I recently visited the delightful area of Turks & Caicos and stayed at Seven Stars Resort & Spa. Highly recommend this resort! Located on Grace Bay beach with 167 rooms/7 stories, we had oceanfront (#3607) junior suite—700 sf with kitchenette. We had a nice balcony with table/chairs and 2 lounge chairs. Accommodations also included a kitchenette with sink, stove, medium size refrigerator with ice maker and microwave. All flatware was included.

Daily breakfast is included. Restaurants include; Seven Stars restaurant, the Terrace, The Farm and The Deck. Live music every evening but Sunday at one of restaurants.

Nice beach (wide and long) and nice for taking walk on beach. The resort has 3 pools with 1 adults only (heated and salt water), 1 large for everyone and 1 wading pool for little ones. No swim-up pool bar but plenty of pool staff around to take drink and food orders. There are plenty of umbrellas and lounge chairs at pools and beach area.

Besides restaurants at resort, would recommend following; Hemmingway’s (located at Sands at Grace bay), Danny Buoys, Caicos Café and Embers (which just opened in Dec) and all walkable from resort and dinners ranged from $80.00 to $160.00 total for 2. Always check your bill and look if automatic service charge is added which usually is 10-15% and if choose, can leave additional amount. IGA store is walkable from resort and also shopping nearby.

Grace Bay Car rental was across street from resort. Just keep in mind left side driving and roundabouts.

Providenciales airport is small and crowded. We traveled Monday to Monday and no issues getting through customs. Would advise to avoid weekend travel!

As a top producer with Delta Vacations I have recently returned from Grand Cayman – what a great destination!

The Westin Grand Cayman was our host hotel located directly on Seven Mile Beach, just a 5-minute drive of the Strand Shopping Center and Galleria Plaza. Truly a luxury resort with all the amenities one could want. The rooms were quite nice. The fitness center offered daily activities like Beach Yoga, water fitness and more. The Hibiscus Spa offered a variety of spa treatments. Ferdinand’s Restaurant  was excellent and great service. The Lounge bar, Catboat Bar offered a nice open space to enjoy evening cocktails and evening music.

We looked at the Marriott Resort Grand Cayman.  When a hurricane came through they lost their beach. The hotel is undergoing a major renovation that started in July of 2023 and is not schedule to be completed until March of 2024. The hotel right now offers 299 rooms and suites however after the renovation they will be at 301 rooms as they will be adding two family suites. After the renovation, each room will have their own routers in the rooms with fiber option WiFi; this should make the connectivity much better. I would suggest waiting until renovations are done before staying here.

We also did a site visit at the Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers luxurious rooms and bath amenities in a resort that spans 144 acres of natural landscapes on renowned Seven Mile Beach. An unmatched collection of resort amenities and experiences await, including four signature restaurants and the Caribbean's only AAA Five Diamond dining experience, Blue by Eric Ripert. Other highlights include: The Ritz Carlton Spa; a Greg Norman-designed golf course; 3 clay and 2 grass tennis courts that are lit for night play; eco-adventures and family activities with Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment; plus Starfish Cay, an interactive water attraction for families.  The Cayman Cookout https://www.caymancookout.com/ is a famous food event on the island that the Ritz hosts. This is their 15^th Anniversary of the event and it is held in January. Very popular.

The Kimpton Seafire is the only 5-Star hotel in the Kimpton Brand and it shows.  The hotel is very stylish, with a modern yet retro flair.  It is located directly on Seven Mile and has a very wide stretch of beach (we learned the owner brought in additional sand).  The grounds are beautiful with lots of trees, flowering shrubs and lots of grass areas, which was different for the other properties we saw.

If the budget allows, this is the perfect resort for families.  There are many rooms categories that can be combined (connecting can be confirmed prior to arrival) as well as many suites.  We all loved the Two Bedroom Family Suite Oceanview that has bunk beds as well as a sofa sleeper underneath.  It is perfect for large or multigenerational families.  The rooms are chic and very clean.  I loved the black and white motif with a pop of pink.  The resort is very eco-friendly and is trying to remove single use plastic items.  All rooms with have a water pitcher and bottle refill stations are found throughout the property.  Most rooms have some sort of a small kitchen as well. The Kimpton has a wonderful complimentary waterpark for children with cabanas that are available for rent.  Camp Seafire is an additional cost and we were told it is quite popular.

