tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75545221052638218712024-03-21T18:26:37.657-07:00Caribbean Travel AdventuresCaribbean Travel BlogsTom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-56820885984145334452014-02-01T07:06:00.002-08:002014-02-01T07:23:58.119-08:00Carnival Sunshine...A Disappointment<br />
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Carnival
Sunshine…A Disappointment<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We just
finished a cruise on Sunshine and were quite disappointed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Having
sailed on 9 cruises, both large and small ships, the Sunshine <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">does not
live up to Carnival’s standard. The passengers who had only<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">sailed on
one or two cruises were happy with the ship. All the <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">experienced
cruisers were disappointed in the ship and said they would <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">never sail
on Sunshine again. (Many having been on 15 to 20 cruises)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What is
wrong with the Carnival Sunshine…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The ship
does not have the staff to handle the number of passengers.</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is very
apparent in the dining room; we waited almost one hour to </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">be seated.
When the food arrived, after another wait, the food was </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">cold and was
certainly not the taste and quality we expected. The food </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">on the
buffet while hot lacked much taste. Also most of the cake </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">deserts were
dry, most of the other deserts again lacked taste and they </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">even managed
to over bake the chocolate melting cake.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On all our
past cruises on Carnival we were always able to order a third </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">entrée to
share with what we ordered for a main course. We were </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">informed
that it is against Carnival’s policy to serve an extra entrée until </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">you had finished the first ones. We have on
every other ship been </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">able to have
the other entrée brought to the table at the same time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Not sure if
this is a new Carnival policy, one that they have just started </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">to enforce
or one that is being used on Sunshine because they do not </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">have enough
galley and wait staff.</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While still
on food, ordered fresh apple pie, it was terrible. A frozen pie </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">is 100%
better. Totally unimpressed with the pizza, normally “good” on </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">other ships,
awful on Sunshine. They should try boxed pizza, it would be </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a big
improvement.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other ship
issues…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
entertainment is normally pretty good, not so on Sunshine. The </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">shows were
pretty bad. The worst we have encountered on a cruise.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The floor
tile in the buffet is “very” slippery. Be very careful if you come <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">in off the
deck with wet shoes. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Buying on
the ship!! Carnival has the lowest prices, NOT. I would </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">suggest you
check prices in the ports before you purchase anything on </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">the ship. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An Invicta watch was priced at $130; I paid
$90 off ship. The </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">perfume is
also overpriced. Carnival will “price match” but you have to </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">have a
picture of the item that also shows the price. Good luck getting a </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">store owner
to allow the picture.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you want
to shop on shore, get away from the “tourist” streets and </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">visit the
mom and pop shops. There you will find the locally made </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">goods, not
the “tourist” stuff. Liquor is also cheaper from the "</span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">local”
stores.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Not sure how
extensive the drain backups were, one room down the </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">hall from us
had sewage backup into the room at least three times that </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know of. Also
on occasion there were buckets in the halls because of </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">water leaks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Luggage Express…
how great this is to not having to touch your luggage </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">till you get
to your destination. Carnival does the boarding passes and </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">takes the
luggage to the airline. Really wonderful…SUNSHINE DOES </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">NOT OFFER
THIS SERVICE at least out of New Orleans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Will never </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">sail on any
Carnival out of New Orleans. We are not sure if this is </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a problem at
the port or a Carnival problem.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is a
luggage service on the dock that will store your baggage<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">and meet you
at a set time at the airport. You do have to still check<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">your bags with
the airline and get your boarding pass.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The cruise
terminal is small, not well organized and cannot handle the </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">number of
passengers. We were directed to the wrong lines by the </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">staff in the
terminal. This will be an even bigger mess when Dream </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">starts
