Thursday, December 29, 2011

Costa Rica - One of the Top Five Family Vacation Spots in the World

Costa Rica

A veritable playground for kids of all ages, Costa Rica packs in more natural beauty, culture and adventure than most countries many times its size. What kid wouldn't love seeing fascinating animals , lush rainforests, towering volcanoes and warm sundrenched beaches? Friendly, affordable and endlessly captivating, Costa Rica is an ideal destination to choose if you're looking to mix in some educational experiences for the kids. The country's rich biodiversity is practically everywhere, making for plenty of What's this? What's that? moments. Arenal Volcano National Park and Braulio Carrillo National Park are great places to get up close with the country's flora and fauna. Best of all, a trip to Costa Rica can be as adventurous or as relaxing as you want it to be. The country's small size allows you to spend time both on the beach and in the rainforests.

Article courtesy of Journey Magazine

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises   636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go........Go Classic!   




7 Reasons to use a Travel Agent

Why Use a Travel Agent???

There are so many benefits, such as:

*Expert Guidance - We know the ins and outs of the travel industry, providing you with a variety of vacation options to help you find one that's right for you.

*Personalized Service - We are avid travelers who take joy in providing one-on-one service and unbiased information. Rather then dealing with a faceless corporation, we work just for you.

*Best Value - We can get you the best value for your vacation dollars, providing you with information on the latest deals and special promotions so you can make an informed decision.

*Years of Solid Relations - We have years of long standing relationships with preferred suppliers. As a result, we can share the best inside deals available, saving you money.

*One-Stop Shopping - Because we handle every aspect of your trip, you inevitably save precious time.

*Consumer Advocate - We don't stop working for you, even after you've  booked your trip. In the event of an unfortunate mishap, we will act on your behalf to see that restitution is made.

*Guaranteed Satisfaction - We strive to achieve customer satisfaction so you return the next time you're planning a trip. We want you to be happy, long-term customers!

Article courtesy of Journeys Magazine

For all you travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises - 636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go ...... Go Classic!   




Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Beaches Resort - Turks and Caicos

Enjoying little romance while on a family vacation can be difficult - but not at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort & Spa. Only a 75-minute flight from Miami, this all encompassing, all-inclusive resort in the beautiful Turks & Caicos Islands has it all: a 45,000 square-foot, state of the art waterpark: three magnificent villages with Italian, French and Caribbean inspired architecture; incredibly sumptuous hotel accommodations; a 12-mile powder white sand beach lapped by clear turquoise waters; and endless activities for everyone, from tots to tweens and teens. And yes, the resort and location are just as beautiful as you can imagine. The resort hasn't forgotten about anyone - parents included. At Beaches Turks and Caicos, kids are given extra attention with tailor-made, supervised programs for five different age levels at no extra charge- giving parents lots of time to themselves to enjoy one of the world's romantic settings.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go.....Go Classic!

Article courtesy of Journey Magazine          

The Magic of Orlando Florida

No one place in the world holds more magic for kids than Orlando, Florida - better known to them simply as Walt Disney World. The Walt Disney World Resort is about as good as it gets for kids. So good in fact, families can make return visits and always be surprised by new things throughout each of the resort's four parks: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, the Animal Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood studios. If that's not enough fun for the family, the resort's Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon will certain keep the kids well entertained and wet. But there's much more to Orlando just outside the Magic Kingdom's gates that shouldn't be missed. Universal Studios Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and Universals Islands of Adventure have become popular spots for keeping the excitement going.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go.....Go Classic!!! 

Friday, December 16, 2011

Iberostar Hotels and Resorts - Come See What Your Are Missing

Iberostar is the name behind the world's most stunning all-inclusive destinations. While each property offers a unique experience of its own, all Iberostar Hotels and Resorts share common brand values, beginning with a warm, friendly staff that's devoted to creating complete happiness among guests. Elegant design, deluxe accommodations, extensive recreational options and delicious all-inclusive dining are just a few of the pleasures to be discovered at Iberostar Hotels and Resorts.

Now the Iberostar is bringing this expertise to Cancun with the December 2011 opening of the brand's ninth property in Mexico - Iberostar Cancun.

Situated on on the world's most exquisite beaches, the new, all inclusive Iberostar Cancun has 426 fully equipped rooms and villas, each with an ocean view.

