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Scott Jones

Jul 24
0

Escape to Ireland

By | Europe | 2 Comments

There are many ways to vacation. You can go luxury (EZTravelPad specializes in more luxury accommodations normally relying on the best travel partners and the best locations) – or you can go more budget (normally this is what people do on their own in an effort to achieve the lowest price possible)

Well now EZTravelPad has a very modest budget solution for several popular destinations, and you don’t have to sacrifice stability by risking doing business with a less well known provider

Globus Tours is widely recognized as the world leader in escorted tours across the globe. They operate 4 distinctly different brands serving 4 different travel styles with the Globus brand being the flagship luxury solution.

Now Globus is operating some itineraries that are achieving some unheard of price-points on some of the more popular destinations such as Italy, Great Britain, Greece, Peru (think Machu Picchu) & many others

Below is a Globus brand itinerary that hits an unbelievably low price point from $659 per person on set departures for 6 nights including several meals, transfers, hotels & even some guides in the destination. Add flights from any US points of departure and and you can come in around $1300 per person!

Unreal!!

So what do you sacrifice?

Well, normally on a Globus tour or other great EZTravelPad custom tours in Ireland you would be staying in luxury hotels, Manor Houses and even Castles.

You would experience in depth guided tours of some of the most unique destinations and experiences on the island. In this case, at this price you would have fewer guided tours, fewer amazing meals, and would stay in nice but more basic yet still clean and nice accommodations

See much more detail and specifics below-

Inclusions of tours and transportation as well as a Full Irish breakfast daily; 2 three-course dinners with wine and choice of menus including a welcome dinner in Dublin

Overview

Vacation Overview

Escape to the lush landscapes, charming cities, and friendly people of Ireland during the low season so you can experience it all without the crowds and, most importantly, without the high-season prices. This Ireland tour is an ideal introduction to the Emerald Isle for first-time visitors who have limited time. You’ll relish in some of Ireland’s most magnificent scenery as well as its most famous towns. You’ll start and end in Dublin, and you’ll also have overnights in Ennis, Killarney, and Waterford. Highlights of this tour include the 668-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s west coast, where you’ll savor breathtaking views of these sheer cliffs dropping into the ocean, and the Ring of Kerry, a 100-mile panoramic drive through rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes. Words cannot capture the magnificence of this natural beauty; it must be witnessed in person!

You’ll also have time to enjoy bustling Dublin, the “Fair City,” Adare with its pretty thatched cottages; medieval Waterford, home to the famous crystal; and Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest and liveliest towns. From the scenic beauty to the unique interactions and experiences with the down-to-earth locals, this Ireland trip is sure to delight all of your senses, and at a price you just can’t miss!

Itinerary

Day 1 – ARRIVE IN DUBLIN, IRELAND

Céad míle fáilte! A hundred-thousand welcomes! Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax in Ireland’s capital city. This evening, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel.

DinnerDinner

Day 2 – DUBLIN

The morning’s orientation drive in the “Fair City” includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares with their tall red brick townhouses, colorful doors and wrought iron-decorated windows, Oscar Wilde’s Trinity College, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The afternoon is at leisure for you to explore the city further, or you could join an optional excursion to the Guinness Storehouse and learn all about the world-famous beer: from how Guinness is made to the ancient craft of barrel-making in the cooperage. The evening ends with a sample of “The Black Stuff,” followed by dinner.

Breakfast Breakfast

Day 3 – DUBLIN–GALWAY–CLIFFS OF MOHER–ENNIS

Your day begins with a drive to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan center with colorful shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, a scenic route takes you across the limestone plateau of The Burren with its strange and beautiful karst landscape to the 668-foot CLIFFS OF MOHER, where you savor the breathtaking panorama of the Clare coast.

Breakfast Breakfast

Day 4 – ENNIS–RING OF KERRY–KILLARNEY

A day full of splendid scenery as you head south and stop at quaint Adare with its pretty thatched cottages. Continue on to Killorglin on Dingle Bay to join the famed RING OF KERRY for a 100-mile panoramic drive around the island’s southwestern tip. There is plenty to focus your camera on here: sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and the breathtaking panorama of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View. Travel on to the popular resort of Killarney for an overnight stay.

