Category

Romance

Mar 05
0

🌺 A Romantic 2-Island Hawaiian Escape: Maui & Kauai for the Perfect Couples Getaway 🌴💕

By | Adventure, Honeymoons and Weddings, Romance, Sightseeing, US Domestic | No Comments

If you and your special someone are dreaming of a Hawaiian vacation that blends stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and unforgettable adventures—look no further. Imagine starting your honeymoon or romantic retreat hopping between two of Hawaii’s most enchanting islands: Maui and Kauai. Here’s a personalized itinerary crafted for relaxation, connection, and discovery.

🏝️ Destination #1: Maui — Beachfront Bliss & Island Magic
Stay: Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort
Room: Signature Garden View, 1 King Bed (2 Adults)

Nestled right on Kaanapali Beach, this 4-star resort offers romantic ocean views paired with lush gardens and modern comforts. Enjoy waking up to the sound of the waves and easy access to shoreline strolls.

Why it’s perfect for couples:

  • Relax poolside or beachside with ample spots for intimate moments
  • Save up to 45% with exclusive offers included in your stay

Adventures to Ignite Your Spirit:

  • Molokini Crater & Turtle Town Snorkeling: Dive into crystal-clear waters and swim alongside vibrant marine life in these protected spots—perfect for shared awe and underwater memories.
  • Myths of Maui Luau: Experience Hawaii’s rich culture and fiery dance performances, enhancing your tropical escape with authentic flavors and storytelling.

Note on fees: Resort fees and parking fees apply—details provided at check-in.

🏝️ Destination #2: Kauai — Lush Landscapes & Tranquil Vibes
Stay: Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Room: Standard Double Queen, with mini fridge and complimentary Wi-Fi (2 Adults)

Located in the charming Kapaa/Wailua area, this resort blends beachside beauty with Hawaiian culture and conveniences such as cruiser bikes and daily live entertainment.

Why it’s ideal for couples:

  • Resort activities that immerse you in authentic Hawaiian culture—lei making, hula lessons, and ukulele workshops
  • Complimentary beach gear and cruisers to explore Kapaa’s scenic paths together
  • Attractive “Stay 4 and Save 25%” offer making an extended stay more affordable

Adventures to Enchant Your Journey:

  • Secret Falls Kayak & Hike: Paddle down the Wailua River then stroll through rainforest trails to a stunning waterfall—an intimate experience only Kauai can offer.
  • Na Pali Sunset Sightsee: Embark on a breathtaking evening boat tour of Kauai’s majestic Na Pali Coast, witnessing vivid sunsets and dramatic sea cliffs together.

Important fees: Resort imposes mandatory fees plus parking charges; details confirmed at check-in.

✨ Pricing & Travel Details ✨

Starting from under $2,700 per person, this unforgettable 8-night Maui and Kauai island-hop vacation includes your accommodations, select adventures, and the interisland nonstop flight from Maui to Kauai—making your transition smooth and stress-free.

✨ Why This Maui-Kauai 2-Island Trip is a Romantic Dream ✨

  • Variety & Pace: Perfect balance between Maui’s iconic beaches and Kauai’s lush jungles keeps the adventure fresh and the memories rich.
  • Shared Experiences: Unique snorkeling, cultural feasts, hiking, and sunset cruises give couples countless moments to bond deeply.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Carefully selected resorts combine modern amenities, cultural immersion, and beautiful settings so you can relax fully between excursions.
  • Excellent Value: Early booking discounts, inclusive adventure add-ons, interisland flight, and resort amenities make this a truly worthwhile escape.

See some of what you might experience with photos at this link

If you’re ready to treat your loved one to a Hawaiian getaway that mixes romance, adventure, and unforgettable island charm, this Maui-Kauai combination is a perfect pick.

📞 Reach out today to scott@eztravelpad.com or +1 (317) 731-2293 to start planning your unforgettable two-island Hawaiian vacation. I’ll take care of the details so you can focus on making memories!