Activities:

Cayman Turtle Centre-Tourist Attraction that breeds and researches The Green Sea Turtle.  You can view and swim with the turtles.  We took a guided tour and then we were left to tour the rest of the facilities on our own.  There is also a bird sanctuary, Smiley the crocodile, shark reef, and butterfly house along with a fresh water pool and water slide. This would be a great place for cruisers to spend a half day or day on the Island.

Pure Art Gallery & Gifts-KY1-1105Way, Grand Cayman Grand Cayman, 5 Denham Thompson Way, George Town KY1-1109, Cayman Island
Pure Art Gallery & Gifts charming Cayman cottage has exhibited and sold local Fine Art, prints, jewelry, souvenirs and collectibles for over thirty years. Located just a mile south of George Town on South Church Street, this treasure trove of island gifts and art is sure to delight. Gift Certificates, Corporate or Wedding, home, Anniversary, kids corner, Birthday, relocating or gifts for yourself abound at Pure Art. Our Cayman Christmas Corner is year-round! This is a great place to have your clients go for gifts. If they want local coffee, salts, hot sauces, Ronnie from Cayman Islands Tourist Board recommends going to the local grocery stores.

My Bar & Seaharvest Restaurant- 390 South Church St Grand Cayman KY KY1-1106, S Church St, George Town, Cayman Islands
This is a great local bar at The Sunset House which is a hotel for divers by divers.  We sat at the semi-outdoor bar and tasted a Caybrew (Cayman Beer) and had some bites.  Great local vibe if you want to stay away from the more touristy bars and restaurants.

Ms. Piper’s Kitchen + Garden-22 Piper Way, KY1-1201, Cayman Islands
This is a MUST stop!  Located at Hampton Inn and set in the backyard within the heart of 7MB, Ms. Piper’s cottage is a collection of keepsakes of her travels, inspiring our dishes, cocktails, décor, music and thoughtful details. Her kitchen is a testament of a journey greatly lived. An imprint of the cultural and spiritual life she has pursued and enjoyed. A celebration of graceful aging; that is abundant and eternal. We are creating a meaningful space with a nod to the free spirits, the stylish vagabonds, the young at heart and effortless feminine energy. Ms. Piper exists in our dreams. She is a figment of our imagination, yet lives in all of us, whispering: “LIVE A LITTLE.”  Make sure you stop by for lunch or dinner and try the Cassava Cheese Bread. Wednesday nights they have local bands play.

I have just returned from a lovely stay in Cancun! We stayed at the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya-adults only/AI.   This was formerly Secrets Capri. The rooms had a nice layout with double sink with separated toilet/shower area.  Our ocean view room had a beautiful view looking over pool area and ocean.

The large pool area provided plenty of chairs.  The center area of pool had swim up pool bar and at one end had pool games like volleyball/basketball.   Nice beach area with plenty of chairs also and sandy/nice walking beach.  Very little seaweed while we were there.   Pool and beach service very good for drinks and bottled water.

There was a variety of restaurants with great service but food was just OK.  Extra charge for lobster of $79.00 pp and for Tomahawk streak of $99.00 pp.  Buffet for breakfast was nice with selections/variety.  The have a Sports Bar but does not open till 530p every day.  Mexican night around pool the one evening with buffet and music/show.  Other entertainment for evening in lobby area with violinist and another evening  with piano player.

The hotel has spa with variety of treatments. The couples 50 min massage was $330.00 plus tip.  At end of hotel lot line on the beach there was a tent set up offering variety of massages and quit a few guest  from hotel doing the massages and said were excellent so we did couple massage for one hour and only $110.00 plus tip and was excellent!

We also stayed at the Riu Palace Kukulkan-adults only/AI.  This is new build that opened Nov 2022 and located in hotel zone/Cancun. Nice room layout with double sink with separate toilet/shower areas.  We had a nice Oceanview overlooking pool area and ocean.  Great buffet with lots of options and even had eggs benedict which never seen with buffet and was very good.  Variety of restaurants with the Steakhouse having Caribbean lobster and Ribeye steak and no extra charge. 

The resort has 4 pools with one for Elite Club (which Riu just started at select resorts), one with swim up bar, one  infinity pool and one with pool games.  All pools rather small and all by each other in same area.

The lobby area was beautiful with all black/white marble.   Had nice lobby bar area with plenty of seats and on other side of bar was coffee bar.   Evening entertainment was typical type Mexican shows but one night did have Rock band playing music from 70/80’s and another night was tribute band/ABBA—both very good.  Riu has started back up the Riu Party with 2 days during the week start 2pm and other 2 days during week is 7pm.  It is shuttle that takes guest over to the Riu Caribe on adult side of property and has foam party/DJ. 

