So, you’re ready to start tackling your travel bucket list. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, The Pyramids of Egypt, The Deserts of Dubai, or even Mount Fuji in Tokyo.  These beautiful destinations have one thing in common; you have to take a long flight to get there.

Even if you fly out of a major city like New York, you’re looking at spending a long time on a plane.

  • New York to Paris – 8 hours
  • New York to Egypt – 10 hours
  • New York to Dubai – 12.5 hours
  • New York to Tokyo – 14 hours

Just the thought of a long flight might make you want to destroy your bucket list.  But before you take that eraser to your list, put the pencil down, and check out these tips for surviving long flights. 

Just Ask:  To begin with, you can always ask for an upgrade from your economy class ticket to business class, economy plus, or even first class. And if no free upgrades are available, consider paying for the upgrade. Upgrading your seat will improve your overall flight experience. You will have more legroom, comfier chairs, and priority boarding options. Those improvements alone will make your long flight more enjoyable.

Pack Snacks:  Let’s face it. When you’re sitting for long periods, binging your favorite Netflix show, you need snacks.  Just because you’ll be sitting in an airplane seat doesn’t change this.  Yes, the flight will include a few rounds of pretzels or biscoff cookies, but that probably won’t be enough.

Bring the Essentials:  Make sure you are carrying the things you need to keep yourself entertained. Pack your headphones, especially if you enjoy listening to music. Noise-canceling headphones will also keep plane noise at bay. Since you’ll have your headphones, you can also download your favorite movies, games, and TV shows on your mobile phone/tablet to keep yourself both engaged and entertained until you finally get to your destination. Don’t forget to pack extra chargers and a power bank just to be on the safe side.

Stay Comfortable:  Another essential tip to surviving long-haul flights is to ensure that you carry the things that will keep you comfortable. Consider bringing sleep masks, neck pillows, a blanket, warm socks, and your favorite hoodie or sweater. These items will keep you comfortable, and you can use and remove them as you see fit.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate:  Don’t forget to stay hydrated. The plane’s filtration system can lead to itchy eyes, dry throat, and dehydration. During a long flight, dehydration can make you feel sick and dizzy and can even cause you to pass out. Avoid this by simply hydrating throughout your long flight.

Stay Loose:  Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes while on the flight. Try to avoid wearing clothing that is tight and restrictive. As cute as those clothing options might be, they will do nothing for your comfort on a long flight!

Carry Extra Masks:  Even on long flights, you are required to wear a face mask.  Carry extras in your carry-on so you can change them if yours gets soiled from sweating, sneezing, or drinking.

Fly at Night:  The best way to survive a long flight is to sleep through it.  Book an evening flight.  Once the pilot dims the lights and you pull out the eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, and blanket you packed, you’ll be on your way to sleeping through most of your trip.

Stay Fresh:  After a 10–14-hour flight, you might feel a little icky.  Especially if you were able to sleep a lot during the flight. Make sure you have your essential toiletries handy in case you need to freshen up a little bit. 

 

And remember, just because the flight is long doesn’t mean it has to be a miserable experience.  Long flights are a means of getting you to your vacation and creating unforgettable memories. Don’t put off your bucket list because it requires a long flight, just take a few of these tips and your time on the plane will just….FLY BY!

When you think of “global influence,” you might envision large metropolises with residents from all over the world. We’ve all been there – New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston – and we’ve all probably been disappointed in at least one of them. We go expecting to be immersed into culture only to find ourselves surrounded by tourist traps. Now, I’m not saying these destinations aren’t amazing in their own right (I’ve even lived in one of them), but I do know that feeling of searching for authenticity in a city full of cultures and not being able to find it.

 

So, when I say, “global influence,” what I’m referring to are unique destinations that, for one reason or another, have be influenced by another place in a separate part of the world, and when you visit, you feel as though you’ve been transported.

Here are seven of these special places:

The French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana

Founded by the French in 1718, the French Quarter is known as “The Crown Jewel of New Orleans” and rightly so. As the oldest and one of the most historic neighborhoods in in the city, its history traces back to Europe and beyond. But it’s the French influence in particular that encompasses every aspect of the neighborhood. From the architecture and art to the food and music, and even its livelihood, The French Quarter embodies the French way of life – enjoying life’s best moments with a little extra “pizazz.”

