Travel Planning

Author: Dave Rosenthal

How I Stopped a 767 from Taking off for Disney Aulani

Interested in how I stopped a 767 from taking off?

Please read on! This story started back in November of 2014. I’ll start with a quick question? Do you like the idea of someone monitoring your flights in anticipation of any problems?

The Hawaii Trip to Disney Aulani

A new client asked me about planning a sweet 16 trip to the Disney Aulani resort in Oahu, Hawaii. She invited friends and family to the party

By Aero Icarus from Zürich, Switzerland [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
at the resort and already selected flights on United Airlines. The first flight was from Newark to San Francisco; while the second flight was from San Francisco to Honolulu. From there, I arranged for multiple car rentals to take them to the resort.

This trip involved an immense amount of planning for all parties. The mother of the guest of honor extensively planned out details of an onsite party with wonderful Disney accoutrement. I advised my travel guests on the various types of accommodations both at the Disney Aulani resort and the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas onsite.

The flight situation in Newark

Everyone arrived bright and early at Newark International airport anticipating a long travel day! It’s a long road to Hawaii from the East Coast of the US! The pilot noticed an issue with the brakes and had to pull back to the gate. Eventually, everyone had to leave the plane and wait for hours. My crew of 21 anxious travelers re-boarded the plane and then were further delayed by paperwork as the pilot had to sign-off on the repairs. Then the plane was refueled. At last they were off – bound for San Francisco and then Hawaii by night.

I use flight aware to track my clients’ flights. I carefully watched their estimated landing time in San Francisco (SFO) and the next flight’s take-off time. Do you know when you get that sinking feeling that things are not going to work out?

Anticipating the race to get to San Francisco (SFO) for the next flight

As I watched flight aware to track both flights, I was losing confidence that my 21 people could make the next flight. I called both Untied Vacations and United Air Lines looking for help! Not knowing what to do after speaking with a United Vacations Rep. I called United Airlines directly and asked if it was possible to delay the take-off of the next flight. A representative at United said he’d call SFO airport management. The rep, came back and said they could hold the flight for 30 minutes. Adding that on to the already slight delay for the next flight to Hawaii was just enough time for my clients to board the next flight. I felt like a rock star super hero as one of my people let me know that they made it on the next flight! My clients were keeping in touch with me via cell phones, emails and Facebook. Hooray, look at what I’ve accomplished!!! But my celebration was premature.

The flight situation in San Francisco

B767 By FcoRiveros2000 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Everyone made it on board hoping their luggage was with them too! This plane was a Boeing 767 loaded with lots of personal entertainment gear and a lot more fun technology than the plane for the flight across the US. Bear in mind that no one had really had a meal since very early in the day. My main contact let me know that they had to go back to the gate due to another strange sound (second time in one day for this group). After arriving back at the gate the pilot thought they could take off again – maybe. Some passengers onboard became irate and there was some degree of screaming and crying. Finally, all passenger had to leave the plane and wait at the gate hoping they could once again be en-route to Hawaii that night.

What to do after the flight is cancelled

It was just past 6:30 pm California time when my buddy called me from the gate to tell me the flight was cancelled. The on-line flight tracker showed the flight as over the Pacific Ocean from the first time it pushed back from the gate. Now what? There was a 767 full of passengers angry that they were not going to Hawaii and many of them not making it to the Disney Aulani Resort for their first night in Paradise!

My clients were commanded to wait in line to rebook their flights/pick-up meal vouchers/receive hotel and transfer accommodations. I had already looked at other airlines with flights out that night but it was getting later and United Airlines had re-booked all of my guests for a flight early the next morning.

TIP: if an airline cancels your flight, you have the right to demand that they put you on another carrier’s flights. They are NOT going to tell you this and it may not work but I want you to know you can always ask…Or ASK me!

AND, the luggage never made it on to the original plane from SFO to Hawaii. Again, all of the flights were re-booked for the next morning on the same flight. I started pulling up everyone’s United reservations and reviewing their seat assignments to share with the group.

The line for hotels lasted for hours with only 4 reps. to take care of all of the logistics for the night. Some of my clients elected to sleep in the United Terminal to avoid the stress of catching to shuttles and checking into a hotel at who knows what time!

The next day

Photo courtesy of Michelle Kraft Cook

The flight from SFO to Honolulu went off early the next morning with little delays transporting my guests to beautiful Hawaii. The Disney Aulani resort was waiting for them.

While the car rentals were supposed to have been on hold for 24 hours after the first flight was supposed to land, at least one of my clients had issues picking up their car.

To top it off, a client could not find his license after landing in Honolulu. With no license, I advised him to switch over the car rental to his wife, BUT how was he supposed to board the flight home? Turns out that that is a story in and of itself. (He actually found his license but after much effort I can tell you how to board a plane IF you lose your ID.) The DMV assured me that there was no way they could get a replacement license to Hawaii in time for his return trip home.

FINALLY, all of my clients eventually got to Aulani and their rooms were waiting for them!

Trip Insurance as a remedy

Now that everyone has returned from Hawaii, I still have 21 clients who lost their first night at Disney Aulani Resort and also multiple car rentals which lost one night of use. As everyone had trip protection insurance, I initiated claims for their trips after they returned home. Now, they all need is proof from United Airlines that the flight was cancelled in order to file their claims…I’m waiting for that to come in.

Hear comments from my clients before they left Hawaii:

Happy Travelers at Disney Aulani Resort

August 25, 2015
Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa: Should you Go?
This post reviews what it’s like to experience the Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa. NOTE: This is a long post broken up with sub-headers, feel free to scroll around to explore what most interests you.

