Top 10 Romantic Destinations for the LGTB Traveler

Top 10 Romantic Destinations for the LGTB Traveler.

Laid-back and care-free, Mexico, Caribbean, Canada and USA offer some idyllic locations for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender travellers. Add in striking beaches, awe-inspiring settings, entertaining day & night activities and a fun-in-the-sun attitude and you will have everything needed for the perfect holiday.

Below are some of our top ten most romantic recommendations:

#1) PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico

Named the ‘San Francisco of Mexico’, Puerto Vallarta has long been one of the most popular gay travel destinations. Its friendly environment, once voted the #1 friendliest tourist destination in the world by readers of Conde Nast magazine, great weather, lively beach scene and LGTB venues are just a few of its top draws. Incorporate the many cultural festivals, kitschy cafés, gourmet restaurants and vivacious nightlife and there is no question on how it earned its nickname.

#2) CANCUN, Mexico

Besides the gorgeous aqua blue of the Caribbean Sea setting, 5-star resorts and pristine beaches, Cancun offers fantastic gay-pride celebrations including The Cancun International Gay Festival in May and Paradiso International  Festival in November. These draw a free-spirited, diverse crowd with one major agenda … to let loose. Activities during this non-stop party week include a Welcome Party, Caribbean Cruise, Bar Hopping and a Beach Barbecue.

In November 2014, it was announced that a bill to officially legalize same-sex marriage in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo (Cancun and Mayan Riviera) would be approved.

#3) ST. MARTIN/ST. MAARTEN

Half Dutch and half French, a vacation to the tiny island of St. Martin is like visiting two amazing European countries at once. It is a hip combination of cosmopolitan attitude (both sides) paired with fantastic shopping, incomparable dining experiences and a range of activities that will keep you going long past seven days.

For a couple wishing to marry in St. Martin, birth certificates, IDs, and copies of proof of address are required. Divorce and death decrees are also required if applicable. Check with your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist for more details.

#4) TAHITI/BORA BORA – French Polynesia

Polynesians are known for their warm welcome. They are some of the some of the most kind, gentle, and open-minded people in the world. They embrace any opportunity to share their culture and heritage with visitors, as well as the mesmerizing beauty and tranquility of their islands.  The islands of French Polynesia such as Moorea, Bora Bora and Tahiti, are one of the most romantic places on earth, whether you’re gay or straight, the islands of Tahiti are a couples’ paradise, offering something for every traveler – white-sand beaches, vibrant marine life, rugged mountains, and colorful history.

The term “mahu” originally referred to transvestites in pre-colonial Polynesia. Much like the native American cultures, throughout Polynesia, the mahu were not only accepted in their communities, but they were also regarded as gifted and divine, possessing the qualities of both the male and female gender. Since the islands were colonized, mahu has broadened to include cross-dressers, drag queens, female impersonators, and transsexuals.  Local Tahitian prefer the term “Rae rae” which is to describe transvestites. The rae rae in the islands are pretty well respected. They tend to have jobs in the service industry and you’ll definitely come across them in the hotels, restaurants, in dance performances, and on the airlines.

#5) KAUAI, Hawaii

Hawaii has always had the reputation as a quintessential honeymoon destination for gay couples but when the Hawaii Marriage Equality Act was passed in 2013, it further solidified this with it’s legalization of same-sex marriages.  Those looking for an exciting gay-friendly nightlife may opt for the busting beach city of Honolulu but those couples seeking a more secluded relaxation experience, Maui, or better yet, Kauai, are great options.

#6) GREECE

Perhaps stemming from Ancient Greece and depictions of homosexuality in it’s art and literature, the country remains a gay travel hotspot. Though LGBT activists in Greece are still fighting for marriage equality, couples can still have a symbolic ceremony and/or honeymoon. We recommend a package to incorporate the history of Athens, and ferry transfers to see the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini and more.

#7) CURACAO

This beautiful Dutch Caribbean island is widely promoted as the “live and let live” island.  Although gay marriage is still not recognized here, the island is generally known to be the most tolerant of the ABC Islands, with growing annual Pride activities.

#8) NETHERLANDS

We cannot write this list without including the first country to legalize same-sex marriages. The country took the plunge in 2000 and set the precedence for countries around the world to follow.

#9) CANADA

Romance travel not only exists in our own backyard, it is flourishing! A trip to Quebec City makes you feel like you’re in a far, far away land. Or Halifax to take in the beauty and fun of the Atlantic Canada culture. The Rocky Mountains will always take your breath away. There are so many pockets of paradise’s in Canada that it’s important to explore what we have to offer, and we were the third country to legalize same-sex marriages in the world.