Little Haiti, Miami, Florida

Little Haiti in Miami is a cultural icon known for its global restaurants and fruit stands, flourishing art galleries and colorful street murals, as well as its inventive music scene and thriving theaters. Its Victorian architecture found in parts of the Caribbean boasts high-pitched roofs and picturesque pastel colors bringing an added element of joy to the already lively neighborhood. Little Haiti is the heart and soul of Miami’s Haitian community, and it has made huge contributions to the vibrant and diverse culture of Miami as a whole.

Chinatown, San Francisco, California

Although many large cities have their own Chinatowns, San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest, and perhaps the largest, Chinatown in America. Back in the 1850s, many Chinese immigrants made their way to America’s west coast and settled in the Bay Area. Most of the immigrants worked blue collar jobs which made it difficult to fully integrate into American society, but as their population grew, so did their neighborhoods and their influence. To this day, the first Chinatown in the U.S. is still alive and well with Chinese-owned restaurants, shops, and other businesses that are now a historic yet still thriving landmark.

“Little Ethiopia,” Silver Spring, Maryland

The city of Silver Spring, Maryland is home to an unofficial “Little Ethiopia.” The town is known for its East African influences and has done an exceptional job at keeping the traditions of Ethiopia alive. From delectable Ethiopian eateries to Ethiopian coffee shops to the annual Ethiopian Festival, Silver Spring is a shining example of cultural celebration. Not to mention, Montgomery County, home to Silver Spring, is the first jurisdiction in the U.S. to name September African Heritage Month.

Market Square, San Antonio, Texas

Back in the 1890s, San Antonio’s market moved from its original location, Plaza de Armas, to its current location to make room for an influx of settlers. To this day, the city’s Historic Market Square still thrives on a plaza that was originally gifted to the city’s settlers by the King of Spain in 1730. The energy of the market was lost during World War II, but by 1976, it had regained its color and vibrancy. Today, the market is a destination for both visitors and locals alike, hosting authentic Mexican cuisine, local retailers selling their quality Mexican artifacts and handicrafts, and activities celebrating Día de los Muertos, Cinco de Mayo, and other Mexican festivities.

Dearborn, Michigan

Unknown to most, Dearborn, Michigan is home to one of the largest Arab American communities in the U.S. with over 60% of the community’s population being of Arab descent. Dearborn attracted Arab immigrants in the 1920s when auto industry jobs drew workers from many Arab countries. The immigrants built a thriving community in Dearborn with restaurants that attracted visitors. As one could imagine, the lives of the Dearborn residents became extraordinarily hard after 9/11, so they came together and raised funds for a special project to help combat the growing prejudice against their people: the Arab American National Museum. The beautiful museum is one of the best places to learn about Arab culture in the U.S., and it even offers food tours of the surrounding area.

Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Although Native American culture is indigenous to the U.S., it still deserves to be recognized regarding its global influence. The entire city of Santa Fe, New Mexico boasts Pueblo-style architecture, a mix of Native American and Spanish cuisine, and endless Native American pottery, jewelry, and art collections, but the downtown Santa Fe Plaza is where you’ll see the Native American culture come to life. On any given day, you might witness ceremonial dancing and chanting in the streets, and on weekends, local Native American artisans will line the Plaza with their handmade goods. Santa Fe is a national icon that’s unlike any other city in America, and every day here feels like a cultural celebration.

Throughout 2020 and 2021, there was a silver lining amidst the travel shutdown – companies were given the opportunity to step back, reassess their consumers’ needs and wants, and take action accordingly. What several companies found was that with a newfound focus on health and wellbeing, booze was beginning to take a backseat. In fact, nearly 50 percent of travelers surveyed in October 2021 said they’re likely to choose a non-alcoholic beverage over a beer or cocktail (Source: Hyatt Travel Pulse).

 

Image Credit: Thompson Savannah, Hyatt

Hyatt Introduces a New Zero-Proof Beverage Program

In response to travelers’ increased focus on wellbeing and growing interest in alcohol alternatives, Hyatt launched its “Zero Proof, Zero Judgement” beverage program bringing dedicated alcohol-free cocktail options to a collection of hotels across the U.S. Hyatt restaurant and bar teams have enhanced their beverage menus with unique non-alcoholic options, most of which are created using Ritual Zero Proof and Fever-Tree products.