Elite Club exclusive features: 

• Premium room locations
• Dedicated check-in area & Elite Club wristband
• Confirmed late check-out until 1 PM and early check-in based on availability
• Exclusive welcome gift
• In-room aromatherapy
• Upgraded in-room liquor dispenser with top brands
• Upgraded minibar with snacks and bottle of wine
• Exclusive restaurant for breakfast, including a-la-carte menu options
• Access to exclusive premium branded drinks at "Daiquiri" Lobby Bar and Lounge Bar
• Dinner reservation available for the a-la-carte restaurants

I saw very few guest with the black band which was Elite Club and asked how they liked the Elite part and some said would probably not do again as did not feel it was worth it.  One mentioned the exclusive restaurant for breakfast to order off the menu that they liked buffet better for more selections.

This was a bucket list trip for us! We spent two nights in Paris at Best Western Premier Le Swann. Only 80 rooms with breakfast included daily. Located in 8th Arrondissement and near Gare Saint-Lazare Rail Station. This is a quieter area of Paris with restaurants, shops, bakery and close to walk to Galeries Lafayette, Opera Garnier and Moulin Rouge. About 10 min walk to Montmartre area and the Louvre.

We did 1.5 hour tour of Paris Highlights with SoFrenchtour.com. You ride in a cute little vintage convertible car. Our guide was Pierre, who gave us all details on sights and stopped at several to take pictures. On the second day we did a morning tour with Emmanuel’s Hidden Gems and experience Marais area of Paris on small group tour. He is native/local offering unique walking tours of Paris—off the beaten path. He does several small group tours like Montmartre, Left Bank, Latin Quarter and more. Highly recommend!

July 12-19 on Avalon Tapestry II roundtrip Paris to Normandy. Our cabin was Panorama Suite #309 with wall to wall/floor to ceiling panoramic windows. We had plenty of room in cabin and storage/closet and drawers for clothes and luggage fit prefect underneath bed to store for the week. I have been on two other River Cruises, Uniworld on Rhine and Viking on Danube - all very comparable. We did find the Avalon staff was very friendly/great service that would put them step above other two cruise lines I have been on. Our Captain Valentin was only 30 years old! Always around, very friendly, easy to talk to and meet everyone when coming back from tours asking how everything was on trip.

The food was good with excellent variety. Sky Deck area only was used once for grill lunch/outdoors. Wine/beer included at lunch/dinner. Evening Happy Hour with ½ off drinks was 6p-7p right before dinner and last 10-15 mins the tour director would highlight the next day excursions. Ship carries 128 passengers and we had 95 total. Each stop along the way had variety of excursions to pick from—active, slower pace, etc. Evening entertainment was mostly piano/music.

We took a number of shore excursions with Avalon – all were excellent and informative. One highlight was Caudebec, the stop for excursions for Normandy. We did the Memorials and Landing Beaches and also saw the US Cemetery. This was so moving and to see the 100 foot cliff climbed by US Rangers on D-Day invasion. This trip was 10 hours with a two hour drive each way.

Avalon exceeded our expectations and would not hesitate to sail with them again!

We spent the first three nights in Florence at Rivoli Boutique Hotel. This former 15th-century Franciscan convent and located in historic center of Florence. Great location and is just a four block walk to Piazza Santa Maria Novella where you’ll find cafes and other attractions like Duomo and Academy of Fine Arts where the statue of David is. The hotel is also close to Novella train station.

Florence is such an easy city to get around. Took 3 ½ hour walking tour the first day with a local operator. We had a small group - was great way to get the layout of getting around Florence for our next two days. We did take another tour with Walks of Italy that was into the Duomo with access to outside level (had to climb 150 stairs) and also admission to see David/museum.

Florence is great starting point with combining with trip to Tuscany. The surrounding Tuscany region is known for its Chianti wine region and has beautiful scenic landscapes and Tuscan towns. We walked four blocks to the train station from our hotel. Our train left at 10:20am and we were in Certaldo in less than hour. Certalo is small hilltop town and this is where we spent our next six nights at Villa Pozzo. This villa was nice with two bedroom units that shared a common area of kitchen with off kitchen couch and outdoor patio area. Villa does have pool. Our day trips were all day each day to various towns in Tuscany.