During this trip, I also did a site inspection of the giant Iberostar Paraiso complex.

Royalton Riviera Cancun Facilities: Design and Layout

I spent 6 days at this incredible resort in April, 2015. This newly built resort is a quick drive from the airport and dazzled me in many ways.

The Royalton Riviera Cancun (Royalton) is a very modern and sleek design. Want a traditional Mayan style resort? Check out my Iberostar Paraiso Report.

This resort is accessed via Highway 307. Most Riviera Maya resorts are East of Highway 307 via an access road.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Main Building

The Royalton is just South of Cancun airport (CUN). The access road has some twists and turns as you approach (with numerous speed bumps). As you see the West side of the resort in the distance, the first thing you’ll notice is that the Royalton is a very large structure parallel to the beach; the wonderful advantage of this design is that most everywhere has a view of the Caribbean Sea and most bars, restaurants, and facilities are close to most of the rooms. The resort is designed with multiple U’s facing the sea.

Royalton Riviera Maya

The main building holds the main check-in concierge office, the spa, Diamond Club Lounge, Diamond Club check-in, coffee/ice cream shop, tours, and other shops on the main floor. The main floor is completely open to the East allowing the delightful Caribbean breezes into the main seating area. The downstairs of the main building holds the buffet, Grand Marche (display kitchen as staff calls it), and other restaurants.

From the main center building, the resort spreads out in either direction to the guest rooms. The main building also branches off into the main “U.” The Diamond Club and Hideaway are to the South while the main and family sections are to the North. In total, there are 4 “U’s”: Main resort, family section of Royalton, Diamond,and Hideaway.

Riviera Cancun Resort is divided into four categories with varying levels of amenities and rooms:
1. Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa – main section for all ages
2. Royalton Diamond Club – upgraded section for all ages with enhanced amenities
3. Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun – Adults only section
4. Hideaway at Royalton Diamond Club – Adults only with enhanced amenities
Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa – Dining

This is the “main’ resort for all ages. In addition to what you’d expect at an All-Inclusive, there is complimentary WiFi throughout the resort, and reservation-less dining at all of the a la carte restaurants. While reservations are taken, you do have the right to show up at any open restaurant for dinner as you wish; this is a MAJOR advantage over many All-Inclusives. While there may be a line, at least you can go where you want if you’re willing to wait. We never had a long wait for dinner seating while we were there. Note: Some restaurants are only for Diamond and Hideaway guests.

The main buffet – Gourmet Marché International Buffet, or “display kitchen” as one staffer called it, is on the lower/pool level. This buffet had a tremendous amount of

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Grand Marche Buffet

sections for breakfast, lunch and dinner with quality food. The only downside was extremely dry rolls. The offered display cooking for Mexican specialties, meats, seafood, and numerous other items. They also had Mexican versions of cereals (shown in the adjacent picture). I’ll admit to having cauliflower or broccoli for breakfast since it was there and I wanted to maintain my vegetable intake.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Armadillo

We had lunch twice at Armadillo’s | Tex-Mex Cuisine. Armadillo had a fun menu and a nice ambiance. I’d have to say that we really didn’t care for OPA! Mediterranean Cuisine; not bad – just was not into it. Grazie Italian Trattoria was located literally inside the family pool (nestled in between buildings 7/8/9). The food here was good. Nibbles is the snack bar located at the edge of the family section right across from the beach; Nibbles offer fries, burgers, nachos, etc.. We also had lunch and dinner at The Beach Club Grill; this was a casual Caribbean style place located right across from the family beach area.

We had dinner on our last night at the resort at Agave Mexican Cuisine; this place was real authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant ambiance.

We never made it to Zen Japanese Cuisine; this place was the hardest to get into especially since it featured Hibachi tables; there was a line in the morning at the concierge office to make reservations. We didn’t desire getting into Hunter Steak House | Steak House. so, I cannot make any first hand comment on these two places.

Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa – Diamond Club

The Diamond Club is a step up from the main resort. You have access to the Diamond Club lounge for more services and snacks. Your rooms are

Royalton – Diamond Club Cooler

also in a separate section and have pools for exclusively Diamond Club members. Notice this blue and white cooler safe. This is a unique feature of the Royalton Diamond Club. You can have your butler fill the cooler with beverages of your choice and then lock up your keys and smart phone inside while the cooler stays at your butler-reserved seating area.

Some notable amenities of Diamond Club:
Those awesome beverage coolers!

Personal butler service

Preferential reservations in à la carte restaurants

Exclusive beach area with dedicated bar and waiter service

Personalized check-in and check-out

Selected premium drinks menu available in Lounge
Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa – Hideaway

The Hideaway is the adults only “resort within a resort.” Hideaway guests can use all of the facilities of the main Royalton resort.   The rooms in this section do have upgraded amenities including a custom beach bag and an upgraded room-service menu. The vibe or “happening” (as my excellent guide/sales executive Mr. Angel Velasquez put it) in this section is more subdued than the main Royalton.

Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa – Hideaway Diamond Club

The Hideaway Diamond is the ultimate experience for adults at the Royalton. The Hideaway Diamond has the service of the main Diamond club and more in its own lounge.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Drinks and Bars

Royalton Riviera Cancun – in-room mini-bar

The drinks were great. The bartenders were generally friendly and quick. We really enjoyed Dips Swim-up Bar at the main pool. The Encore Swim-Bar at the family pool next to Grazie was incredibly crowded when we were there. The service was so slow that we left. The main Royalton beach bar is on an elevated deck with open air seating. The in-room mini bar is stocked with Corona Light and Modelo; not award wining beers but they are fine. And there are no “mini” airplane-sized liquor bottles here – our room was stocked with five 750ml bottles of premium liquor, including Absolut and Johnny Walker Red Label.

