Celebrate back-to-school season at Barceló Beach Resorts with these two last minute summer packages offering savings of up to 40 percent off.
At Barceló Maya Beach Resort (Mexico), currently in the final stages of a $50 million renovation, families can score a deal on a last blast of fun with a dedicated U-Spa for kids, mocktail menus and more.
Adults looking for a summer-end travel deal can head to Barceló Bávaro Beach Resort (Dominican Republic), offering adults-only accommodations and a PGA-rated championship golf course.
Families can score a deal on a last blast of fun at Barcelo Maya Beach Resort, Mexico.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Are you looking for an excuse to take your yoga practice to a white sand beach this fall? Check out this 4-day luxury yoga retreat at The Somerset on Grace Bay in the Turks & Caicos Islands from October 11-14, 2014.
From October 11 to 14, 2014, The Somerset on Grace Bay is offering a 4-day luxury yoga retreat for only $250 (valued at $650) for guests staying at the resort.
Why go
The convenience of this yoga retreat add-on is that it can be enjoyed by one or more guests in your travel party, but not all guests are required to participate. And when your done practicing your poses, you can go relax in the oceanfront infinity pool or new on-site spa, or stay active with complimentary pedal bicycles to cruise around Grace Bay, fitness center with steam room, snorkeling equipment, kayaks, Hobie Cat sailboats, croquet and more.
The Deal
For $250 (valued at $650) guests staying at the resort can join yoga instructor, Christina Wypijewska, for a series of themed yoga sessions with a holistic approach to health and wellness. Set along the world-famous Grace Bay beach, the yoga retreat add-on includes:
- 4 days of yoga and meditation including a paddleboard yoga session (complimentary; $400 value)
- Retreat-exclusive spa treatment (30 minutes)
- Healthy Cooking Seminar with Chef Justin Currie of Pavilion
- Daily Continental breakfast
- Daily lunch featuring special yoga retreat nutritious menu selections
- Tuesday night beach BBQ
Ideal for all skill levels, each day the retreat will focus on a different yoga philosophy and include sunrise meditation on the beach, an energizing morning flow yoga practice and a more gentle sunset yoga practice. In addition, there will be special sessions for paddleboard yoga, exploring energy-body awareness and ayurvedic healing practice.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
DID YOU KNOW that May 23rd is World Turtle Day, a global observance to help celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats?
On the island of Dominica, the annual sea turtle season is under way in an ancient ritual that dates back to the time of dinosaur and hundreds of endangered sea turtles travel thousands of miles to lay eggs on the protected beach at Rosalie Bay.
During this special time, guests at eco-boutique Rosalie Bay Resort can participate in conservation efforts and save 33% on 4 or more night stays.
Among the conservation activities offered, you can:
Join resort turtle expert for a guided educational walk along the beach.
Help patrol the beach to protect nesting turtles.
Assist researchers in collecting data or watching as they relocate nests that are too close to the ocean to the turtle hatchery.
Or, be “on call” for when baby sea turtles hatch and begin their journey.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Does the end of summer have you yearning for one last beach fling before the chill of autumn settles in?
I’m in the midst of writing about the Dominican Republic and Mexico this week and have stumbled upon some amazing last-minute travel deals in the process.
Here are three affordable hotel deals in Punta Cana and the Riviera Maya offering exceptional last-minute savings that just might tempt you to hop a flight.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Make the most of your tax refund dollars with St Maarten’s Sonesta Resorts’ new, “Tax Back? You Bet!” promotion, a 46% savings on any all-inclusive vacation booked during the entire month for travel the entire year.
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, St. Maarten. Photo: Peter Wesley Brown
The resort is offering an additional 21% off (symbolizing the amount of tax & service) on Sonesta’s already low “advance purchase rate” - for a total of 46% savings off published rates.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Trade your scarves and shovels this fall and winter for balmy breezes and palm-fringed shorelines with a tropical getaway to the Caribbean and Costa Rica aboard a glorious tall ship. On select seven-night sailings from November through March aboard all three Star Clipper ships, guests can take advantage of exceptional savings and book a SetSail cruise-only rate starting at just $1,299 per person, double occupancy. That represents 66 percent off brochure rates.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Keep it all in the family this summer with Nature Air and Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality Family Travel Package.