#10) PARIS, France

Romance is taken as seriously here as food, wine and art. No wonder ‘Gay Paree’ is a top destination for LGTB romance. France passed legal same-sex marriage in 2013 and if that weren’t enough, the french fashion scene and flourishing gay nightlife keep this city’s pulse positively pink.

Romantic Planet Vacations specializes in destination weddings and honeymoons. Contact one of their LGTB Certified Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Specialists today.

The Bahamas is Giving Away 16 Free Destination Weddings for 16.16.16

Now is your chance to win your destination wedding!

The Islands of the Bahamas is giving away 16 destination weddings in 16 exotic locations at 1600 hours, on November 16, 2016.

Entering is easy. All you have to do is select an island location in The Islands of The Bahamas and upload a short video and/ or photograph of you and your spouse along with a description of your dream Bahamian destination wedding and why you should be selected to win no later than May 16th, 2016. Creatively incorporate something indigenous to that island location using the suggested themes.

A panel of judges will select a group of 20 semi-finalists. The semi-finalists will be notified and their submissions will be placed on a microsite for the public to vote for the most creative entries. The voting deadline is June 10th, 2016.

The 16 prizes available to be won are valued at approximately $12,000 each and consist of round trip airfare for two to the Bahamas, 6 days/5 nights accommodations including a wedding package.

Visit www.bahamas16weddings.com to submit your entry.

Green Destination Wedding Ideas

Glamorous ‘Green’ Getaways

Top 4 Resorts For An Eco-Friendly Destination Wedding Retreat

One of the most recent trends in contemporary society is all things green—green energy cars, green house décor, even green fashion.

This green trend has quickly swooped into the wedding world—from outdoor venues, recyclable décor and invites, even vegetarian dish varieties. The green revolution isn’t confined however, to the wooded acres of the Muskokas.

We’ve handpicked the top 4 resorts nestled in the gorgeous corners of the Mayan Riviera and the Caribbean that are taking destination weddings to the next eco-level!

Hacienda Tres Rios Resort Spa and Nature Park

1) Hacienda Tres Rios Resort, Spa and Nature Park

Key Information

• Located in the Riviera Maya
•  It’s the only environmentally responsible luxury resort that offers select access to the Tres Ríos Nature Park in the Riviera Maya through their All Inclusive Plan
•  A romantic secluded location only 45 minutes from Cancun airport

Wedding Features

• 4 event locations to choose—from beachside romance to nature lovers paradise
•  Choice of ceremony styles including legal, symbolic and Mayan
• Wedding and bridal party salon services available on location
• Honeymoon packages include spoiling’s such as bottles of house wine, in room sweet-basket deliveries, and incense/essential oils

Green Highlights

• Hacienda Tres Rios is a leader in sustainable tourism development, focusing all its actions towards the responsible use of resources, the preservation of local ecosystems, the operation of good environmental practices, the creation of high quality experiences for visitors, and the establishment of its social responsibility.
• Nature Park activities include bike, snorkelling, kayak, nursery and Hobie Cat tours
• Environmental Supervision Team on staff to look after resort waste management, environmental education, plant and wildlife management.

2) Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa

Sandos Caracol's Complimentary Boat Ride

Key Information

• Located in Playa Del Carmen along the Riviera Maya
•  Includes 3 sections of inclusive resort – family section, Select Club Adults Only, Royal Elite
•  Provides a very local and authentic Mexican experience for those interested in Mexican culture

Wedding Features

• Weddings allow guests to immerse themselves in the jungles, culture and beaches of Mexico’s Riviera Maya at Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa.
• Gorgeous natural scenery for a tropical wedding experience
• Green Wedding features include;

o   Natural setup on the deck of the “Cenote Cristalino”

o   Complimentary honeymoon package for the couple

o   Personalized service from on site wedding coordinator

o   Complimentary boat ride with wine and chocolate covered strawberries

o   Celebratory certificate in the form of the “Sandos Weddings Tree”.

o   Organization of a donation to the less fortunate on couple’s behalf

o   Organization to plant a tree to honour your special day

o   Live Mayan drum music during the ceremony

Green Highlights

• Resort is located amoung dense jungle and mangrove forests
• Cenotes are beautifully preserved and cared for, as the rest of the property
• Resort thrives on highlighting the natural surroundings
• Innovative in how they preserve communities local resources
• Committed to reducing the impact of the resort’s daily activities
• Various recycling programs used, as well as information to raise awareness with workers, visitors, suppliers and the local community.
• Resort staff works to improve the lives of local school kids in the Playa del Carmen area by suggesting visitors to bring school supplies on their vacation

