the expertise and best value for your vacation!
​
Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #alaskacruisetravelagent #alaskacruisevacation #bestalaskatravelagent #alaskavacation #alaskatravelagent

Antigua is an island known for it's warm golden sand and deep blue waters.  There are 365 beaches, one for every day of the year!   This makes Antigua a number one destination for romance and also popular island for family vacations.  ​

Antigua has a number of adults only all inclusive properties perfect for honeymoons or anniversary celebrations.  Sandals Grande Antigua is a luxurious property with over 300 rooms & suites on breathtaking Dickinson Bay.   There is a wide variety of restaurants, activities, and entertainment to choose from.  Water sports include paddle board, sailing on a hobie cat, kayaks, and snorkeling and scuba trips.  If that is not enough exercise there is fitness center and spa for relaxation. ​

​Hermitage Bay
This quiet sustainable upscale property has some of the most significant views in Antigua.  Some of the cabins are beachfront, but most are built into the hills for stunning views.  Infinity pools, outdoor showers, and exclusive service makes this a top choice.  This resort does allow children 14 and up.  The suites can hold up to three guests so larger families would need multiple units.  Aside from the beach and water sports there are no additional activites scheduled for children.  For that reason, I wouldn't recommend this resort for most families unless you have a child who is content to do a lot of reading or plan on leaving the resort for outside excursions.

If you prefer a smaller more intimate resort for your romantic celebration, Antigua has you covered.  On the south side of the island I toured three such properties; Cocos Hotel, Coco Bay Resort, and Keyonna Beach Resort.  Each property does not have more than 60 rooms and offers personalized service and quaint features.  What you will trade in multiple options of restaurants and activities you will gain in quiet reflection and intimate time with your loved one.

Cocos Hotel
Mind blowing views of the beautiful Antiguan water and new spa, modest accommodations

Coco Bay Resort
Beautiful ocean views and some rooms with infinity pools, modest accommodations

Keyonna Beach Resort
Beachfront accommodations, some rooms with infinity pools, and laid back atmosphere, modest accommodations

Want to bring the family?
I toured two resorts quite suitable for children; Blue Waters and Hodges Bay.    Both of these properties have standard rooms and multi room villas and spectacular views of the blue water.  A main difference between these two is that Blue Waters was built 50 years ago and Hodges Bay is 3 months old.    You would not know the age of Blue Waters as the property has been magnificiently remodeled and has beautiful and comfortable accommodations.

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #loveantiguaandbarbuda #antiguatravelagent #antiguahoneymoon #antiguaallinclusive #antiguavacation   

With the help of Beaches All Inclusive Resorts, families that have a member on the ASD spectrum can enjoy the joys of travel by having the trip specially designed to their needs and wants. They are dedicated to securing safe autism-friendly travels which include destinations, accommodations, and activities.  It is important to Beaches that the experience is controlled by trained, certified staff members that strive to create a fun, safe, sensory-friendly travel for children and adults on the spectrum.

​Beaches is designed by individuals that are certified and trained by The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). They have created amazing experiences in the most beautiful travel spots in the world so that individuals on the spectrum can experience the joys of travel.

There are many carefully designed activities for toddlers, pre-teens, teens, best friends, couples, and more to enjoy when they are traveling. Toddlers can enjoy in Autism-Friendly Kid Camps in the safe Pirates Island Water Park, have fun on the train, or laugh on the Sesame Street Caribbean Adventure. Teens can enjoy water or beach sports, hang out at the gaming zone or enjoy a round of junior golf. For couples or parents, there are plenty of spas, water sports, romantic dinners and much more available on the beautiful coastline of the Caribbean Sea.

The Destinations:

​Beaches has three amazing destinations that you can visit with your family, friends, or significant others. All of the resorts are unique and provide autism-friendly travels for all those who arrive there. 

Turks and Caicos
These beaches have been listed as some of the best in the world by Trip Advisor’s Travel Choice Awards for a reason. The island of Providenciales has 12 miles of beautiful, fine white sands with calm, turquoise waves hitting the shore. 

