Girlfriend getaways can be one of the best types of therapy. But it can be challenging to find time and plan for you and your gal pals to get away. To make things easier, here are some of the top vacation ideas that you and your girlfriends can indulge in this year–whether it be for a long weekend or an entire week!

Spa Vacations

If you and your girls can only swing a weekend trip, a local spa getaway is a perfect option for you. You are likely to find a spa getaway within a 1–2-hour drive from your home based on your location. Spa resorts focus on providing their guests with a relaxing stay that will leave them feeling like a brand-new person. Most spa getaways offer packages that can include massages, facials,
saunas, steam rooms, and more! You’ll also be able to venture out into the town to indulge in local cuisine and make the most out of your trip. A spa weekend is an absolute must if you and your girlfriends need some major TLC. 

All-Inclusive Resorts

All-inclusive resorts are a great trip option for a group of girlfriends because it takes the guesswork out of vacation planning. Staying at an all-inclusive resort ensures that you won’t have to worry about what restaurants to go to, where to grab a drink, and which beach to sunbathe on. Most resorts will also provide free entertainment and help you plan excursions during your stay! Try looking at an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean for stunning beaches and affordable stays.

Tulum

Over the past few years, the popularity of Tulum (a gorgeous beachside town about an hour and a half drive from Cancun) has boomed. Tulum offers impressive historical sites like the Mayan ruins, magnificent wildlife including underwater caves, relaxing beaches, and a vibrant nightlife scene. One of the best things about Tulum is that it caters to many different people with ranging tastes. A trip to Tulum can be an affordable or a luxury experience based on your budget.

Las Vegas

Are you looking to party? Then look no further than Las Vegas! Las Vegas is one of the top recommended destinations for groups of friends because it’s all about partying and having a good time. But don’t let the party scene scare you off. Vegas still offers many activities for those who aren’t into the party scene or need a break from late nights. Think top-rated restaurants, stunning landscapes, and concerts/shows! You can truly never be bored on a Vegas trip with your girlfriends.

New York City

NYC is another city that provides endless entertainment for anyone in your group. Looking to try the hottest new cuisines? Itching for a unique cocktail? Want to grab an Instagram picture of the NYC skyline? Headed to the hottest art gallery? NYC has all that to offer and more! Depending on your budget, you can opt for a location right in the heart of the city, or you can explore new boroughs and areas in Brooklyn or Queens. The best time to visit NYC is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather isn’t too hot or cold!

When's the last time you had some girls' trip therapy? If the only thing stopping you is time to plan it all out, make sure to contact me, and I can map out the perfect vacation filled with sunshine, cocktails, and laughs!

Destination weddings are all the rage these days, with couples choosing to tie the knot in far-flung locations including Mexico, Hawaii, Jamaica and more. But given that most of these dream weddings are often held at resorts you’re probably not familiar with, it can be tricky to narrow down which one is best suited to your needs and style. That’s where we come in!  After months of research, we’ve narrowed down a few of our favorite resorts that cater specifically to destination wedding couples.  Enjoy these 5 amazing destination wedding resorts that could be perfect for YOUR destination wedding. 

1  | El Dorado Casitas Royale

Surrounded by lush jungles and white sandy beaches, El Dorado Casitas Royale is the perfect place for a dream wedding in Mexico. The resort offers packages that include an on-site wedding planner, flowers, music, and more — all you have to do is show up! After your big day, couples can enjoy their honeymoon at one of the resort’s many private plunge pools or swim-up suites.

And for couples looking for a one-of-a-kind exclusive wedding experience for your adult-only wedding, consider the Private Enclave Wedding Experience. This wedding package is your chance to reserve an entire private section of the resort, inclusive of your own private enclave with private pool exclusive to your group, personalized butler service, private events including a Mexican Beach Fiesta with Live Mexican Trio, plus luxury accommodations and so much more. 

At the end of your wedding celebration, you’ll be whisked away to an overwater bungalow or beachfront villa for your honeymoon.  