I tried to enter SCORE Sports Bar and Lounge for the final game of the NCAA Men’s basketball championship to cheer on Duke (being an ACC alumnus). Couldn’t even get in the door it was so crowded with red-shirted Wisconsin fans. This is a nice sports bar and open until 6 am for both drinks and snacks.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Rooms

The rooms are some of the most luxurious I’ve ever inspected or stayed in, and I’ve been in a lot of rooms! We were assigned room 7310. this room is an ocean view junior suite which faces the main pool with a great view of the Caribbean Sea. The room has a separate jacuzzi tub, two-basin vanity and a dual head rain shower which is as fabulous as it sounds. The toilet is off in its own little room. The TV is all IP-based which means it is very cool after you get it to work. We also had an ample-sized balcony with a partially-obstructed view of the main stage for the nightly shows.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Service

Royalton Riviera Cancun – mucho agua!

We experienced great service throughout our stay. Since we were concerned about drinking the water out of the faucet in the room, using it for tooth-brushing, etc., we asked for extra bottled water by leaving a note in my best Spanish, ” Mucho agua, por favor” with a $5 tip. This resulted in the photo the left. The room was made up nicely each day. As we were out of the room for hours at a time some days, I cannot tell you what times the room was made up. I spoke with the man who stocks the mini bar and he was happy to provide as much beer as I could request.   He also told me how much he makes in one day at the resort – not much at all! Please TIP the staff well as they make very little money.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Kids Club and Teens Club

The kids club is a beautiful two-level facility with a separate check-in/show-drop section outside of the club. Children are signed in and enter through one door. As of my April visit, I must report a BIG issue. The first time we dropped the kids off, we merely signed them in and left. It was just too easy for a first time check in. The second time we went to check them in, the person at the sign in desk asked what kind of ribbon the kids had tied to their bracelet? Ribbon? What ribbon? Apparently they assign a certain color ribbon to identify whether the children are authorized to sign out on their own. We were also asked to fill out a registration form which you’d normally get on the first time you signed the kids in to the club. On one occasion, I went to pick up the kids and was asked, “are they your children?” I was not asked to present my password…not good.

These are significant security lapses; I cannot recommended the club for younger children until they have standardized security policies that are consistently enforced.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Teens Club

The teen club is come and go at your own convenience – a totally different story here. This is a large facility with a dance floor, video games and other fun stuff.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Beach

The beach itself was just perfect with lots of beach loungers and hammocks. The WATER was the subject of a lot of controversy during the Winter/Spring season of 2015 as there was a huge influx of seaweed from the Sargasso Sea that accumulated on beaches all over the Rivera Maya region. As of early April, it was dense and it made the water murky   Hopefully, it is better now but this is nature and there is nothing the resort can do about this seaweed. As much as they tried to clean it up, it was impossible to keep up. For crystal clear Caribbean water, please read my review of Xcaret Nature Park.

Royalton Riviera Cancun – Pools

I did not even attempt to count the number of pools, which goes into the low double digits. The pools are also heated which kept them at a delightful temperature. The pools are truly spectacular and you can find a pool for every level of quiet or music and activity you desire.

The staff is starting to reinforce the whole “towel-on-the chair” bit as people will get up very early in the morning and drop a towel across loungers, day beds, etc., and thinking they own the spot for the entire day.   The Diamond and Hideaway sections have butlers to help you secure chairs/loungers/beds at the pools and beaches located for their guests. We did have a problem with towels on one afternoon and could not find any towels at all but did see the dirty towels piling up. Other than that, no issues with towels. NOTE: there are no towel cards; you just go and take towels as needed. The beach seating was less crowded in the afternoon.

Royalton Riviera Cancun Gym

Royalton Riviera Cancun gym

The Royalton has a very nice two-level gym adjacent to the spa. The gym and spa are located in the South end of the Main building. The gym

Royalton Riviera Cancun gym

has free weights and squat racks downstairs and cardio equipment and selectorized weight machines upstairs. There is access to the rooftop tennis courts from the upper floor of the gym. The second floor also has nice views of the West side of the Royalton. If you exercise very late, then you’ll get to witness the sunset.

watch a video of me with a Sales Executive from the Royalton

Let’s get started today on your Trip to the Royalton!
May 11, 2015
8 Benefits of Using a Travel Adviser

What have I done for YOU lately? Here are 8 Benefits of Using a Travel Adviser for you!

First, I must thank one of my mentors Stuart Lloyd Cohen, as everything below is an adaptation of a great article that Stuart wrote. You can see what Stuart is all about right here.

Consider this my Travel Adviser Resume with your benefits:

1) I reduce Your stress

I want you to relax on vacation and also relax during the months and weeks leading up to you trip. I reduce YOUR worries and stress from the beginning of the travel planning phase until after you come home (should any issues arise, I’m still in your corner.) I know most of the things that might cause stress both while you are planning and experiencing your trip, and I will eliminate these stressers for you.

2) I increase your convenience

Having you been searching the web for hours? days? Take your time back because I’ll do all of the legwork for the things you know you need to do for your trip plus some things you may not have thought about. Have a question? suggestion? I’m ready to assist you? Plus I’ll set up as much in advance as you desire so things like transfers, tours, etc. are all done before you arrive.

3) I add value to your trip

I get the most from your vacation dollar. I know how to create a custom package tailored to your needs. I’ll provide much more than you may have realized you need for your trip.

