Sandals St Vincent and The Grenadines

By | Honeymoons and Weddings, Uncategorized | No Comments
Few agencies are as accredited and capable of delivering the best Sandals experience possible.
Make sure YOUR Honeymoon, Wedding or Anniversary celebration is as AWESOME as it can be with help from the experts at EZTravelPad

 

Couples love us! See our reviews on The Knot.

EZTravelPad is honored to have been chosen as The Knot’s Best of Weddings for 11 straight years beginning in 2014 and extending through 2024
as well as achieving Hall of Fame Status!!

As Seen in The Knot Magazine

 

EZTravelPad is additionally proud to have been awarded both Couple’s Choice and Bride’s Choice year after year after year by WeddingWire

 

 

Start Your Honeymoon / Wedding / Anniversary Gift Registry Today!

If you would like to give your wedding guests a gifting alternative to crock pots, toasters and blenders, we offer you solutions for a Honeymoon Registry so just contact us. for more info.

Best Deals of the Year with Virgin Voyages – Join the presentation and get more!

By | Cruise | No Comments

Here’s an invite for a webinar presentation on Monday Feb 19 that you won’t want to miss if you are thinking of an adults-only cruise with the hottest most awarded new brand at sea – Virgin Voyages!

 

AHOY Sailors!

Learn what it means to SET SAIL THE VIRGIN WAY with Virgin Voyages! Join your Travel Advisor (SCOTT JONES), along with members of the Virgin Voyages Sales Crew to hear about all the excitement and BRAND NEW ITINERARIES:

Monday, February 19  7PM – 7:30PM CST/ 8PM – 8:30PM EST

*Sailing Caribbean, Mediterranean, Australia, UK, Iceland, Norway, Bahamas – Featuring Beach Club at Bimini – Virgin’s Private Beach Club
*Adults Only – No Kids! *Food + Tips + WiFi + Basic Bevvies + Fitness Classes – $1000 Value
*Find out about the latest promotions and offers, including an exclusive booking offer, up to $400 OBC!

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO REGISTER:

Grab a bevvie, hop on, say HI and join a 30 min webinar to learn about it all!
Sea you soon,
Virgin Voyages Sales Crew

Want to do a bit of homework first? Here’s a few reasons why Virgin is so popular and such a great overall experience – Here’s a link to more

10 Reasons Why Virgin Voyages Should Be Your Next Cruise Choice

As a travel agency owner with years of experience in the industry, I’ve had the pleasure of recommending various cruise lines to my clients. However, there’s one that stands out from the rest: Virgin Voyages. Here are ten compelling reasons why you should consider cruising with them for your next vacation.

