Showing posts with label Aruba. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Aruba. Show all posts

Just Launched - Caribbean Vacation Sale!


The Caribbean is on SALE! Hurry - must be booked by February 2, 2010. Below are a list of some of the participating hotels. Contact me {laura @ caribbeanjourney.com} and I will provide you with a custom quote for your travel dates!

Book 1 Night, Get 1 Night Free:
Radisson Aruba
Breezes Grand Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica
Coconut Bay Resort in St. Lucia
Almond Beach Village in Barbados

Book 2 Nights, Get 1 Free:
Radisson St. Martin + daily breakfast
The House in Barbados + daily breakfast
Comfort Suites in Nassau, Bahamas + daily breakfast & full use of Atlantis facilities
Paradisus Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Riu Ocho Rios + kids 12 and under stay and eat free

Book 3 Nights, Get 1 Free:
Body Holiday @ LeSport in St. Lucia + 1 complimentary spa treatment daily
CuisinArt in Anguilla + $100 resort credit
St. Kitts Marriott Resort + $50 resort credit & buffet breakfast daily
Excellence Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic
Somerset on Grace Bay + breakfast daily

Promo is valid for travel March 15 to August 31, 2010 and must be booked by February 2. Minimum nightly stays required. **Photo is the Body Holiday LeSport.


Love Your Family @ Starwood Resorts


Starwood Resorts, the group that includes Westin, Sheraton, Luxury Collection, and St. Regis, has launched a "Love Your Family" Vacation Package at each of its resorts. Packages include:

Guaranteed connecting rooms or suite
Daily $100 resort credit
Souvenir cup with unlimited refills
Kids under 12 eat free (additional terms apply)
Age-appropriate amenity for each child
Complimentary crib and rollaway
On-site evening ritual


Enjoy these perks at any of the following Caribbean Starwood Hotels:
Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort
Westin Aruba

**Photo is from the super sleek Westin Aruba!


See the Nutcracker @ the Occidental Grand Aruba


Broadway Sensation Kiril Kulish to Star in “The Nutcracker” at the Occidental Grand! The Occidental Grand Aruba is a beautiful all-inclusive resort on one of Aruba's best white sandy beaches.
Book Your Trip Online Now and then contact me to book your Nutcracker tickets.

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.

New Rooms at the Hyatt Aruba!


Let the hypnotic sounds of the ocean gently lull you to sleep each evening in the luxurious comfort of the newly remodeled Aruba accommodations. Situated on the upper floors of the Hyatt Regency Aruba, these spacious 380-sq.-ft. rooms offer a private step-out balcony, perfect for enjoying views of the ocean, three-level pool, lagoon and tropical gardens. Complementing the view is the delightful decor, with sophisticated yet warm colors of the Caribbean creating a serene setting for your visit.

Awaken each day refreshed from an exceptional rest in our signature Hyatt Grand Beds, fitted with luxurious linens, fluffy down pillows and a colorful throw over a pillow-top mattress. All King rooms include a shower while the Queen/Queen guestrooms include a bathtub. Enjoy the deluxe amenities in our air-conditioned, beachfront Aruba lodging including refreshing ceiling fan, Portico bath products, iHome clock/radio, coffeemaker, minibar, 32" LCD TV, high-speed Internet access and daily newspaper.


Photo 1: Partial Oceanview King Room Photo. 2: Pool/Oceanview Two Queen Beds. Photo 3: Family Suite Living Area

Radisson Aruba's Summer Sale!

At the Radisson Aruba this summer...
Kids Stay FREE!
Kids Eat FREE! (breakfast/dinner at Laguna Restaurant)
50% discount on house brand beverages at Gilligan's Beach Bar
50% breakfast one day at Gilligan's
50% discount on any 50-minute massage at Larimar Spa
50% discount on any 50-minute couples massage at Larimar Spa
$50 match play coupon for the Radisson Casino
Complimentary 1/2 day child activity

Valid for Travel May 1 to September 30, 2009! Want to go?

Check it out! NEW Testimonials!