2  | The Grand Velas, Riviera Maya

There are many reasons to host your wedding at a luxurious hotel and spa resort such as the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. This exquisite all-inclusive hideaway is located in the magical Mexican Riviera Maya, which is known for its picturesque beaches and abundant wildlife. 

The resort is just steps away from world class beaches and an abundance of fun activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, aqua aerobics and tons of amazing excursions. 

From the Pinterest worthy grand ballrooms to the exquisite outdoor venues, and the world-class service to the executive chefs, Grand Velas has you covered. 

With a gorgeous wedding chapel that seats up to 150 guests, an ocean terrace that is the perfect setting for an intimate reception, and an oceanfront wedding deck that offers stunning views, this destination wedding resort is truly jaw dropping. 

They only do a handful of weddings per year, ensuring that you receive the attention and help you deserve. Your big day should be as unique as your relationship, so let’s find your ideal setting at Grand Velas Riviera Maya.

 

3  |  Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall Jamaica

When you think about the most romantic destinations for a wedding, we invite you to consider the magical island of Jamaica. And after your dreamy wedding experience at Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall Jamaica, you’ll be glad you did. This newly designed resort offers numerous amenities catering to the needs of those celebrating their special day.

Weddings are a memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experience that deserve to be planned with care and style. If you want your wedding to be perfect, do what the stars are doing and book at Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall Jamaica.

Another benefit to hosting your destination wedding in Jamaica is that legal weddings are easy and inexpensive.

 

4  | Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos

There are a lot of reasons why people choose to have their destination wedding in Mexico. Some of these reasons include close friends, family, time-off work, and the warm weather. Other reasons include the nightlife and of course the fantastic beaches. Whatever your reason is for choosing to have your destination wedding at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, Mexico you can be sure that you’ll have an unforgettable time. 

This resort has been built from its very foundation with the idea that guests will experience luxury while they are on vacation. With luxury comes comfort which will allow you to focus on making memories with those close to you.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect wedding or the most spectacular setting for a company event, the staff at this one-of-a-kind resort will make sure all your dreams come true. Their award-winning team is known for delivering seamless events by creating unforgettable experiences, which are designed to create lasting memories you will want to celebrate again and again.

For those celebrating a Catholic destination wedding, you will love the oceanfront chapel that seats 112 people and offers spectacular views!

5  | Beaches Turks & Caicos

Beaches Turks & Caicos is the ultimate luxury vacation for guests of all ages. Featuring fine dining, premium drinks, butler service, large suites to accommodate bigger families, a waterpark, and unlimited water sports, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Why get married at Beaches Turks & Caicos? Why not? Because all eyes are on you and every memory counts, you need a venue where every moment of your wedding will be perfect. Choosing Beaches Turks & Caicos means never having to worry about anything going wrong, because they’ve got everything covered for you. 

Plus, there aren’t many venues that offer award-winning services, stunning settings, and fresh Caribbean air — all in one place. The luxury resort and all-inclusive nature ensure that no detail is left unattended — making your wedding unforgettable

These are just a few of the amazing places to consider for your dream destination wedding in The Caribbean and Mexico. The best thing about a destination wedding is that you get to say “I Do” in a bucket list location of your choice. Options like these resorts above are great ideas for a couple that wants to do something different, and at the very least throw the type of wedding you and all your family & friends will NEVER forget. And don’t forget you’re not alone in your destination wedding planning. If you would like to talk to someone about your destination wedding resort options, then feel free to schedule a free 30-minute consultation with me so that you CAN have the wedding you have always dreamed of

Airtran Airways, Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines; these names stand out among some of the world’s most popular and well-known “Low-Cost Airlines.” But what qualifies these airlines as “Low Cost”?

A budget airline, also called a low-cost carrier, is a flight carrier that seeks to provide flight service at a low cost, sometimes undercutting traditional airlines by more than 50%. Listed below are some Pros and Cons of traveling with a low-cost airline.

You Decide:

The Pros

  1. Cost – The biggest pro is affordability. Airlines will set a base price on the ticket and let you choose what extras you want to add. By doing this, it allows the traveler to set their own price.
  2. Quick Trips – Traveling with a Budget Airline is suitable for short trips and light packing.
  3. Newer Planes– Many low-cost airlines are newer to the industry, so they have some of the newest planes.