From young eco-minded adventurers to more senior explorers who like a little pampering, Costa Rica has what it takes to cater to multi-generational families looking for more bang for their buck. During the Green Season (May to December) kids 12 years and under fly for free on any of Nature Air’s 74 daily flights to 15 destinations across the country, AND stay and eat for free at some of the top eco-luxury accommodations in Central America.
Partnering with Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality, a company that manages a number of Earth-friendly lodges, hotels and inns in the Central American region, carbon-neutral Nature Air allows families to economically combine city stays with rainforest adventures, mountain and beach getaways for this summer’s vacation in one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in the world.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Looking to relax and unwind with a Caribbean escape this Spring that won’t break the bank? Take advantage of value-packed specials at Bay Gardens Resorts this Spring for Easter, Mother’s Day and Saint Lucia Jazz at two of its three Saint Lucia properties - The Bay Gardens Hotel and Bay Gardens Inn.
Nestled in the heart of Saint Lucia’s entertainment capital, Rodney Bay Village, both properties offer superior accommodations, traditional Caribbean cuisine, and the finest in service and hospitality. Within walking distance of the world famous Reduit Beach, dozens of restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and the recently opened Treasure Bay Casino, Bay Gardens is perfectly situated to offer the best of what Saint Lucia has to offer.
Celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Saint Lucia Jazz on a Budget at Bay Gardens Hotel and Inn.
Easter Savings
Easter is a great time for a family escape. Bay Gardens Hotel and Bay Gardens Inn doubles the fun for parents and children with their Easter Savings package where children under 16 stay for free. Mom and dad can receive a Couples Massage at La Mer Spa or a romantic three-course dinner at the Trios Caribbean Fusion Restaurant, both located at Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa, including complimentary babysitting service. Children can take part in a day of fun with an Easter egg hunt, special Easter Sunday Brunch at the Beach Resort, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Rates for a five night package start at US$689 for a family of four in a Superior room including daily Caribbean buffet breakfast – a savings of 60 percent.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Here’s a budget-friendly last-minute travel deal perfect for anyone looking to get away, get in shape, and get a great deal.
As part of the launch of a new line of luxury, all-inclusive wellness retreats offered by Purescapes at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, guests can save 25 percent on the first week-long retreat held November 5 – 12, 2011.
The week-long retreats are tailored to each individual and combine cardio and strength training, yoga, organic cuisine and cultural exploration on the island of Nevis.
Read on for details…
Far away from everyday stresses on a tranquil white sand beach on the unspoiled island of Nevis, the acclaimed Caribbean resort is an ideal setting for the first Purescapes Caribbean wellness retreat. Amid this paradise, guests can reconnect with nature and revitalize their well-being.
Ideal for beginners and athletes, the Purescapes Wellness Retreat at Nisbet Plantation is designed to introduce positive life changes by teaching guests how to eat properly, move effectively and improve their overall health. A well-balanced agenda includes:
· Morning yoga on the resort’s white sand beach
· Outdoor fitness classes with cardio workouts and strength training
· Island excursions such as kayaking, mountain biking and hiking to explore the beauty of Nevis
· One-on-one coaching from fitness and nutrition experts
· Time to relax with a massage or afternoon swim in the oceanfront pool
· Local natural and organic cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
With the official start of autumn behind us and winter on its way, the Caribbean island of St. Kitts is encouraging travelers not to let their vacation planning “fall” through the cracks by offering some wallet-friendly fall and winter deals, plus a “Fall in Love with St. Kitts & Nevis” value-added program designed to help visitors save on their stay.
Here are a few of the offers from individual hotels now available on St. Kitts:
- Bird Rock Beach Hotel – Low season rates begin at just $90 per room, per night based on double occupancy from now through December 19, 2011. Plus, on stays of at least 4 consecutive nights, the 5th night is free.
- Ocean Terrace Inn – From now through November 30, 2011, the property’s “August Specials” provide three low-cost options for accommodations: Room only rate of $89 based on single occupancy; Room only rate of $100 based on double occupancy with up to 2 kids 12 and under able to stay free; or a Bed & Breakfast rate of $118 for a standard room based on double occupancy with up to 2 kids 12 and under able to stay free.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
This summer and fall, leave work and life stresses at home and round up your favorite gal-pal for a Central American girlfriend getaway.