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises  636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go..... Go Classic!

Article courtesy of Travel Weekly  

Fiji "Friendliest People on Earth"

The legendary warmth of the "Friendliest People on Earth" is the single most important factor when you visit Fiji. Travelers are welcomed as guests and immediately embraced into the ever-present culture of the Fijian people.

It seems as if Fiji was created with romance in mind. Here, visitors can marry with a simple exchange of vows on the beach or with an elaborate ceremony in a seaside chapel, and it is legally recognized in the U.S. and Canada. Honeymoons in Fiji are about fulfilling dreams or simply enjoying the perfect, romantic escape, as couples embark on their lives together.

Relaxation is an art form here. Centuries old massage treatments like bobo, are combined with modern techniques to stimulate and soothe the senses. Visitors can literally float on mattresses in a lagoon or be enveloped within a banana leaf amid the sounds of the surrounding primordial rainforest, all while enjoying luxurious spa treatments.

There are so many unique aspects to a vacation in Fiji.

For all your travel needs contact Classic Travel and Cruises  636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go....Go Classic!

Article courtesy of Travel Weekly     

Sandals Resorts includes more luxury, quality, and choices

A Sandals Luxury included vacation gives you everything you'd find at any five-star luxury resort, the only difference is everything is INCLUDED! So you not only get what you'd expect, you get far more than you ever dreamed of in quality, choice, luxury, and service. Sandals includes more exciting choices on land and sea - from golf to unlimited scuba diving.Sandals includes anytime dining at up to 16 true specialty restaurants per resort, each with a different ambiance. Best of all, when it comes to luxury accommodations, Sandals offers far more choices than anyone else - up to 26 different categories per resort, including the most unique and creatively designed suites in the Caribbean. It's the Sandals Luxury included difference that makes all the difference in the world.

Article courtesy of Travel Weekly magazine.

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises 636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go.... Go Classic!    

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Aruba, White Sandy Beaches and Turquoise Waters

*Perfect weather. It's always summer in Aruba. Average daytime temperature of 82 degrees and constant cooling trade winds help to keep the humidity low. Aruba has a desert-like climate with less than 20 inches of rain a year.

*Warm, friendly people. Arubans are among the friendliest people in the world. A long history of hospitality pervades the local culture. Local residents welcome visitors with a warm smile and are proud to show off the island they call home.

*White sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Aruba boasts more than seven miles of white sandy beaches, some rated among the best in the world by prestigious travel publications. Clear turquoise waters surround the island with gentle lapping waves along the hotel zone on the leeward side of the island.

*No hassels. Aruba offers all the comforts of home while retaining the charm of an international destination. English is widely spoken, Internet and WiFi access are readily available. Aruba has some of the world's purest drinking water and boasts a top-notch airport with U.S. Customs and Immigration preclearance, allowing flights from Aruba to enter the U.S. a domestic flights.

Article courtesy of Recommend Magazine.

Please call Classic Travel and Cruises for all you travel needs.

When you're ready to Go......Go Classic!    636-625-8747     

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Holiday Travel Tips

Plot connections carefully.
When booking flights, check your search results carefully for sufficient time during layovers, and build in some time for flight delays and weather woes. Particularly during the winter months, peak travel times often bring peak travel delays, and your connection is more likely to be jeopardized. Avoiding really tight connections may save you a sprint through the terminal or a missed flight. Also, it is best if you can muscle your flight path into position so that connections are in places less likely to experience delays -- specifically, airports in warmer climates. For more advice, see our Winter Travel Tips.

Leave early.
During peak travel times, much of the trouble you'll face lies on this side of the security check-in, from traffic jams and full parking lots to absent shuttles and long lines. Rather than striving to "arrive at the airport early," you may want to try to "leave for the airport early" to anticipate all the peripheral delays you may encounter.

Pack wisely.
In the past, you may have been able to fit everything into your carry-on without having to check any baggage -- a strategy we still recommend. However, the TSA rules about liquids and gels make this a trickier proposition. For the record, you may bring liquids and gels in 3.4-ounce or smaller containers, packed within a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. You're also allowed to bring any liquids (such as coffee or water) or gels purchased after you go through a security checkpoint onto your plane with you. If you want to bring more than the 3.4-ounce amount, you'll have to pack the items in your checked luggage.