4) I validate things you already know

I understand your past travel experiences (from our relationship or your new client intake survey) and want to hear all about them. What do you like/not like about your past travels? I value the research you’ve done prior to contacting me for your trip. Your are welcome to send me all of the information you collect. I will review your information and evaluate it with my experience and knowledge of your travel objectives to see if it is the right fit for your trip.

5) I remind you of things you forgot

Feel comfortable knowing that my to-do list is probably longer than yours! That’s my job and responsibility to you. Hire me to take care of the frustrating details so you can get back to work or whatever else you have to do while I focus on your vacation planning details.

6) I offer you things you never knew existed

No matter how well traveled you are or how much time you spend on the Internet, I can provide you with a complete vacation experience. I can make suggestions for stress relieving trip components you may never have thought of by harnessing my years of experience for your trip.

7) I increase your satisfaction

Your happy travels are my business. Everything we plan collaboratively, plus all of the work I do behind the scenes is for you to come home with happy memories to share and re-play. I am personally interested in you and your travel companions. Planning your travels down to the small details is what I enjoying doing.

8) I plan awesome group trips

Let’s look at a real world story. I have 20 people going to Hawaii; specifically, Disney’s Aulani Resort. Some of my travel guests booked their air with me and some purchased air on their own. Some people are good in regular economy and some want economy plus. There are four segments to the group’s flights: two to Hawaii and two legs back home. Some people need to sit with certain other people on all legs of the flights and some of these people may be in economy plus versus regular economy. Whether they booked their air with me or not, I’m upgrading, tweaking, and moving people around and coordinating this whole process. Sound complicated? YES, it is; however it’s my pleasure to make you happy throughout your trip.

Will you get this coordination and level of service from a website? Think about that!

I’ve also coordinated, cabins, dining, transfers, hotels, etc. for group cruises! It’s my pleasure to assist you.

That’s my travel adviser resume for you!

Have you worked with me? Awesome , and I thank you! Please let me know how else I may serve your travels?

If you’ve never worked with me, today’s the day to begin with my travel planning survey to understand your travel objectives:

April 27, 2015
Xcaret: What is this place and why should you go?

What is Xcaret? This article reviews what it is like to experience Xcaret.

Xcaret is a vast nature park just South of Playa del Carmen in the Rivera Maya area of Mexico. Xcaret is filled with underground rivers (or cenotes), Mayan culture, wildlife, and beautiful Caribbean water. While this place has the layout and feel of an American Theme Park, nature is the star attraction at Xcaret, as this park is in the jungle.

Underground Rivers at Xcaret Park

First and foremost, you go to Xcaret to swim in the secret river: an underground river that is about 900 Meters long with places to exit the river and take a break or warm up. Second, after a fun day exploring nature, you go to the big Xcaret Mexico Espectacular cultural show. These are just two of the 40 plus attractions. There is a large entrance facility at the front with towel pickup, massive gift ship, locker room/bathrooms, and restaurants. In the gift shop, they are people who follow you around and carry your selections in baskets for you. I’m thinking they get some type of commission but they are not pushy. The property is broken up into six different routes or sections: each section has different nature/water activities, entertainment, restrooms, restaurants, and concessions. Xcaret is hot and there a plenty of places to purchase water, drinks, and beer. Please stay hydrated and bring biodegradable sunscreen.

If you purchase the Plus package, you get a snorkel and fins along with a special waterproof “bag” to store your wallet and phone; a locker to store your dry clothes and valuables; and you’re also entitled to a towel (which I finally figured out where to pick up when we were ready to leave the park). The Plus package also includes lunch. Priced at $29pp, the restaurants (mostly buffets) are NOT cheap.

English: Gran Tlachco stage (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

As I mentioned earlier, Xcaret features the “Xcaret México Espectacular” at the end of the day. While the show is included in your admission price, dinner is not. There are different dinner options for the show and there are people doing the upsell for dinner during lunch at the various restaurants. Consider the upgraded seating and dinner like upsells for a Hawaiian Luau.

Xcaret Maya Ruins

Underground river aside, this park has many included activities including a beautiful beach and natural “pools.” There’s also a snorkel inlet (gear included with the Plus package). There’s plenty of wildlife and a Mariposario (butterfly garden). You can even swim with sharks – nurse sharks, that is. You can also climb on some small Mayan ruins. (That’s me at the top in the photo.)

La Laguna International Buffet

We chose the Laguna International buffet and both the food and service were fabulous. It was a memorable experience enjoying food deep in the jungle with live music playing. I found these agave oat cookies which were just amazing. This was a far higher caliber than American “Theme park” type food. The buffet was vast with great selections. You also get one free beer with your lunch to help defray the $29 cost. Again, note that dinner is not included if you stay for the night show. There are different options for dining during the show.

Xcaret – Voladores de Papantla (flyers)

Xcaret – Voladores de Papantla (flyers)

Don’t forget to visit the the ritual ceremony of the “Voladores” (flyers). It is considered Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, which gives it a great cultural value.

jungle urinal Xcaret

While there are modern bathrooms in the main entrance facilities, as you get deeper into the Park, there are just cold water sinks and pull-chain cold water showers near the Xcaret Plus changing facilities. I had a chance to visit the bathroom in the Mayan Village and had to take a picture of the “jungle” facilities. The snake is not real but worthy of a picture.

jungle tap Xcaret

Wash your hands when you’re finished please.

Bottom line: Do you like water activities? Like Nature? Then go visit Xcaret. Xcaret is nicely complimented by two other parks, Xel-Ha and Xplor. Xel-Ha is all about snorkeling. Xplor is all about zip-lines, ATVs, and underground rafting.

Want to visit Xcaret or these other adventure parks? Ready to plan your complete Riviera Maya vacation?