The Cons

  1. Services – Services offered by low-cost airlines are less than what is provided by classic airlines. You may have to open your wallet if you want any refreshments.
  2. Inconvenient departures – Low-cost airlines save money by flying at off-peak hours.
  3. No seat allocation – Low-cost airlines do not allow seat selection. If you want a particular seat, you must open your wallet once again. If you don’t pay for a seat, it is up to the airline, and if you are traveling with someone, you may be separated.
  4. Baggage Restrictions – Budget airlines restrict excess baggage. If you need to use the overhead compartments, you may have to reach into your wallet.
  5. Possible Hidden Charges
    1. Changing dates may cost you since most budget airlines have fees attached to changing travel dates.
    2. Most low-cost airlines do not offer refunds for missed flights.

Usually, traditional airlines include taxes and charges in the ticket price. Budget airlines may charge them separately. So, don’t be surprised if your ticket price changes after they add additional fees, taxes, and surcharges. These extras add up significantly to the cost of the ticket.

Low-Cost Airline Myths

  • It’s not safe – Low-cost airlines are just as safe as regular airlines. Contrary to popular belief, low-cost airlines are not cheaper due to subpar safety.
  • Poor Customer Service – Whether you fly low cost or traditional airline, great and terrible experiences happen. Cancellations, delays, and rude staff can be found any and everywhere.
  • Comfortability is the Same – Traditional airlines offer more leg and seating space than budget carriers, and the seats are softer, more comfortable, and can recline.

Flight Comparison for Same Trip: Atlanta to Jamaica. March 31-April 4

Flying with a low-cost airline has its pros and cons. Before deciding one way, gather all your information, figure out what’s important to you, and compare all options. Then you can make an informed decision. Don’t rely on hearsay!

With more than 700 islands and cays, reefs, beaches, parks, botanical gardens and churches, The Bahamas offers endless options for families, couples, friends, and even multi-generation groups.

Picture sapphire-blue skies, turquoise water, pure white or pink-sand beaches, endless activities, and the beautiful, warm Bahamian people – the perfect setting for your dream tropical vacation. So, what are you waiting for? The uniqueness and seclusion of The Bahamas’ Out Islands await you.

The Abacos

The Abacos are a group of islands and cays that form a 120-mile long chain stretching over 650 square miles. It’s best known as one of the world’s top boating and sailing destinations and are also known for their incredibly scenic locations. Great Abaco Island and Little Abaco serve as the ‘mainland.’ Marsh Harbor is the lively downtown area, Treasure Cay boasts miles of pristine beaches, including one of the top 10 beaches in the world, and Elbow Cay and Green Turtle Cay are old English loyalist settlements where you will find beautiful preserved colonial architecture with a touch of Bahamian pastels.

Eleuthera

Intimate and naturally beautiful with secluded pink-sand beaches – Eleuthera is the perfect Bahamian island for a romantic getaway. It’s an island of casual sophistication, well-developed resorts, rocky bluffs, and massive coral reefs that make it ideal for photo opportunities. It was once ranked as “The Best Island in the Caribbean” by Travel & Leisure magazine, and at one time, it was the capital of The Bahamas.

Image Credit: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation

Long Island

Breathtaking cliffs, brilliant coral reefs, and serene beaches – Long Island is home to it all. Dramatic cliffs tower over the eastern shore while the island’s western shore is a bit more tranquil. Here, you will find soft pink and-white sand beaches that gradually slip into peaceful turquoise waters. Long Island is also home to “Dean’s Blue Hole”, the deepest blue hole in the world.

Exuma

You will not find a more adventurous place in the Bahamas than Exuma. Miles of gorgeous beaches offer picture-postcard shots with turquoise waters reaching over the horizon behind you. Numerous cays, charming churches, and several cultural sites provide endless possibilities for travelers. But, perhaps the number one thing on travelers’ to-do lists while visiting Exuma is swimming with the pigs, an experience you will never forget.