A big reason I started this blog is to drum up business for my little Caribbean Travel Company. And it has worked. I get many clients who wander on over to my "real" site from this place. If some of you still aren't sure you could use the help of a Caribbean Travel Specialist, check out these testimonials from current clients...
Just Back - Riu Palace Aruba
Our trip was wonderful! The upgraded room was unbelievable! I think it was the best room in the place. We were on the 10th floor of Building A(the main building) -right in the middle facing the pool and the ocean! The view was spectacular! I don't know how you got us the upgrade but thank you! The only problem is now that we've experienced it, we wouldn't want to go back without getting the same room! The bed was hard but we knew that before going due to reading reviews of the place. On the first day we requested and received a mattress topper which helped soften it up a little. The food was excellent at the buffets. Our only complaint was that the pool bar closes at 6:00pm and there is not enough entertainment at the pool bar. This was a common complaint made by many to the management who took surveys.... Christina & Ken
This testimony is from a client that hasn't even travelled! But his words about my service made me so proud:
Let me say again how pleased I am to have done business with you. You are the kind of business that should be in existence, not the “others”, who seem to be out to get as much money from you as possible. There is an old proverb that says: “If you want to own a shop, learn how to smile”. I could see your smile in your voice. I wish you and your business all the success in the world, and whenever I go to the Caribbean, I will contact you for arrangements. I have already, and will continue to, recommend you to everyone that I know who is heading to the Caribbean. You’re worth it.... Peter & Lilian headed to Coyaba Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
READ MORE HERE!

Divi Resorts Super Sale!

Check out these low, low rates from Divi Resorts! All of their resorts on are sale... and all rates are valid for travel through December 23, 2009! (holidays & blackout dates do apply)

Aruba ~
Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort ~ Starting at $179 nightly
Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort ~ Starting at $124 nightly!
Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort ~ Starting at $139 nightly!
Barbados ~
Divi Heritage Beach Resort ~ Starting at $99 nightly!
Divi Southwinds Beach Resort ~ Starting at $153 nightly!

Bonaire ~
Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino ~ Starting at $127 nightly!

St. Maarten ~
Divi Little Bay Beach Resort ~ Starting at $148 nightly!

St. Croix ~
Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino ~ Starting at $187 nightly!

Contact me for a custom quote!

SUPER Aruba Sale!

Check out these hot-off-the-press specials to Aruba and contact me for a custom quote!

BOOK BY 12/31/08 • TRAVE L 1/6-4/16/09

Renaissance Marina Hotel FROM $529
INCLUDES hotel transfers & 4 nights, adults-only 4.5-star accommodations.
EXCLUSIVE save 50%.


The Westin Aruba Resort FROM $639
INCLUDES hotel transfers & 4 nights, 4.5-star accommodations.
EXCLUSIVE save 50%.


Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino FROM $785
INCLUDES hotel transfers & 4 nights, 4.5-star accommodations.
EXCLUSIVE save 40%.


Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa FROM $895
INCLUDES hotel transfers & 5 nights, 4.5-star accommodations.
EXCLUSIVE save 35%, 5th night free, $150 food & beverage credit.


Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino FROM $935
INCLUDES hotel transfers & 4 nights, 4.5-star accommodations.
EXCLUSIVE 4th night free, breakfast for 2 daily.


Occidental Grand Aruba FROM $949**
INCLUDES hotel transfers & 4 nights, all-inclusive 4-star accommodations.
EXCLUSIVE save 35%.


ADDI T IONAL HOT E L S & LONGE R OR SHORT E R S TAY S AVAI LAB L E
Prices do not include airfare. Ask about special air-inclusive rates from your city.

Visit ARUBA.... Now!

Aruba's beaches are the ones copied on postcards sold worldwide. The perfect white sand, peaceful waves, and crystal clear water welcome hundreds of my clients every year. This is where I send my beach lovers who also require plenty of upmarket dining establishments. The beaches are long and welcoming, not small bays that house the beaches of many other Caribbean islands. You can't walk for miles because it is a small island - but you can walk until your legs are tired and you must stop to refuel with a cool beverage.