3)  Majahuitas Resort

Majahuita Resort, Mexico

Key Information

• Located 15 minutes South of Puerto Vallarta
• Smaller and more intimate resort
• Located on one the most exclusive beaches in the Bay of Bandera’s and is only accessible by boat
• Best for winter and spring weddings (closed July-September due to extreme heat)

Green Highlights

• Eight casitas built for each couple to enjoy an perfect ocean view
• Resort run by solar energy and completely void of television and modern conveniences for a more authentic retreat experience
• Resort highlights the use of composting organic materials to enrich garden soils and decrease the need for extra watering
•  Features an ecological 3-tiered sewer system that releases clean water for garden.
• Resort built with local materials and through the employment of local craftsmen
•  All resort décor is locally sourced.
• Employees come from the immediate community and no less than 50% comes from the indigenous community of Chacala.
•  Uses plants on the property that are native to the region, requiring the use of less water.
• Garden features 22 different fruits and vegetables
• Food bought locally such as from local fishermen, ensuring not only the freshness of food but support for the local economy

Wedding Features

• Majahuitas is the perfect place to host an intimate destination wedding for your closest friends and family.
• The ceremony is performed just steps away from the waves at sunset time, followed by a beautiful beach reception
• Coordination staff to work with couple every step of the way to make sure everything runs perfectly the day of and days leading up
• Staff creative and flexible to making day just as imagined
• All ceremonies are symbolical, perfect for a couple who has eloped and would like family to join for the celebration
• Can host up to 120 guests

4) Chaa Creek, Belize

Being wildly civilized at Chaa Creek, Belize

Key Information

• Located centrally in the Maya civilization in jungle area/private 365-acre nature reserve
• Recognized as one of the Caribbean region’s best sustainable, Green tourist resort
•  Includes destination wedding and honeymoon packages
• Perfect for an authentic in-jungle experience

Wedding Features

• Rainforest wedding day with very affordable packages to chose from
•  Choose from 3 intimate all-inclusive destination wedding packages including highlights like horseback riding, romantic sunset canoe trip and couples massages
• All inclusive honeymoon packages from 3-5 nights for more adventurous couples; activities including canoe trips down the Macal River, exploring Belize, and discovering ancient city sites

Green Highlights

• Chaa Creek is highly involved in their community by continuously offering assistance to local schools, training centres, sporting teams, conservation projects etc.
• Philosophy includes a “give-back” mentality where the resort is committed to maintaining a steward-like relationship with their surrounding environment
• Partners with local conservation projects that centre on preserving wildlife
• Kitchen and organic waste is later used as fertilizer for the garden
• Restaurant leftover given to local farmer as pig feed

 For more information on planning your 'green' destination wedding, please contact Romantic Planet Vacations at 1-866-247-8123 or inquiries@romanticplanet.ca

~Laura Hemming

U.S. and Cuba Resumes Flights

The U.S. and Cuba signed an historic deal this week to resume commercial aviation between the two countries, with U.S. airlines lining up to bid on routes which could start as early as next fall.

The deal, which will see commercial flights between the two nations resume after five decades, could see up to 110 daily U.S.-Cuba flights, the CBC reported. Twenty of those flights would be to Havana while the remainder would be to other Cuban cities, the report stated.

U.S. airlines bidding on flights will have two weeks to submit their applications, with results expected as early as this summer. Last year, it's estimated that approximately 160,000 American leisure travellers flew to Cuba on charter flights, qualifying under one of the U.S. government’s approved Cuba travel categories including humanitarian and educational trips.

Published on 02/17/2016

Melia Nassau Beach further upgrades in 2016

Melia Nassau Beach all-inclusive resort has entered phase two of its $19 million dollar renovation and, as a result, has new features and offerings in store for 2016.

The enhancements to the 694-guestroom resort includes new kids club services, resort-wide complimentary wi-fi and food and beverage enhancements.

Among the enhancements include:

·         The newly-opened O’Grille restaurant, a beachside eatery that serves Caribbean dishes made with authentic, locally sourced ingredients.

·         The property’s tapas lounge Estavida has expanded its list of premium wine selections.

·         A la carte healthy dining menu and expanded wine list available at the property’s Black Angus Steakhouse.