  1. Unique Adult-Only Experience: One of the standout features of Virgin Voyages is its adult-only policy, offering a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere for travelers seeking a getaway without children. Guests consistently rave about the peace and tranquility onboard, allowing for a truly rejuvenating escape. But it’s not just about peace and tranquility – there’s plenty of opportunities for fun too!
  2. Modern and Stylish Ships: Virgin Voyages’ ships, including the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady & soon coming Brilliant Lady boast contemporary design and luxurious amenities. From chic lounges to sleek staterooms, every aspect of the ship exudes casual elegance and comfort, earning praise from travelers for its attention to detail.
  3. Innovative Dining Options: Foodies rejoice aboard Virgin Voyages, as the culinary offerings are nothing short of extraordinary. With a diverse array of restaurants curated by top chefs, guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine ranging from traditional favorites to avant-garde creations, earning accolades for both quality and variety.
  4. Immersive Shore Excursions: Virgin Voyages goes above and beyond to curate unforgettable shore excursions that cater to every interest and preference. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or simply relaxation on pristine beaches, their carefully crafted experiences ensure that every moment ashore is memorable.
  5. Entertainment Like No Other: From captivating live performances to innovative immersive experiences, entertainment is a highlight of the Virgin Voyages cruise experience. Guests are treated to world-class shows, interactive events, and themed parties that keep the excitement going from morning till night, earning rave reviews for their creativity and energy.
  6. Wellness and Fitness Focus: For travelers prioritizing health and wellness, Virgin Voyages offers a wealth of options to nourish the body and soul. From state-of-the-art fitness facilities to rejuvenating spa treatments, guests can embark on a journey of self-care and relaxation that leaves them feeling refreshed and revitalized.
  7. Exceptional Service: The crew onboard Virgin Voyages consistently receives high praise for their professionalism, attentiveness, and friendly demeanor. From the moment guests step onboard, they are greeted with warm hospitality and personalized service that enhances the overall cruise experience, leaving a lasting impression of excellence.
  8. Environmental Sustainability: As a company committed to sustainability, Virgin Voyages implements eco-friendly practices and initiatives to minimize its environmental impact. From reducing single-use plastics to investing in alternative energy sources, guests can cruise with peace of mind knowing that their vacation is contributing to a more sustainable future.
  9. Flexibility and Freedom: Unlike traditional cruise lines, Virgin Voyages offers a flexible approach to cruising, allowing guests to customize their experience according to their preferences. Whether you prefer to relax by the pool, explore new destinations, or immerse yourself in onboard activities, you have the freedom to design your perfect vacation.
  10. Unforgettable Memories: Above all, cruising with Virgin Voyages is about creating unforgettable memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, embarking on a romantic getaway, or simply seeking adventure and relaxation, their unparalleled combination of luxury, innovation, and excitement ensures that every moment at sea is nothing short of extraordinary.

IVirgin Voyages offers a cruise experience like no other, combining sophistication, style, and adventure to create a vacation that exceeds expectations. From the moment you step onboard to the final farewell, you’ll be immersed in a world of luxury, relaxation, and excitement that leaves you longing to return again and again.

Trust “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad for help all along the way – Best Service & Best Price = Best Deal!

Invite to learn…why Virgin?

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

With awards such as…

  • Best Ships
  • Best New Ship
  • Best Cruise Line – Premium
  • Best Cabins
  • Best Dining
  • Best Value
  • Best Premium Ship Entertainment
  • …and many, many more

Maybe it’s time you checked out Virgin Voyages, and here is a great opportunity to do just that! Here’s a special invite from Virgin going out to clients of only the top partners of Virgin Voyages….

Ahoy Sailors,

As you prepare for the holiday season gatherings with family and friends, be prepared to start the conversation with a 2024 or 2025 cruise with Virgin Voyages!  Join your Travel Advisor, along with members of the Virgin Voyages Sales Crew to hear about all the excitement and BRAND NEW ITINERARIES:

MONDAY, DECEMBER 18TH – 7:00-7:30pm CST/ 8:00-8:30pm EST

*Sailing Caribbean, Mediterranean, Australia, UK, Iceland, Norway – Featuring Beach Club at Bimini – Virgin’s Private Beach Club
*Exclusively Adult – No Kids! *Food + Tips + WiFi + Basic Bevvies + Fitness Classes – $1,000+ Value
*Find out about the latest promotions and offers, including an exclusive booking offer, up to $200 OBC!

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO REGISTER:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LJMnFWqLSIiGZuPIOmBt6g#/registration

Grab a bevvie, hop on, say HI and join a 30 min webinar to learn about it all!

 

Note – I have personally sailed on Virgin Voyages twice in the Caribbean and once (so far!) in the Mediterranean and love the experience…it’s different, and better. Casually comfortable with excellent service and premium standards at every turn

I hope you will take the time to sit in and learn more about why Virgin Voyages should be a contender for your next great vacation experience.

Warm Wishes and Happy Holidays,

Scott Jones

EZTravelPad

Owner

Thoughts on Ukraine

By | Adventure, Uncategorized | No Comments

This is a copy and paste from an email received from one of out travel partners, G Adventures

In case you are unfamiliar, G Adventures is one of the leading tour operators offering meaningful travel to destinations across the globe. They have a terrific reputation for delivering safe experiences and if you have an adventurous spirit you should consider the types of experiences that they offer, and we can help advise on.