Courtesy of independenttraveler.com

For all your travel needs contact Classic Travel and Cruises   636-625-8747

When you're ready to Go.....Go Classic!




Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Frontier Airlines New Charter For Apple Vacations 2012

Frontier will offer:

In-Flight Entertainment:

Free headset
Up to 25 TV channels via Direct TV (some at an additional charge of $6)
Examples of free TV: NBC, CBS, CNN, ESPN, MTV, Bravo, Comedy Channel, Discovery, Food Network, Nickelodeon and more ...
Choose from 6 movie channels: $8 each. Selection will change monthly of the latest released movies. Movies will start 8 minutes after take off and can only be purchased up to 15 minutes after departure.

In-Flight Services:

Complimentary Beverages: Soda, tea, coffee, juices, water
A variety of snacks for purchase at $3 each
Continental breakfast snack box at $6
Variety of snack boxes at $6
Premium beverages: beer, wine, cocktails $5-$7

First checked bag: FREE  Second bag: $20  Over weight bag fee: $75

Please call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel plans.

When you're ready to Go...Go Classic!  636-625-8747 



Thursday, October 27, 2011

Hurricane in Mexico


   
As we are sure you have seen in the news, there is currently a hurricane moving through the Riviera Maya. All hotels are making preparations and following any guidelines and communication from the government in order to take care of our guests and hotel staff. As of Wednesday afternoon at 4PM EST, the storm had been downgraded to a Category 1 Storm.

For all your travel needs and questions please contact:

Classic Travel and Cruises  636-625-8747


Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Funjet Announces Panama as a New Destination

Panama is the perfect place for people looking for a tropical vacation off the beaten path. It is one of the world's most visitor friendly countries. With two coasts, countless islands and Caribbean-style beaches, there is much to choose from for vacations:full service resorts, exotic getaways and so much more! Panama has exotic tropical rainforests, gorgeous mountain refuges, beautiful beaches, a Miami style capital city, historic venues, adventure tours, kayaking, white water rafting, fishing, and not to mention one of the engineering marvels of the world - the Panama Canal. Funjet Vacations now offers vacation packages in three different destination zones: the beach zones, the rainforest and Panama City, making this the perfect multi-stop vacation destination.

Please call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go...Go Classic!   

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Visit Kauai

KAUAI

Island Of Discovery

With its endless shades of green, soaring cliffs and dramatic canyons, Kauai invites you to renew your connection with nature - again and again. "The Garden Isle" is an emerald treasure, a place to rejuvenate body and spirit among serene beaches. The oldest and northernmost of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai combines adventure, enchantment and 360 degree natural beauty. A peaceful escape from your busy life, Kauai's tantalizing  environment and relaxed island pace is ideal for rediscovering and savoring what's truly important.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go .... Go Classic! 




Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Dreams Punta Cana

No matter what a kid's age - in fact, no matter one's age at all - small surprises are a delight, and when those surprises are wrapped up in an out of this world beachside resort such as Dreams Punta Cana Resort and Spa in the Dominican Republic those surprises can be downright "dreamy".

As you stroll along their 47 acre property there is a surprise around every corner - like the flamingos that really take bread from your hand, or a stand where fresh fruit is literally being cut up to order for fruit pops to go, not to mention the limitless supply of soft ice cream that you take yourself from a machine that churns out the cool treat or the friendly parrots placed on your shoulders. These unexpected moments are the icing on the cake when it comes to a family vacation, but Dreams also knows how to offer the foundation for a truly successful vacation, including top of the line service.

Article courtesy of Recommend magazine.

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go ... Go Classic!   

Friday, August 26, 2011

Introducing IBEROSTAR Cancun

Iberostar Hotel and Resort in Cancun. Expansive, elegant, enticing. Welcome to Iberostar's newest destination, Iberostar Cancun. Situated on one of Mexico's most stunning beachfronts, Iberostar Cancun features a sprawling  complex filled with fun at every turn. At this remarkable hotel, the kids can live it up at the supervised Kid's Club - complete with a water park - while the adults play a round of golf on the area's only 18-hole course, relax in the stunning spa or wile away the hours in any of the seven infinity pools. At this all-inclusive destination, dining is a family dream. From four gourmet specialty restaurants to the casual poolside snack bar, the ice cream parlor to the cigar lounge - Iberostar Cancun caters to every member of the family as only Iberostar can do.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs - 636-625-8747   

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Let Princess Cruises show you the world

Breathtaking Alaska. Princess is the leader in Alaska. The land and sea cruisetour vacations combine incredible voyages with Princess rail service and unforgettable experiences to the wilderness lodges at the best locations.