Breakfast Breakfast

Day 5 – KILLARNEY–BLARNEY–WATERFORD

Across the Kerry Mountains and through County Cork, the route brings you to Blarney, renowned for its magical Kissing Stone. There is time here for lunch, to walk up to the castle, and to shop for traditional Irish handicrafts. In the afternoon, proceed via Cork to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings, and home to the famous crystal. After dinner this evening, enjoy an  IRISH COFFEE DEMONSTRATION.

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 6 – WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN

Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns with medieval cobblestone streets and Old-World charm, is your first destination today. You will have time to discover the town on your own, visit the castle or the Design Centre or simply wander through the charming streets and be part of the Irish day-to-day life. Then, travel back to Dublin, and tonight, as a fitting farewell to Ireland, consider an optional evening with dinner, followed by dance, song, and laughter.

Breakfast Breakfast

Day 7 – DUBLIN

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

Breakfast Breakfast

Sound awesome?

Then get with “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad to pick your dates and get this scheduled….check this amazing destination off your bucket list!

Jul 20
0

Escape to Costa Rica for 7 Days from $659 per person

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

Here’s a Great Deal on a Fantastic Vacation to Costa Rica

Visit the Eco-Paradise that is the country of Costa Rica with inclusions of daily breakfast, tours with a Naturalist, comfortable accommodations & much more on this unbelievably low priced tour-

Itinerary for Costa Rica Escape with Globus  

 

Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA

Arrive in San José, where you will be met by a Globus representative.
Day 2 SAN JOSÉ–MONTEVERDE

This morning, depart San José for the cloud forest of Monteverde. Situated on the continental divide under a misty cloud coverage, Monteverde is one of the most bio-diverse areas on the planet. Exploring the trails here reveals green habitats teeming with life. Over 3,000 species of plants, 400 species of birds, 60 species of bats, 1,200 species of amphibians and 700 species of butterflies – to name a few – call this area home. It is also one of the last remaining places in the world that is home to all six species of cats: ocelots, jaguars, jaguarundi, pumas, oncillas, and marguays. If you are lucky, this is also a great spot to catch a glimpse of one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful birds, the resplendent quetzal.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 3 MONTEVERDE

Today, visit SANTA ELENA CLOUD FOREST RESERVE during a Naturalist-guided walking tour. Established in 1989, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve comprises an area of 765 acres, and is home to forest fauna such as sloths, jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, coatis, and numerous species of birds. With almost 100% humidity throughout the year, the cloud forest experiences almost 12 feet of rain per year. This afternoon, you may wish to explore this verdant area further or perhaps head into town or venture into the rainforest canopy for a bird’s eye view of the region.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 4 MONTEVERDE–ARENAL

Depart Monteverde for the must-see town of Arenal located in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. Currently, Arenal Volcano is in a resting phase but prior to 2010 the volcano was known for its consistent lava flows and gas emissions. Arenal is home to cascading waterfalls, thriving rainforests, abundant wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities. After settling in, experience the magic of the resort’s pool and Jacuzzis or consider a walk along the nearby nature trails in search of 300- to 400-year-old trees, colorful frogs, monkeys, birds, and possibly small animals native to the area.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 5 ARENAL

Today will be spent exploring ARENAL NATIONAL PARK and its vast primary rainforest, and learning about its rich biodiversity. Venture into the jungle canopy on the ARENAL HANGING BRIDGES, which consist of 15 bridges suspended in the treetops and allows your Naturalist to point out various species of plants, birds, butterflies, monkeys, sloths, and other animals commonly found here. On a clear day, you will get a 360-degree view of the tropical rainforest, as well as stunning views of Arenal Volcano. This afternoon is free to explore at your leisure. Tonight, perhaps take an optional tour to the world-famous Tabacón Hot Springs. These natural hot springs are the result of rainwater heated by magma in the Earth’s interior that then rises to the surface, taking with it minerals found in the Earth’s crust. Enjoy time to relax in the waters that are so beneficial to your skin and body.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 6 ARENAL–SARCHI–SAN JOSÉ

En route to San José, visit SARCHI Village, known as the center of Costa Rican handicrafts and where you’ll see the artists in their workshops making the famous ox carts. Enjoy time here for lunch before continuing to San José for a short city ORIENTATION to see the historic National Theater, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and other sites in downtown San José.

