Month In Review: January Travel Blog

Cruise, Tropics & All-Inclusive Monthly Recap

                         

(Bimini Beach Bahamas)

My name is Adriana Da Silva, I am a Travel Advisor in Longwood, Florida.  I write travel reviews to help my clients plan the best vacation getaways.  I focus on Popular Resorts, Cruise Companies and Tropical Places that remain the top adult picks for the money.  Did you miss a post or know a busy person who needs a holiday?  Will you be their hero and forward this post. Don't forget to start booking your own getaway now. 

Cruise Lines:

• Virgin Voyages- (Full Story) 100% worth it, Adults Only, one of a kind experience within the Luxury Class, average age of passenger is 35-47, and is generally experienced with cruising, tends to be comfortable with tech

 

(Rock Star Beach Party with Virgin Voyages)

Tropics:

• Bimini, Bahama- (Full Story) Although family friendly, with few activities available for the younger ages, children may grow restless.  Posh little Bimini is ideal for that long weekend getaway.  Melt your stress away with a great summer book in one hand and your favorite frozen adult beverage in the other.  You need this !

 

(Left: the mysterious Bimini Road, Right: Resorts World)

All-Inclusive Resorts:

• Live Aqua Beach Club, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic- (Full Story) 100% YES!  Prior to the Ukrainian war, the Dominican Republic was a Hot Bed to Russian vacationers.  Couples and Singles will find the unbelievable destinations of the Live Aqua Beach Club Resorts located throughout the Caribbean the perfect place to turbo charge their romantic lives.

 
(Live Aqua Beach Club, Punta Cana Dominican Republic)

Travel Tips:

• Know yourself & Where you are going-  The best holiday's begin with proper expectations.

• Using a Travel Agent-   The initial costs of going thru your agent for the first time maybe the same or lower as booking yourself, so why not start aggregating all of those client loyalty perks thru one agent,  as well as immediately start saving yourself some substantial time and stress

• Trip Insurance- The more uncertainty, the more complexity, the more distant in the future your trip will be the more this inexpensive insurance makes sense.  If you are connecting thru any one of the 30 most stressed airports (see Travel Tip#3), then Luggage Insurance is almost a necessity

Travel Products:

• AirTags- The number one fear of travel is losing one's Luggage.  These nifty devices track your luggage by connecting with your smart phone

• Water Proof Phone Cases with Lanyards- These water proof cases worn around your neck, takes the worry away from what to do with your phone, ID, and credit cards while on excursions or enjoying a day at the beach or pool

• Water Shoes- Inexpensive, and nearly disposable, these are the perfect solution to wearing around the slippery decks of cruise ships, and those beautiful beaches lined with sharp little shells, coral and rock

Are you interested in my other stories?

 See (Cruise Lines)  (Tropical Places)  (Resorts)  or  (All Three)

Ready to book or have a question ?

Call or Text  (407) 432-0673 

Visit: adasilva.dreamvacations   email: adasilva@dreamvacations.com

Full Service | Travel Agent  | Longwood, Fl.

Travel Tip #3: Trip Insurance- Is it Worth It ?

Increasing global uncertainty is making people re-think Insurance

So, you've read my posts and your inspired to book that next trip!  But, the question on your mind now is whether or not you should also purchase Trip, Luggage or even a Medical Plan insurance with your booking?   You know your not a big risk taker, but at the same time, you don't want to be overly cautious or feel taken advantage of, so what should you do?  As an industry professional, I need to let you know these forms of protection are available, but let's look at when each one may be appropriate to add on to your booking.

Trip Insurance:

               

Of the three forms of travel related insurance, Trip Insurance is the easiest to decide upon.  First, unless you've been on another planet for the past 3 1/2 years, you know, the world has become less certain than ever.  Everything from the continued variants of Covid, civil unrest, war, and now even extreme weather conditions threaten our travel.  All of this means that a vacation you have been anxiously awaiting for can be canceled in an instant.  Borders can be closed, Flights can be canceled, Hotels can be with limited resources of all kind, and all of this without warning, and often non-refundable.  My best advice is simple; for pennies on the dollar, or approximately the cost of one nice dinner you may typically enjoy while on holiday, purchase this insurance whenever the trip may involve any of these;  parts of the world known to be more at risk, the trip is booked for more than 6-months out in time, is complex with many destinations involved, or represents an important moment to you such as a wedding, anniversary or retirement.

