Travel Matchmaking

Yesterday someone said at a networking function they were the 'match.com' of franchises.  That got a chuckle from the crowd and got me thinking about how that's true for most of our careers.  We're always matching the right people, products or solutions in some way.
In travel, my task is to match people to the right destination at the right time, then to the right resort and activities.  While they're gone I'm crossing my fingers that the 'date' goes well.  I love the feeling of satisfied travelers raving about how much they loved their vacations, how much fun their family had and how relaxed they feel coming back.  Those clients are usually the ones that are open with their past likes and dislikes, what their needs are for this particular trip and are honest about their budget.
People always ask me what's my favorite place, or what's the 'best' hotel.  I can see the little letdown when I say 'it depends'.  It really does depend on what you're looking for at the time.  You may hate my favorite hotels, not because there's anything wrong, but because it's not the right fit for you.  Even my own mom did not enjoy a cruise she went on with us because she really doesn't enjoy formal dining. We all love food in my house!   That is one of our top priorities when choosing our vacations.  My mom is much more into activities, so she would be more comfortable in a place with more activities. I've seen 70+ year olds with more energy than your average 20 something.  One of the reasons I 'broke up' with my first travel agent is because she had a one size fits all attitude and made recommendations based on our ages, not what our actual priorities were at the time.
So you see why it's important to delve deeper into what you want beyond the price tag. (Kinda like not picking a spouse from their pic online.) Value is key! If you don't share what's important to you, it's easy to wind up in the wrong place.  I've heard people complain that they didn't like a resort because there were too many kids, the beach wasn't big enough, the food wasn't good, there were too many foreigners etc.  Most of the time these people have decided on a vacation solely on price! Each of these concerns could be addressed with a resort in the same destination that is not necessarily more expensive. That's one reason I've stopped advertising deals so much.  When someone jumps on a great sale without considering if that is the right match for them, it's a matter of time before there's a messy break up and they think they really hate the destination altogether.

Great Diving in Mexico and the Caribbean

Cozumel- A Mexican Heart and Caribbean Feel

Ringed by 40 different dive sites, Cozumel Island is a diver's dream since it sits on the 2nd largest reef in the world.  There are a number of resorts to choose from (American chains, all-inclusives and boutique hotels), a lively bar scene at night once the cruise ships are gone and a small Mayan ruin to visit when you want to stay dry.  If you've only been to Cozumel on a port stop, you will find there is so much more to this island once you explore.  Even I hate the aggressive vendors inside the port and the cookie cutter Diamonds International like stores. You can take a direct flight to Cozumel or fly to Cancun and take the ferry over from Playa for more air connectivity.

There are more than 150 dive sites surrounding Grand Cayman.  Touted as the "world's best 12-foot dive" by the destination, Stingray City allows divers the chance to swim with more than two-dozen "tame" southern stingrays. Wreck divers have a brand new attraction to explore off Seven Mile Beach with the sinking of the Kittiwake, a 251-foot, 2,200-ton, five-deck decommissioned naval vessel. Turks & Caicos is considered to be one of the top diving in the world, with protected natural reefs, crystal-clear waters and an amazing range of incredible undersea sights. For novices or families, Beaches Turks & Caicos is perfect since SCUBA diving is included in the all-inclusive rate for everyone over 10 years old. If you're not certified they offer a resort course and kids introductory programs for additional fees. Belize is along the same reef system as Cozumel so also boasts some of the best aquatic life in the western hemisphere.  What you won't find in Mexico is the famous 'Great Blue Hole', Belize's signature dive.  The Discovery Channel ranked this as number the number one most amazing place to dive. www.greatscottgetaways.com

Wine Tourism in Mexico

Ruta de Vino

If you thought you had to travel to Europe to sample some unique foreign wines you're in for a treat just across the border.  Mexico has produced wine since 1521, making it one of the oldest producers in the world.  The Guadaloupe Valley in Baja has been called the Napa Valley of Mexico. Although Tequila is by far the favorite spirit, consumption is on the rise among the younger generation.  Since imports of Mexican wine are more expensive visiting the boutique wineries along the wine route will give you an opportunity to taste wine you may not have access to at home.   The state of Baja California is home to world famous golfing in Los Cabos, whale watching and eco adventure tours from Loreto.  The area is also a short bus trip from San Diego making it possible to take a day tour if you prefer to stay stateside.  

The Fiesta de la Vendimia is currently celebrating it's 23rd year with events throughout the Valle de Guadaloupe, Tijuana and Mexicali.  The 17 day harvest festival happens each year in the first weeks of August and attracts wine lovers, musicians and chefs preparing fine cuisine for pairings and the paella contest.  For more information on Mexico's wine production and other good news check Mexico Today's website.  

Safety on Cruise Ships and Abroad

Every once in a while there is sensational interest in crime aboard cruise ships and in vacation spots.  Now that three major cruise lines have agreed to post crime data on their website there is renewed interest in safety while cruising.  While the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) asserts serious incidents are rare, there are simple tips to keep you safe at sea and while vacationing abroad.
Ships and large resorts are the size of some small towns so there are bound to be some unsavory characters around whether they be guests or employees.  While it may be paradise, it is important to remember your basic safety measures still apply.

