BWI and Cancun/Dominican Republic Equal Savings This New Year!

BWI and Southwest have something in common for the New Year….Savings! Book a RIU Caribe or a RIU Bambu three (3) Night Stay for $599.00 per person. Travel dates are 01/10-15/15 or 1/15-18 (Cancun) or 01/12-17/15. But hurry…The sale ends Nov 21st. Grab your crew and get away in the new year!!! Photo Credit: cancunairporttransportation.com

Travel Thought Of The Day: License Plate Theft and Car Rental Inspections

Travel Thought Of The Day: When renting a car this summer, be sure your rental has a metal license plate and secure bolts. Also, be sure to perform a full inspection, both you and the agency representative. This will prevent plate theft and false liability. Here's to smart and happy travels!

Photo Credit: Clarionledger.com

Photo Credit: cjonline.com

Las Vegas Calls Generational Families to the Strip!

Photo Credit: deals.bestkidfriendlytravel.com

So, you say the kids are keeping you from venturing off to Las Vegas.  Well, not anymore.  If Disney can expand its brand by offering entertainment to those beyond their adolescent years, then Vegas can do the same thing in the opposite direction.  And so far, they have been doing a pretty good job!  

To assist in planning your Las Vegas family vacation, I compiled accommodations and attractions for you and your loved ones in the big city! Check out my expert list and contact me to initiate your planning process right away!

• Mandalay Bay – Shark Reef Aquarium.  They offer a Dive With Sharks Program.  The Mandalay Bay Theater is famous for its phenomenal shows, including Michael Jackson’s One.  The outdoor beach-themed pool offers a lazy river.
• Luxor – The Luxor connects to the Mandalay Bay.  The Egyptian pyramid resort is the new home of the incredibly talented, Jabbawockeez.  These talented dancers crazed audiences internationally with their Michael Jackson’s One performance. It also houses the Score Interactive Sports Exhibit and Bodies: The Exhibition.
• The Mirage Resort – They have a live lions and dolphins display as well as the famed, Siefried & Roy’s Secret Garden.
• Excalibur – Jousting anyone?!? They offer an incredible jousting dinner show.
• New York, New York – Your personal amusement park - roller coasters and arcades - outside your hotel room.  
• Paris Las Vegas – An incredible Eiffel Tour view.
• Golden Nugget – A three-story water slide running through a shark tank.  What!!!  
• Treasure Island (Buccaneer Bay) – Tell the kids wouldn't enjoy dinner overlooking a pirate battle!
• Circus, Circus – Adventure Dome (the largest indoor amusement park), the Sling Shot and Disk O thrill rides as well as the world’s largest permanent circus.
• Stratosphere – The much talked about Big Shot ride.
• The Venetian – Romantic, cultural gondola rides.
• Excalibur – Tournament of Kings dinner
• Flamingo Hotel – Nathan Burton Comedy Magic
• Planet Hollywood – V: The Ultimate Variety Show
• Dining: There are buffets galore! The majority of the resorts offer coupons/vouchers.
• Shopping: Incredible outlet shopping.
• Credible Tour Vendors: Pink Jeep Tours.  They half/full day tours of the Grand Canyon, the West Bank, and Hoover Dam.  Tours are available in helicopters and Jeeps. 
• Transportation:Rental cars, the monorail, and taxis are all available.  

And you said you had to put Las Vegas on hold.  Las Vegas will always offer non-stop fun and entertainment for the mature crowd, but they are succeeding in revamping their brand to accommodate generational families who still like to have a good time.  Let the family good times roll!

Photo Credit: tripadvisor.com

Disclaimer: This list was generated and is owned by Loren J. Adams, Destinations Reached Travel Consulting and Services.  

Travel Diva: Jasmine Adams (Italy)

Featured Travel Diva: Jasmine Adams

Featured Travel Diva Destination: Italy


Jasmine Adams, a Georgetown University pre-law graduate, defines optimism when it comes to pursuing her dreams of becoming a lawyer.  The fire within to travel abroad was sparked when she first learned about the study abroad program in Italy sponsored by the university.  When it came time to venture overseas to contribute to the manifestation of her lifelong dreams, she first hesitated.  But knew this girl is on fire lyrics rang deep within and she couldn't let anything get in the way of pursuing her goals!


Read our latest Travel Diva Q&A on how Adams conquered her fear of separation anxiety from family/friends and pursued her passion for international affairs, all while forming lasting friendships as well as getting her hands on some of the world’s best designer threads!


1. Destination: Fiesole, Italy

2. Reason for Travel: College Studies (Government and Sociology [Double Major], with a concentration in Social Justice and Peace Studies

3. Number of Travel Days: Spring Semester (approx. three [3] months)

4. Estimated Flight Time: Approximately nine (9) hours (depending on the flight schedule/connections.)

5. Any fears about traveling abroad for the first time? I was nervous about not knowing anyone in the program, traveling alone, and being away from my close family and friends.  It was ultimately about stepping outside of my comfort zone. I relied on God to get me through, daily talks with my mom, new formed friendships, and letters from family/friends back home.