Mar 04
0

🌹 Why AmaWaterways is the Perfect Cruise Choice for Couples & Honeymooners Seeking the Heart of Europe 🌹

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

If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway through the heart of Europe that blends comfort, charm, and incredible local experiences, AmaWaterways should be at the top of your list. Known for their intimate river cruises, AmaWaterways crafts seamless, relaxed journeys perfect for couples of all ages and especially honeymooners wanting to explore Europe’s cultural gems without the crowds or hassle.

Here’s why AmaWaterways stands out for couples seeking that unforgettable European river adventure:

🚢 A Beautiful Fleet, Freshly Enhanced for 2027
AmaWaterways is renovating nearly 15 ships for the 2027 season, thoughtfully upgrading onboard comforts to keep every moment delightful. From fresh paint to adding espresso machines in every cabin—even the cozy E category singles—every upgrade focuses on guest convenience and relaxation. Imagine waking up to your own espresso while gazing out at Europe’s stunning river landscapes. Pure bliss!

🍷 Culinary Delights & Drinks That Celebrate Local Culture
Food and drink are at the heart of any great trip, and AmaWaterways knows this well. They’ve expanded their onboard culinary experiences to include daily bread tastings, a massive wine selection featuring 32 different regional varieties you can reorder as much as you like, and a new Italian lunchtime dining concept offering fresh pasta and pizza. A generous and flexible dining schedule means you’re never rushed, and special dietary needs are a breeze to accommodate.

What truly makes this special for couples? The wines come from the very regions you’re cruising through—the Rhone, the Danube, and more—giving you a true taste of the local flavors and traditions, enhancing your immersion in the destination.

🌿 Authentic, Inclusive Shore Excursions Built for Connection
AmaWaterways shines with shore experiences that highlight deep local connections and sustainability. Romantic couples can enjoy intimate activities like cooking classes with local chefs, guided bike or hiking tours, or visits to charming farms specializing in truffles and honey. These are all included in the cruise price—no surprise fees! Small group sizes mean you get personalized attention and a chance to really connect with the destination—and each other.

💑 Tailored for Couples & Honeymooners
Whether you’re newlyweds or just want a romantic escape, AmaWaterways’ inclusive and comfortable atmosphere is ideal. The ships are designed with couples in mind—from flexible dining settings that invite cozy conversations to premium onboard amenities—and even solo cabins with stunning swan views for those traveling solo but craving luxury.

Plus, the relaxed pace and intimate group sizes mean you can relish both quiet moments together and engaging social experiences if you choose.

🎉 Extra Perks & Value for Planning Ahead
Planning a honeymoon or couples’ getaway? Booking early, especially booking into group departures, unlocks stacked savings like prepaid gratuities, doubled amenity points, and extra onboard credits—making luxury a little sweeter on your wallet.

AmaWaterways also partners with travel advisors through exclusive offers, ensuring you get personalized service that truly caters to your travel dreams.

🗺️ Romantic Itinerary Ideas for Couples & Honeymooners

1. Danube Dream (8 Days)

  • Route: Passau (Germany) → Vienna (Austria) → Bratislava (Slovakia) → Budapest (Hungary)
  • Highlights: Start in fairy-tale Passau, soak in Vienna’s imperial palaces and cozy cafés, explore Bratislava’s charming old town, and end with a romantic Danube sunset in Budapest. Onboard, enjoy wine tastings featuring local Hungarian and Austrian vintages and a special couples’ spa treatment.
  • Ideal for: Couples craving a mix of culture, history, and relaxing river views.

2. Rhône Romance (7 Days)

  • Route: Lyon → Tournon → Viviers → Avignon → Arles → Avignon
  • Highlights: Discover the culinary capital of Lyon, tour truffle and olive farms, enjoy private vineyard tastings in the Rhône Valley, and stroll the historic streets of Avignon. The onboard dining features fresh regional cuisine paired with wines directly from vineyards you pass by.
  • Ideal for: Foodie couples and honeymooners looking for a sensory-rich journey with elegant French charm.