San Gimignano: had walking tour of the walled city/hillside with medieval towers and 12th century church and some free time. Winery at top of hill to try local wines and were very good—6.00 euro bottle. Afternoon was Tuscan 4 course cooking class at an outdoor cooking school. Made breakfast, appetizer, fresh pasta with a sauce and dessert. Lots of fun! Website: https://www.montesecookingexperience.com/en/

Lucca/Santa Maria A Monte: Started in town of Lucca on Serchio river that is Renaissance walls encircling the historic city. Great area for cycling tours. Main Piazza of San Michele with beautiful Church, Basilica and Clock Tower. Wine tasting/dinner and tour of vineyard at Santa Maria A Monte in famous wine-growing area noted for Chianti wines.

Pisa/Bocelli: Walking tour of Pisa where had tour of church and Leaning Tower of Pisa. Then off to Lajatico which is town of renowned tenor, Andrea Bocelli. Tour of museum and tasting of Bocelli wines with dinner. Did get my picture with his brother, niece and nephew which run the business.
www.bocelli1831.com 

Outside Florence area/Torciano: tour of outside of Florence with beautiful views of the whole city.
Visit to Tenuta Torciano for wine experience of tastings/pairing class and late lunch.
Montepulciano/Motalcino: Vistied Podere Il Casale. https://podereilcasale.com/en/

Organic farm, restaurant with tour around farm and followed by wine/cheese Tasting. The scenery from here was so beautiful! Next top to Saint Antimo Abbey. Website: https://www.antimo.it/

Tour of church and also local Monks make soaps, oils, beer and more.
Last stop was at Brunello Vineyard for tour/wine tasting at Piombaia Cantina/Wine Cellar. 

Oct was perfect time for visit to Tuscany/Florence. Temperatures were comfortable with cooler in a.m./evening and mid-day/afternoon warmer like 65-70. Wine harvest is done early Sept and was just starting with Olive trees when we were there. So besides the wines, you have Olive oils to try also. Winery/Olive oil tasting connected below to Villa: https://www.winetourism.com/experience/wine-tasting-and-tour-at-villa-il-pozzo/ 

This dining capital of the Caribbean offers visitors the unique experience of enjoying 2 distinct cultures on one stunning tropical island. Dutch St. Maarten is known for being lively and cosmopolitan, while French St. Martin is more tranquil and has the flair of San Tropez. This unique island also offers a wide range of accommodations, ranging from intimate boutique hotels that dot French St. Martin to larger, full-service resorts that showcase Dutch St. Maarten. Accommodations range from moderate to luxurious.

This was an incentive trip for Central Travel top Delta Vacations producers. We stayed at Sonesta Ocean Point Resort and did site visits at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Secrets St Martin and La Samanna,St. Martin. Originally scheduled for November of 2020, COVID pushed the trip back to May of 2021 and we were anxious to see the island and experience current COVID-19 protocols.

Sightseeing and general information:
The island requires a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 120 hour of arrival. Our group tested at Kroger/Little Clinic in Holland, OH and CVS in Milan, MI. Travelers must upload negative results with application to be approved and purchase insurance (cost is $30.00) which is done right with application. The approval is emailed to you within 12 hours and we all received ours than 30 mins after submitted. You must print off and show on arrival your negative test, insurance and application approval. You will not be able to do online check in with Delta due to having to show all paperwork as well at DL counter.

The hotels all required a temperature check upon arrival and schedule the COVID test for return to US which must be done within 72 hours of departure. Unlike other areas of the Caribbean and Mexico where the resort pays the test fee, the $65 cost for the test here is user pay.

Loterie Farm Nature Preserve: 135 acres nature reserve that started 20 years ago. The preserve offers a swimming pool with natural spring water and is open from 10a-6p. It also offers a restaurant and bar, 9-hole golf course, seven miles of hiking trails and two levels of zip lines. Cabanas may be rented for all day (190 euros) with max of 10 people. Loterie Farm is about 30-40 mins. from the cruise ship pier.
Website: http://loteriefarm.com/

Rain Forest Adventure/Flying Dutchman: Opens 10a-4pm. The Big Three for the full experience includes Flying Dutchman which you are strapped in and sit in and enjoy zip line off top of Mountain (this is the experience our group did!) You take chair lift up the mountain to get to this. Beautiful views of St. Maarten and surrounding islands. The bar at the top offers a “shot” before taking the ride which is quite helpful. You are given a net to cover your hair and also helmet. Must wear closed toe shoes. Other two experiences with the 3-pass is Schooner Ride—which is like a water slide and Sentry Hill Zipline. Cost for 3 pass is $139.00 per person. There is a nice Museum on History of the Island, gift shop, restaurant and bar.
Website: https://rainforestadventure.com/st-maarten-top-attractions-zipline-sky-explorer-schooner/

My stay at Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Cancun was excellent! Situated just steps from the ocean, Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Cancun is an adults-only tower featuring all ocean-view suites, each equipped with a private balcony with whirlpool tub. We enjoyed exclusive amenities and facilities, such as a private beach club area, exclusive tower restaurant and premium beverages. We also had access to all amenities and facilities at the adjacent Iberostar Selection Cancun, located just steps away.