April 20, 2015
Fresh from the New York Times Travel Show
Feature Article – Fresh from the New York Times Travel Show

My NYT Trade Show Badge

Warning, this post is heavily biased. For people who’ve never worked with me, how do I explain the value I provide for your trip (especially multi-city travel)? Rather than saying it in my own words, why not let some of the big dogs of the travel industry explain it in theirs? The picture below was from our keynote panel. You may have heard of Peter Greenberg on TV, radio, CNBC (how I define TV), or read his books. Until I heard Peter speak in person, I really thought he was against travel advisers.

New York Times Travel Show, courtesy of Me

Here are some of Peter Greenberg’s top sound bites:
1. The Internet is for the lazy; travel advisers are for the smart people (Peter’s words not mine!)
2. The airlines’ motto: “we’re not happy until you’re not happy”.
3. The fastest growing form of transport in the US is inter-city bus transportation.
WOW! Not a new airline from a billionaire or a high-speed mag-lev carbon-free train, just buses. Think about the cost of going on a bus versus air. I’m not advocating this form of transport! Just thought it was very interesting.

There was also an executive from Google Travel on the panel. He discussed things like if you fly into LA and always search for three-star hotels, you will not be shown four-star hotels. Google is getting ever more sophisticated.

Earlier in the day I attended a panel on European travel.

One of the panelists was Harry Dalgaard, President of Avanti Destinations. Harry described his company as connecting the dots for multi-city travel. I like that! Reminds me of what I do for your travels – connecting the dots on all of the major travel components that go into your trip especially for multi-city trips. Ever wonder how I design your mutli-city travel? Avanti Destinations is one of my secret weapons to add value to your trip by working with a reputable supplier who can do trains, hotels, tours, and flights all in one place with a single point of contact. Oh, and you also get an in-country contact for support during your trip.

Question about Avanti, are the hotels any good? Simple, if there are 3 strikes against any one hotel, Avanti drops them! Compare that to evaluating a hotel on Trip Adviser. Think about this!!!! If Trip Adviser has three strikes against a property, do they no longer include it in their rankings and reviews? Oh, and is Avanti super-cheap? No!

Please share your feelings below.
January 26, 2015
Cuba: Engage or Isolate
Satellite image of Cuba in November 2001. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Cuba: Engage or Isolate

There’s a lot going on in the news concerning events in Cuba.

Is it better to engage or isolate Cuba? What’s my agenda here? To promote travel everywhere!

Several of Daydream Excursions’ clients visited Russia this year and embarked on a 2 day tour of St. Petersburg. It was all about taking in the amazing culture and interacting with the local people.

Here are some news clips to review:

From the Guardian:

The Guardian on normalizing relations

From the New York Times:

U.S. and Cuba, in Breakthrough, Will Resume Diplomatic Relations

By The New York Times @nytimes

9 questions you were embarrassed to ask about the Cuban embargo

From CNN

President Barack Obama will ease sanctions imposed against Cuba under the U.S. embargo after Cuba agreed to release American aid worker Alan Gross.

What do you think? Engage or Isolate?

A ‘maquina’ or ‘yank tank’ in Trinidad, Cuba, 4 January 2004. (1956 Ford) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Please comment below or on my Facebook page

Did you know that US citizens can travel there now via the “People-To-People” program. This program is offered by select escorted tour companies and includes segments where people take in Cuban culture.

More from Cuba Travel Services:

Individuals may travel to Cuba under the auspices of an organization granted a specific license to engage in educational exchanges in Cuba, without the individuals’ having to apply for a specific license on their own.

These educational exchanges need not involve academic study.

Organizations that sponsor and organize such programs to promote people-to-people contact may be granted a specific license.

Businesses as well as not-for-profits and academic institutions may qualify as an organization that sponsors and organizes programs to promote people-to-people contact.

To obtain a specific license, application must be made to OFAC.

For more information, see the official U.S. regulations regarding travel to Cuba (the Cuban Assets Control Regulations — 31 C.F.R. Part 515), available at U.S Department of the Treasury.

Imagine if you could just plan a trip there like anywhere else? Cuba does have tourism infrastructure including various all-inclusive resorts. CNBC had the CEO of Crystal Cruises on this morning discussing new port calls in Cuba for cruise passengers. Just imagine the possibilities.

Please do share your thoughts below.

Related articles
- U.S. Will Start Talks with Cuba on Normalized Relations
December 17, 2014
Do You Have a Lifetime Travel Plan?
Do you have a Lifetime Travel Plan? Financial Plan? Fitness plan?

We’ve all heard that it is a good idea to have a plan – especially for retirement, college, longevity, etc. The key to long term success is long term planning.

You can have a lifetime travel plan too. Consider just a small sampling of the possibilities at different life stages:

1. Being in the throes of taking your kids to Disney World

Tahiti – Papeete 1 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

2. Kids are in college and thinking of finally taking a European River cruise
3. Hoping to finally take that bucket list trip to Tahiti (KEEP READING FOR A TIP).
4. Taking your annual resort trip
5. Planning that long awaited trip to Italy

These trips can range from a minimal need for advance planning to one year or more of advance planning. Having an idea of what you want to do is a good thing but it’s even better with a plan. OK, here’s your tip; when you’re thinking of Tahiti, you’re probably not really thinking of Tahiti. While you will likely fly into Papeete, Tahiti; you’re likely of dreaming of Bora Bora or Moorea.

English: Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Did you see the latest client feedback in this week’s newsletter?

It was about a very long trip to Australia, one of the most complicated trips I’ve ever planned; really it was three us – my two clients plus me. My clients wanted some very off the beaten path places in Australia as part of their travel dreams. Places your average escorted tour will never get to visit. Getting this trip right took lots of interaction and hours and hours of work.