Luggage Insurance:

Luggage insurance is the next easiest to determine when to add on to your booking.  If you had read my post about Travel Products, you found out the number one fear of travel is surprisingly not the fear of flying but the fear of losing one's luggage, and so I had recommended the nifty products called AirTags to help track your luggage. Again, for pennies on the dollar, reimbursement for the value of your personal belongings inside your luggage can be protected, and like Trip Insurance there are times when it is more advisable to consider the added cost of this protection.   For example complex trips involving multiple locations, airport connections and even changes between different airlines, all increase the probability of your luggage being misplaced or even stolen.  In addition, while airport logistics are amazing, there are some airports more stressed than others in which I would advise anyone traveling thru to consider the inexpensive protection;

30 Most Stressed Airports in the World

• Frankfurt International                                              Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport                       
• Hong Kong International                                          Berlin Schonefeld Airport
• Brussels                                                                    Moscow Domodedovo Airport
• Bogata El Dorado International Airport                    Newark Liberty International Airport           
• Dusseldorf International                                            Eidhoven Airport
• Kuala Lumpur Intl                                                     Bordeaux-Merignac Airport
• Henri Coanda Intl                                                      Edinburgh Airport
• Malta Intl                                                                   Boryspil Intl Airport
• Billy Bishop Toronto City                                          Manchester Airport
• Lisbon Portela                                                           Stockholm Bromma Airport
• Geneva                                                                       Paris Orly Airport
• London Gatwick                                                        Lyon-Saint-Exupery Airport
• Stockholm Arlanda                                                    London Stansted Airport
• Reykjavik Keflavik                                                     Kuwait Airport
• Toronto Lester B. Pearson                                         John Paul II Intl

Medical Trip Insurance:

                                         

While no one plans to be injured or come down with an illness while on a vacation, the truth is that this occurs all of the time.  While most major health insurance carriers will provide at least some coverage related to claims occurring outside of one's home country, there are often gaps, and lets face it, most of us forget this very important detail while planning a trip!  As a Travel Professional I would always perform my diligence of offering medical trip insurance at least to those traveling abroad and Medical evacuation insurance is almost mandatory for any client who is or could be, medically at risk.

Are you interested in my other stories?

 See (Cruise Lines)  (Tropical Places)  (Resorts)  or  (All Three)

Ready to book or have a question ?

Call or Text  (407) 432-0673 

Visit: adasilva.dreamvacations   email: adasilva@dreamvacations.com

Full Service | Travel Agent  | Longwood, Fl.

Live Aqua Beach Club: Romantic Turbo Charge

Live Aqua Beach Club, an Adults only All-Inclusive Resort

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Is the Live Aqua Beach Club Resort worth the money?

Absolutely 'YES.'  Are you searching for; the best places to honeymoon, romantic getaway for couples? Maybe your single, and would like to enjoy a little sight seeing or eco-tours excursion in Punta Cana with new people.   Introducing 'Live Aqua Beach Club, Punta Cana Dominican Republic!'   

The Live Aqua Beach Club is a chain of Luxury 'All-Inclusive Resorts,' located throughout some of the best destinations of the Caribbean.  Live Aqua Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is about 1,100 miles south of Orlando, Florida in the Caribbean, and roughly a 3 hour flight, making it an easy retreat for busy singles and couples looking to escape.  

Romantic Sunset at Live Aqua Beach Club, Punta Cana Dominican Republic

Is the Live Aqua Beach Club right for you?

With a minimum age requirement of 18, the Live Aqua Beach Resort is Adults Only.  Because of their luxury, convenience and unbelievable destinations, and the guests staying at one of the Live Aqua's are often celebrating something special they tend be more concerned with their overall vacation experience than price.  