sailing out of NOLA.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The traffic
flow for vehicles outside is SLOW. The road goes to two </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">lanes and
really restricts the traffic. Getting to the unloading area can </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">take awhile.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">All in all…the
crew were great, especially the room steward, she was fantastic. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Esthetically the ship is nice. The décor is
very well done. The serenity deck is very well appointed although to
small.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We will never sail on Sunshine again, not sure
if we will even </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">continue to
sail on Carnival.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-58079618001244177622013-03-03T07:37:00.003-08:002013-03-03T07:40:20.160-08:00Travel Information Check List<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
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<span style="font-size: 24pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Travel Information Check List<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can use our information form below to double check if your travel info is complete. <span style="color: red;"><strong>Double check that all information is correct</strong></span>. Dates, spelling of names, etc., <u><span style="color: red;"><strong>cannot be changed after the booking is made</strong></span></u>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Make sure the entered information is the same as on your travel documents.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also read <strong>Documents Required for</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> if you are not sure of identification requirements. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If </span></span><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="color: #00aaff; font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> does your travel booking for you we do require this information from you. You may do your own travel bookings at </span><a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/"><span style="color: #00aaff; font-family: Calibri;">http://2662.mtravel.com/</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> if you prefer to not give out personal and credit information.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures is affiliated as an independent contractor with Montrose Travel who is a member of the following organizations:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Montrose Travel/SARA Enterprises Inc. is not responsible for content on external Web sites. (The Travel Providers provide the content on the external links; Caribbean Travel Adventures has no control of this content.) <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">© 2013. All rights reserved. CST# California: 1018299-10<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can copy and paste the <u><strong>Required Information </strong></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>from below into a word document and email or fax the form to us. (Word or notepad)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Required Information…</span></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We need the following information in order to book your travel plans. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">All information is entered and secure through GeoTrust®<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SSL certificates from GeoTrust® are the ultimate online security and trust solution delivering both 256-bit encryption and the True Site™ trust mark providing third-party website identity validation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The presence of SSL means you can rest assured that communications (e.g. credit card numbers) between your browser and this site's web servers are private and secure when the SSL session is activated.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you would rather not give out this information we will guide you through the booking process (not difficult to do) at </span></span><a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00aaff; font-family: Calibri;">http://2662.mtravel.com/</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> which is the booking link at </span></span><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00aaff; font-family: Calibri;">www.caribbeantraveladventures.com</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. Our email is </span></span><a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00aaff; font-family: Calibri;">caribta@hotmail.com</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. Phone 1-866-802-2292 or 303-947-8624(cell)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">All travel arrangements that we book will be supplied in detail for your approval before any travel bookings or payments are made to suppliers. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Travel arrangements are not guaranteed until a deposit or payment in full is made to the supplier.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">COPY AND PASTE FROM HERE…<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">your full name<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>address<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">your email address<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>contact phone number<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>fax number<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Flight Info</strong>…</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">first name<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>middle name<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>last name<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">note: names must be the same as on your travel documents<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span style="font-size: 12pt;">date of birth</span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>month<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>day<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>year<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>gender</u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>male/female</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">preferred airline<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">frequent flyer number<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>special services needed<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">note: domestic flights require a photo ID and in some cases a birth certificate.