Happy Halloween!
Last year, we celebrated Halloween & Dia de Los Muertos in Zihautanjo Mexico. It was one of my all time favorite trips. I loved the downtown seafront location of my friend's villa... in the middle of all the action one would expect in a small Mexican fishing village. The parades, costumes, and graveyards were beautiful and mysterious.
Here is a recap of that trip... Enjoy!Zihautanejo - Where We Stayed
Halloween & Dia de Los Muertos
The Tides Zihautanejo
Deep Sea Fishing & A Private Island
Meet Sandals & Beaches Resorts Culinary Consultant
I just returned from a fantastic trip to Beaches Turks & Caicos. There are plenty of new upgrades at the resort, including a higher-end feel to many of the menus and cuisine quality. When I inquired as to why, I learned that Sandals & Beaches Resorts employs a famous Culinary Consultant.
Walter Staib is the Culinary Ambassador to Sandals & Beaches Resorts and founder of the Caribbean Culinary Federation. How cool is that? Being one that will do almost anything for a fine meal, I immediately researched Mr. Staib... a name I had heard, but could not place. Mr. Staib has had a long career in hospitality cuisine, consulting for many of the worlds finest hotels and restaurants. He is has contributed to many cook books and made appearances on the Food Network. Read more about him here and book your next culinary vacation to Sandals or Beaches Resorts!
The PUNTACANA Hotel Marks 40th Anniversary with Fabulous Upgrades!
Puntacana Hotel is a 186 room property located on 105 acres within PUNTACANA Resort and Club. The refurbishment is due to be finished on October 31st, and includes flat screen television installations, extensive interior paint work, and new bedding throughout the property. The hotel is surrounded by pristine white beaches and located in close proximity to many of the Resort’s facilities, including several restaurants and the Six Senses Spa.
Celebrate Holidays in Sunny Style at Radisson St Martin and Aruba Resorts
The new AAA Four Diamond Radisson St Martin Resort, Marina & Spa and ever-popular Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa are hosting memorable tropical experiences for the 2009/2010 holiday season. The chefs at both resorts are preparing elaborate tropical holiday menus for both Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Special New Year’s Eve festivities planned for guests include fireworks displays in St Martin and a private beach party on Aruba’s best beach. Between parties and festive meals, guests can enjoy distinctive treatments and pampering at the resorts’ spas, kayaking along the coast in search of sea turtles or sitting beachside while escaping the cold winter to the north.
Vacationers traveling to Aruba can stay at the flagship Radisson resort on the island’s best beach from December 18, 2009 - January 3, 2010, with rates beginning at USD $549 per night. Those looking to escape to the chic French side of St. Martin can enjoy the new Radisson St Martin Resort with rates starting at €419 per night (approximately USD $585*).
Aruba and St Martin are serviced by direct flights from major U.S. gateway cities including New York, Boston, Miami and Atlanta. Guests can explore the crystal-blue waters of the Caribbean through snorkeling, sailing, or diving. Both resorts feature comprehensive spas, a complimentary kids club, an array of diverse cuisine options in several on-site restaurants and cafes, and other amenities special to each property.
Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa is a perfect warm-weather locale to celebrate with family and friends and many guests have been making the resort their annual holiday home since its opening. Special culinary offerings are planned for Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve at its beachside hot spot Gilligan’s, tropical hideaway Laguna and the award-winning Sunset Grille.
I'm Coconuts for Porto Cupecoy!
After a trip to the Caribbean, many visitors start looking for a permanent base in the islands and Porto Cupecoy at Sint Maarten combines the best of the Caribbean with the creature comforts of home.
First, about the island… life on St. Martin/Sint Maarten is so desirable the island is shared between two nations, the Netherlands Antilles and France. According to folklore, to divide the island the two nations decided they would walk westwards, the French along the northern edge, the Dutch along the southern. Wherever they met they would draw a dividing line across the island.
As the story goes, the French set off, having fortified themselves with wine, the Dutch with gin. But, the Dutchmen stopped along the way to sleep off the gin. Consequently, the French were able to cover a greater distance.
Porto Cupecoy is situated on the Dutch side and is surrounded by pristine beaches and the largest salt water lagoon in the Caribbean. The luxury real estate project is set against a backdrop of a Mediterranean-inspired promenade of shops and restaurants that combine European charm with the very best of Caribbean living. The Marina Village will feature European-inspired cafes, bistros, restaurants, artisan galleries, jewelry shops, and designer boutiques. Shopping is convenient with an onsite grocery store, pharmacy and bank.
