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There certainly has been more than a little news about the tourism industry and the safety concerns in the Dominican Republic lately –
Is it safe?
Should I go?
Should I cancel?
Well, I’ll take a crack at each of these questions – here goes
Is it safe to go to The Dominican Republic now?
Of course not, but neither is it safe to go to Mexico, or Europe, or for that matter, it’s not safe to go to many places in The good ole USA if you go to the wrong neighborhoods, hang out with the wrong crowd, get caught up in a situation that you knew you should not have in the first place, go to school, church, work, etc (lots of mass shootings you know). Best bet is to stay home…ground floor (stairs are dangerous).
Of course I am joking – kind of.
NO WHERE IS SAFE!! (at least that’s what the media might like for you to believe…after all, your clicks = profits for media!)
Statistically speaking you are extremely safe flying to a resort destination, finding your pre-arranged transfers at the airport, and hanging out at the resort beaches and pools all week – even if you add in a couple of organized adventures off resort! Keep in mind that you tend to get what you pay for – higher priced resorts tend to deliver more dependable quality of food so you are less likely to find food related issues at the nicer more brand-name resorts as opposed to the lower priced options – and trust me on this, the real danger is having an intestinal issue for a few days, that is not uncommon at all.
Should I go to the Dominican Republic?
That one is purely a matter of taste. If you want to go to a pristine beach at a comfortable resort hotel where you can eat, drink, dance and enjoy all sorts of entertainment options for 1 low price – then maybe so, Dominican Republic has a great array of all-inclusive beach resorts to choose from (best to get with a travel adviser who knows a thing or 2) and these resorts typically price very, very competitively. If you are looking for the kind of place where you can rent a car, drive around on your own in a beautiful tropical setting, get into adventures on your own, find the little “hidden gems” off the radar, etc then the DR is probably not for you – consider Hawaii.
If you have a level of comfort in other countries having experienced & enjoyed other places such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Cozumel, St Lucia, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St Thomas, Costa Rica, etc then Dominican Republic might be a great option – if you were previously in any of the places I just mentioned and did not feel safe, then the DR might not be for you.
Should I Cancel?
That’s totally your call, it’s all about level of comfort and level of apprehension. Looking at the stories in the news media lately there are more questions that answers.
It sounds like David Ortiz might have been a victim of mistaken identity in a “hit” gone bad – tragic, but unless you are from the DR I would not suggest being out at a late night club in the capital of Santo Domingo. Bad things do happen to unsuspecting tourists all the time – in every country (including in the US).
The stories of people dying suddenly after having drank from the mini-bars, those are just baffling. I can’t imagine what the common thread could be that would have people dying quite infrequently (last I heard was 8 reports in the past year) at various hotels, different brands, and different places hundreds of miles apart. Toxicology reports will hopefully solve the mystery. If you were smart and purchased the travel protection offered when you booked your vacation then you may be able to cancel (for any reason) and get your money back so if you do want to cancel then check with your travel adviser for the best options. Don’t go if you don’t feel comfortable – your time is valuable and you should enjoy it the most!
To wrap it up, do I feel uncomfortable in the DR, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta or the Riviera Maya? Heck no, those places are awesome for the value that they provide and I send lots of vacationers to those places all the time – almost everyone loves them! But it’s YOUR vacation – and if you feel more comfortable in a more expensive destination (Hawaii, Bahamas, Aruba, Turks & Caicos, Bermuda, Bora Bora, Cote d’Azur, etc then we sure do help with all those sorts of trips as well. Beef up the budget and go enjoy yourself where you are comfortable – but either way…GO ENJOY YOURSELF
For more info this is a link to a NY Times article from a few days ago
at EZTravelPad we like to think of ourselves as “Your friends….in the travel business” and as your friend i would never suggest going somewhere that I felt was unsafe…. reach out anytime at this link
You’re Considering a European River Cruise Aren’t You?
It’s ok – a European River Cruise is an amazing experience that, having experienced, I can attest – it’s unforgettable!
There are many choices (there are many rivers in Europe) but here is one that caught my attention – starting off in Paris, visiting 4 countries with 10 included tours and much more included (like food, beverages, etc)
Check out this brief video for a quick overview of a few of the highlights
But there’s much more to learn-
For Expert Help and the advice you need turn to
“Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad
Think Adults-Only Resort + Cruise to Havana (and more)
Virgin Cruise Ships will debut as Virgin Voyages set sail in 2020
Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Empire + Cruise + Adults-Only
One of the most exciting developments in leisure travel in recent years is the unveiling of the new Virgin Voyages brand which will set sail in the summer of 2020 with 4 Night Sailings & 5 Night Sailings to Bahamas + Havana or Bahamas + Mexico or Bahamas + Dominican Republic (plus more to come)
What’s exciting about it?