Wondering what goes into all of this work?

1. Studying my clients’ intake survey to understand their goals of taking the trip.

2.Understanding their travel “style” including types of hotels, tours, dining style, modes of transportation, etc.
3. Planning draft itineraries with different vendors.
4. Nailing down the “trip flow” which includes number of cities/places, number of days in each city, planning a night or two of down time after arriving in your destination (HINT: this is a good idea for Australia and Tahiti).
5. Optimizing, tweaking, changing, and changing some more for my clients including adding in tours and transfers.
6. Interacting constantly to get everything tuned up just right for you.

Bottom line: we started planning for this September trip back in March.

I consider this a short window for planning a trip of this nature as there are many moving parts to put together.
Some trips are planned out over a year in advance due to tight inventory. Are you familiar with all of the newer European river cruises on the market? Some of these itineraries, such as traveling around Paris, really do get booked out a year in advance. (There’s the long term planning once again.)

While we work on these several month or one year in advance trips, many clients might have another trip coming up like a winter cruise or trip to an All-Inclusive resort. Seeing the picture here? Would you pick and fund a college education two months in advance of packing for the freshman dorm?

OK, a simple trip does not need such advance planning. But isn’t it good to allow us time to maximize options and vendor promotions? (DEEP SECRET: I really do see the vendor promotions; maybe more than you receive. I want to make sure I have enough time to give you all of the promotions that you qualify for.)

The key is to work together on an advance basis. That’s you and me, and we’ll have fun too!
- So, what are YOUR travel plans over the next one to two years?
- What are your dream trips on a ten year plan?
Remember, we’re not booking trips out ten years, just having really fun discussions. I’ll be actively engaged in your short term travel plans while we chat about the future.

Then we begin to drill down into the details:
- Where do you want to go and when?
- Special events to celebrate during these trips?
Haven’t thought about these issues in advance, that’s ok! We will use the information gathered to begin to provide you with updates to fit your travel ambitions.

Question: wondering why I provide so much detail about that custom Australia trip above? One of my awesome client-turned-friend, normally does a big trip in the summer. I know from his lifetime travel plan that he wants to visit Australia. While it may not work next summer, it is on my back burner to keep a lookout for him.

Do not think for a moment that this is too much advance planning for your vacation travels! Does your accountant wait until you are 60 to talk to you about retirement? Does your doctor wait until you have a heart attack to tell you about good eating habits and exercise? Does your real estate agent ever discuss your “next home”?

Let’s be engaged together in your lifetime travel plan!
November 18, 2014
10 Tips for Your Holiday Travel
A Boarding Pass (Kraków, Poland to Nice, France). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I’m going to give you 10 tips for your holiday travel success.

But first questions:
- Have you ever flown on the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving? I have!
- Have you ever driven on I-95 on the Sunday after Thanksgiving? I have many times, and it’s brutal!
Read on to make your holiday travels smoother and avoid my past travel transgressions.
1. Avoid flying on the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving! How about flying out early Thanksgiving morning? You’ll have one less night with your favorite relatives or one less hotel night and the fares and crowds might just pleasantly surprise you. For returning home – after Friday, Saturday and Sunday get more expensive and more crowded. (Although, I have flown back on the weekend after Thanksgiving and sometimes Sundays aren’t bad.)
2. Don’t wait too long to book airfare as our airline friends are notorious for jacking fares over holidays. PS they know when all of the Spring Weeks occur and will jack fares for those weeks too. Book those flights sooner than later! *Top secret tip*: some of you may already know that you can book airfare out to a maximum of 11 months in advance.)
3. Select direct flights if at all possible as connections are not super fun and even less fun during peak travel periods.
4. Leave extra early for the airport, train, or highway. And, please fill up your car prior to leaving; while you’re at it, check the oil and tire pressure.
5. Try to pick a very early flight as airports are only going to get more crowded and potentially backed up as peak travel day traffic progresses.
6. Pack lighter than you think you need. Bring less stuff and attempt to ship gifts out early so you don’t have to travel with them. BONUS TIP: If
  
  English: TSA Lock with Symbol and General Key Access Deutsch: TSA Schloss mit Logo und Generalschlüsselzugang (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
  
  flying with your gifts do NOT wrap! You don’t want to watch the TSA ripping the wrapping paper off of your gifts!
7. If flying, check in and get your boarding passes prior to leaving. Many airlines now let you get your boarding passes on your smart phone be it Android or iOS. For you Blackberry and Windows phone users, please check for availability.
8. While I’m on the subject of smartphones, there are various apps to help you navigate busy airports and find places for your favorite eating, drinking and shopping.
9. Traveling with kids? On a plane? No problem (hopefully)! Have a backpack with lots of games and activities for the kids; break out new stuff as they lose their interest in the current activities. The great John T Peters, even advises carrying a bunch of Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts cards to pass out to the people in front, to the side, and behind you, as a token of good faith in case your little ones draw too much attention.
10. Travel Insurance!!! Do I end all of my lists with Travel insurance? Trips don’t necessarily go as planned. Think you’ll never have to cancel a trip or have an issue? I’m the one that works with your travel vendors and trip insurance provider to help get back as much of your money as possible. Please don’t travel unprotected.
That’s it for this list. If you found this helpful, please share!

Have any comments or suggestions, please share your thoughts?

Ready to plan that trip? Contact me today!
November 3, 2014
What You Must Do Before You Travel Internationally

Currency board (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Packed and ready to go on your dream trip? Wondering what You Must Do Before You Travel Internationally?

This guide reveals what you need to know before you leave for your trip

The information comes from years of answering of client questions. If you have travel tips you’d like to add or questions to ask, please let me know!