·         Enhanced VIP services, including exclusive buffet breakfasts at O’Grille, the property’s beachfront restaurant.

·         Extended hours at The Kids and Co kid’s club.

·         The property’s two outdoor hot tubs have been revamped and reopened.

·         Check-out has been extended an additional hour, from 11 A.M. to Noon.

Visit www.romanticplanet.ca for more details on how to book your destination wedding or honeymoon at this perfect locale!

The Perfect In-Town All-Inclusive Caribbean Beach Wedding Resorts

When it comes to all-inclusive beach resorts in the Caribbean, it's often difficult to find one that isn't situated far away from all of the action. For those destination wedding groups that want to be able to walk right out the front gate and into town, we have compiled a list of our favorite resorts that offer just that. 

Souvenir shopping in Playa Del Carmen

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, Mexico

Playa Del Carmen is a bustling little fishing village and tourist town located in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, Mexico. It's famous for the shopping along it's 5th Avenue where vendors warmly and sometimes boldly welcome you into their stores. Here you can find everything from high-end goods to little Mexican trinkets. 

5th Avenue is a safe and lively place day or night. In the evenings, you can sit back on a rooftop patio eating authentic Mexican cuisine and sipping on a margarita while people watching below or stroll through the many shops, hang out at a beachfront bar with your feet in the sand or get energized and dance the night away at one of the local nightclubs. 

Playacar Palace: This is one of our top picks for destination weddings. It's literally a two minute walk to 5th avenue, it's located on an expansive and gorgeous stretch of white sandy beach, the rooms are modern, the service is impeccable, it's family-friendly, and it's a quaint and quieter property but located in the bustle and heart of town. The Palace Resorts chain also offers designer destination wedding collections and every room receive a whopping $1500 resort credit that can be used anywhere - towards the wedding, spa, golf, tours, upgrades etc. It usually prices around the $2000 - $2200 range per person, all-inclusive with air and tax from Canada for seven nights.

Paradisus Las Esmeralda: This is my other favorite in Playa Del Carmen. It's newer, modern, great wedding packages as well, with 5-star service. It's on the beach but it's set back a little as there are mangroves. The plus here however, is the beach is more private than being right central in town so better for a more private beach wedding. You could move over next door to the Paradisus La Pearla (adult only) for the honeymoon. This is pricing at approximately $2000 per person, taxes in.

Sandos Playacar Beach Resort and Spa

Sandos Playacar: This is a little more authentic than other properties, with incredibly friendly service. Every time we have wedding groups here, they keep going back as it's the kind of place that it's easy to befriend the staff etc. It has all of the amenities you could ask for. The property is more a 4-4.5 star but here you get the very best price. It's looking at around $1500-$1600 per person, taxes in so an incredible value!

Gran Porto: This is in the very heart of town and one street from 5th avenue. It's a smaller, quaint property. Good food. It doesn't offer a lot of amenities because most people explore the town for this, but it still offers that all-inclusive feature. The beach is busier here than the other properties above. It's pricing at about $1700-$1800 taxes in pp.

RIU Palace Riviera Maya: This is a popular one for weddings as it feels like a palace. It's great for families and offers a gorgeous beach. It often quotes around the $2200 range.

Divi Resort All-Inclusive

ARUBA
Aruba is renowned for it's gorgeous beaches, neat architecture and dutch culture. Although it has the furthest flights from Canada to the Caribbean, it's worth the extra 30 to 60 minutes ride. 

The Divi Aruba is our top pick for an in-town all-inclusive destination wedding resort. It has stunning white sandy beaches, nice rooms,  and a quaint and friendly feel. This is quoting around $2400 - $2700 per person, all-in.

BAHAMAS
Nassau is definitely a hustle and bustle destination with loads of things to see and do. It's considered America's playground since its so close to Florida and offers casinos, shopping, cruise ports, etc. We love the Melia Nassau Beach for all-inclusive destination wedding groups here. It's quoting around $2200 pp. For the honeymoon, we would send you off to one of the Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma, just a short island hop flight away, for that adult-only, spoil yourself luxury that you deserve.

Rodney Bay Village, St. Lucia

ST. LUCIA
Rodney Bay Village is the happening place for locals and tourists alike and where you can get off-property to explore a little more of island life. The best situated all-inclusive destination wedding resort here is the Bay Gardens Beach Resort. The beach itself is expansive, the rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff are ultra-friendly. It generally prices out at around $3000 per person from Canada all-inclusive.  