1.  Trust your instincts - If it feels wrong, trust your gut.
2.  Have a buddy when drinking.
3.  Stay in well lit areas.
4.  Use the safe - Better yet leave anything you can't afford to lose at home.

Caribbean Music Festivals

Riviera Maya Jazz Festival - While they may not be jazz, Earth Wind & Fire are the big draw this year. November 28 - 30 will  see Jim Beard, Ed Motta, Jeff Berlin, Dennis Chambers and more will grace the seaside stage in Playa Del Carmen.  The best part?  The festival is free! St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival - This long running festival is returning in 2014 with a broadened artistic direction.   Set for April 30 - May 11, 2014 the music extravaganza will feature 50 performers all over the island.    Previous headliners included Air Supply, The Jacksons, John Legend,  Akon, Tito Puente Jr., R. Kelly, Amy Winehouse, Micheal Bolton, Rihanna, Kenny G and The O'Jays. Let me know if you want to be notified of next year's line up. Palace Resorts  -  The Beach Boys will be performing at Moon Palace. August 6 (next week).  If last minute travel is not your thing wait for Ricky Martin December 28.  Guests who stay 5 nights or more receive 2 free tickets. Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival - Last January, Mary J. Blige, Micheal Bolton, Arturo Tappin and more graced the stage. Performers for 2014 should be out soon.

Best Golf Resorts in Mexico and the Caribean

Great golf courses are a staple in most vacation destinations these days.  Whether you need to get away from the family for a few hours, or bring the gang along there's an exciting array of choices. 

Grand Lucayan

The Bahamas
Grand Lucayan Beach and Golf Resort
This resort is just 45 minutes from Ft. Lauderdale Florida, so an  easy weekend retreat.  2 courses available with plenty of water features.  (13 out of 18 holes on the Reef Course)

Sandals Emerald Bay

Sandals Emerald Bay

This former Four Seasons occupies a quiet out island in The Bahamas.  The Greg Norman designed par 72 championship course was named one of the Caribbean's best golf courses by Travel + Leisure Golf.  Book a butler suite and you'll enjoy unlimited golf with your luxury accommodations.





Jamaica
The Ritz-Carlton Resort, Rose Hall
The White Witch Golf Course spans 600 acres of the Rose Hall Plantation (close to Montego Bay).  Mountainous terrain with scenic views of the sea might take the edge off the wind challenging your shot.

Weekly Junior Golf Clinic

Sandals- All of the Sandals and Beaches resorts in Jamaica offer access to the Sandals Golf and Country Club.  What sets this course apart is the fantastic offerings for the family.  Kids can get their own clinics with a golf pro (included with the stay!).

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Fairmont Mayakoba

Fairmont Mayakoba is one of the top golf resorts according to Conde Nast Traveler.  This is Mexico's only PGA tour stop.  If you want executive luxury this is the place.  The resort spans 47 acres of lush mangroves and tropical forests.  Covered boats and golf carts transport guests through the winding canals   connecting the two-story casitas.  Though most people don't think of a AA Five Diamond resort as being kid friendly, they do offer a kids's club for up to three hours a day and a free children's menu at select restaurants. 

Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort

Moon Palace Golf View Suite

The 27 holes here span scenic dunes and lakes at the interior of this expansive property.  There is so much to do here, the family won't notice how long you stay at the course, neither will your wallet.  Stay 3 nights and get free unlimited golf or make everyone happy by splitting the resort credits for golf, spa services, tours or room upgrades at this mega resort.  With onsite dolphin discovery, flow rider, tons of activities and a kid's club this resort is perfect for large groups and meetings.  Why not take your next tournament on the road?

Los Cabos, Mexico
The One & Only Palmilla features a Jack Nicklaus 27 hole course divided into 3 sets of challenging holes.  The Sea of Cortez is your backdrop for 12 of them.  Cabo is a golfer's paradise and a nature lover's dream with plenty of eco-activities available in the Baja region.  The resort has one of few swimmable beaches.

The One & Only Palmilla

Great Scott Getaways

3 Reasons to Avoid Timeshare Pitches

If you've come through the Cancun or Puerto Vallarta Airports you have probably been swarmed with timeshare sales people like bees to honey.  I always advise people to just put your sunglasses on and keep moving till you get to your transfer company.  They love to pose as helpful guides, trying to assist you in finding your way to the hotel.  Sometimes people are lured into listening to the pitches by promises of free tours, hotel upgrades and credits.

1.  That 'free' breakfast or tour of the property could very easily end up sucking up an entire day of your vacation.
Consider what you spent for that day and ask yourself it it really saved you anything.  Wasting the $400 dollars you spent for that day at the fabulous all inclusive resort is not worth $200 in free tickets to swim with the dolphins.

2.  The value of your timeshare may not be worth what you pay for it.  Check out this report from ABC.  If you must you can probably buy a resale for much less than the rep is pitching you now.

3. You may end up finding your own way back to the right hotel once they are done with you. 
Scroll through reviews and you'll find quite a few people who ended up stranded and stuck with a hefty taxi fare once they decided not to buy.

Your experience may vary, but why not enjoy your vacation and save the sales pitch for a rainy day on the road back home?