Cruise

Will I receive Luggage tags?

In most instances, no. In our modern techno-world, most cruise lines include a printable/foldable PDF to make into a luggage tag – even Cunard has paper luggage tags! Make sure to pre-register your booking with your address soon after the final payment. As an alternative, you can go to the pier and ask a porter for a “real” tag; just be sure to write your name and cabin number along with other requested information.

Will I receive Cruise “Tickets” in the mail?

In most instances, your electronic pre-registration will provide an electronic boarding pass to print out. Please pre-register soon after the final payment to ensure you have plenty of time to gather your documents and other required information. This process, which may appear cumbersome, will greatly speed your check-in at the pier and get you aboard much faster. Note: certain Luxury and Premium lines still prepare paper documents.

When do I show up at the pier for my cruise?

As a general guideline, plan on arriving between 12-1pm for Continental US departures. Keep in mind that ships are debarking passengers and need to receive clearance from the Coast Guard/local authorities prior to boarding. This is generally at 1pm or later but may occur earlier than listed. Arrive too early and you could be caught up in the departure traffic from the prior cruise, which is not advisable. Getting there after 2pm will result in the shortest lines, but why not wait in line and have the opportunity to start your vacation sooner? Please always refer to your boarding documents for more detailed information. Some cruise lines have started boarding times based upon deck or cabin category.

Can I take my own alcohol aboard on my cruise?

Wine and champagne are allowed on certain lines; please check with the cruise line for specifics. Consuming your own wine or champagne in the main dining room normally comes with a corkage fee. Please do not consider taking liquor aboard as the liquor will be confiscated and denial of boarding/disembarkation IS possible.

Also note that it is generally permissible to take your own cases of water aboard.

Air

English: A flight coupon issued by Thai Airways International (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Will I receive Airline Tickets in the mail?

It is exceedingly rare to receive paper tickets anymore. (When’s the last time you got a paper ticket on airline “stock?”) In most cases, you will take your confirmation number and pre-register on your carrier’s website.

What are my airline Seat assignments and can I make requests?

In some cases, the most economical fares do NOT allow advance seat assignments. Advance seats assignments are still available to a limited degree. Whenever you purchase your airfare with me, I will get seat assignments for you when possible. Additionally, I will look for options that are based upon your preferences. When advance seat assignments are not available, two options include paying for a higher fare class and paying for a seat assignment on the airline’s website (e.g., British Airways).

When do I check in for my flight? Boarding pass?

Generally, you may print your boarding pass starting within 24 hours of your departure flight. Check in online for flights as soon as possible (normally starting within 24 hours prior to your departing flight)…airlines have started bumping people who check in late! You may also wait until you get to the airport and check in at a self-service kiosk. At this time, you may have an opportunity for seat assignments or seat changes. Please be aware that arrival guidelines are two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. These times are for arrival at the gate, NOT airport or security check-in.

Select automatic check in for return flights when offered while checking in for your outbound flight.

Many airlines now have an app which enables you to use your smart phone as your boarding pass as opposed to printing out a boarding pass. You can also print boarding passes in your cruise ship’s Internet center or your hotel’s business center for a fee.
How do I meet the driver/shuttle for my resort, tour, or cruise transfer?

Please refer to your transportation voucher/information in your Paper or eDocuments. Normally you will claim your baggage and proceed through customs first. Then, you will look for either a tour operator desk and check-in area or look for someone with your name on a sign to personally greet you. Again, please refer to your travel documents.
SPECIAL NOTE: If traveling to Cancun/Riviera Maya, walk through the terminal and speak only with your pre-designated transportation company – BEWARE of time share peddlers offering you a free ride to your resort!

All-Inclusive Resorts and Hotels

What do I need to check into the hotel/resort?

You will generally receive eDocs with a voucher for each hotel/resort. Please present the voucher upon check-in. Your travel docs will also include contact information for each property.

Do I need to wear wristbands at the all-inclusive resort?

Some require you to wear wristbands and some don’t; we’ll cover that when selecting the right properties for you.

Do I need to tip at the all-inclusive resort?

Generally no, but it’s up to your discretion in most cases. I hear many stories of tipping the bartender the first day of your stay. Note: some resorts actually prohibit tipping.

Do All-Inclusive Resort ever have extra charges?

Generally, there is a wide variety of food, drinks, and activities at better properties. Some activities like SCUBA, spa services, etc. will be extra. Some of the more entry-level resorts will have an upcharge at their a la carte restaurants. Nicer resorts may charge for a romantic dinner on the beach or full bottle of wine/wine not included on the All-Inclusive list.

Finally, upscale All-Inclusive resorts may include WiFi/Internet service at no charge along with traditional/VoIP calls back to the US.

Credit/Debit Cards and Foreign Currency

English: Sample ATM card which can be distinguished from a credit card or debit card by the absence of such features as network logotype on the front. Created by Sergio Ortega on April 16, 2008, based on existing standards. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Do I need to get Foreign Currency prior to leaving for my trip?

Your destination determines your currency requirements. For places like the Caribbean/Bahamas/Bermuda, US dollars are often welcome and credit cards are usually the way to go, so don’t even worry about foreign currency.

For European land tours or cruises, please consider purchasing a small amount of Euros prior to your departure at a local bank as it may be a good idea to have some Euros in pocket. Withdrawing Euros from an in-country ATM may give you the most advantageous exchange rate.