That said, I received an email from them today on the tragic situation unfolding in Ukraine. Clearly there has been much thought and consideration involved in the following statement that I wanted to share –

A statement from the founder of G Adventures

High five!

 

There are none so blind
as those who do not see
 

I never thought I would use the word ‘war’ in my lifetime — especially war within Europe — as I would have hoped we had learned from our collective experience. The past two years we have been living through a global pandemic that has caused physical separation for millions around the world. For the first time in our lifetime, we faced a common enemy, which gave us the opportunity to bring humanity together in a shared mission to eradicate the virus. We should have emerged shoulder to shoulder, more unified, compassionate and empathetic than ever before. And yet, here we are, on the precipice of a more dangerous chapter of our civilized history, driven purely by the need to divide.

For our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, the nightmare is already very real. It is unthinkable that we are faced with a scenario where a sovereign European nation has been invaded, unprovoked and without justified cause. I stand with Ukraine. I stand for freedom and democracy. We are living in dangerous times, where people are divided and looking for division and this just shows us we still have a long way to go. We owe it to future generations to do whatever we can to bridge these divides.
As a company, G Adventures has cancelled all tours in Russia and travellers booked on forward departures will be refunded. We will no longer accept Russian nationals residing inside Russia on our trips, nor will we take bookings from Russian agencies. Unfortunately, these sanctions and forced global isolation will impact everyday people who may not agree with — and who may even be brave enough to protest — their country’s politics. However, these sanctions are essential in order to apply pressure on the entire country and to invoke change. There are many fine people in Russia who are now forced to become part of the solution. At this advanced stage where war has already commenced, there are only three options: deposed leadership, a complete regime change, or retreat from actions already taken. All of these come back to an internal solution created by global pressure and unfortunately good people become an important part of the story.
I have always said travel can be the fastest path to peace, so it breaks my heart that it has come to this. If you are reading this and have the privilege to do so, please continue to be the shining light and get back out there and travel. It’s only by connecting with other cultures that we can foster connection and understanding between different countries and communities. This cultural exchange is the backbone of what I built this company on 32 years ago and it must continue.
Our travellers and team members continue to show extraordinary resilience in our commitment to delivering these life-changing experiences, even when faced with the most challenging of situations. Thank you to everyone who has stood by us and who continues to be passionate about changing the world through travel.
Travel is the most powerful way we can open our hearts, minds, and eyes to the beauty of the world, especially in the darkest of times.
Let us continue to stand together, for peace.
G Adventures.
Bruce Poon Tip
Founder, G Adventures

 

In an uncertain and complicated world, EZTravelPad is now, and will remain a resource for you future travel needs.

PEACE-

 

Cruising on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady – a wonderfully different experience

By | Caribbean, Cruise | No Comments

Cruising on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady is a cruise like no other

There are many aspects that set Virgin Voyages apart from the rest of the brands in the world of ocean going cruises. Most apparent is that the brand is exclusive to adults only. This alone sets Virgin apart from most other cruiselines, but there are many other things that are different cruising on Virgin.

Dining –

Like other cruise brands, there are a variety or dining options to choose from – more than you will be able to experience in a typical 5 night voyage (unless you are eating your way through the entire cruise) – and the food is very good!

Popular evening dining options include-

  • The Wake (Steakhouse)
  • Extra Virgin (Italian)
  • Gunbae (Korean BBQ)
  • Razzle Dazzle (Vegan forward with a naughy list that allows for adding protein)
  • Many other options (with a total of 20+ eateries) including….

My personal favorite was Pink Agave (Mexican)…excellent traditional Mexican cuisine. Check out the 1st course-

Also notable is that many cruise ships these days offer specialty dining options at a premium price (sometime $65 additional per person) but not on Virgin – it’s all included here! There are some occasional premium items on the menu for special celebrations, but you don’t miss much if you just stick to the menu.

Wellness –

It is apparent early on that a tremendous amount of space, time and equipment that has been dedicated to wellness. Several group classes (Yoga, Spin, Core & more) – all offered complimentary (as opposed to most cruises where group classes incur additional costs), or just do your own thing in terrific workout facilities with excellent equipment and facilities – even a boxing ring.