   

It is important to remember, meals and beverages onsite are included in the all-inclusive rates, making these a fantastic value, especially when compared to the cost of eating and drinking offsite 2 or more times per day per person.  Additionally, sight seeing in the Punta Cana area is mostly geared toward 'Eco-Tourism.'  With horse back riding, ATV and Animal encounter tours available, Punta Cana may be a bit physical, and require light walks across uneven terrain.  But with Punta Cana's wide variety of historical sights in neighboring towns, those seeking a more diverse cultural experience will have plenty to choose from, including nightclubs and casinos.

   

What should you know about the Live Aqua Beach Club Resort?

I personally love the the convenience and luxury of an 'All-Inclusive Resort' experience.  The size of these resorts immediately make me feel as though I am on a private island just for tourists, and with their incredible amenities always within a few steps away, I feel I never have to leave, yet with most of their perfect locations, anything I could want to see or do may be only a scenic drive away, and the Live Aqua Beach Club, Punta Cana is no exception. 

The Dominican Republic shares the same island mass with Haiti, yet is worlds apart.  Only 24 miles from the Punta Cana International Airport, the Live Aqua Beach Club sits on the sandy beaches of Uvero Alto, and is only 20mins from city center.

Are the amenities at Live Aqua Beach Club good?

• Pools: 5 outdoor swimming pools.
• Dining: Enjoy International cuisine at 3 meals buffet, one of the hotels 8 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service, and beverages at onsite dining establishments are included in all-inclusive rates. Charges may be applied for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities.
• Snacks: are also available at the coffee shop/café. 
• Bars: Relax with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar or one of the 5 bars/lounges. 
• Other: Fitness center, complimentary wireless Internet access and concierge services, dry cleaning/laundry services which has additional charges, and a 24-hour front desk.
• Airport Shuttle: A roundtrip airport shuttle is available for a surcharge

What are the best things to see in Punta Cana?

(Day trips from the Live Aqua Beach Club)

• Altos de Chavón | 53.9 miles / 1 hour and 4 minutes:  An incredible destination capable of taking you on a journey through time. Fascinating for its recreation of a 16th century Mediterranean town on a cliff overlooking the Chavón River.

• Saona Island | Accessible by boat:  Give your senses total pleasure admiring the incredible turquoise waters and the beauty of the limestone cliffs while traveling by boat to this exotic and distinctive island located at the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic. If luck is with you, you will be able to enjoy the sight of some playful and charming dolphins during the journey. 

• Catalina Island | Accessible by boat:  If you want to take your experience to the next level, this charming little offshore island located approximately 1.5 miles away has an incredible coral reef for snorkeling and diving. The perfect place for those adventure tourists who are always looking for day trips for water activities.

• Santo Domingo | 129 miles / 2 hours and 33 minutes:  If you are a lover of cultures and admire the historical riches of the world, you cannot miss Santo Domingo, capital of the Dominican Republic and one of the oldest cities in America. Get to know the first cathedral and the first hospital. Travel back in time through the cobblestone streets, a living example of colonial architecture. Enjoy incredible nightlife, shopping, cultural sites, and a variety of restaurants throughout the city.

• The Roman | 51.3 miles / 56 minutes:  Get to know one of the largest cities in the Dominican Republic: La Romana. This incredible destination is home to beautiful pristine beaches and world-class golf clubs.

• Higuey | 32.7 miles / 42 minutes:  This historic city is iconic for its beautiful Basilica of the Virgin of Altagracia, patron saint of the Dominican Republic. Explore this magical destination and visit one of the numerous markets that enhance the city. 

Currency and payment accepted in the Dominican Republic:

The official currency is the Dominican peso, however, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted.  As with most major destinations, Credit Cards are also widely accepted.

Should I rent a car in Punta Cana?

• Car Rental-recommended
• Most major carriers available from the Punta Cana International Airport

Language:

Spanish is the primary spoken language of Punta Cana as well as throughout the rest of the Dominican Republic, however most people working in the tourism and hospitality industry understand and do speak English.

Are you interested in my other stories?

 See (Cruise Lines)  (Tropical Places)  (Resorts)  or  (All Three)

Ready to book or have a question ?

Call or Text  (407) 432-0673 

Visit: adasilva.dreamvacations   email: adasilva@dreamvacations.com

Full Service | Travel Agent  | Longwood, Fl.

Bimini, Bahama: Fast Pass to Bliss

Bimini, Bahama is a great place to recharge yourself!