Classic Europe. Princess offers the best itineraries to the most popular regions of Europe - the Mediterranean, Greek Isles and Holy Land; Scandinavia, Russia and Norwegian Fjords; British Isles, Iceland and Greenland - with over 40 itineraries on large and small ships.

Around the Americas. Closer to home, sail to the festive Caribbean, monumental Panama Canal, colorful Mexico, historic Canada and New England, idyllic Hawaiian Islands and gorgeous Pacific Coast.

Exotic destinations. Throughout the world, Princess has voyages to the most intriguing places - like ancient Asia, India and Africa; majestic Australia and New Zealand; the lush isles of Hawaii, Tahiti and the South Pacific; and exciting South America.

World Cruises. There's nothing like seeing all the world's great landmarks on a single itinerary - the World Cruise. Sail for over 100 days on one of two global sailings with princess as your host.

Call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go ... Go Classic!     

Vacation at Azul Hotels by Karisma

Riviera Maya is the perfect place for families to spend their vacation. At Azul Hotels, by Karisma, they cater especially to families with children of all ages. The Azulitos kids club is designed to entertain the young ones while the parents can relax at the beach or by the pool. Enjoy the gourmet inclusive vacation experience at Azul.

Call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your vacation plans! 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go...Go Classic! 

Friday, August 12, 2011

Costa Rica and Galapagos

Costa Rica has 12 different life zones and is simply amazing. If you would like to combine a bit of beach with a bit of exploration, Costa Rica is an excellent choice. There are still active volcanoes in Costa Rica - nighttime in Arenal reveals an amazing ember glow!

Rain forests are in plenty and more than 850 species of birds are in an area about the size of Kentucky, wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled. If sitting by the pool is more up your alley, Costa Rica delivers as well.

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to get "up close and personal" with wildlife, a Galapagos adventure is your answer. Thanks to impressive conservation efforts, the islands that comprise the Galapagos archipelago have remained unspoiled and unchanged for thousands of years. The wildlife on the islands are not afraid of humans and you can approach them at amazingly close proximity.

Ecuador and the Galapagos are great family destinations as well as perfect for all nature lovers.

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises. 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go ... Go Classic!

Article courtesy of United Travel Group Brochure    

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Hawaii - Experience the Spirit of Aloha

Hawaiians open their arms, their culture, and their way of life, inviting you to experience their genuine Aloha spirit.

Choosing the Right Island
Each of Hawaii's five main islands offers unique adventures, activities, and unending delights. Here are the highlights:

Oahu - A wondrous combination that blends Honolulu's big city shopping, nightlife, and entertainment with abundant nature, historical significance and Hawaiian tradition.

Maui - Boasts several fine, golden-sand beaches, serene panoramas, and some of the world's best golf courses.

Hawaii's Big Island - The island is home to plunging waterfalls, three active volcanoes, snow-capped mountains, tropical flora and fauna, ancient temples, and even cowboys and ranch life.

Kauai - This island's intense, natural beauty leads to endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.

Lanai - With no stoplights, this true island getaway offers seclusion, unique beauty, and two masterpiece golf courses designed by legends.

First-time Traveler - If this is your first trip to Hawaii you may want to stay on either Oahu or Maui, as these are the most popular Hawaiian Islands.

Short Stay - Staying only four to five nights in Hawaii? We recommend you pick one island, rent a car, and explore all your unique island has to offer. You'll be amazed at the incredible scenery and variety of activities that are available.

Extended Stay - If you're planning a stay of 10 nights or more, you can comfortably visit up to three islands during your trip, and explore what each has to offer before flying to the next island for another adventure. A popular itinerary would be to stay on Oahu for three nights, fly over to Maui for four, then fly to Kauai or Hawaii's Big Island for three more nights.

Please call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs - 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go .... Go Classic!

Article courtesy of Continental Airlines Magazine.     