Relax –

You can relax in your own style – whether it’s taking some time to paint a mural

 

or relax at one of the 2 pools on board…

 

or doing some shopping at one of the unique shops on board….

 

It’s not uncommon to relax on a cruise… but it is uncommon to take a nap in a most comfortable hammock on your own private balcony…

Note – this hammock, along with every other hammock in the fleet, was designed specifically for the ship, and crafted by a group of artisans in a remote village in Northern Thailand…just one of the small things in a long list of commitments to sustainability that is the Virgin way.

Unique Destinations and Itineraries –

Virgin will soon have 3 ships cruising various itineraries in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Transatlantic on 4, 5, 7 and longer cruises.

Whether it’s in the Caribbean, or the Mediterranean, there are unique itineraries that feature destinations that you may not have previously experienced (like overnighting in Ibiza for example) or a crown jewel in the Caribbean – the Bimini Beach Club

Bimini Beach Club –

The private beach club on the Bahamian island of Bimini combines beauty, style, fun and luxe comfort. You can make the day what you want it to be – from full on pool party…

to enjoying excellent food & beverage offerings,  to chilling on a pristine beach and an incredible sunset…

 

Bar Tab –

Virgin’s Bar Tab is a good value for those wanting to add some premium coffees from the baristas or premium alcoholic beverages from the mixologists. Alcohol drinks price resonable to start with (they are not included in the cruise fare and beverage packages are not offered) but you can get a better value by pre-purchasing a Bar Tab for $300 and when you do you get an extra $50 for a total of $350 on-board spend (at the time of writing this post). My wife and I like to enjoy a nice glass of wine (or 2) with dinner, and a pre-dinner cocktail (or 3), and we had plenty of room on our bar tab…even enough to “Shake for Champagne” on the app (where you can literally shake your app to have a bottle of Moet & Chandon deliverd to your specific location on board)!

See much more in the video with some cruise highlights below…

Looking for a Couples’ Getaway? A Bachelor or Bachelorette vacation solution? Looking for a unique way to spend a Honeymoon or a welcoming solution for a vacation friendly to the LGBT community? This may be for you!

There are far too many things to say about the commitment to diversity, the uniqueness in entertainment, and the overall different vibe that is offered by Virgin Voyages, but for full details, best deal, and help all along the way, get with “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad

2021 Photo Contest – and The Winner is…..

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

 Tnanks to all who participated in the 2020/2021 EZTravelPad Annual Photo Contest

This year, due to the disruption of travel in 2020, we rolled 2 years together and we thank everyone for their participation. We had some super-fun entries, each and every one being EZTravelPad clients enjoying their vacation booked through one of the team here at EZTravelPad

As always, it was not an easy decision, but the overall winner goes to Kristen and Greg enjoying a stroll on the beach at Great Exuma, Bahamas. See for yourself how this images captures the simple joy of enjoying a world-class destination – together!

 See several of the runners-up below-

Starbucks cards are going out to all who particpated, and an Amazon Gift Card is going out to Kristen & Greg, who were picked as the overall winners!

Thanks again & keep trusting “Your friends….in the travel business” for all of your vacation planning needs!

Oh….and fall started today, go outside, see what we’re in store for then come back inside to book a trip to somewhere warm & awesome!

Best Wishes for a happy close to 2021,

Scott Jones

Owner

EZTravelPad

Covid Test Option with 24 Hour Turnaround

By | Travel Tips, Uncategorized | No Comments

Looking for a solution for getting your Covid test quickly?

With international travel returning and the demand very high, more and more people are needing a Covid test which can come back quickly and reliably. Some international destinations are requiring proof of a negative Covid test in as short as 48 hours. So where do you turn?

If you are in the Indianapolis, IN or Arlington, VA area then there is an option to go to for fast results. If you are not located nearby then they have a remote option that can still offer 24 hours turnaround time!