There are two main beaches, Eagle & Palm. This is Palm Beach:



And this is Eagle Beach:
Palm is where you will find the high rises like the Marriott,
Hyatt, Westin, and Radisson. Eagle Beach is where you find the smaller, boutique hotels like the Manchebo and Bucuti.

And that upmarket cuisine I mentioned? Well, just so you know, I would visit Aruba just to eat. Many of the restaurants are simply that good. My favorites are Madame Janette, Gasparito, and Hosteria Da' Vittorio. Should you be in doubt, the island has a Gastronomic Association to set you on the right path to perfection.

There is plenty of shopping on the island and nightlife in downtown Oranjestad. It is easy to get there from any hotel... jump on the local bus, pay $1 and cruise on down. Safe and easy.

What some say Aruba might lack in true island culture, it certainly makes up for with its great beaches and supreme dining so don't wait, book your trip now! Here are few of the specials I found today:

Radisson Aruba - discounted rates and $100 food and beverage credit.

Renaissance Marina Hotel - 4th night free and 25% off local vendors.

Tamarijn Aruba - reduced rates.

Here's a little video from the Aruba Tourist Board:




Last Minute Fall Specials!

Check out these great FALL Specials I found for Caribbean Vacations and Mexico Vacations!

Rates include roundtrip ground transfers between the airport and hotel, hotel accommodations, the all-inclusive meal plan when indicated, and ALL taxes, service fees. Discounted Airfare sold separately.

Antigua – 4 nights at 45% Off at the Verandah Resort & Spa – 3.5 Stars - $553/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 11/15/2008 for travel NOW to 11/30/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2956

Aruba – 4 nights & $100 Food & Beverage Credit at the Radisson Aruba Resort & Spa – 4.5 Stars - $537/per person! Book by 11/29/2008 for travel NOW to 12/18/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2958
Romantic rooms with great views at the Radisson:

Aruba – 4 nights at the Tamarijn Aruba Resort & Spa – 3 Stars - $595/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 11/29/2008 for travel NOW to 12/15/2008. Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2960

Bahamas – 4 nights at the Sheridan Cable Beach Resort – 4 Stars - $320/per person! Book by 8/30/2008 for travel 8/10/2008 to 10/29/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2961

Bahamas – 3 nights at the Atlantis Beach Tower – 4 Stars - $440/per person! Book by 9/2/2008 for travel 8/28/2008 to 10/29/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2962

Cabo – 5 Nights, free room upgrade, and $50 Resort Credit at Melia Cabo Real – 3.5 Stars - $544/per person! Book by 11/15/2008 for travel 10/1/2008 to 11/30/2008. Book by 10/16/2008 for travel 10/1/2008 to 10/31/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2963

Some of Cabo's clearest water at the Melia:


Cancun – 4 Nights at Great Parnassus Resort & Spa – 3 Stars - $256/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 10/16/2008 for travel 10/1/2008 to 10/31/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2964

Cancun – 3 Nights at Excellence Rivera Maya – 4.3 Stars - $557/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 9/1/2008 for travel 10/1/2008 to 10/31/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2965

Jamaica – 4 Nights at 35% Off at Sunset Beach Resort & Spa – 3.5 Stars - $336/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 11/13/2008 for travel 8/24/2008 to 12/16/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2966

Jamaica – 4 Nights at 40% Off at Beaches Boscobel- 4 Stars - $818/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 9/15/2008 for travel 9/1/2008 to 9/30/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2967

Puerto Rico – 4 Nights at 40% Off at Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa – 4.5 Stars - $362/per person! Book by 10/17/2008 for travel NOW to 11/1/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2968

Puerto Rico – 4 Nights with Buy One Night, Get One Free at Gran Melia Puerto Rico – 4 Stars - $363/per person! Book by 9/29/2008 for travel 8/18/2008 to 12/12/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2969

Punta Cana – 4 Nights at 30% Off at Grand Paradise Bavaro – 3 Stars - $249/per person ALL-INCLUSIVE! Book by 8/30/2008 for travel 9/1/2008 to 12/21/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2970