Negril, Jamaica
This Jamaican destination is definitely what you call a carefree ‘laidback’ destination. This cheerful paradise is everything that you could dream of with relaxation, adventure, or both. From bars, restaurants, water parks, and the famous 7-mile Negril beach, there is not much missing from this vacation heaven. 

Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Beaches Ocho Rios is an all-inclusive resort that was ranked among the Top 10 Best Beach Resorts in the world by Parents Magazine. It has an amazing private white-sand beach, five swimming pools, scuba practice pools, wonderful watersports, lush gardens, seven gourmet restaurants, and more! From championship golf area to a huge action-adventure water park, there is everything that you can possibly dream of. ​

St Lucia is an island in the Caribbean that has picturesque green mountains, vibrant flowers and foliage, sunny beaches, and warm friendly people.

I recently visited this island and toured a variety of resorts catering to couples, families, adults only, all-inclusive, wellness, and more.

​
​Another adults only all inclusive property I toured is called Body Holiday.  Body Holiday has a motto, 'give us your body for a week and we will give you back your mind'.  This is a wellness resort that will keep your body and mind active.  There is plenty of time for relaxation as well since you have a daily spa treatment included in your stay.  There are no televisions in the rooms, but not to worry as you will be spending all of your time gazing at the beautiful scenery from your balcony.   Tennis, golf, and scuba pros are provided for lessons.  One of my favorite activities is the ability to pick fresh produce from the 2 acre organic farm, receive a cooking lesson using those ingredients, and then eat your creation.

​Want to travel with children?  St Lucia has plenty of family resorts as well.  I toured four very different family resorts in St Lucia.  Although all are beautiful and offer a chance for your family to dip their toes in the sand, each has a different style and amenities.  ​

​Royalton and Bay Gardens
I like both of these properties for families with younger children.  They have well stocked kids clubs and mini water parks.  Bay Gardens has a bouncy water park called Splash Island right in the water!  Between the kids clubs and water parks there is of course a beautiful beach and waves to pounce in.

The Landings and Windjammer
I like both of these properties for families with older children, large families needing multiple rooms, or family friends traveling together.  The Landings beach is on the picturesque Rodney Bay.  It also has it's own marina making it convenient for access excursions to the islands.   If you are looking for a villa with a 180 view or brand new multi room villas with infinity pools, Windjammer is worthy of a nod.

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #letherinspireyou #SLEx #stluciatravelagent #stluciahoneymoon #stluciaallinclusive #stluciavacation   ​

​Sandals Barbados/Royal Barbados is all grown up!

Some reasons why clients may choose the Barbados location for their Sandals stay:

1. Spacious and modern rooms
2. Gorgeous gardens/grounds (currently rated the highest out of all the Sandals properties)
3. Rooftop bar with views
4. Sandals firsts including bowling alley and donut shop
5. Easy access to multiple restaurants and activities
6. For previous Sandals guests visiting a new destination
7. Access to a walkable path that after 15-20 minutes takes guests to local island shopping and bites

​Should I stay in Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados?

Since you have full access to both properties for restaurants and activities, it really doesn't matter which Sandals you choose.  Both resorts have modern and spacious club level and butler suites, but only Sandals Barbados has the entry level deluxe category.  Both resorts have about the same number of rooms, however Sandals Royal Barbados is spread across twice the acreage.  Sandals Barbados is more cozy and better suited for those who don't want to walk far.  

​Whichever resort or room you choose, you will enjoy putting your toes in the warm sand, enjoying delectable cuisine, and enjoying the vibrant entertainment on the island.

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
Dom@BlissTravelService.com
480-725-8837
www.BlissTravelService.com
www.facebook.com/BlissTravelService

#BlissTravelService #travelagent #chandlertravelagent #arizonatravelagent #barbadostravelagent #barbadoshoneymoon #barbadosallinclusive #barbadosvacation