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Citizenship Info</strong> (passport)…</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">country of citizenship<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>residency country(where you current live)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">document type (such as passport)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">document number<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>country of issuance<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">city of issuance or authority( for US it is US dept of state)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">issued on (date)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>expiration(date)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Visa info</strong> if traveling to a country that requires a visa(do a Google search for the country you are traveling to if not sure of the requirement or we will search for you)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">note: in most cases your travel must be within 3 to 6 months of the expiration of the travel document.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Travel Insurance… <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We recommend travel insurance, If you are not sure of what is covered you can read </span></span><a href="http://wwwcaribbeantraveladventures.blogspot.com/2011/02/caribbean-travel-adventurestravel.html"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00aaff; font-family: Calibri;">http://wwwcaribbeantraveladventures.blogspot.com/2011/02/caribbean-travel-adventurestravel.html</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> We book insurance through TravelGard.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Yes</strong> I want insurance<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><strong>No</strong> I decline the insurance<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Credit Card<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">supplying the credit card information gives Caribbean Travel Adventures/Tom Kinsel authorization to charge your travel to your credit or debit card per the supplied travel arrangements submitted for your approval.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SSL certificates from GeoTrust® are the ultimate online security and trust solution delivering both 256-bit encryption and the True Site™ trust mark providing third-party website identity validation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The presence of SSL means you can rest assured that communications (e.g. credit card numbers) between your browser and this site's web servers are private and secure when the SSL session is activated.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">exact name of card<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>billing phone number<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">card number<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>expiration date<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>security code<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">billing address for card<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>signature of card holder<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rental Car<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">rental agency<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>class of car<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>days rented<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">pickup and return times<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>rental insurance coverage(list)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Location of where to pickup and return<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cruise Line<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">name of cruise line<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ships name<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">departure port<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>destination<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">sailing date<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>confirmation #<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>date of booking<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">number of night’s<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>cabin category<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>deck<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>cabin number<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">cabin type, (inside, ocean view, balcony, suite)<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>twin or king bed preference<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">dining(early, late, open)<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>table size preferred<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">list of excursions<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">transfers (to and from port)<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>will provide own transportation(yes or no)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">deposit paid date<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>$$balance due<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>final payment date<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>paid in full date<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">gratuities pre-paid (yes or no)<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>special occasion orders(flowers, birthday, anniversary)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hotel/Resort <o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">name of hotel<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span># of nights<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>check in and out dates<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">confirmation #<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>hotel phone#<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>hotel address<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">check in and checkout times<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>hotel shuttle, taxi, shuttle service<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">if shuttle service, list information<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><strong>Additional Information<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">please use the space below to provide any addition requirements and special requests for your vacation that are not covered above.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">list any tours or other bookings in this space.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-41107959064971264762013-03-03T07:34:00.002-08:002013-03-03T07:34:57.921-08:00Baggage Delayed ???<div style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">This is an aritcle copied from Fox News. We are posting for your information</span></h1>
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Baggage delayed? You're entitled to more than a toothbrush and pocket change</h1>
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By <a class="fn url" href="http://www.foxnews.com/archive/author/george-hobica/index.html" rel="author">George Hobica</a></div>
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Published February 14, 2012<span class="value-title" title="2012-02-14T09:51:13.000-0500"></span></div>