All rooms feature ocean views, a private balcony with whirlpool tub, private check-in and check out, access to private beach club with concierge service, one round of complimentary golf per adult per 3-night stay or two rounds per adult per 4-night stay or longer, air-conditioning, welcome cava bottle with fruit platter, minibar restocked daily with beer, soft drinks and bottled water, two premium bottles of wine, superior snack package with assorted cookies, nuts and chips, 24-hour room service, sound system, smart TV, coffee maker and nightly turndown service. Bathrooms feature a double vanity sink, shower and upgraded towels.

There is only one restaurant on the Coral Level side which is buffet for breakfast/lunch and in evening is ala carte. There is also an outdoor Beach Grill by pool area. The other four restaurants at the sister property and are Mexican, Steakhouse (very good), Italian and Japanese. Service and food were great.

The infinity pool area provided plenty of lounge chairs and overlooks the beach area. The swim up pool bar was closed due to COVID. They did offer bar service around the pool area and also beach. The beach was wide and long (no seaweed) and very walkable. The beach had lounge chairs, umbrellas and Bali beds.

I would recommend this resort to couples, golfers and active travelers!

Secrets Akumal is located a little over an hour from the Cancun airport and just 20 miles from Playa Del Carmen.  I arranged private, non-stop transfers and it was well worth it.  This Delta Vacations Preferred Gold 5-star resort Resort has 434 rooms and was about 30% capacity in early September of 2020.  During my week stay, Mexico went to next level (Yellow) and is now allowing up to 60% capacity at resorts. The resort and staff went above and beyond in all the cleaning protocol and we felt very safe at all times. All restaurants were using a bar code you could scan onto your phone to see menus instead of printed ones.

Some limited activities at the resort and couple facilities were closed like Sports Bar and Beach Bar but both are open now.  Even with no bar service on beach there was still plenty of staff coming around for drinks and also lunch menu to order food from and have delivered to your beach chair. There was no  water sports equipment offered but I recommend bringing own snorkeling mask and you can rent life vests for $6 per day a short walk up the beach.  They also offer tours for snorkeling, fishing and sailing. Akumal means “place of turtles” and great snorkeling off beach to view turtles, sting ray, and all kinds of fish that you just walk off beach to swim/snorkel around. 

The gym was closed due to COVID but water aerobics were offered and water bikes that went into pool and had classes with max of 10.  Just down also past the Dive shop is walkway into town and takes about 5 mins.  Is very small/Mexican town with couple restaurants/stores – a fun walk.

The resort has 3 pools (one is quiet pool in garden view section), a great beach and a variety of restaurants - all were good with great service. Only 2 restaurants (beside buffet) are casual with rest require men to wear long pants.  They have offered a Wine Cellar dinner that paired wines with your special meal and cost $120.00 per couple and also Chef Table same price – well worth it! 

We were lucky enough to get upgraded to Preferred Club.  The main difference is private check in/check out, and one restaurant open for breakfast just for preferred club, also smaller breakfast and snacks throughout the day in lounge and also bar service (love the Blueberry Margarita!).

I recommend this resort for all adults ages.  Love the resort and plan on going back with friends!

My experience in Turks & Caicos was amazing with Delta Vacations! We visited Wymara Resort and Villas,The Sands at Grace Bay, The Shore Club and The Palms.

The Shore Club is Turks & Caicos' new, premier luxury resort with elegant suites and picturesque villas overlooking stunning ocean vistas.

This is a very elegant resort experience with only 106 rooms and also has six villas. The entry level rooms are junior suites and include kitchenettes with microwave, mini-fridge and coffee machine. All the suites (we had 1-bedroom) have full equipped kitchen, living room and dining area—beautiful rooms! Rooms can connect with bedrooms and junior suites – perfect for large families. The partial oceanview suites have great views—more like ocean front!

The Villas are identical and have six bedrooms and an elevator to 2nd floor. Each comes with butler service. There is a lovely walkway path to the beach with ample lounge chairs. The Villas provide commentary private transfers from the airport and also have the Club/Fast Track at airport on departure.

There are four pools with one being adults only. The resort has four restaurants and three bars including the beach bar. The Rope Bar is very interesting with ropes hanging from ceiling and a fire pit.