ST. MAARTEN
The Sonesta Maho Beach is located in the heart of Maho Village and the entertainment hub of St. Martin/St. Maarten with duty-free shopping, casinos and nightlife at your doorstep. It's competitively priced at around $2000 per person. A further recommendation is to move up to the luxurious Sonesta Ocean Point next door for the adult-only honeymoon afterwards.

For more information on planning your upcoming destination wedding or honeymoon, please contact one of the certified specialists at Romantic Planet Vacations at inquiries@romanticplanet.ca or 1-866-247-8123.

Sixth Annual Romance Travel Show: Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Expo Is Coming to A City Near You

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 21, 2016

Toronto, ONT., (TNWS) - The long-awaited Sixth Annual Romance Travel Show: Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Expo for those who are planning a destination wedding or honeymoon returns to Canada to once again help brides and grooms make their holiday dreams come true.

The popular Romance Travel Show will take place on February 17th, 2016 at Ramada Plaza Calgary Airport, February 18th, 2016 at Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre in Edmonton, February 23rd, 2016 at Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel, February 25, 2016 at Park Inn by Radisson Airport West, Toronto. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

There will be dozens of leading exhibitors from top hotels, resorts, tour operators and popular tourist destinations including Jamaica, Cuba, Barbados and St. Lucia.

"This is an invaluable event that happens only once a year and has been gaining in popularity," says Laurie Keith, President of Romantic Planet Vacations, which was established in 2004 and organizes the popular show. "People love the event because it's Canada's only national bridal show that caters to honeymooners and those planning destination weddings."

The firm serves a niche market and stages successful yearly bridal shows in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Toronto.

"Almost 25% of all Canadian weddings are destination weddings and this trend is expected to continue to climb," Keith says. "The reason for the popularity is that destination weddings are exotic, affordable, stress-free, can be a meeting grounds for guests and because it combines a holiday-family reunion."

Brides and grooms will have the opportunity to learn about planning a destination wedding from the legal requirements to choosing the perfect destination. They will also have the chance to meet with wedding planners from around the world, hoteliers, airlines, tour operators, photographers, bridal shops specializing in destination weddings, unique invitation printing companies and many more suppliers.

There will be a lot to see and do.

From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. - attendees can meet exhibitors in a trade show format to seek their expertise. These include hoteliers, onsite wedding coordinators, tour operators, tourism boards, photographers, and bridal vendors.

At 7:30 pm: there will be an hour-long presentation looking at different destination and resort options; working with an onsite wedding coordinator, steps of the planning process and tips on making your destination wedding or honeymoon dreams come true. 

You can also meet with members of the Romantic Planet Vacations travel team for a free honeymoon or destination wedding one-on-one consultation.

There will be appetizers and door prizes for attendees; including a chance to win FREE honeymoon.

People can RSVP for free at www.romanticplanet.eventbrite.com. Space is limited.

For further information please contact:

Laurie Keith, President of Romantic Planet Vacations.

She can be reached by email at laurie@romanticplanet.ca or call 403-255-2173.

Please feel free to visit our website for more information at www.romancetravelshow.com

SOURCE: Romance Travel Show: a subsidiary of Big World Travel Marketing Group and partner to Romantic Planet Vacations.

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Press Release prepared and distributed by Toronto News Wire Services at torontowire@gmail.com or 416-251-7329.

Air Canada Vacations has expanded its 2015/2016 winter season

Air Canada Vacations is significantly expanding its winter 2015/2016 program with the addition of new routes to Mexico and the Caribbean.

The newly announced routes include:

From Eastern Canada
- Ottawa to Cayo Coco operating on Mondays from December 21, 2015 to March 28, 2016
- Ottawa to Holguin operating on Tuesdays from December 22, 2015 to March 22, 2016
- Ottawa to Samana operating on Thursdays from January 7, 2016 to March 24, 2016
- Montreal to La Romana operating on Mondays from December 21, 2015 to March 28, 2016

From Western Canada
- Vancouver to Cancun operating on Mondays from February 15, 2016 to April 25, 2016.

The routes originating from Ottawa and Montreal will be operated by Air Canada.  

The route originating from Vancouver will be operated by Air Canada rouge on a B767-300 aircraft.

Contact Romantic Planet Vacations at inquiries@romanticplanet.ca or 1-866-247-8123 for more information.