Breakfast Breakfast
Day 7 SAN JOSÉ

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

Breakfast Breakfast

 

Contact “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad for specific dates and details then get ready to go see one of the most environmentally friendly nations on the planet and discover abundant wildlife all along the way

Jul 10
0

2 Days in Barcelona Pre-cruise

By | Cruise, Europe, Family Travel | No Comments

Barcelona – easily one of the most enjoyable cities on earth

La Ramblas – the tourism hub of Barcelona

 

There are many reasons why Barcelona is generally regarded as one of the Top 5 cities to visit in Europe….

I’m not gonna lie, flying all night then arriving in a foreign country, checking into a hotel for a quick change then off to a e-bike tour on virtually no sleep is a bit aggressive, but I’m glad we did it (not sure my wife feels the same lol). It’s either go tour and be active or go to sleep and lose several hours of exploring time. We chose to see all we could in the short time we had there

e-bike tour booked through Viator – 12 participants – a good time all around

We covered alot of ground on those bikes – From landmarks to archaeological excavations to parks to the beach and more

Interestingly the beach area in Barcelona is relatively new, and a key component of the revitalization of the city. Investments into re-imagining the city as a tourist destination rather than an industrial powerhouse led to the 1992 Summer Olympics being held in the city and they haven’t looked back – now Barcelona is widely regarded as one of the top cities in the world for tourists

 

After some sightseeing on the e-bikes then it was time to sample some tapas from one of the more famous tapas restaurants – Els Quatre Gats (4 cats) which is widely known as one of Pablo Picasso’s favorite bars

 

But on to other things….

La Sagrada Familia

If there is one thing that Barcelona is know for (besides tapas) it’s Antoni Gaudi’s masterpience – La Sagrada Familia

Construction continues at La Sagrada Familia

Imagine a work so vast that the architect knew, at less than 30 years of age, that construction would last well beyond his death. While this looks massive now, it will eventually soar to a much taller height and a much broader footprint when complete

Construction began in 1882 – they are hopeful of completion by 2026 (in honor of the 100th year anniversary of Gaudi’s death)

The inside is an homage to nature as much as it is to Jesus and to fully understand I recommend a good guide – it’s so worth the extra $$ and photos just do not do justice to this masterpiece

We booked a 3 hours guided tour of La Sagrada Familia in conjunction with a tour of the Hospital Sant Pau. Initially I was indifferent to the tour starting at some hospital, eventhough I was understanding that for there to be a tour it must be something worth seeing. That said, I was blown away. Not only was this once public hospital a masterpiece of efficiency it was also architecturally amazing and beautiful.

our Context Tours guide Zaida was both charming and an expert in the Catalan culture

Once again photos are difficult capture the overall feel but imagine that this is just one of the many separate buildings serving patients with varying illnesses

and here is a model of the fully functional hospital where the main building served as an admittance and admin building then patients were transferred to the appropriate wing via underground tunnels that were well lit from skylights strategically placed throughout the gardens filled with healing herbs and aromatic plants.

So what else does Barcelona offer?

Well…the $15.50 EU bottles of Cava at the cafe across the street from the hotel were pretty great….

and there is SO much more to relate!

For help planning your next great getaway – be it Barcelona or anywhere else amazing please consider turning to “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad where we leverage relationships on a daily basis to help insure that you have the time of your life on each and every vacation

 

Apr 22
0

Congrats on EZTravelPad’s 10 Year Anniversary

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

It’s now been a few days since EZTravelPad turned 10 – and I love it!

To say that there was a clear sense of what EZTravelPad would become would be a huge exaggeration – there was a dream that I could make a living helping people with their vacation planning… at a time when the US economy was at the depths of it’s worst recession since the great depression and the general thinking by most people was that travel agencies were dead and everyone was going to plan all their travel on their own with only the help of the internet – WRONG!

It’s crazy really, to think that someone like myself – with no experience in the travel industry could start at such an inopportune time with woefully inadequate funds (remember that recession thing – it had taken it’s toll let me tell you) and make it a success, but it happened – and YOU are part of the reason why!

Thank You!

It is because of the trust of so many that I was able to grow this little idea into something respectable. We have been the recipient of many awards, including Karisma resorts, Funjet Vacations, St Lucia Tourism Board, WeddingWire’s  “Couples Choice” award  &  The Knot’s “Best of The Knot” in each of the past 5 years running achieving  Hall of Fame status!