Image Credit: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation

Bimini

Known for big-game fishing, uncrowded beaches, and partying nightlife, Bimini is one of the livelier Out Islands. It’s comprised of two islands – North and South Bimini – and is only a little over 50 miles from Miami. You can actually take a two-hour ferry from Miami to Bimini or a short 30-minute flight making it incredibly accessible. Bimini has only recently hit tourists’ radars, so it’s a great destination for a long weekend in a lavish tropical setting.

Image Credit: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation

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After a year without travel, we’re all dreaming of places near and far that will allow us to fulfill our wanderlust while also ensuring the safety of our travel bubble. In our pursuit of privacy, the world’s great outdoors and natural wonders await. Our planet is full of remote, yet idyllic, islands where you can have all the distance you need while rediscovering the joy of exploring the world. Here are six remote islands and archipelagoes that you’ve probably never heard of but fuel our travel dreams.

1  |  Shetland Islands, Scotland

This archipelago, located off the coast of mainland Scotland, comprises about 100 islands, only 15 of which are inhabited. The Shetland Islands are part of a UNESCO Global Geopark aiming to protect the land’s varied geo-diversity as well as its links to cultural heritage and to make it accessible in a sustainable way. So, whether you feel like mingling with the 7,000 locals in the capital, Lerwick – made famous by BBC’s Shetland TV series – finding Shetland ponies roaming wild, or diving into history at one of Europe’s richest Viking heritage sites in Unst, the northernmost of the inhabited British Isles, these “Islands of Opportunity” offer a host of possibilities.

2  |  Gull Island, United States

If you’ve never heard of this island, it’s because the most exciting aspect of it is not on it… but rather around it! This rocky outcropping about a mile off the southwestern coast of California, part of the Channel Islands archipelago, is the island to visit if you’re looking for a truly unique dive closer to home. Part of a state marine reserve protecting delicate marine life and habitats, Gull Island is one of the few places in California where divers can see well-preserved purple hydrocoral at shallow depths, as well as schools of fish, a kelp forest, and sea lions.

3  |  Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Blissful beaches, swaying palm trees and warm waters – Bequia (pronounced “Beck-way”) has it all and even more. Yet, its greatest advantage may be that it falls off the touristy path. This anonymity offers travelers savvy enough to know its existence moments of perfect solitude in a laid-back and welcoming environment. While the island – the second biggest of the 32 that make up the Grenadines – has no sprawling resorts or traffic lights and only one main town, it doesn’t lack in things to do. Besides the obvious afternoon lounging on the sand, you can take a stroll on the coast-hugging boardwalk, go yachting in Admiralty Bay, or enjoy steel band music at a local bar.

4  |  Magdalen Islands, Canada

Located a five-hour ferry ride away from the closest land of Prince Edward Island, Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine (Magdalen Islands) is an archipelago of a dozen islands, some of which are linked by sand dunes. The seven inhabited islands are joined by a 55-mile road, making it easy to explore the region by rental car. Along the way, you’ll drive past rolling green hills, colorful houses and steep red cliffs that glow at sunset. Be sure to get acquainted with local Madelinots (residents of the islands), known for their warm hospitality, always eager to teach visitors about their origins and enliven evenings with music and lyrics.

5  |  San Blas Islands, Panama

Unknown to many, the San Blas Islands are a group of over 375 picturesque islands – most of them uninhabited – in the Caribbean Sea between mainland Panama and Colombia. San Blas is a little piece of paradise, off the beaten track of mass tourism and fully controlled by the native Kuna people. From Panama City, it’s a two-hour drive to the coast, where sailors can charter a catamaran or embark on a boat shuttle to the islands. Expect untouched nature, excellent snorkeling, and ample space to swim with barely another soul around. Adventure lovers will enjoy spending the night à la Robinson Crusoe in their own eco-friendly hideaway.