GenePace is offering EZTravelPad clients a discount on their services – see below for details direct from GenePace

GenePace conducts COVID-19 travel testing resulting RT-PCR tests within 24 hours. If you are in the Indianapolis (IN) or Arlington (VA) area and book through one of our four locations, you will receive a 10% discounted rate when using the “EZTravel” promo code when prompted.  If you are needing our At-Home testing option, please email gilliancoffey@genepace.com to get scheduled and mention “EZTravel.”  With our At-Home test, we will utilize FedEx Express Priority Overnight for shipping to ensure quick turnaround time.  GenePace wants to make sure your travel is as easy as possible when it comes to current testing regulations. Should you need a phone number it is (463)999-0558. We look forward to serving your testing needs!

Bear in mind that GenePace is not affiliated or associated with EZTravelPad, but they seem to be reliable and know what they are doing so we, at EZTravelPad, feel comfortable passing along their offer as an option to service your needs.

Additionally, there is no requirement that your travel be booked through EZTravelPad in order to take advantage of the discount, but we sure would love the opportunity to help with your next big vacation!

This is just another benefit from “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad

Essence of Burgundy & Provence – a River Cruise with AmaWaterways – Join us!

By | Blog, Cruise, Romance, Sightseeing | No Comments

Join us on 7 Nights through France THIS September 30 – Oct 7, 2021

EZTravelPad is delighted to announce that we are headed back to Europe this September and would love for you to join us.

We will be embarking the AmaWaterways ship AmaCello at Chalon-Sur-Saone on Sep 30 to cruise the Rhone and the Saone rivers in route to Arles, France. Additionally, there are options to extend pre-cruise for 3 nights in Geneva, Switzerland and/or 3 nights in Barcelona, Spain post-cruise.

With a maximum of just 130 guests, the AmaCello is a perfect size to relax, enjoy, and meet new friends along the way.

Indulge in French flavors on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. While you’ll get more than a taste of Burgundy and Provence during this itinerary, the essence of these destinations will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!

Along the way we will experience cities and towns including Tournus, Macon, Lyon, Vienne, Avignon, Arles & more

 

Celebrating a birthday in style

On day 5 (October 4) we will celebrate Scott’s 60th birthday with a Tasting Tour in Lyon – “France’s Culinary Capital” followed by a bike tour along the ViaRhona Bike Route. These are just 2 of the daily tour options which include many hiking, biking or tasting options multiple times per day (over 30 options throughout the week).

 

Every day you can choose to relax, or you can choose to explore, and every day your tours and your meals are included in the fare along with champagne for breakfast plus local beers & wines for lunch & dinner.

If you have always wanted to experience a river cruise

– or you have always wanted to explore more of France outside of Paris

– or you are just itching to get back to traveling and want to be included in a terrific experience that you will never forget, then this may be for you.

Pricing starts from only $3395 per person based on double occupancy (just $4814 for single occupancy)

Learn much more about AmaWaterways in this eBrochure or this video

We hope that you can join us, but if not then do consider this type of experience in the future – it is a wonderful way to experience Europe and beyond.

For more info contact us today!

 

Anse Chastanet Resort is St Lucia

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

One of the most in demand aspirational Honeymoon destinations for US couples is St Lucia

Among the reasons why St Lucia is such an in-demand destination are the myriad boutique resorts that exist in various locations around the island, and one of these most iconic resorts in St Lucia is Anse Chastanet.

The story of the reason for the existence of the resort, that when an architect was hiking in the rainforest he came upon an awe inspiring view of The Pitons which gave him a vision of building a hotel where the rooms were open-air so as to capture an unobstructed view of the World Heritage Site that is beyond majestic.

I could write for hours, but I think that the first paragraph from the home page of the resort’s website paints quite a picture.

“Architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy believes passionately in nature. So he created a hotel that makes the foliage and the flowers, the perfumes and the peaks, the sea and the bird song an integral part of your vacation experience. The estate encompasses 600 lush tropical acres bordering two soft sand beaches. Not only do you get a World Heritage Site anchored by the twin peaks on land, the resort’s two crystal-clear bays are part of a designated marine reserve protecting miles of colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.”

