Destination Wedding Travel Agent

Why use a travel advisor when traveling during hurricane season?

I am currently sitting on my hotel room in Clearwater, Florida.  We were supposed to be in Jamaica right now, but Hurricane Beryl is headed for a direct hit.  So...we changed our plans.  (The biggest red island in the picture is Jamaica--currently under a hurricane warning.)

But that's not the point of this post.

I have clients in Cancun right now.  (See the pink line on the map, which is currently a hurricane watch for The Yucatan.)  They arrived on Sunday and have been having a fabulous time as a family.  They are supposed to leave for home on Friday...the same day Hurricane Beryl is supposed to hit the Cancun area.

My clients were wise and purchased travel insurance.  If they do face cancellations or long delays, their additional expenses will be reimbursed.  Knowing that is helping them to be proactive.

As the storm's path has been developing, I've been watching.  This morning, while they are enjoying their vacation, I booked them new flights home on Saturday.  They now have a guaranteed way home if things get dicey on Friday and their original flights get canceled.  Flights are always the hardest part in situations like these.  We will get them an extra night at the hotel when we know more.

If they are able to leave as scheduled, they will have flight credit to use on future travel.  If they get stuck, they have flights home and won't have to wait in endlessly long lines at the Cancun airport.

All this done while they enjoy a snorkel trip as a family.  They aren't scrambling trying to figure things out.  I'm sure there is some stress regarding the unknown, but for now, they are OK.

This is what I do as your travel advisor.  Even when I'm on vacation myself!

Lessons from this experience? 

1.  Hire a travel advisor to help you with your vacations! 

2.  Buy travel insurance--especially during Hurricane Season!

 

Jamaica!!  It's a place where the sun dances on the turquoise waves, where the air is filled with the rhythm of reggae, and every moment feels like paradise!

I absolutely love this gem of the Caribbean and think everyone should vacation here at least once in their lives.

Here are a few reasons why

The Beaches:  There are so many picture-perfect stretches of powdery sand, swaying palm trees, and sunsets like no other. Whether you're lounging in the shade of a thatched-roof cabana, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or simply strolling along the shoreline, Jamaica's beaches are a slice of paradise.  My favorite is 7-mile beach in Negril.

The People:  From the moment you step off the plane, you're greeted with smiles as warm as the Jamaican sun. The service here is more than just friendly; it's genuine, heartfelt, and always delivered with a side of Jamaican charm. Whether you're chatting with a local vendor at the market, being served a fruity drink on the beach at your resort, or being serenaded by a street musician, you can't help but feel the joy and positivity in every interaction.

The Food:  Jamaica is a culinary delight, with flavors and influences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From the fiery heat of jerk chicken to the comforting embrace of a Jamaican meat patty, every dish tells a story of tradition, history, and passion. And the best part? You'll find these mouthwatering delights everywhere you go--from roadside shacks,  to the all-inclusive resorts, and at any of the amazing five-star restaurants overlooking the ocean.

The Convenience:  Getting to Jamaica from DFW couldn't be easier.  There are  regular flights, many non-stop,  between Dallas Airports (DFW or DAL) and the MBJ International Airport. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer escape, you'll find that Jamaica is an easy flight away.  The convenience makes it the perfect destination for spontaneous adventures, indulgent honeymoons, destination weddings, anniversary trips and more.

The Safety:  While no one can guarantee a trouble-free vacation, tourist safety is a top priority here.  Tourism is the countries largest industry, and therefore they have many dedicated efforts to ensure that visitors feel secure and well-cared for throughout their stay. Jamaica goes above and beyond to see that your vacation is worry-free and filled with nothing but the best memories.  It is essential for travelers to exercise typical caution and be mindful of their surroundings.  Keep with reputable guided tours, avoid sketchy areas (especially at night), and enjoy the many amenities offered at your resort.

Jamaica stole my heart from the first moment I arrived, and it continues to be one of my favorite destinations. From its breathtaking beaches and friendly service, to its mouthwatering cuisine and ease of travel, Jamaica is a destination like no other.  It's a place where every moment feels like a dream and every day is a celebration of life, love, and the beauty of the Caribbean.