The Dune Spa was amazing – it embraces a holistic approach that draws from the environment of Long Bay Beach. Well worth a visit!

There is free shuttle service every hour between Shore Club, Sands at Grace Bay and The Palms

What a wonderful experience to discover the magic of Alaska by land on a journey that included remarkable lodges and special outings that allowed for immersion in the destination with Princess Cruises!

I stayed at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge for a reception and dinner and a one night stay. My room had an excellent view of the Chena River. This lodge is open year round and is ideal spot to view the Aurora borealis in the wintertime.

The following morning we cruised on a Sternwheeler Riverboat down the Chena River. This fully narrated three-and-a-half-hour tour allowed us to see some of Alaska's wildlife along the riverbank. You'll see one of Alaska's bush pilots taking off right from the river. At a riverside fish camp, learn how Alaska natives traditionally prepared salmon for smoking and drying. Also see the hard work of an Iditarod dog kennel, run by the family of the late Iditarod champion Susan Butcher. The cruise also stops for one hour at Chena Indian Village then transferred by motor coach to Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge where we participated in a site inspection followed by Dinner at the lodge.

The next day we enjoyed Denali National Park on the upgraded Tundra Wilderness Tour. This tour was amazing – the wildlife and scenery were unbelievable! Our evening dinner was at Fannie Q's Saloon. Our experience continued the following day when we took a motorcoach to Talkeetna, the inspiration for the TV show Northern Exposure. That evening we stayed at the Mt. McKinley Wilderness Lodge where we participated in a site inspection followed by Dinner at the lodge before retiring for the evening. The lodge features great views of the Alaskan range – one of my favorites.

Our transfer back to Anchorage was delayed due to the fires. Princess had priority and received a special ‘Pilot” escort back to the airport so we did not miss our flight. There is a reason we work with Princess – they really step up to the table when problems arise!

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience in Paris and visited several hotels.  My favorite was our host hotel Sofitel Le Faubourg. This property is a Chic boutique type hotel with only 147 rooms and suites with contemporary design but with look and feel of 18th century.  It is in an excellent location to major store for shopping (expensive!) and an easy to walk to Opera area and Lafeyette Galleries which is a department store for some shopping.  The US Embassy is close by and the street is guarded but no problems walking by it.

Our rooms were deluxe room category that has one double bed, 270 sq. ft., TV, CD player, minibar, safe, work desk, free Wi-Fi and Hermes toiletries.  Buffet breakfast included each morning and was very good with wide range of food to choose from (croissants were awesome).  There is a gourmet restaurant at hotel for lunch and dinner but we did not eat here for either.  There is 24 hour room service, a spa and fitness center.  The bar in the hotel had a fireplace and very Parisian style.  There are a few local café/restaurants nearby as well. 

General thoughts on Paris:
Our tour by Walks (which is Signature) of Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle (stain glass is a must see) and the Concierge was excellent.  Violet, our tour guide, was extremely knowledgeable, personable and funny.  We all learned so much on the tour and would recommend it to anyone.  Walking tours are great way to see the sights and plan ahead!  Max on this tour is 15 and have headsets to hear the guide.

The metro is easy to use for major tourist sights, but difficult to use for smaller areas.  Uber was relatively inexpensive and much easier to get around.  A private transfer to Charles de Gaulle is the ONLY way to go.  The traffic was crazy and our driver was great.  Allow every bit of 3 hours with security tight and it does take time to get through it all.

Stop and enjoy a pastry and coffee.  Taste Paris and take in sights that are like no other!

As one of Central Travel’s top producers for Delta Vacations, I was part of an incentive award trip this January to the Riviera Maya.  We did site inspections at Ocean Riviera Paradise, Hotel Xcaret, Unico 20° 87°, Zoetry Paraiso De La Bonita, Generations Riviera Maya, by Karisma and our host resort was the beautiful Grand Velas Riviera Maya.  All resorts were 4.5 – 5 Star properties and we saw all room categories in each resort.  There is certainly something for everyone in the Riviera Maya!
 
I enjoyed the Zoetry Paraiso De La Bonita very much.  Part of the AMResorts collection, it is a luxury boutique resort and focused on wellness, serenity, and romance.  A small hotel, along a private beach and 14 acres of tropical gardens, the architecture has the Mayan feel.  100 rooms that include the addition of Impression section of the resort that just opened Dec 2017.  Every suite has a name, not a number with colors different in the rooms.  All rooms have a living room and bathroom with a sunken bath for two, private terrace (some have private plunge pools) and handmade beach bag. 
 