See dozens of photos from a recent Amawaterways cruise through France along the Rhone at this link

Ready to set sail on a romantic European river cruise that feels tailored just for you? AmaWaterways offers the perfect blend of comfort, culture, and connection at every turn—a remarkable journey for couples looking to treasure every moment. Reach out to me at scott@eztravelpad.com or +1 (317) 731-2293 to start planning your unforgettable honeymoon or couples’ escape today!

Feb 25
0

🌟 Perfect Honeymoon Getaways in October – Budget to Premium to High Luxe 🌟

By | Caribbean, Romance | No Comments

If you’re planning a romantic honeymoon in October, we’ve got four fantastic options to suit every style and budget—each offering unforgettable experiences and exclusive deals you won’t find elsewhere.

💰 Budget Option: 4-Night Royal Caribbean Cruise on Wonder of the Seas
Set sail on October 5th aboard the breathtaking Wonder of the Seas for 4 nights in an Oceanview Balcony cabin. Thanks to EZTravelPad’s special group pricing, this amazing cruise is available for just $1,333.56 total for two—down from the regular price of $2,429.14. That’s a spectacular savings of $1,095.58! Availability is limited so the sooner the better! It’s a perfect blend of luxury and adventure with world-class dining, dazzling entertainment, and sweeping ocean views, making it a memorable start to your honeymoon journey.

🏝️ Value Option: Sandals Ochi Beach Resort, Jamaica – 6 Nights of Romance
For those seeking a tropical all-inclusive experience, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in Ocho Rios is hard to beat. Starting at $2,564.80 total for two, you’ll enjoy luxurious accommodations, gourmet meals, premium liquors, unlimited water sports, and activities—all included. For a touch more indulgence, the Club Level Garden Cottage, currently on sale for $3,088.60, adds private check-in, exclusive lounge access, upgraded amenities, and more personalized services. It’s the perfect blend of laid-back Caribbean charm with upscale perks for couples who want to unwind in style. Shop all Sandals resorts and be guaranteed the best price and deal when you use this link

✨ Premium Option: Secrets La Romana, Punta Cana – Preferred Club Luxury
For those wanting a truly elevated honeymoon, Secrets La Romana’s Preferred Club rooms offer extra indulgences—from priority reservations and private pool access to upgraded in-room amenities and exclusive lounge access. This premium 6-night escape from October 5–11, 2026, is just $2,779.11 total for two. Enjoy pristine beaches, gourmet dining, world-class spa treatments, and a romantic adults-only atmosphere that pampers you every moment of your stay. Check out all sorts of off-resort adventures and activities to enhance your experience at this link

💎 High Luxe Option: Hammock Cove, Antigua – Waterview Suite
Experience next-level luxury at Hammock Cove in Antigua with a spacious Waterview Suite boasting nearly 1,100 sq ft of elegant space, a private plunge pool, and breathtaking views that create the perfect romantic backdrop. For $8,810 total for six nights, you also receive an exclusive limited-time bonus: EZTravelPad is offereing up to $250 in bonus destination credits for a limited time – perhaps you might want to use it for a Sunset Catamaran Cruise—an unforgettable way to toast your honeymoon as the sun dips below the horizon. This is luxe Caribbean living designed for couples who want to indulge beyond the ordinary. Check out other options in Antigua and thoghout the Caribbean & beyond at this link

Booking your honeymoon through EZTravelPad ensures you get not only the best prices but also personalized service tailored to your needs. We handle every detail with care and access exclusive deals you won’t find elsewhere. These offers are limited and subject to availability—so let’s start planning your perfect love story today.

Jan 10
0

🌴✨ Paul Gauguin or Windstar: The Perfect French Polynesia Cruise for Honeymooners, Empty Nesters & Bucket-Listers ✨🌴

By | Blog, Cruise, Luxury, Romance, South Pacific | No Comments

French Polynesia—the very name conjures images of shimmering turquoise lagoons, dramatic volcanic peaks, and postcard-perfect overwater bungalows. If you are dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime trip, cruising these magical islands on either the Paul Gauguin or Windstar yachts will unlock a world of unforgettable experiences.