One of the inventive new cocktails is a refreshing drink comprised of Ritual Zero Proof Gin Alternative, basil, cucumber, lime, and ginger at Hyatt Centric Times Square New York’s Bar 54. Another is an enticing cocktail made of Ritual Zero Proof Rum Alternative, blueberry, honey, lime, and Fever-Tree Ginger Beer at the newly opened Thompson Savannah’s Lobby Bar.

Inspired by Anna Welker, sober bar manager of Topside at Revival Baltimore (a JdV by Hyatt hotel), the new program aims to ensure non-drinkers who visit Hyatt hotels are met with understanding and provided a tasty collection of alternatives. “Ultimately, it’s about providing an incomparable hospitality experience that’s reimagined with intentional options for guests who choose not to drink or to drink less,” said Miranda Breedlove, Hyatt’s National Director of Bars, Lifestyle Operations.

 

Image Credit: Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean Introduces Zero-Proof Drinks at Sea

Royal Caribbean has revamped their beverage menu and now proudly has options for everyone to enjoy with the launch of its first zero-proof drink menu. This beverage menu is not comprised of your ordinary mocktails or virgin drink recipes but was carefully curated as standalone drinks without alcohol.

The new zero-proof drink menu provides you with a wide variety of cocktails to enjoy in most bars and lounges throughout Royal Caribbean’s fleet like the Viking Crown Lounge, Boleros, and the Schooner Bar. Geared towards tweens, teens, and adults alike, these light and refreshing drink options are sure to tantalize the taste buds. The new menu, only available on Royal Caribbean, is inspired by some of the most popular drinks like the delicious mojito or the classic Shirley Temple to name a few.

Check out your new favorites:

  • Indulge with a Strawberry Limeade, the perfect combination of bubbly and fruity.
  • Experience a sophisticated twist of an old-time favorite with the Shirley Ginger.
  • Love the mojito but don’t love the rum? The Blueberry Nojito is inspired by the classic mojito.
  • Taste a Tropical Crush if you need a Red Bull energy boost in the middle of your action-packed day.
  • Enjoy a refreshing Watermelon Mint Lemonade during those hot days under the Caribbean sun.

If you’ve ever wanted to see a new place but didn’t because you didn’t have anyone to go with you.  If you’ve ever had people make travel plans with you, only to cancel later.  If solo travel is not for you, you might want to look into travel groups.

Travel groups, otherwise known as social travel, are groups of like-minded individuals that come together to travel.  They are growing in popularity and might be the answer to your travel problems.  Here are just a few of the benefits.

Safety

One of the biggest concerns for solo and female travelers is safety.  There is always a concern that those who prey on female tourists will target you when you don’t have numbers on your side.  But when you travel with a group, that risk is drastically reduced.

Perfect for Extroverts and Introverts

The extra opportunities to socialize even after the day’s activities have concluded make travel groups an obvious choice for extroverts that love to travel.  But people tend to think that introverts just want to stay buried in their shells and never see the light of day.  The truth is introverts love to wander and explore just like anyone else.  But after a day of socializing, they may need the option to slip away from the peopling, throw on a hoodie, grab a book or playlist and enjoy some alone time, which they can find in a travel group.

No Stress

If you’ve always wanted to travel to faraway places but found the planning part overwhelming, a travel group might be the perfect answer for you.  Most travel groups plan trips to exotic destinations that people don’t go to every day.  Not only will a travel group get you there, but your organizer will plan out every detail, so you don’t have to.  Hotel, transportation from the airport, activities, meals, and more; you’ll find it all taken care of.  Some travel groups also send a host to make sure everything goes smoothly for you.

Bye Bye Comfort Zones

If you’re afraid of trying new things on vacation, there is a good chance you’ve surrounded yourself with the same type of people in the past.  So, when you say Uh-Uh, I’m not going up there, or Uh-Uh there’s no way I’m getting on that, there’s usually a chorus of your folks nodding their heads in agreement.

Well, in a travel group, you’ll find the chorus sings a different tune.  No, they won’t pressure or shame you.  Instead, they’ll throw caution to the wind and try all the activities that make you nervous.  And when you see the smiles and hear the laughs, you might find yourself encouraged to try something new!