Dining options like AAA Four Diamond at La Canoa, Kaax with Mexican, El Chiringuito which is on the beach for more casual open –air and Oceanside and open for lunch/dinner for a more casual dress.  Room service also available.
 
The Spa, which is Thalasso is a certified spa and guests receive one Temazcal steam room ceremony per guest and a Thalasso Seawater experience per guest. They also have a private marina with a 48-foot catamaran – each guest receives a one-hour sunset sail.  Also, daily shopping excursions by boat to local fishing village included.
 
There are two dining options with Unami which is Asian Fusion and Chef’s Table – you may even do your own cooking.  I would be happy to assist with your next journey!

I had the opportunity to visit one of the lovely Spice Islands of the Caribbean, Grenada. Located in the southeastern Caribbean just north of Trinidad and South America, Grenada is home to one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque capital cities.  With its unspoiled landscapes, it has the perfect balance, appealing to the interest of adventure lovers, beach dwellers, or couples looking for a romantic destination.

On this picturesque and petite island, you can go for a swim in the crystal clear waters of Grand Anse Beach to trekking through the rainforest of Seven Sisters Waterfalls, all within a day.  This English-speaking nation has some of the friendliest people in the Caribbean, so, even if you happen to get lost, you will surely encounter other aspects of our vibrant culture and hospitality!

Working with the Grenada Tourism board, I scheduled several resort visits while there including; LaLuna Beach Resort and Villas, Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel and Spa, Radisson Beach, Spice Island Beach Resort, Mount Cinnamon Resort and Beach Club and my favorite, Sandals LaSource. We were upgraded to the Pink Gin Oceanfront Honeymoon Penthouse Club Level and on the 6th floor which had beautiful views of the beach.  You definitely want to stay in the Pink Gin area if you are a beach lover.  

Delta Vacations offers excellent packages to Grenada and efficient connections via Atlanta in the winter months.  I have been to almost every island in the Caribbean, Grenada is certainly one of my favorites!

I have returned from a lovely sailing on the Harmony of the Seas with Royal Caribbean International, the newest addition to Royal Caribbean's award-winning Oasis Class fleet. 

The world's biggest ship with the world's best features just got even better. There's no turning back once you take the plunge 10 stories into the mysteries of the deep on the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss, as well as the exhilarating multilevel Perfect Storm Slides. The enhanced the unique experiences that have made Royal Caribbean the best cruise line overall 12 years in a row has gotten even better. 

Let the kids explore Splashaway Bay, take a tree-lined stroll through Central Park, or find your own haven in any of the other seven iconic onboard neighborhoods. Then sip a post-dinner cocktail crafted by a robot in the unique Bionic Bar, or sit back and watch for the first time at sea, Broadway's hit Musical Grease.   You’ll love the entire experience!

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent Romantic Danube sailing on the Viking Longship Torsailing from Nuremberg to Budapest. During this 8-day journey, I encountered the grand cities and quaint villages along the celebrated Danube River and explored both sides of Hungary’s capital, traditional, hilly Buda, and cosmopolitan Pest. I had the opportunity to witness Vienna’s imperial architecture and tour medieval towns in Austria’s Wachau Valley.  The food was amazing and we savored the tastes of authentic dishes, learn about local legends and I certainly understand why Strauss immortalized the “Blue Danube” in his waltz! 

At end of Viking cruise, we took a flight on Czech Air to Prague and spent two nights at the Best Western Plus Hotel Meteor Plaza – it was a perfect location to Town Square.  I arranged for our group to have two private walking tours of Prague with our Ensemble on location provider, Joann VIP Travel. We did an afternoon walking tour on our day of arrival and a morning walking tour the next day visiting all the major sights; Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Strahov Monastery and Josefov, the Jewish Quarter. Our guide was amazing! Our evening ended with group farewell dinner together at Zvonice Restaurant. This restaurant is located in old Bell Tower about a 2-3 block walk from the hotel.  The venue was amazing! After dinner, we went to the 10th floor of Tower (top floor) to view the city lights – a great ending to a wonderful trip!  

Oceania’s newest addition, Sirena is well worth the wait!  Sirena was formerly the Ocean Princess and after $40 million in dry-dock, she became part of Oceania fleet Apr 27th.  With just 684 staterooms she is the perfect mid-size ship.  Nearly 70% of cabins have a private balcony. The ship features a fitness center, spa (Canyon Ranch), 6 bars and lounges and a casino.