One, two, three and four-bedroom residences are on sale from US$650,000 to $2+ million. Construction will be complete in the fall, just as chilly winter approaches for the rest of us. Check out floor plans and interiors.
Here are some daydream-inspiring photos of Porto Cupecoy and St. Martin island!
US Virgin Islands Cent-sational Promotion - Hotels for 25 cents!
*Photo from here.The U.S. Virgin Islands’ “Cent-sational Promotion” offers a 25 cent rate per night at participating hotels. The new travel promotion will celebrate the launch of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ first-ever United States quarter. In honor of this event, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is offering savings to travelers for 25 days only:
- The 25 cent room nights at participating hotels (maximum stay of three nights)
- $25 per person dining credit
- $25 per person activities credit
- Virgin Islands commemorative quarter Scotiabank coin set.
Details:
- Book by November 2 and Travel by November 15
- Minimum 3 Night Stay
- Must book on BookIt.com
And the winner is...
A winner was drawn on October 16th at 12noon by the hands of my precious daughter... DESI - step right up and collect your prize! (Really, just email me your mailing address!)
Wet Bikini Bag from Uncommon Goods.
See you all again next time!
Caribbean Houses - Interview with Michael Connors
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Michael Connors about his new book, Caribbean Houses. I have been a fan of Dr. Connors since I purchased his first book in a tiny Caribbean airport many years ago.
Laura: I thoroughly enjoyed your most recent book, Caribbean Houses. As I turned the last page, and having read your other books, I couldn’t help but wonder if this is it. Do you feel you have seen most of the historical homes remaining in the region? Or are there more homes you plan to explore and feature?
Dr. Connors: I have basically just touched the tip of the iceberg on the subject. I don't know if you could know them all in a lifetime. As a matter of fact, I will be spending the winter in Cuba writing a book on the Historic Houses of Cuba, which will be published by Rizzoli in 2011.
Laura: What was the strongest influence in your life that caused you to fall for the Caribbean? (Aside from the obvious allure that calls so many of us…)
Dr. Connors: I was sailing the Caribbean in an 86 foot Baltic Trader called the VESTLAND in 1968. The VESTLAND stopped in St. Croix and anchored in Christiansted Harbor. I met a woman the next day fell in love and jumped ship!
Laura: What home do you consider to be the greatest historical preservation?
Dr. Connors: There isn't a best one, but I'll tell you a few that I'm particularly fond of: Cane Garden Great House and Whim Plantation Great House in St. Croix, the White House in Salt Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands, Habitation Clement in Martinique, in Jamaica, Rose Hall and Good Hope Plantation and Ascension Landhuis (Great House) in Curacao. Of course there are many more.
Laura: St. Croix constantly exceeds my expectations and those of my clients. Primarily, because of the true island feel, uniqueness to the other US Virgin Islands, and pristine beaches. What reasons led you to make a home here, over other islands?
Dr. Connors: My parents spent a lot of time there so I ended up being there and falling in love as I mentioned before, then finding a teaching job... it's an easy place to gravitate for an American in the Caribbean - and it's gorgeous as you say. I love to sail and St. Croix is a good way-station for sailors.
Laura: I enjoyed the piece in Traditional Home showcasing your New York home. With such a talented and educated eye, it must be hard to narrow down all the pieces you come across to those that will work in your own homes.
Dr. Connors: My father was an architect/ interior designer who collected and appreciated antiques - this is the environment I grew up in so it was almost bred in the bone. My different homes are filled with beautiful and interesting antiques and fine art from the Caribbean, but I'm constantly upgrading and selling from my collection. The collection in my homes is like a revolving door; every year it looks different.
Laura: I believe in the Traditional Home article it also mentioned your emotion at happening upon discarded mahogany furniture while in the islands. I felt a kindred moment reading this, because I have witnessed heirloom quality pieces being left to rot on my jaunts off-the-beaten island path. What is your most incredible found treasure?
Dr. Connors: The most incredible found treasure was an original Reginal McFarlane (who was a 19th Century cabinet maker on St. Croix and descended of enslaved Africans) four post mahogany bedstead that I found in a dumpster while disposing of some household trash. I couldn't believe my eyes seeing the tops of four posts sticking out with original head board and foot board at the bottom of the dumpster. The only thing missing were the side rails.