We have a strong team here at EZTravelPad and we are getting stronger every day thanks to the great reviews, repeat trips and referrals that we receive so often from previous clients just like you – so one more time…THANK YOU

We will strive to do even better for the next 10 and beyond!

Here are a few of my favorite photos in some of my favorite destinations

  • Scott with staff at R&R night at Hard Rock Cancun
  • Scott with Sandals jet island hopping in Caribbean
  • Scott and Michelle from EZTravelpad pose at Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios Jamaica
  • Scott on Napali Coast in Kauai
  • Scott at Le Meridien Bora Bora
  • Scott at Waimea Canyon in Kauai
  • Scott and Michelle from EZTravelpad visit Stingray City on Grand Cayman
  • 2017-11-13 15.30.28
  • Arc de Triumph Paris
  • 2017-11-18 13.32.20
  • 2017-11-18 16.30.10
  • 2017-11-15 15.40.08
Dec 05
0

Wine themed River Cruise on Danube

By | Blog, Cruise, Europe, Uncategorized | No Comments

Wine, wine and more wine!

As I write this I am sailing down the Danube river through Austria on AmaWaterways gorgeous ship AmaCerto enjoying a 7 night wine themed river cruise.

If you know anything about a river cruise with AmaWaterways you probably know that they include wine and beer for both lunch and dinner (and champagne for breakfast!) – but what you might not know is that on a wine themed cruise there are so many more opportunities to discover new favorites during several tastings that are included, such as the tour and tasting at Castle Gobelsburg pictured below.

I can’t speak for every single wine themed cruise, but on this one there is a vineyard from California named Graveyard Vineyards that is hosting even MORE wine tastings.
So what does that look like? Well here’s our experience during a week on AmaCerto

  • Monday – board ship – lunch (with wine)  – Dinner at Chef’s Table with several courses and wine pairings – late night City Illuminations tour (outstanding cruise along Budapest waterfront with buildings lighted)
  • Tuesday – Morning excursion consisting of Budapest city walk, city market then back to the ship for lunch and an afternoon wine tasting courtesy Graveyard Vineyards and a terrific dinner in the main dining room
  • Wednesday – Breakfast (with Champagne), Lunch (with wine), Dinner (with wine) then an evening of traditional Viennese fun with lots of wine, dancing & song at Winery & Heuriger Christ
  • Thursday – Breakfast (forgot the champagne) then excursion -Bike ride in Vienna then lunch (with wine). Mid-afternoon wine tasting and aroma sampling courtesy Graveyard Vineyards then an after dinner excursion to Castle Gobelsburg for wine tastings
  • Friday – Hike to Durnstein castle then wine and apricot tasting in Durnstein, Austria. Back to the ship for lunch with wine then late afternoon excursion to Castle Clam for a wine tasting before dinner (with wine)
  • Saturday – Most people with full day excursions so late breakfast (champagne if desired) then late dinner in private dining with plenty of wine!
  • Sunday – Breakfast (champagne again??) – lunch (wine again??) – pre-dinner champagne toast to the week that has been – pre-dinner Oktoberfest celebration in port of Passau (lots of beer) – dinner (with wine)
  • Monday – Time to leave, but friends made and experiences shared will last a lifetime….

Oh – and it is TOTALLY not just about the wine…this was an outstanding cruise with terrific tours included – much more on the highlight destinations of Budapest, Vienna, Durnstein, Linz & more coming up on future blog posts

Oh…and the cuisine!

To learn more about AmaWaterways, River Cruising, or all sorts of other vacation planning just get in touch with “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad

Nov 08
0

US National Parks Like You Have Never Experienced Before!

By | Adventure, Blog, Family Travel, Uncategorized | No Comments

You don’t have to Leave the US to Experience Volcanoes and Waterfalls

Imagine cruising through some of the most pristine scenery that the American West has to offer, the US National Parks and Monuments, and doing so in a style you have never even before imagined – with a group of friends – or with your entire family – riding in style with a professional driver in a tricked out vehicle called a Limo Liner.