Please complete these steps prior to leaving the US:

1) Call your bank or credit card company and make sure that the debit/credit card(s) of choice are able to be used overseas and can access foreign ATMs.
2) Inquire about a credit card “PIN Code.” Some European Merchants will ask for a PIN code when you present your card for a transaction.
3) Ensure that your PIN code is numeric only (some banks may use alpha characters in the US but European ATMs use numbers only.)

FX/Currency exchange kiosks in airports and tourist sites are not going to give you the best exchange rates. Again, credit cards are great for souvenirs and meals out. TIP: do consult with your card issuer for advice on best practices to limit FX charges. AND, please inquire about ATM card usage overseas. For Northern Europe, Mexico, and Asia, please contact us for more detailed information.

Cell/Smartphones, Laptops, Tablets, and other data things

Can I use a cell phone in a different country? Aboard the ship?

Please contact your service provider to determine if your phone will work and inquire about a short term international or country specific plan. For traveling in Europe, please contact us for more thorough options. Be aware that cellphones and 3/4G tablets generally work on ships but once a ship starts moving, they will try to move your phone onto their satellite repeaters at a very high per minute price. You may want to keep your phone off when moving and be aware of data charges while at sea and out of the continental US. Contact your wireless carrier to use the data off/international data roaming off, or airplane mode features on your phone. Finally, consider using the ship/resort Internet plan for email, browsing, social, etc. Note: Skype or similar services do not work aboard ships at this time.

Can I use my Laptop during my trip, and is there /WiFi/High-speed Internet access?

Virtually all ships offer Ethernet/Wi-Fi access. The service is most often for a fee and unpredictable due to limited bandwidth, high demand, and varying signal strength at sea. (If you have read this far, I hail from the telecommunications industry.) With that in mind, please sign up for a pre-paid package on the day of embarkation for a “discount” plan rather than using pay-as-you-go minutes. TIP: Since the rates are always somewhat expensive, consider visiting Internet cafes or souvenir shops in port that normally offer Internet access for very reasonable prices (libraries also offer free access!). For hotels/resorts, please contact us and we will provide specific details for your property.

Can I use my charger? Do I need an adapter?

Small appliances (curling irons, travel irons, electric razors, etc.) are on different electrical voltage than the U.S. The cruise ships aren’t a problem because they usually have dual voltage, but hotels in Europe and other places usually don’t and you’ll need to bring an adapter. Please do NOT bring any type of iron aboard a cruise ship.

Make sure to check with your cell phone/smart phone/tablet manufacturer/carrier for the correct adapter and/or converter for the countries you are visiting.

Tips and Gratuities

Am I expected to tip the Guide/Driver?

Providing a gratuity to your guide or driver is strictly optional but greatly appreciated by the people taking care of you. A commonly accepted guideline is USD $3.00 per person for a half-day tour and USD $5.00 per person for a full-day tour. (I recently had super clients who tipped their driver and private guide 50 Euros after buying them Gelato for a private Vatican and Rome tour!)

Do you tip a transfer or taxi?

Again, strictly optional but at your discretion.

How does tipping work on a cruise?

The definition of a tip or gratuity on a cruise is getting increasingly complex as most are automatically added to your account every day. Some cruise lines now call gratuities “service charges” but force you to pay them. The days of distributing tips to your service workers on the last night are all but vanished. Sometime, mass-market and premium lines may offer free gratuities on a promotion. Luxury ocean lines and some river cruise lines may include these “service charge” in their fare which provides a better feel for your true travel budget.
Note that Royal Caribbean and Celebrity require pre-paid gratuities if you select their flexible dining plans.

If service fees are mandatory why not just include them into the cruise fare?

I have only a hypothetical explanation, but leaving these charges out makes the cruise look less costly. My mission is to help you evaluate the total cost of everything to come home from your vacation. IMHO, if these fees wind up being paid, I’d like to see them included!

September 19, 2014
Happiness and Travel Agents
There is a recent study conducted in January 2014 by MMGY Global looking into happiness and the usage of travel agents. I’d like to share some of the insights with you.

Travel Agent Happiness Study Background
- Respondents have annual income greater than $50,000
- 8,338 respondents traveled for leisure in past 12 months
- About 14% used a Travel Agent (“TA” – I like TA as it can stand for “Travel Adviser.”) Do you know my rant about Travel Agent vs. Travel Adviser? If not, contact me to hear the difference and what it means to YOU!
RESULTS for Travel Agent Users
- On 4 out of 5 metrics used for satisfaction; TA users appear happier with the life than those who did not use TAs.
- Travelers who also travel more thought trips organized by TA s were more satisfied and TAs provided knowledge and convenience.
- TAs influence peoples’ airline, hotel/resort and tour choices
- People use TAs to book cruises as few cruises are actually booked via Online Travel Agencies.
RESULTS for NON Travel Agent Users
- Majority just did not think of using a TA
- Those who did think of using a TA wanted to keep their own control and thought they could do a better job
- More convenient to plan on their own
- Thought they could get better deals
- Thought best deals are “online” (My comment: How do they think TAs research and book?)
- 41% open to using TAs in the future and 59% NOT open to using a TA in the future.
- Of those planning to use a TA in the future: 25% are planning to use a TA in the next 12 months.
BOTTOM LINE
- “Family/Friends” is ALWAYS the top travel influencer regardless of TA usage.
- For business travel, 8% had a better experience when they used a TA. For business travel, top reason for not using a TA was that they did not think of it.
- For people who do not use a TA for business travel, they appear to believe they have more control by self-booking.
- Fewer Millenials used TAs but more Boomers used TAs
- Online Travel Agencies, “Expe-Orbi-Ocity” are becoming “showrooms” to some degree. This is akin to shoppers going to big box electronics stores where people look, research, and compare but do NOT actually purchase.
What do you think? Please share your comments below.

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