Punta Cana – 4 Nights at 30% Off at Excellence Punta Cana – 4.5 Stars - $496/per person ALL-INLCUSIVE! Book by 8/30/2008 for travel 8/24/2008 to 10/31/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2971

St. Thomas – 4th Night free at Bolongo Bay Resort, $50 Resort Credit, $100 AMEX Gift Cheque – 3 Stars - $432/per person! Book by 10/14/2008 for travel 9/1/2008 to 10/27/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2972

Turks & Caicos – 5 Nights with $400 Resort Credit & Daily Breakfast at the Regent Palms – 5+ Stars - $1275/per person! Book by 9/29/2008 for travel NOW to 10/31/2008.
Contact Us and mention REALDEAL #2973

First class luxury at the Regent:

Restaurant Review - Madame Janette Aruba

I am a foodie. I have always said that if I did not have a career in travel, it would be in food! On what level, who knows. But I enjoy food because I have learned that eating is an experience for all 5 senses. Before any trip, I compulsively research the BEST restaurants at my destination. I make reservations safely in advance and each day while I lie on the beach, hike through rainforests or scour markets for local bargains, I am looking forward to dinner. I can't remember how I found Madame Janette in Aruba, but on my first trip to the island I did and I am thrilled at having done so. Madame Janette is off the beaten path, not located seaside but rather in the flat arid interior of the island. The restaurant is housed in a tiny unassuming cottage. You may dine indoors or outdoors in the courtyard. As if the multitude of stars in the sky were not enough to set the mood, the entire courtyard is strung with twinkling little lights that dance and flicker all evening. The food is the BEST on the island by far. The restaurant has been winning awards and acclamations for years now and I couldn't agree more. The menu has changed since my first visit but remains today true to the restaurant's promise of fresh and innovative cuisine and perfect wine pairings. Enjoy!

Riu Palace Aruba Offers Nov & Dec Discount!

The Riu Palace Aruba is offering discounted rates for all stays in November & December! Plus, children are 50% off when sharing with 2 paying adults. Valid categories: Junior Suite Partial Oceanview, Junior Suite Oceanview, Suite Oceanview and Junior Suite Jacuzzi® Oceanview. New bookings only. You must book by 10/04/07 for travel between 11/1/07 and 12/21/07. In Aruba, the Riu Palace is beautifully designed and located right on Palm Beach, offering a most spectacular view of the Caribbean. The wide expense of soft, golden sand, virtually at its front door, invites you to enjoy the warm breeze wafting in from the ocean or enjoy swimming in one of the two fresh-water pools. We invite you to enjoy the beauty of Aruba and the comfort of the Riu Palace, the perfect combination for your next vacations.

More Flights Added Between Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao!

For years I have struggled with satisfying my client’s desires to visit another of the ABC Islands(Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) while in the region. While these islands are relatively close together making a ferry service seem like a logical answer, there is no such service. Up until a few years ago, inter-island flights were infrequent and unreliable. This year, I have found two small airlines to service my clients. Both Insel Air and Tiara Air fly between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Tiara Air recently announced that they were adding more flights and now flies between all 3 islands multiple times a day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

JetBlue Adds More Flights to Aruba!

On June 30, JetBlue is set to add Saturday-only nonstop service to Aruba from Boston with fares ranging between $149-$399 each way. JetBlue currently flies to Puerto Rico, Bermuda, Cancun, Bahamas, and the Dominican Republic.

Aruba Launches Private-Plane Terminal

Aruba's has seen a recent influx in the luxury market with hotels adding more higher-end categories and luxury villas, the island’s airport decided it must also adept to this growing market. In January, the Aruba airport’s new terminal for private planes opened. The stand-alone facility offers upscale travelers a variety of services including a VIP lounge, on-site customs and immigration, a duty-free shop, ample ramp and parking space, as well as concierge able to help with ground transportation, airport fees, car rental service, 24-hour security arrangements and private catering.