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<span class="org fn">FoxNews.com</span></div>
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It happens to hundreds of airline passengers every day. They arrive at a destination far from home, but their bags don't.<br />
The bags aren't necessarily "lost" -they're "delayed." But for these hapless travelers, they're as good as gone.<br />
They've arrived in Salt Lake City for a week of skiing, but their ski gear and clothes didn't. They've touched down in Athens for a cruise wearing nothing but a t-shirt and shorts (so much for complying with dress codes in the dining room). They've landed in New York City for an important meeting later that day; imagine the impression they'll make since their business attire was in that delayed bag. Then there are the wedding dresses and funeral clothes that never showed up in time.<br />
In past years, the airlines were largely unsympathetic. They might offer a paltry $25 or $50 a day for "essentials" and perhaps a toothbrush and essential toiletries. This was clearly not enough.<br />
And although some airlines handled such situations on a case by base basis, passengers had to beg and wheedle and cajole to get reimbursed for clothing and equipment needed to enjoy their trip, or to dress for the weather or the occasion at their destination.<br />
That's all changed thanks to a directive from the U.S. D.O.T. to all airlines. This notice, issued last October, informs airlines that they cannot place arbitrary limits on compensation, not only when bags are lost, but even if they are merely "delayed." <a href="http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/blog/10505773/guidance-on-reimbursement-of-passenger-expenses-incurred-as-a-result-of-lost-damaged-or-delayed-baggage/" jquery16408279534028477246="19" rel="external ext-linked" target="_blank">Read the directive in full</a><img src="http://global.fncstatic.com/static/v/all/img/external-link.png" style="margin: 4px 0px 0px 4px;" />.<br />
As a result, airlines have been fined and some have changed the language on their websites dealing with delayed bags. For example, I found this on Delta.com:<br />
"Delta requires that receipts be presented for all reasonable expense reimbursements incurred due to the delay of a passenger's bag. Reasonable expenses generally are $50 for the first 24hrs and $25 per day for the next 4 days the bag is delayed. The guidelines for reasonable expenses are NOT daily limits or a cap and additional expenses may be incurred and should be handled on an individual basis up to the limit of liability [emphasis added, which, by the way, Delta doesn't specify--more on that below]. Any disbursements will be deducted from the final settlement if the bag is not located."<br />
Clearly, $25 or $50 per day is not enough to salvage a wedding, a ski trip, or an important business presentation. And the D.O.T. has made it clear that there are circumstances where passengers are entitled to dress appropriately at their destination, and replace needed sports and equipment and supplies.<br />
The U.S. D.O.T. directive refers to the maximum $3,300 in liability that airlines face for wholly domestic U.S. trips. A lower level of compensation applies to international trips, usually governed by the Montreal Convention, which is currently 1,131 "<a href="http://www.imf.org/external/np/fin/data/rms_sdrv.aspx" jquery16408279534028477246="20" rel="external ext-linked" target="_blank">Special Drawing Rights</a><img src="http://global.fncstatic.com/static/v/all/img/external-link.png" style="margin: 4px 0px 0px 4px;" />." (The value of an SDR is calculated daily, but as of this writing one SDR is equivalent to $1.55). But the D.O.T. is going after foreign airlines as well.<br />
In January, for example, the D.O.T. fined Alitalia $80,000 for "violations...of Article 19 of the Montreal Convention and the statutory prohibition against unfair and deceptive trade practices, 49 U.S.C. § 41712, in connection with monetary claims resulting from delay [emphasis added by me] of checked baggage on Alitalia flights to or from the <a class="r_lapi" href="http://www.foxnews.com/topics/u.s.htm#r_src=ramp">United States</a>. It directs Alitalia to cease and desist from future similar violations of Article 19 and section 41712. The consent decree continues, "Article 22 of the Convention currently sets the liability limit for damages associated with lost, damaged, or delayed baggage at 1,131 Special Drawing Rights for each passenger.1 Article 19 provides that a carrier is liable for damage caused by delay in the carriage of baggage, except to the extent that the carrier proves that it took all reasonable measures to prevent the damage or that it was impossible to take such measures. Further, Article 26 states that any contractual provision tending to relieve a carrier of liability or to fix a lower limit than that which is laid down in the Convention is null and void."</div>
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Read more: <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2012/02/14/baggage-delayed-youre-entitled-to-more-than-toothbrush-and-pocket-change/?intcmp=obinsite#ixzz2KWQr0tnj" style="color: #003399;">http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2012/02/14/baggage-delayed-youre-entitled-to-more-than-toothbrush-and-pocket-change/?intcmp=obinsite#ixzz2KWQr0tnj</a></div>
Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-34797075766697770962013-03-03T07:30:00.002-08:002013-03-03T07:30:44.022-08:00Documents Required for Travel<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 20pt;">Documents Required for Travel<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 20pt;">DOMESTIC REQUIREMENTS<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Adult requirements are clear for what identification is required. However depending on the age of a child, the requirements can vary from airline to airline.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Adults<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Adults must show identification at the TSA checkpoints. TSA will accept the following forms of ID including any state, federal or tribal identification card, a passport, military ID card, permanent resident card, border-crossing card, state ID card or driver's license or an enhanced driver’s license. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Kids under 14<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">According to the TSA, kids are not required to show any identification at TSA checkpoints.<u> But some airlines require a birth certificate for children under 14 to prove</u> their age. You should travel with an original of the child's birth certificate, or obtain a passport.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Kids 15 to 17<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Children 15 to 17 are still minors to the TSA, some airlines require some kind of identification when they're traveling alone. A school-issued ID card, birth certificate or a library card may be all that is required. <u>Be sure to check with the airline.