Here’s why either choice makes an incredible journey for honeymooners, empty nesters, or any traveller checking off that bucket list:

❤️ For Honeymooners: Romance Meets Adventure
Imagine gazing over calm, crystal-clear waters as the sun sets behind Bora Bora’s iconic Mt. Otemanu. Both Paul Gauguin and Windstar offer intimate settings perfect for couples starting their new life together. The Paul Gauguin’s Polynesian-inspired elegance is tailor-made for a honeymoon steeped in luxury and island culture—from private beach picnics to snorkeling hidden lagoons. Meanwhile, Windstar’s stylish, yacht-like atmosphere invites couples to savor every moment with a blend of relaxed luxury and flexible exploration, sometimes with stops at multiple South Pacific jewels for added adventure.

🌺 For Empty Nesters: Leisurely Luxury & Exploration
With grown children and time to truly unwind, empty nesters can dive deep into the wonders of French Polynesia at a perfect pace. Paul Gauguin’s slower-paced and immersive itineraries allow guests to linger longer on each island, soaking in local history, lush landscapes, and exquisite dining experiences. Windstar’s more varied routes present the chance to combine French Polynesia with other scenic South Pacific destinations while enjoying the refined comfort of a yacht. Both options provide plenty of gentle land excursions and onboard amenities designed for a leisurely, enriching escape.

🗺️ For Bucket List Travelers: The Best of Both Worlds
If crossing French Polynesia off your bucket list means embracing variety—from vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to serene cultural encounters—these cruises deliver it all. Paul Gauguin offers unparalleled access to hidden island gems through onboard water toys and expertly guided tours, capturing the essence of the islands. Windstar’s smaller yachts navigate intimate ports larger ships can’t, opening doors to unique harbors and lesser-visited islands. Whether you crave authentic island traditions or breathtaking natural beauty, these cruises are gateway experiences you’ll cherish forever.

Choosing between Paul Gauguin and Windstar comes down to your style and travel dreams—whether you seek a culturally rich Polynesian immersion or a sophisticated, yacht-style adventure spanning the South Pacific.

See some photos and videos from my experience on Paul Gaguin crusing in the Society Islands of French Polynesia at this link – it is stunning, beyond just the descriptions of photos and videos…but it can give you a taste until you are ready to expereince the real thing

Ready to start planning your dream French Polynesian escape? Reach out and let’s make paradise happen.

#FrenchPolynesia

#PacificCruise

#PaulGauguinCruises

#WindstarCruises

#HoneymoonTravel

#EmptyNestTravel

#BucketListTravel

#LuxuryCruises

Jan 17
1

Your Invite to Sandals Caribbean Night

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Blog, Caribbean, Romance, US Domestic | No Comments

Discover Your Caribbean Dream with Sandals: A Virtual Tour of Paradise

 

 

Register now, or read on to convinve yourself to attend! Click here to register.

Dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, crystalline waters, and a touch of romance for your Honeymoon? Look no further!

At EZTravelPad, we’re excited to bring the magic of the Sandals Caribbean right to your home with our upcoming Sandals Virtual Experience Night.

Why have Sandals Resorts been the go-to for honeymoons, weddings, and romantic getaways for decades? It’s simple! They expertly blend affordable luxury with all the essentials: exquisite dining, endless fun, and romantic settings, located on the Caribbean’s finest beaches and most beautiful islands.

Join us for an exclusive online event where we’ll walk you through the top highlights of the 17 stunning Sandals resorts scattered across 8 picture-perfect islands. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:

  • ✨ Unique Sandals Experience: Discover what sets Sandals apart from other resorts.
  • 🌟 All-Inclusive Wonders: A deep dive into the extensive inclusions that define Sandals luxury.
  • 🌍 Explore Locations: Uncover the exquisite destinations where Sandals has made its mark.
  • 🥂 Potential Bonus: Learn how you could score a spa credit of up to $250 for new qualified bookings!