It’s a very comfortable vehicle with leather sofas, large windows, comfort controls and also features

  • In transit WiFi
  • In transit Television

It’s an all-inclusive ride for almost a week checking out the best of the west (that’s right – a hospitality chef will be serving guests throughout the day with included wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, tea, seasonal fresh fruits, snacks & much more)

Tour options include

  • Badlands and Wind Cave
  • Yellowstone and Grand Teton
  • Crater Lake and Redwoods
  • Salt Lake City, Moab, Bryce Canyon, Zion and Las Vegas

and several other options as well…

Of course you won’t spend the night on the Limo Liner – you will be sleeping in comfortable hotels, lodges & resorts along the way

Why in the world would you drive yourself when you can enjoy the luxury and safety of such a journey?

For much more info and to get your adventure started reach out to “Your friends….in the travel business” contact EZTravelPad today!

Oct 31
0

Terre Haute South Vigo Multi-Year Class Reunion Organized by Class of ’81

By | Blog | No Comments

This page is dedicated to the 2018  Terre Haute South  Class of ’81 Reunion trip to Majestic Elegance Resort & Spa in Punta Cana

That’s right, the Terre Haute South Class of ’81 is having a reunion in paradise and it is scheduled for June 15-20 2018 at the Majestic Elegance Resort and Spa in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Majestic Elegance is a fantastic All-Inclusive resort on a gorgeous beach in one of the most popular locations in the Caribbean

Here are a few photos of the area down near the beach

All-Inclusive Luxury at your Fingertips

If you have never been to an all-inclusive resort then you may not know that 1 price pays for the entire trip – food, beverages, entertainment, even gratuities are included (although some feel inclined to tip a little extra in an effort to elicit better service)

Some have asked – is alcohol included also? – YES – and here is a photo of what is included in your room’s mini-fridge (restocked daily)

Here is a photo of liquor in your room (this is not restocked daily) – but plenty more is available at the bar! –

Great Value!

Of course everything always revolves around price – right? So how much does this cost?

The “official” reunion dates are June 15-20 but people are free to arrive a little early or stay a little longer. There are several different room categories from which to choose- See current per person rates based on double occupancy for some of the more popular options which include round trip transfers from airport in Punta Cana to resort & back. **Note – No rooms or prices and being held or guaranteed so making reservations early is to your advantage!

  • $795 –  Junior Suite with Jacuzzi  (this is the lowest priced option)
  • $880 – Elegance Club Junior Suite with Jacuzzi (in the adults-only section)
  • $961 – Elegance Club Majestic Junior Suite Swim Up  (in the adults-only section)
  • $970 – One Bedroom Suite with Jacuzzi

Comfort Built Right in

So what do the rooms look like? Here are a couple of photos of the entry level room (these photos are from the resort tour I took on Friday Oct 29)

There is much more info regarding the Majestic Elegance Resort & Spa at this link

Also note, this is not calculated into the pricing above but we have arranged a group discount per reservation over and above the group inclusions and that discount is as such (Reservation amount would include airfare if included in reservation package)-

Discount Information – Applies based on the total reservation as a promo code
Reservation Amount Promo Code Discount
$500 – $999.99 $13 per reservation
$1,000 – $2,500 $25 per reservation
$2,501 – $5,000 $50 per reservation
$5,001 – $6,000 $100 per reservation
$6,001 or more $113 per reservation

 

As for airfare, it varies based on point of departure, dates of departure & return, airline preference, etc but out of Indianapolis you could figure somewhere around $600 per person should put you in the ballpark and we can absolutely build a package including flights, resort & more

Locking in Room & Rate

Lastly, the deposit to lock things in can be quite small

Deposit will vary based on certain factors but you can figure if holding only the room then $50 per person locks in the room and the rate. If packaging with flights then the deposit to lock in can be as low as $229.99 per person which also includes the cost of the optional travel protection which allows to you cancel for ANY reason and get a full refund!

Full payment is not due until 45 days prior to travel and you can put yourself on a payment plan if you like – there is much flexibility

We Hope to See You There!

You’re NOT going to want to miss this – it’s gonna be unforgettable!

I know this is quite a bit of information but that’s what I am here for. Let me know where you would like to fly from and I can get a specific complete quote to you. My contact info is at this link so pleae reach out anytime.

Alternately you can do some shopping for this specific group pricing at this link

 

Sep 27
0

Caribbean Update

By | Blog, Caribbean | No Comments

Post-Hurricanes Irma and Maria Recap of the Caribbean Situation

The past few weeks have been horrific in terms of hurricane related devastation. It truly is unparalleled.