See my Jamaican Honeymoon Package

Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya is the perfect option for a weekend getaway or short-stay vacation.
Located only 15 minutes from Cancun Airport, it is easy to get to and you can be at the pool by afternoon on your day of arrival.
Resort highlights:
• Adults only
• All-inclusive
• New resort, opened June 1, 2023
• On-site brewery
• Large pool
• Daytime and nighttime activities on site

The room: I stayed at this hotel in March 2024 in a King Paradise Room. The room was spacious with bright and fresh décor and furnishings. There is plenty of space to stretch out and ample storage. There is a large walk-in shower and great lighting in the bathroom. I really appreciated the newness of the resort—everything was clean and fresh.

The Minibar: You’ll find a unique mini-bar setup with a lime juicer, margarita glasses, and a cocktail shaker in your room. Don’t let the empty fridge throw you! Based on your room category and the number of nights of your stay, you will receive points to use in Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions. You’ll shop for your soda, snacks, beer & liquors like you do in a convenience store. This gives you the ability to completely customize your room’s minibar. It’s a bit confusing in the beginning, but makes sense when you work through the process.

The Pools: there are 4 pools on the property. The highlight is the main pool with the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Swim-up Bar. This is where you’ll find the foam parties, DJ’s, and games. Other pools are more quiet. There was plenty of pool chairs and cabanas. You won’t want to miss the famous floating avocado boat (additional charge) where you can munch on tacos, chips, salsas and guacamole while you are in the pool.

The Food: Everything I ate at the 3 a la carte and 1 food display restaurants was delicious! The food display is a spin on buffet dining where they keep the selections fresh by presenting smaller serving dishes in each area. There are plenty of choices, including a gluten-free bakery section. Every a la carte meal was fantastic with a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, and a grill and brewery. Service was top-notch everywhere. The only downside in dining that I experienced was room service. You order on the app, and delivery was right on time—amazing!! However, my choices left a lot to be desired, and I would have been better off going to buffet (food display).

The Beach: Don’t be surprised…there is none. The waves come right up to the edge of the property. There is no room for beach chairs. At the time I was there, we weren’t even allowed to step on the sand. The water close to the property isn’t the prettiest. If you are a “pool person” and putting your toes in the sand isn’t a requirement for a fabulous vacation, you can still enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean—especially at sunrise in the morning and twilight in the evening.

Overall recommendation: I would highly recommend this property to a couple looking for a weekend getaway or a girl’s trip looking for lively pool activities and fun evening entertainment. Four nights would be plenty. More than that, and you may get bored. I was there during the week, and it was fairly quiet. As we were leaving on a Friday, the crowd and atmosphere was definitely getting more lively. If a beautiful beach and pristine clear ocean are a must, this isn’t the resort for you.

In January 2023, I left my Corporate America job after 15+ years.  I traded accounting for adventure, and began my new career as an Independent Travel Advisor with Vincent Vacations.  Our first adventure in my new life was a biggie!  My husband and I planned a 2-week trip to Thailand to celebrate my new opportunities.  I would go back in a minute, with several things I'd do again.

Here are my top 5 Thailand adventures that will hopefully inspire you to take the leap and plan your Bucket List Adventure.

#5 - Food:  Thai food is one of my all-time favorite cuisines.  So much flavor and so many options.  Pad Thai in Thailand is 1000 times better than what you can get in the US, and I love our local Thai restaurants!  Other favorites: Thai lobster, mango sticky rice, pork skewers and Thai basil chicken.  We found inexpensive meat on a stick at the night markets to eggs, rice and chili for breakfast from 7-11.  We dined in more luxury at  The House of Smooth Curry (one of the many restaurants at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok).  Some of our favorites were the locally recommended places that didn't look like much, but the flavors were fantastic, like Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken in Bangkok.

https://www.tiktok.com/@adventuresbyanne/video/7240077635873819950

#4 - Temples:  We explored so many beautiful Buddhist Temples.  What resonated the most with me was the detailed artistry that was done centuries ago.  From Wat Phra Kaew (home of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho (home of the largest reclining Buddha) in Bangkok, to Wat Chiang Man (the oldest temple in Chiang Mai) and Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang (at hidden gem in Old City) in Chiang Mai, I was in awe.   Pictures are beautiful, but to really appreciate the temples, you must visit in person.

#3 - Night markets:  Southeast Asia is known for it's lively night markets.  Stall after stall, and a sea of patrons strolling through--there's nothing like it.  You can find dinner & dessert, get a pedicure, buy a new wardrobe, and mingle with locals and tourists alike.  We went to several, and our favorite was Jodd Fairs market.  Next time, I promise I'll eat the scorpion on a stick!