Piedmont Italy

Wouldn't it be easier if Italy were just a bit more boring? The art, the history, the landscapes, the pasta-seriously, you're always going to feel like there's more to to or eat. If actual relaxing is on your agenda, the Piedmont region  may just be your answer. Tucked into the northwestern corner of the country, Piedmont pulled the short straw when it came to major Italian attractions. This is nothing but farm country, home to countless hazelnut groves, Barolo wineries, and truffle-studded fields, a place where folks have so much time on their hands, they created Italy's slow-food movement. Most tourists don't bother with Piedmont, and those who do have little choice but to stay in unpretentious, family-run inns that serve meals made from what the owners grow and raise themselves. No crowds, authentic farm-to-table cuisine, endless Barolo-wait, that doesn't sound so bad after all. In fact, it sounds like heaven. Leave it to Italy to make even life in the slow lane completely irresistible.

I experienced this small town and of course the wonderful Barolo wines myself - one word AWESOME!

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs - 636-625-8747

When you're ready to go ... Go Classic!

Article courtesy of Budget Travel magazine.     

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

A Trip to Tulum

Plenty of Travelers visit Tulum's Mayan ruins, but only a few stay for the spectacular beaches, casual restaurants and earthy, chic boutique accommodations nearby. Compared to Playa del Carmen, Tulum is an undiscovered gem and that's largely because of the resorts.

Article compliments of Recommend Magazine.

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises 636-625-8747




Playa Del Carmen Mexico

Cancun is known for its sprawling all-inclusive properties, but head to Playa Del Carmen, the relaxed beach town 30 miles south of Cancun, and you'll find quaint and unique hotels within walking distance of the area's main attractions without budget-busting rates.

Traditional Resorts

Modern Properties

Romantic Getaways


Article compliments of Recommend magazine.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747



Thursday, August 4, 2011

Sandals' Resorts Success Story

Over the years, the all-inclusive hotel company has identified top players in areas relevant to a resort experience and forged key partnerships with them to the benefit of all concerned.

Travel Agents are well aware of Sandals Resorts International's signature amenities that have made it easy and profitable to sell, but what has kept all this all-inclusive mega power on top in the caribbean for 30 years are the actual signatures that Sandals Chairman Gordon "Butch" Stewart , his son and Sandals CEO Adam Stewart, and the rest of the Sandals team, have attached to many smart deals.

As we celebrate Sandals' 30th year in operation, we look back at some of these deals that have resulted in partnerships that have made the company relevant for three decades and most likely on top for at least another 30 years.

"Our partnerships have expanded the value of the brands, Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, enormously," says Butch Stewart. He sites the company's pairing with Martha Stewart and Sesame Street as examples of "our ongoing strategy to exceed customer expectations and deliver a superior product."

"Today, everyone cares about branding," says Adam Stewart. "Years ago, people didn't care about a brand. A shirt was a shirt was a shirt. Now, people care about what brand of shirt they are wearing. The sames goes with our guests. I think it's extremely important to take on these partnerships because our customers are used to the best in each class and we feel like we have that."

Article courtesy of Travel Agent Magazine.

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises -When you're ready to go ... Go Classic!   
636-625-8747


Friday, July 29, 2011

Disney Resort on Oahu

On August 29, Disney will open its first resort in Hawaii. The 21 acre, 359 room Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina near Oahu's North Shore. The Aulani will tell the story of authentic Hawaii. The kid's club, the 5200 square foot Aunty's Beach House, will offer nature and wildlife programs and traditional Hawaiian games and Disney film screenings.

Other resort features include fitness and spa center (including some kids treatments) beach access, four restaurants, a story telling fire pit, a conference center and 460 Disney Vacation Club Villas, of which 21 are Grand Villas.

Article courtesy of Travel Agent magazine

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs - 636-625-8747 

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Should I buy travel insurance for my trip?

Travel Insurance is meant to put you at ease in regards to your financial risk. These risks include accidents, illness, missed flights, lost baggage, emergency evacuation just for a few examples. So get away knowing you are protected.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs!  636-625-8747


Can I trust a travel agent to book my Honeymoon?

A Honeymoon is a special time for the bride and groom to relax and after making all the decisions regarding the wedding it is a comfort to let your travel agent suggest the perfect Honeymoon destination. We can also plan and make reservations for spa treatments, restaurants, entertainment and activities.