Taking place in the comfort of your living room, office, or wherever you choose to be, this engaging webinar will last about 45 minutes. It not only promises a whirlwind of information but also gives you the chance to interact with one of Sandals’ Top Travel Advisors (Scott Jones – Multi-award winning travel agency owner) and ask any questions you have of the Sandals Business Development Manager for the state of Indiana.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday October 22, 2025 at 6:30pm Eastern Time. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to explore paradise at your convenience.

Ready to take the first step toward your next adventure? Click here to register. You won’t regret it!

Jul 06
0

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!

 

Oct 31
0

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!

Apr 23
0

Europe THIS Fall? Maybe?

By | Adventure, Europe, Family Travel, Honeymoons and Weddings, Luxury, Romance, Sightseeing | No Comments

Europe This Year? It May Be Awesome!

During this global pandemic especially, but really anytime- trusting experts to rely on vetted in-destination experts may be the key to most fully enjoying your experience.

Over the years I have built a reputation on knowing the destinations that I help people experience. Some of that is a result of direct, on the ground time spent in various destinations and resorts throughout the Caribbean – or on a variety of cruise ships both large and small….but I can’t go or know everywhere, and the other part of the equation that you may not realize is that I spend a significant amount of time at conferences networking with the top experts in destination to better understand what they offer, and who they are.

Going wide-open at a conference for 3 days can be fun, but it’s also hard work – and I do that to prepare to be able to better guide you when you want to experience a destination that I am less familiar with.

One of those destination experts is Titanium Tours specializing in Spain, Portugal and France. They may not be “the cheapest”, but I am not here to guide you to the cheapest experience possible – I am here to guide you to the BEST experience that you will long remember fondly. For that type of experience, Titanium is one of the best!

Below are some ideas from Titanium Tours – ideas that may inspire you to get a trip plan started – and maybe as soon as this fall, the best time of the year to go!

When to Go?

September – November are great months for travel to Spain, Portugal or France. The weather is still beautiful and autumn seasonal activities abound. According to the news coming from each country, we are confident that tourism will resume by then. As you can see above September and October are great months for travel in a typical year.

Furthermore, you can now find good fall airfares going to any of our airports. For example IND – BCN for well under $1000 ($600-700)  with one connection!

What to Book?

The beauty of custom independent tours and partnering with a company like Titanium Tours is that they can guide you to areas where COVID-19 is not present or has had little impact. They can help us help you to pick boutique hotels, less crowded routes, private experiences, etc where you will feel safe while traveling abroad. Their 3 countries in which they specialize have been impacted very differently and different areas of each country have been affected very differently. They can guide you to create an itinerary that’s both exciting and safe.

For instance, Portugal has had significantly less cases than France and Spain. If you want off the beaten path experiences, they can for example, take you 90 minutes north of Lisbon to our Castles and Wild Horses experience.

In France, you can avoid crowded areas to visit the Hill Top Villages of Luberon in Provence and go truffle hunting. Winter truffles are more aromatic and their season starts in November.

In Southern Spain, where COVID-19 has also had a much smaller impact, you can go to the private workshop of a silk shawl craftsman who’s family has been embroidering silk shawls, most typical in this region, for generations. Not only will you observe an artist at work, but you can even try your hand at it.

Or perhaps this is the year to go admire the beauty of the Azores….

The point is simply this – there is a big wonderful word of experience and the tourism industry is eager to help you discover them. In Europe it’s not all about cafes and museums – there are wonderful experiences to enjoy and still be safely guided!

EZTravelPad is here to guide you to the best tour operators with the best guides – who will help you have the best experience possible – custom designed for YOU!

We’re here to help when you are ready. Contact us today for more info

 

 

Apr 13
0

COVID-19 Pandemic…. Good Excuse for a Destination Wedding?