6  |  Lofoten Islands, Norway

Did you ever dream of surfing above the Arctic Circle? If so, head to the Lofoten Islands! Unstad Beach is said to be among the best surfing spots in Europe, while not one for the faint of heart. But, beyond that, the Lofoten archipelago – 95 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the Norwegian Sea – is a place of unparalleled beauty, with craggy mountains, deep fjords, colorful fishing villages, and waters as clear and as blue as the Mediterranean – only colder. The water is more than a simple backdrop here; it’s the lifeblood of the community. Pyramid-shaped racks used for drying cod are a common sight throughout the fishing season, and one town’s unofficial motto reads “In Cod We Trust.” When visiting, travelers can stay in a fisherman’s hut, go kayaking or hiking to immerse themselves in the scenery, and experience the midnight sun.

content courtesy of Ensemble Travel

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When it comes to purchasing travel insurance during this unprecedented time, choosing a plan can feel daunting. Confused by the options? Don’t fret. We asked Allianz Travel Insurance in the U.S. and Manulife in Canada, two of our travel insurance partners, for their professional insight.

Here are six things they recommend travelers consider when purchasing travel insurance.

1. Your credit card coverage might not cover all your needs.

Manulife mentioned many people assume their credit card’s travel insurance is enough but be sure to read the fine print. Some credit cards have age limits for medical coverage, or they may offer trip interruption but not trip cancellation prior to departure.

2. Purchase travel insurance early to get the most protection out of your plan.

Allianz Travel Insurance said it’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance at the time of your initial trip deposit to receive the longest possible window of protection. This is particularly important when your plan offers a pre-existing condition exclusion waiver. You’ll want to be sure you purchase your plan within the specified timeframe to meet the criteria for this added benefit.

3. Protect yourself on journeys both near and far.

Allianz Travel Insurance added that even if you’re traveling relatively close to home, you’ll want expert help in an emergency — and Allianz Travel Insurance includes access to an award-winning assistance team that’s available around the clock. Depending on your plan, you may also have primary medical benefits to protect you whether you’re 100 or 1,000 miles from home — helping you avoid deductibles and co-pays, plus substantial emergency transportation fees. It’s important to remember most health insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid) won’t cover you outside your country. Plus, you can get reimbursed for non-refundable cancellations if you or someone named on your plan becomes ill with COVID-19 before or during your trip.

4. Make sure the insurance you purchase has 24/7 multilingual assistance.

Manulife noted you will want to be able to reach your travel insurance provider at any time of day. Additionally, they should be able to communicate with hospital staff in any language.

5. Plan for unexpected emergencies in your extended family.

Allianz Travel Insurance plans include more family members under covered reasons than you might think. For example, if your employed, live-in caregiver gets sick and can’t care for your children while you’re away, and one of your plan’s covered reasons is “illness of a family member,” you could cancel or cut your trip short and cite this as a covered reason for your claim. Check with your travel advisor for a full list of who’s considered family under covered reasons.

6. Consider purchasing a Trip Cancellation and Interruption Plan.

Manulife said trip cancellation and interruption are the most common travel insurance claims. It can be easy to overlook this coverage and just go with emergency medical insurance, but it’s important to keep it in mind. It can save you thousands of dollars if you must cancel an expensive trip.

IMPORTANT: Before purchasing a travel protection plan, please read the Allianz Travel Insurance Coverage Alert for details on how policy limits or excludes coverage related to COVID-19, as well as temporary, specific accommodations offered. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply

 

For more info on travel insurance check out Allianz Travel Insurance for your travel policy needs.

It’s a typical day on a tropical beach somewhere in the Caribbean, or perhaps Mexico. The breezes are cool, the ocean is warm, and the hours are languorous. Butlers carry cocktails to waiting for guests who are happy to accept them. Farther inland, children play at a kids’ club and teens chat over games. Diners travel around the world without ever leaving the resort, sampling hibachi, ceviche, and the delectable, edible works of art offered up as dessert. In the spa, tranquil, almost-hypnotic music casts a spell of quieting relaxation — a rare moment of genuine peace.

No, it’s not a flashback to the days before COVID-19 (seven months or more like 100 years ago). It’s a portrait of the present, at an all-inclusive resort.