The Grand Dining Room has open seating for breakfast/lunch/dinner.  Lunch transforms into Jacques Bistro—like a casual Parisian eatery serving Chef Jacques Pepin’s signature dishes. Two other dining options for dinner are Red Ginger and Tuscan Steak. Country Club casual is the dress so no suits required for the gentleman or gowns needed for ladies.  There was never a crowd or waiting line to get on/off the ship.  We only had to tender into Santorini—all other ports were docked with close to walk to town or had complimentary shuttle provided. 

My itinerary was Greek Charms starting in Athens, Santorini, Katakolon, Corfu, Montenegro, Split Croatia) and ended in Venice.  I experienced several excursions and would be happy to assist you on your next Greek island sailing. Oceania is a wonderful option for clients looking to move up from the traditional large ships.  The ship is intimate, luxurious, exceptional personalized service with the country club casual ambiance—loved it!

In May of 2016, I stayed Breathless Punta Cana. This exciting all-adult destination in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic combines captivating beauty and chic style with non-stop adventure and Unlimited-Luxury®. While at Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa, mix and mingle with people from around the world or reconnect with those that mean the world to you. Featuring 750 ultra-contemporary suites with private terraces, Breathless Punta Cana is the epitome of luxury and excitement.

The resort boasts gourmet unlimited dining and no reservations required at all nine restaurants. Stunning pools and white sand beach, nightly entertainment, daily activities and spa.  For added luxury stay in the X-Hale Club where every room has their own whirlpool on the balcony and exclusive club lounge/private beach area and more!

Riu Palace Antillas, Aruba - Adults Only

In October of 2014, I visited Aruba and stayed at the Riu Palace Antillas. Located on the white-sand shores of Palm Beach, the Riu Palace Antillas is a fantastic all-inclusive, 24-hour, adults-only resort is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the sun!

This oceanfront resort offers a spa and beauty salon, complete entertainment program and water sports such as windsurfing, snorkeling, and kayaking.  Enjoy colorful Caribbean cuisine at the buffet restaurant and taste a world of flavors in the four themed restaurants. For refreshing cocktails, dancing and casino games, there are also several bars throughout the property.

Rent a jeep for the day and explore – a great way to see the island!

I loved my experience at Club Med Ixtapa Pacific  - great resort!  The Club Med all-inclusive resort of Ixtapa Pacific is located in Mexico, on the Pacific Coast, 161 miles north of Acapulco.  Situated 4 kilometers to the west of the Zona Hotelera, this is one of the few Club Meds offering special programs for infants and toddlers, and as such attracts the family trade, much like its Cancun colleague. 

A heavenly Mexican hacienda-style family resort nestled between the Sierra Madre & the Ocean.  This upscale family resort is perfect when traveling with babies and children. It is also the best destination for Spa lovers, beach and sports vacations.

Whether you just want to relax, or participate in every activity, this resort will satisfy your every needs. Both children and adults alike can decide when and what they would like to engage themselves in throughout the day. Sports, fitness classes, discovery programs and more are at your disposal. 

In July of 2012, I experienced a Uniworld River Cruise on board the River Countess.  The Rhine Discover itinerary from Nuremberg to Basel is delightful along the Rhine and Main Rivers.  River cruising allows you an up close, intimate view of villages and castles to medieval towns and grand cities that are not available on ocean cruise ships.  Never wait in long lines to get on/off the ship, never tender to a port and never experience rough water - only smooth and peaceful sailings.  The River Countess holds just 134 guests with world-class dining and shore excursions included at each stop.  River cruising with Uniworld – you’re going to love the experience!

Finally, I had the chance to take my commodore cruise with Cunard on the QM2!  

Our cabin, 12015 was inside on deck 12, 157 sq feet and lots of storage and bigger bathroom area than the normal.  Deck 12 also has the Pavilion Pool/bar –which is enclosed for cooler weather time.  We dined in the Britannia Restaurant. 

There are several bar/lounges to choose from and offering a variety of entertainment from jazz, pianist, singers, classical—all wonderful and great to enjoy before or after dinner. 

All the shows onboard were excellent - even a Royal Academy of Arts doing Canterbury Tales. Several daily activities are offered—some at small cost like watercolor classes ($35.00).  Also, Illuminations is where the Planetarium is—a definite must to do during the cruise.

The full-service spa onboard and nice size gym was great.  Dress onboard is pretty casual during the day (even nice jeans/shirt is fine) but in evening is a bit dressy – especially the three Formal nights we had. 

A transatlantic crossing is one of those bucket lists things a lot of clients have and I must say, you should take the time to experience one.  The Queen Mary 2 was a delightful trip!