By | All-Inclusive Resorts, Caribbean, Honeymoons and Weddings, Romance, Uncategorized | No Comments

Availability to Re-Book Wedding in 2020 is Better at The Beach

One of the less reported but most upsetting aspects of this COVID-19 global pandemic is that so many weddings have been cancelled out of necessity. It’s beyond upsetting to consider how much time and effort so many couples poured into their dream wedding, only to see it undone in no time due to the necessities of social distancing. Just a quick outline reminds us of the work and time invested…..

  • Agreeing on an overall vision
  • Selection of the date
  • Working out the details
  • Contracting vendors
  • Inviting friends & relatives and so much more

And as you know, that’s just the outline of the tip of the iceberg!

If you are one of the very unlucky couples who became the victim of these circumstances then you have probably already begun (or are now considering) the rescheduling process – starting over, nearly from scratch, trying to coordinate schedules with booked-out vendors. It’s heartbreaking, and it’s such a puzzle!

In an additional complication of the calendar – SO MANY people were wanting a 2020 wedding date!

Untold numbers of couples put off what may have been a 2019 wedding in favor of a date ending in 2020. It seemed like a wonderful idea, but then it didn’t.

Since so many couples have booked 2020 weddings, the opportunity to reschedule later in 2020 for those who have had to cancel is greatly diminished, and the backlog for the best vendors is likely to extend deep into 2021 and perhaps beyond.

For some couples, there may exist a solution – and that is a Destination Wedding.

Here are a few reasons why Destination Weddings are so popular-

  1. Destination Weddings are super-easy to plan compared to traditional weddings – most good resorts have excellent weddings departments that specialize in and staff for give couples their “dream day” every day (not just once-a-week or less)
  2. You can combine the wedding and the Honeymoon in an amazing experience at a location in paradise with your loved ones (or just yourselves)
  3. Your wedding (the ceremony part) can be FREE – literally! (and if not entirely free, it can certainly save a ton of $$)
  4. The photo ops are outstanding (and the “trash-the’dress” photo possibilities are SO cool!)
  5. Get married mid-week because, who cares – you’re on vacation!

What Might That Look Like?

Here is a real wedding – at an amazing resort – and it could be a blueprint for your most special day….

 

A Destination Wedding certainly does not HAVE to be on the beach, but it is a really popular option with unlimited possibilities – just a few of which are…

Switching Gears

Since date availability for the remainder of 2020 is going to be at such a premium, and the backlog for venues (those that survive) will be ridiculous, and the vendor(s) that you fell in love with might not be available when you need them to be, THIS year, more than in the past, might be the year to consider a Destination Wedding as a solution to a problem that you could have never anticipated.

Here’s a possibility if you don’t want to put off the big day for too long (like a year or more) –

  1. Get married in paradise with those willing and able to attend
  2. Enjoy a much needed escape and create a memory to hold forever
  3. Plan a nice after-wedding party with those people not able to attend – and share in the joy that you experienced

It might not be for everyone, but for some couples this may be a really good solution.

This may just be the excuse your needed to have the beach dream wedding you always wanted!

If it’s a solution for you, (or you know a friend that it might work for) then contact “Your friends….in the travel business” who just happen to specialize in this type of trip.

When it comes to Destinations Weddings and Honeymoons EZTravelPad is one of the most recognized and respected travel agencies around.

Find out why by contacting us now at this link

 

 

Apr 05
0

Bora Bora & more on a Paul Gauguin Cruise

By | Adventure, Cruise, Honeymoons and Weddings, Romance, South Pacific, Uncategorized | No Comments

A Cruise on MS Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia’s Society Islands is Unforgettable and Completely Unique

Cruising with Paul Gauguin is unique and different in so many ways.

First, there is the size on the ship. With a maximum capacity of 334 passengers and a staff to guest ratio of 1 staff member to every 1.5 guests, the vibe, feel & level of service are a complete departure from what you may have experienced on a larger mass market ship.

The check-in experience was jaw-dropping. Literally, from the time that we arrived at the embarkation pier through the medical screening process** to the greetings, documents, getting a cabin key & making out way to our cabin where our luggage was already in room took approx 22 minutes.  We were enjoying what waited in no time!