Pick Your Group

Today, there are groups for just about any interest.  If you’re a single mom who wants to start traveling safely with your children, there’s a group for that.  If you’re single and ready to mingle on a cruise ship, there’s no need to swipe left.  If you’re a book lover who wants to have book club meetings abroad, get ready to pack up your favorite read.  No matter what you’re into, you can always find someone to travel with you. 

Make Friends for Life

As much as you love your friends and family, sometimes they don’t share your passion for travel.  Maybe they have the desire but not the time, money, or general ability to travel.  Once you find your perfect travel group, you’ll never have to worry about that again.  You’ll have a group of friends that share your love, desire, and ability to travel.  And the best part is you can make new friends on each trip.

 

So, stop saying goodbye to your travel dreams when you don’t have anyone to travel with you.  And, start saying hello to travel groups, your new favorite way to travel. 

Check out our End of Summer Cruise or Punta Cana Girlfriends Getaway if you are looking to travel with a group this year.

In a bold quest to find the most impressive places to spend the night, an increasing number of travelers have checked into a range of rare and wonderful accommodations in remote and exciting locations all over the world.

Lofty Pursuits

Sitting directly above turquoise blue, crystal-clear waters (with a magnificent view worth the trip itself) are the Intercontinental® Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa bungalows. As French Polynesia’s first resort with all over-water villas and an over-water wedding chapel, the resort sets the standard for a Polynesian bungalow experience. Wake up each morning with breakfast delivered by canoe, and enjoy a truly unique five-star experience day after day.Our favorite tree dwellings are the Treehouses at Lion Sands Game Reserve which are distinguished as a “million-star experience” because you quite literally sleep in a tree beneath the stars. Also up in the sky are the Hanging Gardens of Bali featuring airy villas and a two-tiered pool overlooking a vast expanse of lush jungle. In Scandinavia, Finland’s Arctic Treehouse Hotel features luxurious glass houses on a wooded slope, while Sweden’s Treehotel takes the glass theme to new levels with the mesmerizing, fort-like Mirrorcube.

Image Credit: Intercontinental® Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

 

Built-in View

Voted one of the seven resorts with the most spectacular views in the world by CNN Travel, The Springs Resort & Spa in La Fortuna, Costa Rica is where the word “vacation” is truly defined. Whether traveling as a family, couple, or group, guests will be overwhelmed in every aspect of quality, service and design.Image Credit: The Springs Resort & Spa
For those who truly wish to be one with the landscape, the Canaves Oia Hotel & Suites, located in Santorini, is carved into the cliffs of the isle’s northwestern tip – overlooking Oia Santorini’s stunning Caldera and the beautiful turquoise Aegean Sea; and the Adrere Amellal Ecolodge, in Egypt’s Western Desert, feels primitive and luxurious all at once. But, not to miss is Italy’s Grotta Palazzese hotel perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea – a study in contrasts with crisp, clean, modern suites above elegant dining in a rugged stone cave below.Image Credit: Canaves Oia Santorini

Outdoor Envy

Situated on the banks of the river from which it has taken its name, Elewana Sand River Masai Mara replicates the 1920s era of exclusive tented camps. Located within Kenya’s picturesque Masai Mara National Reserve on the Tanzania border, the hotel is optimal for those wishing to enjoy exceptional big-game viewing.Image Credit: Elewana Sand River Masai Mara
Similarly, the Gran Meliá Iguazú in Argentina is the only hotel in the world within Iguazú National Park, and it stands beside one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Iguazú Falls. All 183 rooms and suites feature terraces overlooking either the jungle or “Devil’s Throat” – a view you can also enjoy from the incredible 55-yard infinity pool.Under Canvas® travelers are also reconnecting with the outdoors in safari-inspired glamps across the United States. Word is, the acoustic campfire music at the outfit’s Great Smoky Mountains camp in Tennessee is worth the journey alone. Meanwhile, for bubble enthusiasts, the Finolhu Beach Bubble Tent on Baa Atoll in the Maldives and the Buubble hotel in Iceland, also called the “5 Million Star Hotel,” will make anyone’s Pinterest dreams come true.