Top 10: Destination Wedding Beach Set-ups

When we think of destination weddings we think of beach, sand, waves and ocean. Nowadays, with the popularity of beach weddings, many resorts have created simple wedding masterpieces as the perfect backdrop to a destination wedding made in heaven. Here are our top ten favorites beach destination wedding set-ups;

#1: White Rosette Collection - This simple yet elegant beach destination wedding collection is available at the Hard Rock All-inclusive Resorts in Cancun, Punta Cana, Puerto Vallarta, the Mayan Riviera and soon-to-be Los Cabos.

#2: Coastal Bliss - This package captures the natural beauty of the Caribbean shore available at the Generations, Azul and El Dorado Resorts with Karisma. The chairs covers are coral-themed and the isle-way is bordered by beautiful metal latterns.

#3: El Sol Collection - This destination wedding package has been designed by famous celebrity wedding planner Colin Cowie and is available at the all-inclusive Hard Rock Resorts. It has rich dark wooden chairs and alter with a touch of vibrant color. 

#4: Majestic Flair - This elegant Mayan Riviera inspired destination wedding package is available with Karisma Resorts and offers colorful flowers and festive ambiance.

#5: Blueberry Dream - This funtastic wedding package has been designed by the Barcelo wedding team.

#6: Elegant Ivory Collection - Another Colin Cowie masterpiece destination wedding package is available at Hard Rock Resorts and it's white provides the purity of that special day.

#7: Romantic Red - Add a little passion to your beach destination wedding with this  Palace Resorts wedding package.Red and white make up this cheerful wedding designer package beach set-up.

#8 - Chill Out Chic - With it's simplistic charm, this dreamy destination wedding package offered by Paradisus Resorts is sure to please any beach bride.

#9: - Exotic Peacock - This package is rich with flair and is available with the Palace Resorts in Mexico and Jamaica and is inspired from the gorgeous colors of a peacock.

#10 - South Asian - This colorful and lively package is rich in tradition. Its available with the Dreams and Secrets Resorts located in Costa Rica, Mexico, Jamaica, and The Dominican Republic.

These and other destination wedding packages are available through Romantic Planet Vacations, a travel agency who has been specializing in destination weddings since 2004. They can be contacted at 1-866-247-8123 or www.romanticplanet.ca

Headline News for Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

General Travel Headlines #destinationweddings #honeymoons

 

The 478-room Dreams Dominicus La Romana in Bayahibe will open before the summer travel season. It will be the eighth AMResorts location in the Dominican Republic.

Three properties inside the Baha Mar complex in the Bahamas have set March 27 as their opening date: the 200-room Rosewood at Baha Mar, the 300-room SLS Lux at Baha Mar, and the 1,000-room Baha Mar Casino & Hotel. The 700-room Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar is slated to debut May 1.

Bermuda announced its "Pink Sale" with 50 percent discounts off stays (three nights minimum) at any of 15 participating hotels when you book Jan. 14-28 for travel Jan. 15-April 30.

The 122-room Mahekal Beach Resort is now open in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, after a $10 million makeover (including two new pools, a new seaside Jacuzzi, three new bars, and two renovated dining venues).

The 67-cottage Le Guanahani resort in St. Barts (formerly the Hotel Guanahani & Spa) finished its four-year, $40 million renovation project with upgraded guest units and other major refurbishments.

Hard Rock Hotels is now offering its first free-night-stay promotion for guests in its Hard Rock Rewards loyalty program, with one-night certificates after members stay five qualifying nights through June 5 (redeemable Feb. 1-Dec. 20).

Starting next February, Hyatt Hotels will offer free WiFi access at its properties to all guests, with no limit on how many devices might be used by individual guests. Its loyalty program members will receive free upgrades next year to "premium" WiFi connections.

The Hotel Wailea in Maui will become the first property in Hawaii to join the Relais & Chateaux luxury collection. The hotel just finished the first phase of a $15 million renovation project.

Transat issued its 2015-2016 destination weddings brochure, including booking benefits such as $100 pre-booked excursion credits and $500 future travel vouchers per couple.

U.S. officials announced new rules easing travel to Cuba by Americans, including permission to travel for any of a dozen specified reasons without obtaining a special license before the trip. (This New York Times article offers more details.)

Travel Headlines News

AMResorts welcomed the 447-suite Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rico on Monday in the country's Guanacaste region. The all-inclusive property sits 90 minutes from the airport in Liberia and close to two major national parks. It offers eight restaurants, five bars, several pools, kids and teen clubs, and other guest services.

AMResorts also opened the 35-suite Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun this past weekend. The former Villa Rolandi property offers a Thalasso spa with a natural saltwater pool, a private marina, and other features.