 

Compared to a larger ship this is unheard of and a brilliant way to start the cruise off right.

The same convenience is to be enjoyed on a daily basis in catching the tender from ship to pier at each of the destinations experienced. It just couldn’t be more convenient.

True, you will give up a certain amount of diversity in cuisine and entertainment options vs a much larger ship, but the entertainment staff is engaging and authentic. They amplify the experience of the destination beyond just “putting on a show”. Beyond the entertainment staff known as “Le Gauguines”, the access to and the  ability to interact with the chef & other officers is truly a big plus!

Of particular interest while in Taha’a was the carving of the catch of the day – freshly caught Moon Fish was for dinner a couple hours after this video was shot…

As for the itinerary, it is iconic. Bucket List islands such as Tahiti, Bora Bora & Mo’orea as well as off the radar gems like Huahine and Taha’a were included in our itinerary which was the ever-popular Tahiti & Society islands for 7 Nights, but other itineraries a bit longer or incorporating the Cook Islands or the Tuamotus Islands or even Fiji are options as well.

One of the main reasons to choose MS Paul Gauguin is that it offers unmatched access to these iconic destinations. Other ships simply can’t get close enough, but this ship was built for the destination and even includes a watersports marina on the aft of the ship which allows for Stand-up Paddleboarding or Kayaking directly from the ship – and if you are a SCUBA diver then you’re in luck because not only is the team outstanding but the convenience of taking the zodiac from the marina to a dive site usually not more than a 5-10 minute ride is outstanding (as are the dives, with abundant sharks, sea turtles & of course…more!)

 

Beach Party on Private Motu off of Taha’a is an unforgettable Day in Paradise!

One of the highlights of the entire cruise is the beach day on the Paul Gauguin private motu (one of several small islands surrounding the main island) just off the coast of the island of Taha’a on the 2nd full day of the cruise. It’s like you and several dozen of your best new friends arrive at a comfortable paradise waiting with abundant beach chairs in the sun or the shade of hundreds of coconut palms. The cookout is terrific with lots of engagement with Les Gauguines including a demonstration on how to process a coconut by hand (there’s much more to it than you might imagine but it’s easier than you might think) and yes, there is a floating bar which could not be more relaxing…

On to Bora…

Then of course there’s THE most iconic island – Bora Bora. No island conjures up visions of an idyllic paradise quite like Bora Bora and there’s good reason why – it is simply one of, if not THE most beautiful island on the planet. If you enjoy dramatic mountain peaks, crystal blue lagoons and epic skyscapes it’s tough to beat. Whether it’s biking around the island, catching the food truck rodeo for dinner, paddle boarding on another small motu with private beach or simply enjoying the views as you sail away at sunset there are few destinations more memorable.

But Wait, There’s More!

A full day at Huahine followed up with a full day at Taha’a are then topped with 2 full days to experience Bora Bora, but there’s still 2 more full days to experience Mo’orea, which most people tend to agree tops even Bora Bora for sheer beauty on the island.  The view from the top of Magic Mountain is surreal – and the satisfaction of knowing that you hiked it from sea level is a reward in itself!

While the exhilaration of the 45-60 minute hike to the top is worthwhile, the entire thing can be avoided and still not miss a thing with an organized small group guided tour on an ATV or open back jeep with 8 passengers. The excursion stops at Magic Mountain as well as a few stops at Opanohu Bay, Cook Bay, a pineapple plantation (cooler than it sounds), a juice distillery for some tastings and the highlight of the day –  Belvedere Lookout- stunning!

One thing that a short blog post like this can do is to open your eyes to this type of bucket list experience, but one thing this blog post cannot do is come even remotely close to capturing the full experience. French Polynesia’s Society Islands feature unmatched beauty for sure, but the warmth and beauty of the crew and the people who call French Polynesia home is something that must just be experienced for yourself.

When it’s time for you to check this off of your Bucket list then reach out to “Your friends….in the travel business” at EZTravelPad.

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