Finca Rosa BlancaFrom now through November 15, 2011, Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality is offering new Girlfriend Getaway Packages at five of its Costa Rican and Nicaraguan properties. Known around the world for their highly sustainable and Earth-friendly ways, the hotels and lodges offer a range of outdoor activities for girls on-the-go with on-site amenities for ladies in need of relaxation including: surf lessons, ziplining over a rainforest canopy, rebalancing the sprit with private yoga, learning to make authentic tortillas, and more.
Perks of the Girlfriend Getaway Packages vary at each of the Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality properties:
Lapa Rios Ecolodge
Costa Rica’s Lapa Rios Ecolodge is set on a private nature reserve spread over 1,000-acres of Central America’s last remaining lowland tropical rainforest. This property’s Girlfriend Getaway Package includes five nights accommodation for the price of four, three gourmet meals per day, transfers to and from the Puerto Jimenez airport, a sustainability tour of the Lapa Rios property (includes participating in your own Plant a Tree program) and an on-site, guided tour (choices include bird watching at sunrise, a local medicine walk and exploring the rainforest). The five-night Girlfriend Getaway Package starts at $2,175 US. For more information or to book, visit www.laparios.com.
Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn
Come stay at the first certified sustainable hotel in Costa Rica, and the only property to achieve a perfect score on the Sustainable Tourism Certification program. This property’s Girlfriend Getaway Package includes three nights accommodation, three gourmet meals per day, transfers to and from the airport, a tour of the inn’s organic coffee plantation, a rainforest massage and a head-to-toe massage. The three-night Girlfriend Getaway Package starts at $1,843 US.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Whether it is a quick weekend getaway or a weeklong vacation, the Rivera Maya’s award-winning Ceiba del Mar Beach and Spa Resort is offering special savings this summer so guests can enjoy world class amenities and attractions for less.
Now through August 31, 2011, guests can book a stay for $129 (European Plan) per person per night, which includes breakfast, or for $192 (Luxury Gourmet Plan) per person per night, which includes all a-la-carte meals at the resort’s restaurants, as well as snacks and premium beverages, including wine by the glass and top-shelf liquors. (Offer does not include room service or mini bar purchases.) And for every additional night a guest stays, various amenities are added complimentary, including:
• Second additional night includes airport transfers.
• Third additional night includes a snorkeling visit to the National Reef Park in Puerto Morelos, which is the second largest coral reef in the world
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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
With vacation season on the horizon, travelers hunting for a bargain will find wallet-friendly options in Belize as hotels are slashing prices and boosting inclusive packages for the summer months.
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, ancient Maya temples, exotic wildlife and more, Belize provides an unforgettable vacation. And with a fixed exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1, travelers will naturally save even more on their summer trips.
Below is a list of specific offers that begin in the summer and run through Belize’s low season (October 31) and are tailored to fit a range of travelers - from couples seeking romantic escapes to families in search of safe summer destinations. Travelers can also find a full roster of hot summer deals on Belize’s official travel website, TravelBelize.org.
SUMMER ROMANCE FOR A BARGAIN
Featuring remote islands, mesmerizing waterfalls and affordable luxuries, Belize is the ideal getaway for couples in search of rousing romantic destinations. From seaside star-gazing on the white beaches of Placencia to breathtaking sunsets on the Maya temples of Caracol in the Cayo District, Belize’s awe-inspiring attractions are sure to sizzle any couple’s summer. While the country’s romance website, Belize In Love, features romantic packages offered year-round, below are two summer deals perfect for stirring up a little romance.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For divers who want to save money this year on their next dive vacation, there’s still time left to book Bonaire’s destination-wide Bonus Bonanza added value package, offering visitor discounts throughout the entire island.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Escape the winter blues for less with savings from Windstar Cruises. Enjoy 2-for-1 fares starting at $999 for select voyages departing Barbados and St. Martin. Offer expires January 31, 2011.
Southern Caribbean Explorations
Barbados - Barbados, 7-days
Category B staterooms from $999*, Savings up to 64%
January 23-March 27, 2011 on the Wind Surf
Caribbean Adventures
St. Martin - St. Martin, 7-days
Category B staterooms from $1,249*, Savings up to 64%
January 22-April 2, 2011 on the Wind Spirit
About Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises operates three sailing yachts known for their pampering without pretense and their ability to visit the hidden harbors and secluded coves of the world’s most treasured destinations. Carrying just 148 to 312 guests, the luxurious ships of Windstar cruise to nearly 50 nations, calling at 100 ports throughout Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. For more information including rates and itineraries contact a professional travel agent or call Windstar at 1-800-258-7245. Visit Windstar Cruises online at www.windstarcruises.com.