#2 - Elephant Sanctuary:  While in Phuket, we visited the The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.  While people back home were watching the Super Bowl, we were spending the day with 3 gentle giants.  We fed them, scrubbed them with mud, and rinsed them off in their own private swimming hole.  Do your research!  You want to pick a sanctuary with high humane standards. NEVER RIDE AN ELEPHANT!

https://www.tiktok.com/@adventuresbyanne/video/7210881334510816558

https://elephantjunglesanctuary.com/phuket/

#1 - Islands and Beaches:  There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Thailand.  Our first beach stop was the lively and popular Patong Beach in Phuket.  It felt a lot like Honolulu--lots of people, lots of activities, and so much to see within walking distance of almost anywhere.  Our last beach stop was Koh Samui.  We saw the Angthong Marine Park limestone islands up close on a semi-private tour that included snorkeling, kayaking, and the most fabulous sunset.  Highly recommend!

https://www.tiktok.com/@adventuresbyanne/video/7219288512523242798

https://www.viator.com/tours/Bophut/Ko-Samui-Angthong-Marine-Park-Full-Day-Tour-with-Snorkeling-and-Sea-Kayaking/d51001-103612P73?pid=P00009050&uid=U00138375&mcid=58086&currency=USD

1. Do not rent a car.
   
   Amsterdam has a robust and easy to navigate mass transit system.  The GVB transit system offers metro trains, buses, and trams.  Purchase a ticket based on the number of days you will be in the area.  For example, a 3-day ticket is 21 euros and is valid for unlimited travel on all routes for 72 hours from your first check in.
   
   Follow the maps located near each stop, and you’ll be able to navigate to within a couple blocks of your destination. Apple and Google maps include the mass transit routes as well.
   
   


2. Do not stop in the bike lanes.
   
   Amsterdam has approximately 2 bikes per capita.  With approximately 900,000 residents, that is a lot of bicycles!  The infrastructure is designed to give bike riders their own path on almost every street.  So, you will find sidewalk, bike lane, car lane (and often tram tracks as well) in each direction of traffic flow. 
   
   The bike lanes are additionally marked with red pavement.  And…bicycles have the right of way, not pedestrians.  So, stay alert, keep your head on a swivel, and don’t stop in the bike lane.
   
   


3. Do not miss out on Dutch pancakes.
   
   Amsterdam isn’t what I would call a foodie capital of the world.  There are a few things they are known for in Amsterdam:  frites, stroopwafel, bitterballen, kaasstengels, and Gouda to name a few.  The top of the list for me was the dutch pancake.  I was expecting the puffy pancake with the tall sides in a cast-iron skillet known to me as the Dutch baby.
   
   The real Dutch pancake is about the size of a medium pizza and thin – somewhere just beyond a crepe on its way to an American pancake.  Served plain, savory, or sweet and served for breakfast, lunch, and maybe even dinner, you can find them all over the city.
   
   


4. Don’t try to keep track of all the beautiful canals.
   
   When you first arrive by metro, you’ll be greeted by the River IJ (pronounced “eye”) at Amsterdam Centraal.  Pushing deeper into the city, you’ll find the intricate canal network which, quite literally, keeps the city from sinking!  As you walk around this part of Amsterdam, at almost every turn you will find a bridge over a beautiful canal. 
   
   Embrace it, and take pictures of them all.
   
     Pretty soon, you’ll be saying to your travel companions, “oh look! Another beautiful canal”.  Your camera roll will thank you later.
   
   


5. Don’t miss the Anne Frank House and the Van Gough Museums.
   
   Plan ahead and stay aware of when tickets initially go on sale for your dates.  If you arrive in Amsterdam without a ticket, you will likely miss out. 
   
   Anne Frank House tickets: 
   
   Every Tuesday, the Anne Frank House releases tickets for the following 6 weeks and tickets are 16 euros for an adult ticket.  A 30-minute introductory program is an additional 7 euros, and well worth it!  The Van Gough museum tickets can be purchased online at any time, but likely sell out anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks in advance.  There are many other museums in the city where tickets are easier to get within a few days of your visit, and all are fantastic.  But if Anne Frank and Van Gough are on your must-do list (and they should be!), mark your calendars and purchase in advance.