Michael Connors is a contributor to numerous trade journals, including Art & Antiques and The Magazine Antiques, and he has written many books, including Caribbean Elegance, French Island Elegance, and Cuban Elegance. He lives in New York City, St. Croix, and Deer Isle, Maine.
High Season Special at Radisson St. Martin
Sunshine & Paradise at Half the Price SaleBook before October 23, 2009 for travel January 3 to April 10, 2010 and enjoy St. Martin's newest resort at Half the Normal Rate!
Rates start at only $248/night in superior rooms! Call me - let's book!
After undergoing an $80 million transformation, the AAA Four Diamond Radisson St Martin Resort, Marina & Spa opened December 12, 2008, at Anse Marcel – one of the best-preserved and most secluded coves on the French side of St Martin. The ocean-front luxury property features 63 suites and 189 guestrooms; a signature beachfront restaurant with al fresco dining; casual, market-style eatery; lobby tapas bar; zero-entry infinity pool; full-service spa and fitness center; 7,500 square feet of meeting space, exclusive water transfers from the airport and 150-slip marina. 
The BEST Caribbean Fall Travel Deals!
The Best Caribbean Fall Travel Deals for 2009!
Below is a short compilation of some of the best deals I’ve seen for FALL travel to the Caribbean!
Bahamas – Insane Discounts!
Seriously , I thought this was a typo. The Wyndham Nassau Resort & a few other Bahamian hotels are offering up to 50% off rates, $300 instant resort credit off room, $50 food/beverage credit on arrival! The Wyndham’s package starts at $115/per person for 3 nights. The Sheraton Nassau is $219/per person. Book and travel by 12/23.
Sandals Resorts – Up to 65% Off!
Sandals Resorts are almost always on sale – but not at 65% off! Take advantage of this amazing discount now. Sandals Resorts are tops on my list of all-inclusive. They offer luxury included, worry free vacations. Book now!
US Virgin Islands – Free Nights!
Many hotels on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John are participating in a 4th Night Free Promo & Offering a $100 Resort Credit. Book by 12/1 and travel by 12/15. You DON’T even need a Passport to visit the US Virgin Islands!
Mexico – Fly Free!
Receive up to 2 free airline tickets when you stay 5 nights or longer at participating hotels. Two of my favorite hotels are participating in this deal – Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa AND Excellence Playa Mujeres! Email me for rates! Book by 11/4 for travel through 4/10/10.
St. Martin – 50% Off!
St. Martin offers two vacations in one, with the split island nations Dutch and French Culture. Enjoy the delicious French cafes and then hop over to St. Maarten for lively entertainment and casinos. The Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort is 50% off starting at $499/per person! Book and travel by 12/19.
Check out my Caribbean Travel Blog for FALL deals showcasing other islands such as Grenada and Villas in St. John.
Do you TWITTER? If not, you should for access to great deals! I’ve been on for only a few months and already seen some fabulous deals on airfare + hotels direct from suppliers. One of my favorite campaigns is the “Trick or Tweet” fun offered by Marriott Resorts. Follow along and earn free drinks, meals, massages, and even room nights!
If you want a customized quote on a FALL vacation – contact me – Laura @ CaribbeanJourney.com or 866-236-1924.
Below is a short compilation of some of the best deals I’ve seen for FALL travel to the Caribbean!
Bahamas – Insane Discounts!
Seriously , I thought this was a typo. The Wyndham Nassau Resort & a few other Bahamian hotels are offering up to 50% off rates, $300 instant resort credit off room, $50 food/beverage credit on arrival! The Wyndham’s package starts at $115/per person for 3 nights. The Sheraton Nassau is $219/per person. Book and travel by 12/23.
Sandals Resorts – Up to 65% Off!
Sandals Resorts are almost always on sale – but not at 65% off! Take advantage of this amazing discount now. Sandals Resorts are tops on my list of all-inclusive. They offer luxury included, worry free vacations. Book now!
US Virgin Islands – Free Nights!
Many hotels on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John are participating in a 4th Night Free Promo & Offering a $100 Resort Credit. Book by 12/1 and travel by 12/15. You DON’T even need a Passport to visit the US Virgin Islands!
Mexico – Fly Free!