Windstar is a division of Ambassadors International Cruise Group, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ambassadors Cruise Group, LLC.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
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AirTran Airways, today launched a sale for travel to select Caribbean destinations with special low fares. Travelers may purchase these sale fares at airtran.com, from their local travel agent or via AirTran Airways’ reservations system at 1-800-AIR-TRAN. For Spanish, call 1-877-581-9842.
Following is a sample of one-way sale fares*. All fares are valid in either direction:
Sample Fares: |
Off-Peak |
/Peak |
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Akron/Canton - Punta Cana |
$139 |
$159 |
|
|
Atlanta - Aruba |
$129 |
$159 |
|
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Atlanta - Cancun |
$89 |
$99 |
|
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Atlanta - Montego Bay |
$109 |
$119 |
|
|
Atlanta - Nassau/Paradise Island |
$79 |
$89 |
|
|
Atlanta - Punta Cana |
$109 |
$129 |
|
|
Atlantic City - Cancun |
$119 |
$149 |
|
|
Baltimore/Washington (BWI) - Aruba |
$149 |
$179 |
|
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Baltimore/Washington (BWI) - Bermuda |
$99 |
$129 |
|
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Baltimore/Washington (BWI) - Cancun |
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Jamaica is rolling out the red carpet to welcome visitors for the 2010/2011 winter travel season, which officially kicks off December 15, 2010. Many of Jamaica’s hotels, resorts and attractions have created special packages for travelers who seek a warm weather escape from the plummeting temperatures up north.
From family fun and romantic retreats to winter bliss at the Ritz, here are a few choice deals:
Family Fun
Half Moon’s Family Escape package is valid from January 5 through April 15, 2011. The package includes daily nanny service for two children under four years old and complimentary breakfast. The property’s Very Important Little Persons Service (VILPS) will treat kids with a special gift upon arrival, access to Half Moon’s Anancy Children’s Village and Sleepy Treat. Rates begin at $690 for double occupancy for a Junior Suite. Booking deadline is April 11, 2011. www.halfmoon.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Families looking for a late summer or fall getaway can indulge in Breezes Curaçao’s wallet-friendly “Curaçao WOW” promotion. Guests visiting the Super-Inclusive resort August 15 through December 15 will enjoy five nights in the Dutch Caribbean and pay for only four, starting at just $580 per person per stay. Trading appointments and carpools for swimming and snorkeling, is even more appealing since children 12 and under stay free with paying adults.
For fun in the sun, Breezes offers a private white-sand beach and three swimming pools including a misting pool, children’s pool and adult pool with swim up bar. While mom and dad enjoy some peace and quiet, little ones are kept very happy playing with their peers at the resort’s 12,000 sq. ft. “Kids Club,” where hotel staff supervise and lend a helping hand during arts & crafts, sand castle competitions, and rock climbing – for those a bit older and more adventurous. A daily nanny-supervised nursery for infants and toddlers up to 2 years old is also available on a complimentary basis, allowing parents a true mini-vacation of their own. The resort also boasts an arcade and professional Circus Workshop for teenage guests and those young at heart, with flying trapeze and juggling lessons
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
This just in… 7 to 14 Day Caribbean Cruises Starting at $399
Princess Cruises has launched a new “Caribbean Super Sale” offering significant savings on select 2010 and 2011 voyages through the sparkling waters of the Caribbean. Travelers can choose to sail among the sun-swept islands for seven to 14 days, with fares starting at just $399.
Tropical itinerary options and pricing (per person, based on double occupancy) available in the Caribbean Super Sale include:
- Seven-day Classic Southern Caribbean on Caribbean Princess – starting at $399
- Seven-day Western Caribbean on Crown Princess – starting at $449
- Seven-day Eastern Caribbean on Ruby Princess – starting at $449
- Seven-day Southern Caribbean Explorer on Caribbean Princess – starting at $449
- Eight-day Bermuda & Eastern Caribbean on Caribbean Princess – starting at $549
- 10-day Eastern Caribbean Voyager or Southern Caribbean Medley on Emerald Princess or Star Princess – starting at $749
- 14-day Caribbean Collection on Grand Princess – starting at $999
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
New Summer Vacation Savings for Antigua and BVI Resorts Perfect for Families, Girls Getaways, Mini-Reunions
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".