6. Lodging: Villa le Balize (a villa owned by the university)

7. Cultural Experience: While I didn’t experience any language barriers, it is advised to at least know conversational Italian.  The eating habits differed.  Breakfast is light and dry, lunch is large, and dinner is once again light.  Pasta is its own course.  Local Italians do not like loud conversations.  They already stereotype Americans for being obnoxious.  They appreciate it when you try to speak their language and show interest in wanting to embrace their culture.  I didn’t experience any negativity when it came to being African American as opposed to being American.  Women, make efforts to dress appropriately to prevent negative gestures, especially African American women.  Due to music videos, Black women are sexually exploited.  There are not a lot of political/religious wars.  If any, they are held at the Piazza de Republica (main center for protests). 

8. Favorite Cities? I loved San Pietro (Breathtaking!)  The Spanish Steps in Madrid were amazing as well as the Prado Museum.  But Rome was my favorite by far!  Everything is accessible via bus, metro, and plane in Europe.  All forms of transportation are affordable.

9. Best Dining Experience: Everything is delicious!  You must try the pizza and the bellinis.  The paninis and gelato are excellent, too!  My best dining experience was at a restaurant near the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

10. What encouraged you to travel to Italy? 
When I first came to Georgetown and I learned about the program offered by the Division of Overseas Studies.


Jasmine, thank you for sharing your Italian experience with us and for paving the way for more Travel Divas to take flight!

Photos Courtesy of: Jasmine Adams

2014 Group Vacations Are On The Move!

2014 Group Vacations are confirmed and ready for takeoff! Cancun, Aruba, and New Orleans (Essence Music Festival) are on lock. Contact Destinations Reached today to book your group vacation and to take advantage of great payment plans and savings.




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Island All-Inclusive Villas: Giving All-Inclusive Resorts a Run For Their Money

Photo Credit: homebunch.com

This villa property is nothing less than remarkable!  And it can be yours for the same rate of an all-inclusive resort. Private villas are all the rave when it comes to enjoying luxury and enhancing one's travel experience. These villas offer spacious surroundings, dynamic views, exclusive property use, personal chefs and maids/butlers, posh furnishings, and ambiance destined to place you and yours in the life of the rich and famous!  And before you ask.  Yes, it's affordable and it's within economical means.  So why not step up your travel game and try the life of luxury...It's a well deserved life!  This setting, among many others, is perfect for family vacations/reunions, destination weddings, corporate trips, and much more.  To reserve your villa and to learn more, contact us directly.  Your dream vacation awaits!

Winter 2013 Ski Vacations...Let the Lifts Broaden Your Horizons!

Photo Credit: specialtyvacations.com

Book today to take advantage of terrific savings on exclusive ski packages to some of the best ski lodges across the country. We are offering up to $300.00 in savings. Act now...the lifts await! Contact us for details. 

Give the Gift of Experience This Holiday Season!

This holiday season, give the gift of experience; not objects.  Travel offers phenomenal life experiences that outweigh another sweater and cotton slippers.  Why not present your loved ones with an opportunity to whisk away to their desired destination, and take in all that it has to offer from culture, environmental beauty, to new found discoveries!  Destinations Reached gift certificates are offered in any increment ($25.00 - $1,000,00).  Our gift certificates make the best gifts and they will fill your loved ones with much joy this holiday season...Seasons Greetings! 

Thompson LES Calls Veteran's Day Travelers for a Real Hip Time!

Queen Room Category; Photo Credit: thompsonhotels.com

   

Living Room; Photo Credit: jetsetter.com

Destinations Reached offers another exclusive deal at the trendy and hipster Thompson LES (Thompson Hotels) for $299.00/per night - a $70.00 savings from the online price! In addition to this incredible rate, guests will receive a $25 credit to one of the local restaurants: Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya (on-site - incredible sushi and BBQ short ribs!), Epstein's Bar (awesome bar food, beer and a local favorite), Links (awesome polish sausage and more franks!), or the famous NYC deli, Katz (they serve the best Salami breakfast sandwich there is!)

Make NYC and Thompson LES your Veteran's Day getaway destination!  Contact me for details and learn more about this excellent property by reading our Thompson LES blog review.

Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya - Superb sushi and BBQ short ribs!

NYC Veteran's Day Weekend Promotions Customized Just For YOU! 70 Park Hotel (a Kimpton brand hotel)

Photo Credit: 70parkave.com

Okay, so maybe you didn't get Columbus Day off. But, Veteran's Day is definitely a go! Hit the road and head to NYC for a beautiful Fall getaway. Take advantage of this exclusive package offered only to Destinations Reached clients: 70 Park Hotel (a Kimpton boutique hotel) for $309.00/a night (a $65 savings from online) including a $25 bar credit or a $25.00 subway credit.  Email (info@destinationsreached.net) for details and to reserve your stay.