The famed 44-suite Malliouhana luxury resort in Anguilla is now open again, after being closed for three years for a complete overhaul. It's now an Auberge Resorts property. (In other news, the island's Cap Juluca resort re-opened last weekend for the winter season after repairing slight damage from a recent tropical storm, and the resort says there was no erosion on the nearby beach.)

The airport in Punta Cana (D.R.) opened Terminal B (its second terminal) this past weekend. The new facility features 50 check-in counters, a food court, a Champagne bar, a designated smoking area, and other services.

The owners of the 98-room Capella Pedregal in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, took over the property Monday, expelling the Capella Hotel Group managers on site. The property has been closed to fix damage from Hurricane Odile in mid-September. It's been renamed the Resort at Pedregal, but Capella Hotel Group plans to mount a legal fight to regain control of the hotel.

Princess Cruises christened the 3,560-passenger ship "Regal Princess" in a ceremony that featured the six original cast members of the TV show "Love Boat" as the vessel's godparents and a record-breaking 51 Champagne bottles being smashed against its hull for good luck (50 bottles for the line's 50th anniversary, plus one more for the future).

Carnival Corp. says it will introduce a new long-range broadband wireless Internet network on all of the ships across its nine brands that's 10 times faster than the current system. The rollout should be done by the end of 2016.

The Linq Hotel & Casino opened last week in Las Vegas. Formerly the Quad Resort & Casino, the property underwent a complete overhaul to appeal to "the under 40 crowd."

Signature Vacations reintroduced its Los Cabos packages from nine Canadian gateways, as more hotels there have reopened and repaired recent hurricane damage.

For more information, please contact your honeymoon and destination wedding specialists at www.romanticplanet.ca 

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica Debutes

On November 1st, first guests Maximo Rodriguez and Yaniriam Campos joined in celebrating the resort's official opening.

Located on the beautiful Playa El Jobo, Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica is set on a shimmering white sand beach amidst a lush, tropical jungle. Built to achieve the highly coveted LEED certification, this 447-suite eco-friendly resort features a contemporary design, inviting couples and couples with children to enjoy all the benefits of the brand’s Unlimited-Luxury® experience, including: elegant suites featuring 24-hour room service, daily refreshed mini-bars and Jacuzzi tubs in every room; 24-hour concierge services; eight gourmet restaurants, with five á la carte dining options, a buffet, a grill and a café; five bars and lounges serving international fare and top-shelf spirits; complete day and evening activities program and adventures for every age and interest; and access to the Explorer’s Club for kids with supervised fun and a Core Zone Teens Club with activities and social events.

Resort amenities also include the largest pool (44,000 sq. ft.) in the Guanacaste resort region, “La Cascada” water slide, kids pool and steaming whirlpool; non-motorized water sports; a state-of-the-art fitness center; and a daily activities center. The Dreams Spa by Pevonia offers a sublime atmosphere offering 10 therapy cabins for a variety of treatments, and a hydrotherapy circuit. The resort boasts a beautiful wedding gazebo and numerous reception spaces, making this an idyllic resort for destination weddings.
 
In addition, Dreams Las Mareas offers Unlimited Connectivity which allows guests free app-to-app calling, access to event/activity schedules, local destination information, and the ability to create a user profile to schedule spa treatments, excursions and directly contact resort staff.

Dreams Las Mareas is located on the northern coast of Guanacaste, approximately 1.5 hours from Liberia International Airport. This sanctuary for couples, families and singles is close to both Guanacaste and Santa Rosa National Parks, offering guests access to a variety of outdoor and nature activities that Costa Rica is known for.

As a part of AMResorts’ commitment to maintaining sustainability, Dreams Las Mareas was built to achieve the highly coveted LEED certification. The resort is being built with recycled resources, and upon opening ecological practices such as water and light-saving techniques will be utilized on a daily basis. The LEED organization will evaluate the resort six months after opening.

For your honeymoon or destination wedding quote, please contact the experts at Romantic Planet Vacations;  1-866-247-8123 or inquiries@romanticplanet.ca

Why Use A Travel Agent

Why Use a Travel Agent?

It’s a really good and valid question, and to be honest, sometimes the answer might actually be that you don’t need one! But we’ll come back to that.

Most travel agents now prefer the title travel consultant or similar. Why? It has a lot to do with the advantages they offer today. Still, with all the websites, deal finders, mobile travel apps, and online services, a lot of people ask: why use a travel consultant?

It’s not hard to do it yourself. It might even be fun! Or, it could turn into a huge disaster. Below are a few points to consider before clicking the BUY button or tapping yourself into a nonrefundable corner.