Well, to name just a few things, the vibe, the commitment to “Green”, the inventive cuisine, the 1st Tattoo parlor at sea – and much more
The overall feel is proclaimed ‘Rebellious Luxe”
Make no mistake- it’s gonna be a party – and it’s virtually all-inclusive (except for alcoholic beverages) so bring your game and your dark sunglasses to hide the dark circles because you are over-nighting in Havana and that can make it a LATE night! (other itineraries do exist if Cuba isn’t your top pick)
Want to see what it looks like on board?
Scarlet Lady
She’s a Nice Looking Lady Alright
Main Pool Deck
Gorgeous Outdoor Space
Pizza Party? Yes Please!
Innovative and Comfortable Cabins
The Wake – One of Many Dining Spaces to Savor
Been On A Cruise Before? – This One Is Different…Here’s How
No Gratuities – They Are Included!
No Buffets – 20+ Innovative Dining Options!!
No Disconnecting – Free WIFI – They WANT you on Social Media!
Group Fitness Classes Included so Get Your Spin On for Free!
Lots of other ways that extra charges are NOT the style on this ship…its cruising the way it should be – care free and inclusive!
But there’s much more to learn-
For Expert Help and the advice you need turn to
“Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad
As a recognized leader in the romance vacation market, I’ve been asked to be a part of the exclusive 2019 Romance Travel Forum!
I was personally chosen out of hundreds of travel sellers from across the US and Canada to be among this select group of top professionals!
With my destination wedding and honeymoon clients in mind, I’ll be experiencing first-hand all that Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit has to offer, including attractions and visits to the most sought-after hotel properties!
Plus, I’ll have the chance to meet with top providers on a global level representing the most romantic destinations, hotels, packaged vacations and so much more! Just 1 more reason why EZTravelPad should be your pick to help make your romantic vacation dreams a reality!
Recently I received an email from one of our travel partners (International Holidays) with some good travel tips that I wanted to share-
In today’s world of strict security mixed with the on the go traveler, navigating airport TSA checkpoints can be a bit cumbersome and test anyone’s patience.
We’ve outlined a few steps you and your clients can use on the go.
Make sure you have what you need before you go through any TSA line. You don’t want to find yourself having to circle back for a forgotten necessity. Transversely, don’t bring anything you shouldn’t. Having to forfeit your favorite pair of scissors isn’t a fun way to start a vacation.
Be comfortable, we no longer live in the era of wearing a 3-piece-suit when we travel. Know that you may need to remove your shoes or belt.
Make sure those shoes don’t lace up to your knees or require a small fortress to pull them off. Wear comfortable shoes that are easily removed and put back on.
Leave the jewelry at home; avoid removing and misplacing your favorite accessories.
Pack a snack! Airport food prices can be exorbitant. While there are many liquid restrictions (3.4oz) on what you may bring through the TSA, solid foods are allowed. A long line can be a bit more digestible when accompanied by a delicious and affordable snack. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in line and hear your stomach growling.
Airport lines are about as predictable as the weather. You’ll want to arrive early. Check your airport’s website for any recommended arrival times. Any seasoned traveler will tell you, “The TSA does not care if you miss your flight”. Nor will they typically go out of their way to make sure you get to your flight on time. With that fact in mind, don’t take a gamble showing up at the last minute. You could easily find yourself stressed beyond belief.
Get a rejuvenated start by electing to kick off your vacation at a comfortable Airport Hotel that includes complimentary shuttle service & free parking (we can help with options)!
Be sure to fully charge your mobile devices. Leaving electronics off until necessary will help preserve the battery. Investing in a small battery bank can allow you to re-charge your own device if everyone seems to be hogging charging station ports. Battery banks can come in useful when traveling with children who could use some ever needed entertainment.
“Smart luggage” can sometimes be dumb luggage. Beware of battery banks that are built into luggage as these are often unacceptable as carry-ons or checked luggage. You don’t want to find yourself buying alternative luggage at those ever so pricey airport boutiques.