Receive up to 2 free airline tickets when you stay 5 nights or longer at participating hotels. Two of my favorite hotels are participating in this deal – Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa AND Excellence Playa Mujeres! Email me for rates! Book by 11/4 for travel through 4/10/10.
St. Martin – 50% Off!
St. Martin offers two vacations in one, with the split island nations Dutch and French Culture. Enjoy the delicious French cafes and then hop over to St. Maarten for lively entertainment and casinos. The Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort is 50% off starting at $499/per person! Book and travel by 12/19.
Check out my Caribbean Travel Blog for FALL deals showcasing other islands such as Grenada and Villas in St. John.
Do you TWITTER? If not, you should for access to great deals! I’ve been on for only a few months and already seen some fabulous deals on airfare + hotels direct from suppliers. One of my favorite campaigns is the “Trick or Tweet” fun offered by Marriott Resorts. Follow along and earn free drinks, meals, massages, and even room nights!
If you want a customized quote on a FALL vacation – contact me – Laura @ CaribbeanJourney.com or 866-236-1924.
Thanks for your support! I look forward to hearing from you!
Paradise by Marriott's Trick or Tweet
Do you tweet? If not, you should. I've been on Twitter posting my Caribbean Deals for only a few months and have seen some great deals direct from hotel + airline suppliers! Currently, my favorite Twitter campaign is "Trick or Tweet" by Marriott Resorts. Play along all month for chances to win free drinks, meals, massages, and even FREE room nights!
Fall Special to Grenada! 3 Nights Starting at $269
Just say the word Grenada and I think of my first visit... lured to the 'island of spice' at the recommendation of a local who kept referring to the island as "Greens"... because it was just that - super lush. It seems almost every plant flowers in Grenada and every flower turns into an exotic spice, spices that are sold in the colorful markets around the island. To think of Grenada, makes me smile. And now it’s your turn! Grenada is ON SALE! Here is a sample of the rates you will find:
Grenadian by Rex Resorts is $269/per person - 3 nights
Coyaba Beach Resort is $505/per person - 3 nights
3 nights not long enough for you? I know, me neither!
Enjoy these other resorts offer 7 night stays:
Mont Cinnamon is $1019/per person
La Source Grenada is $1625/per person - all inclusive!
Spice Island Resort is $$2615/per person - all inclusive too!
Ready to book? Email me or book online with my friends at TripCrave.com! (Hurry, you must book by 11/15 and travel by 12/15.)
Two HOT Thanksgiving Specials @ Villas in St. John!!
Calypso Del Sol - a lovely home in Chocolate Hole that normally rents for $3700/week! Available for Thanksgiving at only $3000/week. The home accomodates 6 people in 3 bedrooms & 3 baths with a pool and hot tub!La Bella Villa - this charming, intimate home is located in Lower Carolina. It is available for $2000/week and can accomodate 4 people in 2 bedrooms & 2 baths.
These homes are not yet on my website - but I am able to book them should you decide this trip is for you!
{Meet Allison}
Allison Patton is the newest member of The Journey Group team.She has been a travel consultant for 5 years. Her previous jobs in both finance marketing at Barclays and as a model, required her to travel. She was smitten with the art and changed careers. Allison expertly takes care of our Caribbean clients through CaribbeanJourney.com but also maintains her own agency, Skyline Destinations. Ready to get away? Contact Allison today to start planning!
Updates from Jamaica
I spent last evening at a dinner hosted by The Jamaican Tourist Board - you know, the folks responsible for the groovy commercials and catchy tagline "Once You Go, You know.". Yes, it was lively, colorful, and delicious... a little taste of the island in Atlanta. Just when I thought there was nothing more I could possibly learn about this island I have visited oh so many times... there is. Below are the updates and facts I found most interesting:- Jamaica welcomes over 3 Million tourists EVERY year!
- 75% of all visitors to Jamaica are booked through Travel Agents.
- Due to improved roads, it only takes 1 HOUR to get from the airport in Montego Bay to Negril.
- Due to the same road improvements, it only takes 1 HOUR & 20 mins to get to Ocho Rios from the airport.
- However, due to current improvements in Montego Bay town, avoid arriving at rush hour or you will add 45 minutes to your trip simply trying to get out of town. This improvement will be completed in December '09.
- JetBlue is adding nonstop service to Montego Bay from Orlando in January.
- AirTran is adding nonstop service to Montego Bay from Atlanta in February.