Please call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs!  636-625-8747

Should I trust a travel agent for my destination wedding?

You should definitely use a travel agent. Most couples are already stressed enough about the wedding, so why not have a travel agent relieve some stress by taking care of the details, especially since it doesn't cost you a thing.
 

.Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs!  636-625-8747


Thursday, July 7, 2011

Do I buy Insurance for my trip? Questions to ask yourself

-Can you risk losing your vacation investment if something goes wrong due to illness, weather or other unforeseen circumstances?

-If you have to cut your trip short due to emergency, can you afford the cost of a return trip home?

-Does your health insurance provide coverage away from home and out of the country? What if you become ill or are injured while traveling?

-If your bags are lost or you have to spend an extra night because of weather-related problems, can you afford to buy necessities and pay for extra lodging?

Article courtesy of Travel Agent Magazine

For all your travel needs please contact Classic Travel and Cruises  636-625-8747 

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Would you pay for a faster airport security check?

Frequent fliers would pay for faster airport security checks

Nearly half of Americans surveyed — and three-quarters of frequent business travelers — say they'd pay up to $150 a year and get a background check to speed through a separate airport security line.

July 04, 2011|By Hugo Martín, Los Angeles Times
U.S. air travelers already pay to check bags and buy onboard snacks, among other charges. But would they pay to avoid those long airport security lines?
A sizable chunk of them would, according to a recent survey by the U.S. Travel Assn., the nationwide trade group that has been pushing the idea of a fee-based plan to unclog the gridlock at the country's airports.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Jamaica FAM Trip 2011

I recently participated in an agent trip to Jamaica. They are trying to educate agents and the general public that safety is a top priority for tourism. We visited several resorts and went to dinner in Montego Bay. They have uniformed tourist guides on Hip Strip if any problems would occur. We encourage our clients to use the same precautions they would use going to downtown St Louis. Don't wear expensive jewelry or flash large amounts of cash to draw unwanted attention. Also, stay on the main areas of the tourist area where there are plenty of people enjoying local attractions. Hip Strip has shops and restaurants including Margaritaville and the Pelican where we enjoyed some local cuisine. Some agents walked over to a shopping area near our resort, Riu Montego Bay. We encourage our clients to stay in a large group and walk in well lit areas where the tourist guides are located.

Here is some information about the resorts I toured:


Riu Montego Bay - 681 rooms, Close to airport, basic amenities, nice beach, comfortable rooms, wedding gazebo, family rooms and suites also available.

Iberostar Rose Hall Beach - 366 rooms and suites, nice beach and pool area, library has 2 pool tables, massage cabanas, a lot of palapas by pool and trees on beach, 12 hr room service, 20 minutes from airport

Iberostar Rose Hall Suites - 273 suites, lazy river, bigger beach, 24 hr room service, great for weddings
Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall -295 suites, adults only, full butler service, free concierge at pool, free internet

Secrets Wild Orchid/St James - adults only, 350 suites in each section. Wild Orchid is the section where most of restaurants and activities are located. St James is more relaxed and quiet, no pool bar. All rooms have 'Secret box', flat screen with DVD players, minibar. Almost all rooms have oceanview with 1 king or 2 queens. Both have Preferred Club sections with separate check in, small lobby with snacks and free internet.
Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton/Jamaica - 984 suites, located outside of Montego Bay in Lucea. It is farther from airport but very picturesque. The property is quite large with a great pool area, spa and secluded beach with watersports. Adult only section and pool available.

Riu Tropical Bay Palace - 416 rooms, located on Bloody Bay in Negril. Great beach, small property
Couples Swept Away - 312 suites, located on Negril's Seven Mile Beach, Caribbean-style verandah suites that include atrium and beachfront suites. The atrium verandah suites are secluded villas with garden views.They offer a walk in shower for 2, windows on 3 sides with shutters for privacy and hammock outside.