Photo Credit: kimptonhotels.com

Rome Is Where The Heart Is!

Destinations Reached sells....Rome, Italy!!!  Ever dream of visiting ancient Roman ruins/architecture, sailing along the Amalfi Coast, and tasting the flavors of Tuscany?  Well, now is your chance.  We are partnered with European Tours in selling quality packages all over Italy.  Packages include independent and escorted tours along the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and many other metropolitan cities.  They also sell packages to Greece, Turkey, France, Israel, and Spain.  Packages start at $512.00 per person (excluding air).  Contact me today to plan your european vacation with European Tours.  Your journey awaits!

Photo Credit: www.boatbookings.com

Corporate Travel: Financial District and the Upper West Side Are Here To Serve Your Business Travel Needs!

Club Quarters (Wall Street), The Wall Street Inn, and NYLO all have excellent accommodations/ services/amenities that will serve your Corporate travel needs extremely well (board rooms/business centers, suites, WIFI/LAN Internet connection, corporate accounts, in-room multiple phone line connection, spacious in-room desk space, food/beverage service, sedan service, etc.). Thank you to the excellent sales teams - Bozhidar Bachvarov, General Manager; Patricia Gilles, Membership Manager; and Christine Bennett, Sales Manager - for taking the time to conduct the hotel inspections and provide keen knowledge on their individual hotels and its brand. Note: Individual hotel blog features to follow.  Contact me today to book your corporate travel and to set up your corporate accounts today!

Photo Credit: TripAdvisor.com

Photo Credit: NYLOhotels.com

Photo Credit: WallStreetInn.com

Ink48 Embraces Local Culture with Boutique Flair

Its prime location along the Hudson makes it a sure selection for stunning views and accessibility.  Not to mention being in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, which offers guests a more local feel and is a short cab, walk, or bike ride (rentals are available) to the Theater district, Manhattan cruise port, or Restaurant Row along 46^th Street.  The hotel I’m speaking of is Ink48, a Kimpton property at its finest! 

 

Source: www.latenighthealth.com

Ink48 offers distinct design and style that define what it means to be a boutique hotel, and separate itself from the large hotel chains.  From vibrant wall prints to in floor lighting, Ink48 is prepared to offer guests a unique experience.  From the moment you walk through the doors, guests - as well as furry companions - are not bombarded by people shuffling through a large lobby waiting to meet up with family/friends. 

Front Desk

Welcome treats/water for your favorite pup!

 

Instead, guests are invited to wait in the lounge area where complimentary tea and citrus infused refreshments are served.  And if the lounge area has met capacity, guests are invited to find comfort in the lounge sections near the bar.  These sections are available for private meetings or to simply partake in conversation with family/friends, while savoring a chilled cocktail. 

Lounge sections

Ink48 welcomes guests ranging from tourists anticipating local museum tours to corporate leaders in town seeking their next business deal.  Either way, this Kimpton hotel is prepared to accommodate each guest’s needs from on-site fine dining, a full-service spa, business services, a state-of-the-art gym, to a daily welcome wine hour.  Each one of these services is provided in efforts to make each guests stay memorable, convenient, and suitable to individual travel requests.

 

Business Center

Gym

Lobby Bar

PRINT Restaurant

Ink Spa

Hosted Wine Area

Room categories range from City Views to Hudson View Suites.

Room Category: King Room

Note: Desk space in the King Room

Room Category: King Premier Room w/ an in-room deep soak tub.

Room Category: Hudson River Suite

Ink48 also offers the following room categories that differ in room size measurements and what is/is not available based on the floor level and availability: Guest Rooms: King Deluxe Room (Floors 7-15 and some Hudson views), King Premiere Room (400 sq. ft.; no city view), Double Double Deluxe Room, CityView Premiere King Room (views of the Manhattan skyline), and the CityView Studio King Room; Suites: Junior Suites, Riverview Terrace Room, and the Heaven Over Hell's Kitchen Suite.  Note: Suites are limited.  Advance bookings are advised, particularly during the spring/summer seasons. 

Ink48 is home to the premiere rooftop lounge, The Press Lounge.  This NYC hot spot offers the best evening view of the city, including sparkling reflections of the Hudson and vibrant lighting along 9^th Avenue.  The ambience and vibe is unbelievable!  Note: Inquire whether or not a private event is occurring during your visiting dates.  If so, The Press Lounge will be closed to guests and the public.  I would simply hate for you to visit this wonderful property and not be able to experience its staple venue.

The Press Lounge

Source: www.clubplanet.com

Ink48 is designed and prepared to offer you a wonderful experience and accommodations.  Your stay here will not only be memorable, but will set the standard for what it means to experience a boutique hotel at its best!