There are tons of photos and videos documenting the widespread destruction – here is just 1

With that in mind I wanted to share a recent update from one of our preferred tour operators – Mark Travel brands

This is a pretty good snapshot of where most of the primary vacations destinations are in terms of impact as of now.

The Mark Travel Corporation
To Our Valued Travel Partners:

To those affected by either Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Maria, we want you to know that we are thinking of you and we are here to support you. As an organization that has been family owned and operated for over 43 years, we consider each of you to be a member of our extended family. And when tragedy strikes you, it strikes all of us as well. During these challenging times, we encourage you to keep the conversation going with your Business Development Manager or Specialist and rely on them for support with issues you and your clients may be facing.

For all our valued travel agents, we want to give you a brief update on the status of several Caribbean islands that were affected by the hurricanes:

Please note: Aruba, Bonaire, Bermuda, Barbados, Curacao, Grand Cayman, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis were not impacted by either Hurricane. All hotels are open for business and all off-site venues are operating normally.

Antigua

  • V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) is open.
  • Hotels on Antigua are open for business.
  • All activities and off-site venues are operating normally.

Turks & Caicos

  • Providenciales International Airport (PLS) is open.
  • All off-site activities have been suspended at this time.
  • Coral Gardens, Ocean Club, Ocean Club West and Seven Star Resort are open for business.
  • Alexandra Resort, Blue Haven, The Palms, The Sands at Grace Bay and Royal West Indies are currently closed. Exact opening dates are still to be determined, but they are expected to re-open by mid-October.
  • Beaches Turks & Caicos is closed through December 13th, 2017.
  • Additional updates on hotels and off-site activities will be provided in the days ahead.

The Bahamas

  • Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau is open.
  • Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) is open.
  • Hotels in Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island were not impacted and are open for business.

The US Virgin Islands

St. Thomas

  • Severe damage was sustained across the island.
  • Cyril E. King Airport (STT) remains closed.
  • All off-site activities have been suspended at this time.
  • All hotels are reporting some level of destruction; therefore, hotel inventory has been closed for 2017 and 2018 travel.

St. John

  • All hotels are reporting some level of destruction; therefore, hotel inventory has been closed for 2017 and 2018 travel.

St. Croix

  • Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) is closed.
  • Reopening dates vary by hotel, starting in November 2017 and going into early 2018.

St. Martin

  • Severe damage was sustained across the island.
  • Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) remains closed. Until further notice, the airport is serving as a dedicated hub for emergency and evacuation flights only.
  • All off-site activities have been suspended at this time.
  • All hotels are reporting some level of destruction; therefore, hotel inventory has been closed for 2017 and 2018 travel.

Puerto Rico

  • Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU) is open, but operating on a limited schedule from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM EDT.
  • The island is without power making communication with the island challenging.
  • Hotels in San Juan are reporting varying levels of damage; most hotels will reopen in November.
  • Hotels in Rio Mar and Farjado have extended closures through the end of 2017.

Jamaica

  • All Jamaica airports are open.
  • Hotels in Jamaica are open for business.
  • All activities and off-site venues are operating normally.

Dominican Republic

  • All Dominican Republic airports are open.
  • After some minor issues, hotels in the Dominican Republic are now open for business.
  • All activities and off-site venues are operating normally.

Warm regards,

The Mark Travel Corporation

Certainly this does not go into deep detail since some of these destinations (Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico & St Martin) are likely to be significantly disrupted for months and months.

This info also did not touch on cruise ports- keeping in mind that the ports of San Juan, St Thomas and St Maarten are among the busiest and most popular in the Caribbean it will be a long time and a tough road back for these destinations.

We encourage you to do what you are able to do for the people of the impacted areas, and in the Caribbean as a whole. One of the more respected charitable foundations serving the Caribbean has a familiar name – The Sandals Foundation does good work so consider it as a starting point.

If you have specific questions please reach out to “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad – and please don’t stop going to the Caribbean – it is a wonderful region with some amazing destinations, many of which were not impacted at all…

Sep 26
0

Paris- I Can’t Wait!

By | Europe, Family Travel, Romance | No Comments

Paris in the Spring

I don’t know how many times have I heard how wonderful Paris is in the spring…and NOW we can get there from Indy non-stop starting THIS spring at a very reasonable rate (think from around $1600+ pp for a few nights incl flights + hotel!)