Is Bimini, Bahama worth seeing?

My answer to this question is ' YES,' but for the right people. Bimini is no doubt gorgeous, with it's wide soft beaches, and calm waters.  Sun worshippers will enjoy countless hours curled up with a great book in one hand and a 'Margarita' in the other.  But, Bimini may not be appropriate for everyone.

Because Bimini is actually closer to my own home in Orlando than Key West, it is appropriate that I begin my discussion of the Tropics with this posh little Bahamian Island.  Bimini is an island off Florida, and being only 232 miles away, it is easily reachable by plane or even a 2.5 hr ferry ride from out of Ft. Lauderdale. 

Is Bimini, Bahama right for you?

You're stressed, you're exhausted.  You've earned this Bahama Vacation and all you want is an escape to another world that is safe, easy, and maybe has a few things to see and do.  In comes 'Bimini, Bahama. '   

While Bimini is family friendly, and the children will enjoy the the beaches, they may soon grow restless with its limited activities.  Bimini is fully developed, with retailers, restaurants, and hotels.  The luxurious boats moored in the marinas will remind you Bimini is a playground to those with more resources than average.  Posh little Bimini offers all the creature comforts to adults, making this easily accessible Island an absolutely perfect little getaway for couples to melt away stress and then quickly return to 'real life,' on the mainland.

 

Fisherman's Market: Bimini, Bahama

  

What should you know about Bimini, Bahama?

Bimini may only be 50 nautical miles from Miami, but once you see the clear translucent turquoise water and bright white beaches, you will feel the Bahamian vibes. Rumor says the mysterious 'Bimini Road' is the location of the lost city of Atlantis and home to the original Fountain of Youth. Prepare to lay-back and soak in the island vibes and beautiful beaches.

Famous leaders have sought respite in the spectacular surrounds of Bimini, including Margaret Thatcher and the esteemed Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In fact, Dr. King wrote two speeches here, his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech and his famous (and last) speech in 1968 to the striking sanitation workers.

What are the best beaches on Bimini?

The beaches on Bimini are drop-dead gorgeous, with white sand, turquoise waters -- and free to visit. 

• Best Deserted Island Vibe: Blister Bay Beach is part of a continuous stretch of three popular beaches on the western side of North Bimini.
• Best for Socializing: If you're looking for the party, it's at the Resorts World Bimini beach club.
• Best for Shelling: Shelling enthusiasts should head over to Shell Beach on South Bimini's untouched west coast where they'll find a tranquil vibe, calm water and a natural beach stocked with a variety of seashells.
• Best Family-Friendly Beach: Spook Hill Beach is actually one of the most family-friendly beaches in Bimini. Soft sand and crystal-clear shallow water make this North Bimini beach an ideal spot to visit for families with small children or swimmers who aren't quite comfortable in deeper water. 

What are the best things to see on Bimini?

• Alice Town
• Bailey Town
• Snorkeling the S.S. Sapona shipwreck
• Visit the Fountain of Youth
• Visit the Bimini Big Game Club
• Catch underwater views aboard a glass-bottom boat
• Rent bikes, paddle-boards and kayaks
• Search where to find the lost city of Atlantis

Currency and payment accepted on the island:

Cash is king in Bimini, where the official currency is the Bahamian dollar. However, the U.S. dollar is also widely accepted and sometimes preferred. Credit cards are only accepted at a few businesses. There is no official currency exchange on the islands, and the only ATM is in Alice Town on North Bimini.

Should I rent a car on Bimini?

• Rent a Golf Cart!!
• Rent a Bicycle
• Ride the Ferry
• Ride the Tram or Shuttle
• Pay for a Taxi - Taxis are available on the islands but only accept cash and must either be flagged down or called in. No apps on the island.

Language:

English is the official language of Bimini, though you can expect a local dialect and Bahamian accent.

Are you interested in my other stories?

 See (Cruise Lines)  (Tropical Places)  (Resorts)  or  (All Three)

Ready to book or have a question ?

Call or Text  (407) 432-0673 

Visit: adasilva.dreamvacations   email: adasilva@dreamvacations.com

Full Service | Travel Agent  | Longwood, Fl.