1. Experience. Think about what you do for a living. For nearly every profession, you can find a website, video, or app that gives potential customers a way to do it themselves. With a little help from the Internet you can fix your car, build cabinets, replace plumbing, write wills, draft contracts, cut hair, make clothes, buy shoes, do accounting, buy stock, cook, bake, and let’s not forget edit videos and touch-up photos.

Finding instructions or tools is not the problem. Doing it RIGHT is the issue. If you put the wrong screw in the wall, it’s no big deal. If you put your family in the wrong resort, it’s a much bigger deal. It becomes even bigger if something goes wrong.

Most people deal with planning a vacation once or twice a year. Travel consultants deal with it all day, every day and many have been doing it for years. Their livelihood fully depends on using their knowledge and experience to craft a vacation you’ll love so much that you’ll keep coming back for more.

Websites and apps with advertising-driven, biased offerings are counting on your own lack of experience to push you to options that will earn them the most profit. Your satisfaction is not part of the display algorithm.

2. Real Deals. Have you ever wondered why some cruises, resorts, or hotels seem to have cheaper deals on some websites? There’s always a reason. Sometimes, it’s a good reason. Sometimes, it’s a very bad reason that you won’t know about until you arrive and it’s too late. There’s always a reason, and a great price is not always a good deal.

For example, every hotel has “undesirable” rooms they have trouble filling. Smaller rooms in noisy areas, rooms that haven’t been renovated lately, or those that overlook the dumpsters are always cheaper than nice ones in quiet areas with good views.

Websites are perfect for liquidating those rooms at bargain rates. Unfortunately, these so-called deals rarely mention things like smelly carpet or noise. It’s also no coincidence that many require full payment upon booking and are nonrefundable.

Even the most beautiful cruise ship has cabins they have trouble selling. The ones directly under the dance floor of the all-night disco, or the ones near the anchor chain that bangs against the side of the ship are just two examples. There are plenty of hard-to-sell cabins that are perfect for online deals.

To be fair, sometimes you can get lucky online! Sometimes the deals are real and worth the risk. Sometimes.

Travel consultants know the legitimate deals from the come-ons. They’ve been trained to uncover the reason behind the bargain. They understand travel lingo, know what to look for and most importantly: they know what to avoid.

3. Transparency. With websites and apps, you may not know what you’ll actually be paying! Many hotels add nightly “resort fees” of $25 to $50 on top of the discounted rate apps and websites display. Of course, you won’t know about them until you check out. Even rental cars can end up costing double the online rate once extra charges like airport fees, taxes, surcharges and such have been added.

Travel consultants know these little details. They make sure you are never unpleasantly surprised. You’ll always know exactly what you’ll be paying and what you’ll get for it.

4. Options. When you buy a cruise or vacation package online, you’ll almost always be required to pay for the entire trip up-front. Did you know that travel consultants offer another option? Usually they can hold the space for you for a small deposit of around $150 to $200. Final payment is not due until between 30 to 60 days prior to departure. In many cases, you can change your plans or cancel entirely prior to final payment!

In addition to the payment options, travel consultants can research and suggest alternatives to what you may have requested. While “Resort A” may be wonderful, its website will never tell you that “Resort B” has a nicer beach or better rates, or that that its own casino is closed for loud and dusty renovations.

5. Advice and Connections. Travel consultants offer something you’ll never find online or in an app: professional advice. Online, every resort or cruise is made to look beautiful and appealing. But, it’s no bargain if you end up regretting the trip. The main reason to use a travel consultant is to make sure you never waste a penny on a vacation you won’t truly enjoy.

There’s one more thing you’ll only get from a travel consultant: relationships. They have real one-to-one personal relationships with travel suppliers that can fix things should something happen to go wrong.

If a travel app messes up your reservations, you’re on your own. But with a travel consultant – you’ll have an advocate on your side with connections. In other words: a human who cares. To the machines, you’re nothing but their data.

Also, you might have heard that some travel consultants charge fees for their professional service. Like other skilled advisors, the best often do. But fees don’t mean you’ll always pay more. In fact, they’re likely to save you more than you ever imagined.

When You Don’t Need a Travel Consultant

It’s true. Sometimes you might not need a travel consultant. If you’re willing to take some risks, and not be concerned if something goes wrong, you might get lucky with the apps and websites. Many people do. Travel consultants just prefer not to gamble.

by Nolan Burris, Chief Visioneer, Future Proof Travel Solutions