Sure – figure on spending a few $$ on some amazing food & wine + tours (explaining the food and wine) but leaving home in the late afternoon and arriving in one of the world’s greatest citiesthe early(-ish) morning just in time for a full day in the city + a few more…Yes!!

Rest assured that  “Your friends….in the travel business”  at EZTravelPad are checking out the options so you can have the time of your life…no matter how much time you have!

Imagine touring the Louvre with a small group (no more than 6 people) and your Docent is this young lady…

 

Time to go!

Actually – if you can’t wait until spring and you want to join Michelle and I there for Thanksgiving come help us explore!

We’ll be experiencing things so YOU get the best advice possible!

When you are ready reach out to us

Sep 02
0

Don’t go to Mexico! (or almost anywhere else in the world because you’re scared??)

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

C’mon People – Can’t You See Thru This Hype?

If you care to make informed decisions of where to go on vacation, and if it is safe to enjoy a Mexican Beach Vacation then the following letter from Apple Vacations’ President Tim Mullen does a nice job of calming fears (stoked for obvious political reasons). Look at the facts, don’t feed into the hype

Sep.1, 2017

Dear Travel Partner,

As you know, there have been a number of unfavorable stories about travel to Mexico in the media over the course of the last month, from the tragic story of the young woman from Milwaukee who died while on a family vacation, to the recent Travel Advisory issued by the US State Department.

These stories are especially disturbing to all of us for a variety of reasons. First, we want all of our customers to return home safe after a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. Secondly, we know that Mexico is a wonderful destination for a beach vacation, and Apple Vacations has been sending guests to beautiful resorts across Mexico for nearly 50 years. Finally, we all make our living in this business, and when tourism to Mexico gets a bad name, business suffers.

Mexico is one of the world’s great tourism destinations. We are confident that our customers are safe when traveling to the resorts we offer. Apple Vacations intends to be more active in working with our travel partners, the Mexico Tourism Board, and others to tell the full story, address safety concerns, and put some of the recent stories in perspective.

In response to concerns that visitors to all-inclusive resorts have been offered tainted alcohol, we have requested that all of our partner resorts confirm their liquor handling processes. Mexico’s federal and state governments have conducted searches and inspections, and are generally increasing enforcement. Our sister company, AMResorts, is conducting an especially rigorous review of its processes. We are stressing the importance of drinking responsibly, never mixing medications and alcohol, and taking normal precautions to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion or other health risks while on vacation in Mexico…or anywhere else.

The State Department’s travel advisories are important and cannot be dismissed. However, they should be read carefully and taken in context. The crime and violence rates referenced in the recent travel advisory are for broad regions, while the incidence of this activity tends to be highly concentrated in areas which are not frequented by travelers. It is also worth noting that the crime statistics referenced in the advisory for Mexican destinations are lower than many U.S. cities. In fact, many countries have issued travel advisories to their citizens, warning about the dangers of travel in the U.S. In both cases, visitors who use common sense and travel in areas frequented by other tourists are safe and have enjoyable visits. Finally, it’s worth noting that our customers are picked up by Amstar DMC at their arrival airport and spend their time in restricted access, security patrolled all-inclusive resorts which are well-staffed and offer many activities and amenities.

When addressing concerns with your customers, it is helpful to reference sources not directly involved in our business, since they are objective and offer more credibility. Click here for a message I received from the Mexico Tourism Board which has links to stories in various U.S. and international publications about travel to Mexico. I encourage you to read these articles and forward them to customers who may have concerns.

As always, thank you for your continued support. I am confident that through our combined efforts, we will be successful in persuading potential travelers that they can travel to Mexico with confidence, and enjoy a safe and enjoyable vacation. If you have any specific questions or concerns, please contact your Apple Vacations Sales Representative.

Best Regards,

Tim Mullen
President, Apple Vacations

 

Tim does a better job than I can of rationally laying out the case for Mexico – and the link to several news articles can help to put things into perspective

If you want to go to Mexico (or think you might) because you like the idea of experiencing a terrific all-inclusive resort on a great beach with warm weather then Mexico is a top pick.

If you don’t like the beach, or aren’t interested in all-inclusive, or hate Mexicans, then maybe best to make another choice

As for me…

Dos margaritas más por favor y que camino al baño?