</u><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Additional Documentation<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If you're traveling with children that are not yours, be prepared to provide documentation that you have permission for the child to travel with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have the child's parent sign a "Travel Consent Form." Have it notarized, your bank should do this for free. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Link for Travel Consent Form, </span><a href="http://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=CWSHVtggyUfatAunCwQGi6ICYBuXJ0xXxv7KNIMCNtwEQAiDdj5AYKARQgN6S5vv_____AWDJtoaHzKPAF6ABvYq2_wPIAQGoAwGqBKUBT9B1D9R5WzYTw5bSTJ1vvL7pSsJTDz8B2q5Kb3_QCc8nATvItPTnu4tu0prT6Y8zj2z3WplxxQyPoMH_PE9PsrsfQR79J2vF_BwG_P1FG5JPwlZVG-YicchdKLlaelly9jzwpI66t4ML4LVzYUCLrfB1G44aAne3xAvvltTs5bwnpO7N_mrqiMG__bFDsxn-LzPa2o03EIb5Dt5kSWBVYRJIH0ZTiAYBgAer9Uk&num=2&cid=5GiLb--_nWL7msTgw02dmHt_&sig=AOD64_0Qu5qQCH4no78jxFaE0tbs8O2WqA&client=ca-pub-3235755782694080&adurl=http://www.lawdepot.com/contracts/child-travel-consent/%3Floc%3DUS%26pid%3Dgoogleppc-consnt_us-ft_main_d1ft-c-ggkey_authorization%2520child%2520travel%26s_kwcid%3DContentNetwork%7C8523335345"><span style="color: #1990e5; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">OnlineForms.LawDepot.com</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">INTERNATIONAL REQUIREMENTS<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><o:p> </o:p></span></h2>
<h2 style="margin: auto 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Passpor</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">t<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">A passport is required for all air travel overseas</span></u></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">, both for entry into the foreign country and for re-entry into the U.S. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-ansi-language: EN;">travel. A U.S. passport card can only be used as identification if you're returning to the United States from Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda and Mexico</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">.</span></b><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">A passport</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">card is not valid for international travel by air.</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel date. If you need to apply for a passport or yours is about to expire, visit the U.S. Department of State website for instructions.</span> (<a href="http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: #00aaff;">http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html</span></span></a><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">) Make a color copy of your passport in case the original is lost or stolen. Link to passport services <a href="http://cibtvisas.com/?login=55177"><span style="color: purple;">http://cibtvisas.com/?login=55177</span></a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Visa<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">A travel visa is required for most countries, but not all countries require them in advance. Check the Department of State website (</span><a href="http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: #00aaff;">http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html</span></span></a><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">) for the most up-to-date country-specific information regarding visas. Most countries will issue a tourist visa upon entrance for U.S. passport holders. If you are on a cruise you are usually ok for the stop in port.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Flight and Hotel Information<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Have a copy of your flight itinerary and any information related to where you will be staying during your trip overseas. Most countries want proof of a return ticket. The <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>address</u></b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>and phone number</u></b> of where you plan to stay may be needed for the entry card when arriving a foreign country.<u><o:p></o:p></u></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 14pt;">Driver's License<o:p></o:p></span></u></h2>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The enhanced licenses approved by the Department of Homeland Security can be used for identification. Enhanced licenses have a Radio Frequency Identification Chip and a machine-readable barcode. You can use an enhanced license for both domestic travel and to return to the United States from Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Planning to rent a car or drive any kind of vehicle while traveling, bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance or plan to buy additional insurance where you rent the vehicle, this can run up the cost of the rental, but you can just “walk away”. Countries may require an international driver’s license, but other countries grant a limited driving period.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check with the rental agency <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>before</u></b> you go for exact rules and regulations regarding international driving. Also, what their age requirement may be, usually you must be 25 years old.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Insurance Information<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Carry proof of medical or travel insurance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For additional insurance information, read our insurance blog at </span><a href="http://wwwcaribbeantraveladventures.blogspot.com/2011/02/caribbean-travel-adventurestravel.html"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: #00aaff;">http://wwwcaribbeantraveladventures.blogspot.com/2011/02/caribbean-travel-adventurestravel.html</span></span></a><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If you are a United States Citizen, you <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MUST</b> have the following for you trip:<o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">State Issued Photo ID…State Certified Birth Certificate (not a copy)…<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">OR<o:p></o:p></b></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">US Passport…Visa…and proof of Inoculations (if needed)<o:p></o:p></span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Note: all non-US citizens require special visas, immigration arrangements and re-entry permits which are the traveler’s responsibility.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 18pt;">Cruise Line Requirements<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #464646; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">All cruise line passengers must provide <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>travel documentation when boarding . Documentation varies by the citizenship and residence of each passenger and the specific ports that the ship visits, <b><i>it is your responsibility to determine what documentation is required and to acquire that documentation before the cruise.</i></b> It is not the cruise line or your travel agents responsibility . Passengers who do not have the required documentation will not be allowed to board and the cruise line will not give a refund. All the cruise lines have what is required for documentation on their web sites. </span><span lang="EN" style="color: #464646; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Requirements are complex and may change at any time. Cruise passengers should check at <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.travel.state.gov/"><span style="color: #00aaff;">www.travel.state.gov</span></a></span></strong></span><span lang="EN" style="color: #464646; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-71945766826202669112012-09-29T06:41:00.002-07:002012-09-29T06:41:55.783-07:00Air Travel TipsThis is an article from Travel Guard...<br />