On the beach, the loungers are spaced widely apart. The staff all wear masks and carry hand sanitizer. At the kids and teens clubs, temperatures are checked, and new protocols are explained (most memorably at Iberostar Hotels & Resorts’ Star Camp, where a “medic superhero” unriddles social distancing). In restaurants, menus are posted to digital boards and accessible by phone, buffets have been reimagined, and new individual takeaway portions have been introduced. Meanwhile, at the spa, beds are disinfected before and after each use, and amenities are sanitized and sealed.

With over 70 years of evolution behind the all-inclusive, it’s unsurprising that when we found ourselves facing a history-making pandemic, these hotels were some of the quickest to act, pivoting without pause to become pacesetters in health and hygiene.

Adapting rapidly, premier all-inclusive brands from across the globe partnered with world-class organizations to establish broad-gauge guidelines for safety, sanitation, and quality … and give us all hope that vacationing can be safe once again.

Spick-and-Span from Top to Bottom

When you go to an all-inclusive, you expect the beach to be pristine. Now, new cleaning practices are making every inch of hotel grounds as unblemished as the sands they sit on. Constant disinfecting of common areas? Check. Air purification and water systems testing? Check. Strict requirements for suppliers dropping off products? Check. If it’s in any way part of your experience or a staff function, it’s been scrutinized and sanitized.

New Standards, Same Mission

For all these changes, however, the heart of an all-inclusive stay remains the same. The luxury is still there — but more innovative. The recreation is still there — but safer. The selection is still there — but with a focus on hygiene. Because, even though new sanitation requirements are rigorous, they’re also unobtrusive. Whether staying at a RIU hotel or a Blue Diamond resort, a Bahia Principe property or a Palladium one, you’ll continue to get that vacation feeling you’ve always known. Plus, with reduced occupancy, getaways feel more private and services more personalized, actually enhancing your experience.

Far-Reaching Value

One of the greatest things about all-inclusives has always been their value. When you stay at one, everything — room, food, drinks, entertainment — is rolled up into one price, meaning you never have to worry about a budget. Before the pandemic, hotels were busily adding even more to that list: spa treatments, excursions, cultural experiences. Now, more than ever, you can unwind and let go. And that’s the true value of these resorts. Because, when you don’t need to leave the property, you can relax like normal — no worrying about unknown protocols or uncontrolled crowds.

A Trip You Can Trust

From Cristal International Standards® to Ecolab, brands like AMResorts, Karisma Hotels & Resorts, and the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels have teamed up with some of the biggest names in safety certification. Brands are now making it easy to see their exact sanitation standards by listing it on their website and with just one glance, you can rest assured your resort is taking every precaution.

This era of new health awareness isn’t ending any time soon. But, thankfully, with all-inclusive hotels helping lead the way, neither is travel. 

Have you thought about planning your next All-Inclusive vacation?

 

A private island oasis in the British Virgin Islands, with only 55 accommodations including 3 luxurious standalone Villa estates, five powder white sand beaches, a world class Spa, and an array of activities, where privacy is not a luxury anymore, but a way of life.

 

AMENITIES

Terrance B. Lettsome Intl. Airport (EIS) – 45 min

Cyril E. King Airport (STT) – 120 min

55 rooms and villas

4 restaurants and bars

SPA service

Children program

Golf not on property

 

Peter Island is a half-hour ferry ride from Tortola, but once you arrive, you’re in another world. Cyril E. King Airport (STT) – 120 min Golf not on property

 

Carlisle Bay offers a sophisticated and contemporary setting on the south coast of Antigua. This all suite property offers adultonly beachfront Bay Suites. With a wonderful beach in a secluded bay, kids club, an exceptional spa and a philosophy founded on generous service, Carlisle Bay, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, is simply stunning.

 

AMENITIES

V. C. Bird International Airport (ANU) – 30 min

87 rooms and suites

4 restaurants and bars

SPA service

Children program

Golf not on property

 

Almost all suites are steps from the beach. Carlisle Bay used to be an upscale tennis club in the 80’s, serving champagne-oysters to guests looking for condo style accommodations.