While not currently available due to the government shutdown, Global Entry and TSA Pre-check are both pay for services that allow for expedited airport travel. TSA Pre-check provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. Airports. Global Entry provides the TSA Pre-check benefit plus expedited US customs screening for international air travelers when entering the United States. TSA Pre-check costs $85 and Global Entry costs $100 for a five year membership. Travelers interested in Global Entry must apply through the Trusted Traveler Program website.
These tips can help make airport travel more affordable and enjoyable.
Safe travels!
**Thank to International Holidays for sharing these tips!
FYI – International Holidays is a fantastic partner that we use regularly for pre-flight hotels which include parking your vehicle for up to 2 weeks & comp airport shuttles and they offer these at terrific prices so get with us for options on your next pre-flight hotel stay!
It’s time for our 5th Annual EZTravelPad Photo Contest and you can win one of several prizes to be given away!
Based on participation we will be giving away some Starbucks gift cards and other swag for runners up, but the best 2 photos overall (see rules below) will win one of 2 Grand Prizes….each is a $50 Amazon Gift Card
We are looking for photos of your –
Honeymoon
Destination Wedding (or a Destination Wedding that you attended)
Family Vacation
Friends Getaway
or any other great EZTravelPad vacation experience – like these past submissions…
Rules are simple – and there are 2 Ways to Enter & Win- (and yes, 2 Grand Prize Winners)
Speed matters-
Method #1- Open to EZTravelPad clients traveling during the period from August 1, 2017 to August 30, 2018
Simply email your photo(s) to EZTravelPad with the subject “Photo Contest 2018”
Quality matters- Make sure they are good ones – interesting – something you are proud of. We don’t need 50, just a couple of the best will do – photos with YOU, not just scenery or landscapes (although if you have a simply amazing photo of an iconic destination it will be considered this year)Cut-off for submission is September 30th, 2018 so just a few weeks to get in on the action. Beginning on October 1st the EZTravelPad team will review submissions and pick the 10 best to submit to our professional photographer team for final decision on the 1st Grand Prize WinnerNOTE- By sending in your photos you agree that it is ok for EZTravelPad to use your photo(s) on our website and/or post to social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and also use your first names (no last names will be posted)
Email photos to admin@eztravelpad.com with the following info
Who is pictured in the photo (main characters at least)
Where photo was taken
What sort of fun was taking place at the time
Method #2 –
Open to ALL clients who have ever traveled with EZTravelPad, but the photo needs to have been taken during an EZTravelpad booked trip
Simply…
“Like” EZTravelPad on Facebook (if you haven’t already you should) and then
Post your photo(s) to the EZTravelPad timeline and then
Tell all of your friends to “Like” the page and “Like” YOUR photo(s) (plus write a brief comment about what they like about the photo(s))….
Most “Likes” by September 30, 2018 wins the 2nd Grand Prize
Simple as that, we look forward to seeing your submissions-
When it comes to Adults-only All-inclusive resorts there are all sorts of options in Mexico and the Caribbean!
Some specialize in accommodating couples only, some others are open to anyone as long as they are 18 years or older – some are budget friendly, some quite luxury. Some are tranquil, others are party-central.
Some are on fantastic beaches – some are not. Even within a given brand there are wide differences based on the size of the resort, the age, the destination and specific location within the destination…so many variables!
One variable that is often overlooked are the things that are actually included – and at Unico Hotel Riviera Maya that list is long indeed!
Sure, they include all food and beverage (very good food and premium brands of spirits) – and they include entertainment – and activities on both land and in the water – but they also include something else that no other resort does…unlimited spa, golf & select off resort tours – Included!
You do pay a tax on the value of the spa, golf & tours that you consume, but it is a steal when you consider what you experience and what you would have paid for those experiences elsewhere
To get a sense of the vibe and feel of the resort check out this short video-
Your Local Host
It’s not exactly butler service, and it’s not exactly concierge service – probably best described as something in between, but the Local Host assigned to you will be very helpful with all sorts of things-
Your local host service brings the UNICO 20˚87˚ experience to the next level
Insider’s guide into the local scene—from hard-to-get reservations to the best-kept secret spots
Assistance with check-in and check-out
Late check out requests
Restaurant reservations
Tours, golf, and spa reservations
Planning special events or occasions
Packing and/or unpacking
Shoe shine, ironing and steaming services
Laundry service
Cleaning and maintenance requests
Spa tub preparation
Bag pick-up at check-out
Mixology program
Pillow menu request
Additional bathroom amenities
Aromatherapy
For more info and insights into the Unico experience click this link
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