On a recent trip to St Lucia I had the good fortune of Scuba diving a few times near the resort and can attest that the reef here is stunning.

 

Certainly this is an amazing room that blends a privileged location with a rustic Caribbean style that feels like it was cut right out of the rainforest – and there are several other room options that fit every style (for example if air conditioning is a requirement). But it’s not all about the rooms – it is also about the 700 acre estate from which many of the ingredients of the meals prepared are raised organically and right on property. It doesn’t get much more farm-to-table than this.

 

The casual luxury of this resort is undeniable.

When it’s time to start planning your next amazing vacation then turn to “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad

Reach out today

Luxury Adults-Only All-Inclusive Dude Ranch Experience now available

By | Adventure, All-Inclusive Resorts, Luxury, Romance, US Domestic | No Comments

Visit to Triple Creek Ranch in Montana

Recently I took the time to have a look around “Out West” checking out some Dude Ranches and Ski Resorts to get a better understanding of what is available closer to home so that I can best advise clients wanting to keep their 2021 vacation socially distanced and domestic, yet still desiring a luxury experience. One of my favorites was the Triple Creek Ranch

In short, this resort is impressive!

Surrounded by 4 Million acres of National Forests and protected lands, this 700 acre ranch offers 25 cabins nestled into a pristine pine forest in SW Montana. The accommodations are outstanding and perfect for a Honeymoon, an Anniversary celebration, a couples retreat or just some time away to relax and reconnect. Discriminating guests will immediately notice that it is a Relais and Chateaux property confirming that this is a truly excellent resort.

 

Accommodations

 

Each unique cabin is beyond comfortable, they are thoughtfully outfitted with every comfort that you can imagine, including a wood burning fireplace, outdoor deck , stocked wet-bar and tastefully appointed with curated original western art which sets the tone and never fails to bring a smile. Some feature private hot tubs as well.

enjoy your cabin in the spring, summer, fall or in winter………..

Culinary delights

Personally I believe that the all-inclusive resort experience is defined largely by the cuisine, and Triple Creek Ranch will not disappoint!

Executive Chef Jacob Leatherman has been crafting exquisite dining experiences at Triple Creek Ranch for over fifteen years, introducing a new Dinner menu each evening. His finely tuned and adventurous palate informs a diverse menu showcasing distinctive flavors and imaginative presentation. Chef Jake’s talented team of chefs incorporates the freshest ingredients to prepare uniquely refined dishes to please all palates. For many guests, the meals at Triple Creek Ranch are indisputably the highlight of their visit

 

Activities and Inclusions

Equally important to the cuisine is the array and quality of activities and experiences to enjoy. Obviously when you think Dude Ranch you think of horseback riding, and there are a number of options for daily rides, and you may even think of a cattle drive, which is possible as well,  or fly fishing (which is excellent) but you may not have thought of a Nature Safari to possibly see some of North America’s Big 5 such as Moose, Bear, Bison, and you will likely not miss the abundant Elk & Deer as well as plenty of other charming woodland creatures….

 

 

….but the list of activities does not end with wildlife interaction, there are myriad activities to enjoy seasonally such as hiking, nordic walking, trail running, mountain biking, rucking, snowshoe hiking, fat tire snow biking, cross country skiing, downhill skiing (at a nearby ski resort), sapphire panning, tennis, archery, horseshoes, axe throwing, bocce ball, and that’s a taste of what you can enjoy – with almost everything included in the nightly rate!

Not feeling adventurous? No worries, relax at the heated pool, take time to enjoy spa treatment, release your creative side with an art project or simply relax in the clean Montana air.

 

Location

The location of Triple Creek Ranch is ideal to add on a few days at Yellowstone or Glacier National Park, or if time is short then enjoy a breathtaking scenic flight over the nearby national treasures

 

There is so much more to share about this wonderful property.

When it’s time to plan your next great adventure – be it in the US or far, far away then contact “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad – we’re here to help!