Couples Negril - 234 rooms and suites, located on Bloody Bay. Great beach, small intimate resort with beachfront suites available. Private 'au natural' sunbathing area. Glass bottom boats and other activities.
Sunset at the Palms - 65 rooms and suites, nestled in the trees across the street from beach. Treetop deluxe rooms and treetop 1 bedroom suites available. This is small, value minded property that is only a short walk to the beach club with bar & grill and watersports area.
Last but not least -
Palmyra - 299 rooms and suites, just opened Fall 2010 with a new building under construction. This is a condo type property with full kitchen and laundry in most rooms. Private chef, personal concierge and butler available. Commissary on site with groceries and wine. This is the ultimate in luxury with a nice, relaxing beach. Wedding facilities and conference rooms to accommodate most events.

Christy

Friday, July 1, 2011

Caribbean - Islands for Adventures

Aruba
Aruba is among the livelier, more developed islands in the Caribbean. Aruba has high-rise resorts, great restaurants and glitzy casinos lining every white-sand beach.

Bahamas
Travelers are quite satisfied with the treasures they find in the Bahamas:brilliant turquoise water, gorgeous sandy beaches, excellent fishing and diving, and surroundings that range from quaint colonial villages to lovely secluded coves.

Cayman Islands
You'll enjoy the Cayman Islands if you've ever had the urge to see beneath the sea. There are plenty of places to dive or snorkel.

Curacao
With a mixture of 55 different nationalities on the Island, Curacao has a fascinating multicultural aspect. It also has a cosmopolitan character. The majority of the residents speak at least four languages.

Dominican Republic
The Dominican attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches, historic areas in the major cities, and deluxe boutique hotels.

Jamaica
The popular image of Jamaica is emerald rain forests, waterfalls that tumble into cool, clear streams and glorious beaches that rival any in the Caribbean. The legendary "cool" of Jamaican culture is heard in the reggae music and by the dry wit of the young Jamaican men who pilot visitors down the Great River on bamboo rafts.

Please contact Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs. 636-625-8747

Courtesy of Travel Weekly Magazine     



Hawaii - Celebrating Island Life

There's enough beauty and activity in Hawaii to fill more vacations than we could take in a lifetime. With so much to choose from, first-time visitors need to be selective. The recommendation is to settle first on the Hawaii you want to see. It might be beaches, a luau and nightlife; it might be rare orchids and hikes in the rain forest; it might be quiet countryside, small towns and scenic drives. Whatever the combination, there is almost certainly an island or islands best suited to your Hawaii vacation dreams.

Hawaii (big) Island
Hawaii Island is commonly known as the Big Island for good reason. It's larger than all the other islands combined.

Kauai
Kauai is the oldest and northernmost of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands. Nature is its biggest draw.

Lanai
The smallest of the main islands is and uncrowded. It is completely owned by Castle & Cooke, the parent company of the Dole Pineapple. But commercial pineapple production has stopped, and tourism is now the mainstay of the economy.

Maui
Maui is the second most-visited Hawaiian Island, after Oahu. Maui has wonderful beaches, calm ocean bays, stunning mountain and volcano vistas, sugarcane fields, highland ranches, twisting mountain roads, whale-watching, golf, hiking, zip lining, sailing and other boat excursions, deep sea fishing, and watersports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing and parasailing.

Please call Classic Travel and Cruises for all your travel needs.  636-625-8747

Article Credit: Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau   

The Best of Luxury Travel - Bellagio Las Vegas

Inspired by the beautiful villages of Europe, the Bellagio overlooks a Mediterranean-blue lake in which fountains perform a magnificent ballet choreographed to music and lights. The lobby is in a word, Grand!

Elegantly appointed accommodations, pairing modern conveniences with the warmth of home, feature sweeping views of the resort's lake, surrounding mountains and the Las Vegas skyline.

Experience Bellagio's exquisite spa. This award winning beauty oasis has the singular goal of pampering guests with its unique menu of international treatments in a luxurious 65,000 square foot setting. Spa packages can be custom tailored to suit your needs, plus food and beverages can be added on for an additional fee.

For more information contact Classic Travel and Cruises  636-625-8747

Article courtesy of Travel Weekly 


Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Travel Tips

  • As you're packing, think twice about taking valuables with you. If they're not essential, they're probably better off left at home. This will also make for lighter bags.
  • Scan your passport and travel documents and e-mail them to yourself. That way, if your documents are lost or stolen you can easily access copies from your e-mail.
  • Take your bank or credit card's international telephone number with you (the 1-800 numbers used in the United States don't work in Mexico).
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home, but don't share details of your travel plans with others you meet while traveling.