Image Credit: Gran Meliá Iguazú

 

We’re So Cool

Just a little over 45 minutes from Banff lies Fairmont Château Lake Louise, a destination among a destination. This Rocky Mountain retreat is a year-round sanctuary nestled among soaring mountain peaks, the majestic Victoria Glacier, and a glistening emerald lake. Take advantage of the glorious natural surroundings by canoeing and hiking in the summer, or by skiing and ice skating on Lake Louise in the winter to truly embrace your “cool.”Looking for someplace to ogle the Northern Lights? The Ice Hotel in the Swedish Lapland village of Jukkasjarvi is an established favorite. This one-of-a-kind hotel features both warm and cold room accommodations and changing ice art exhibitions. Other equally thrilling options include Iglu-Dorf in Zermatt, Switzerland, the magical Kaksluauttanen Arctic Resort inside the Arctic Circle in Finland, and Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in the northernmost region of Norway.

Image Credit: Fairmont Château Lake Louise

 

Don’t Mind if I Do

The only property in the Caribbean with Palace distinction, we won’t have to twist your arm to visit Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France. Echoing French refinement in a glamorous ambience, the hotel features French designer, Jacques Grange’s new architectural concept. However, perhaps what the property does best is celebrate the art of living in the tropics by providing culinary and cultural journeys in a renowned way. Lastly, Giraffe Manor, from The Safari Collection, is a boutique hotel just outside Nairobi, Kenya, which is popular among a herd of wild Rothschild’s giraffe. The elegant and amiable creatures visit at dawn and dusk, often peeking in the windows to receive treats. For extra bragging rights, ask for the Karen Blixen suite, named for the author of Out of Africa.

Whether you’re craving star-struck nights in the desert, stunning sunrises over the sea, softly falling snow, dense rainforests, or all of the above, if you look hard enough, you’ll find the world is full of unique places to lay your head. Which will you visit first?

 

Image Credit: Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France / Main Image Credit: Intercontinental® Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

The locals see Riviera Maya as a spiritual destination where you can energize, relieve your daily stress, and reconnect with your loved ones. During times of uncertainty, when unexpected events impact their lives, there are various ways in which we reconnect with the wonders of mother nature to gain energy, heal and find balance.

 

Temazcal

Temazcal, meaning “house of hot stones,” is a group ceremony where participants enter a sweat lodge similar to an igloo-shaped hut where they experience high temperatures through hot stones and water to release tensions and toxins, and to purify their souls. It also clears skin and aids blood flow.

According to the scientific journal Age and Ageing, the Temazcal practice can also help decrease the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Tip: Forget about your makeup because the steam will take it all off. Once you complete the ceremony, you will feel your skin and your body differently as the ceremony includes aromatherapy with healing plants allowing your mind to reach optimal clarity.

Cenotes (Sinkholes)

“Cenote” is derived from the Yucatec Mayan word “dz’onot,” which is used to indicate where water is accessible.

There are over 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula, and most of us locals, as well as tourists, go swimming in them because they are rich in nutrients with an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and protein that nourish the body. When traveling to Riviera Maya, we suggest visiting the Cenote Ik Kil, in Chichen Itza, not far from the ruins, Cenote Dos Ojos in Tulum, and the Grand Cenote.

Tip: If you are getting married in Riviera Maya, visit a cenote during a full moon and ask to receive a blessing of cenote water to pray for thankfulness and harmony in your marriage.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is not just another archeological place; it is a wonder of the world. The Pyramid of Kukulkan, the 80-foot stone, is set where the sun creates shadows down the steps of the pyramid resembling a snake descending. This event drags big crowds during the March and September equinox.

For those who have traveled the world connecting to sacred spiritual places, Chichen Itza is a magical place where many ask for humanity and for individuals who struggle in life.

Tip: We suggest visiting Chichen Itza during the equinox as some people say the sacred energy expands and contracts then. And, they claim that is when you can manifest incredible healing or well-being for others.

Mayakoba

When visiting the Riviera Maya, make sure to visit Mayakoba. Enjoy family dinners at our El Puerto overlooking the waterways. Enjoy yacht charters and catamaran tours. Go snorkeling and kayaking in the Caribbean Sea. Shop in downtown Playa del Carmen for that perfect souvenir. A vacation in Mayakoba comes naturally!

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?