<br />
SPEED THROUGH THE AIRPORT WITH EASE<br />
<br />
Chances are at some point in your life you've counted down the days, hours and minutes until that long-anticipated, carefully planned vacation. What you probably didn't look forward to were hassles getting through checkpoints at the airports or complications with long flights. Fortunately, there are tips you can follow to make your next trip close to hassle-free. Here are a few of them: <br />
<br /> <strong>Check-in online </strong>Like the idea of a shorter bag-drop line or skipping the ticket counter entirely? Then try checking in online. With just a few clicks on your personal phone you will be set to by-pass one step of the airport - especially if you pack everything in a carry-on. <br /><br /><strong> Arrive early </strong>This might be a given, but throw in an impending holiday or busy travel day and even "early" may barely cut it when it comes to time-consuming security lines. Best rule of thumb? Get to any major airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. Allow additional time if it's around a holiday like Christmas or Thanksgiving. <br /><br /> <strong>Don't pack prohibited items </strong>While most of us don't aim to pack items that are strictly prohibited on a flight, some items may still be taken simply because the traveler wasn't prepared or didn't read the latest list of "no-no's" posted by the TSA. Solution? Be sure you become familiar with the prohibited items on the TSA's list <br />
<br /><br /> <strong>Don't check luggage </strong>You can save money if you don't check luggage and retrieving luggage won't hold you up when you want to leave the airport and get to your destination. Remember, there are laundromats around the world – so pack light and don't be afraid to wash a few items while traveling. (<u>personal note: this is not always easy to do</u>)<br /><br /> <strong>Remember the 3-1-1 Rule </strong>It's the rule for carry-on liquids – do you know it? The rule limits passengers to one quart-sized zip top bag of liquid toiletries of no more than 3.4 ounces each.1 It also is a good rule of thumb to place this quart-sized bag in an accessible place so you can easily take it out of your luggage and into a bin during screening. <br /><br /> <strong>Keep credentials handy </strong>This may seem like a no-brainer but many travelers seem to forget it all the time: Keep your boarding pass and identification ready as you enter the security line because you will be asked for it immediately. <br /><br /> <strong>The perfect outfit</strong> <br />No, we aren't talking about dressing in the latest fashion for your flight. We are speaking of dressing to fly through security quickly and easily. To do this, skip the jewelry and belts, and keep your pockets empty. Also, make sure your shoes are easy to slip on and off. It's also a smart idea to wear comfortable shoes that allow you to walk (or run) quickly if you're at risk of missing a connecting flight.(Note, put these items in your carry on before getting in the security line) <br /><br /> Where would we be without apps? <br />Annoyed by a long layover in a strange city? Want to book a different flight home? Simplify your life by downloading travel apps to your smartphone. Certain apps like YELP can help you find things to do in an unfamiliar place, and KAYAK can find new flights for you. <br /><br /><strong> Remember to pack travel insurance </strong>Perhaps we are a bit partial, but don't forget to purchase a travel insurance plan when you are planning your vacation. Travel insurance can reimburse the cost of pre-paid trip expenses if you need to cancel due to a covered reason, or if your trip is interrupted. Plus a travel insurance plan can cover emergency medical expenses and lost luggage. <br /><br />Travel smart with a travel insurance plan through Travel Guard that includes 24/7 assistance services. Simply ask your travel agent, call 866-802-2292 or <a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">www.caribbeantraveladventures.com</a><br />
Also read our Insurance Blog at <a href="http://wwwcaribbeantraveladventures.blogspot.com/2011/02/caribbean-travel-adventurestravel.html">http://wwwcaribbeantraveladventures.blogspot.com/2011/02/caribbean-travel-adventurestravel.html</a>Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-85635127231536017802012-01-07T15:59:00.000-08:002012-01-15T06:52:11.036-08:00Caribbean Travel Recipes<a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/" target="_blank">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a><br />
<br />
Recipes from the Caribbean<br />
<br />
These are recipes that are based on Caribbean Recipes that we have come across and have changed <br />
to suit our taste. We have gone thru a trial and error process to obtain the best taste. <br />
<br />
Why not start with desert...next is Black Bean Soup then...Chicken Tagine<br />
<br />
Key Lime Pie...<br />
<br />
FROZEN KEY LIME PIE<br />
<br />
Ingredients<br />
For the crust:<br />
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (10 crackers)<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted<br />
A Store bought crust is ok to use, the crust is "even"<br />
<br />
For the filling:<br />
6 extra-large egg yolks, at room temperature<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk ( We use Eagle Brand )<br />
2 tablespoons grated lime zest<br />
3/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about one bag)(strain)<br />
Note: Key Limes are MUCH better than regular limes, you can use regular limes <br />
but the taste is different. A lime squeezer is a big help.<br />
1 tablespoon rum<br />
3/4 cup sour cream<br />
(For a stronger lime taste, cut back on the sour cream or you can leave it out)<br />
<br />
For the topping:<br />
1 cup (1/2 pint) cold heavy cream<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract<br />
2 teaspoon rum<br />
Thin lime wedges, or have some extra zest to sprinkle on top. There is a lot<br />
of lime in the pie,the lime slices can be over powering. The slices do make a good visual<br />
if set around the edge.<br />
<br />
Directions<br />
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.<br />
For the crust, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure the sides and the bottom are an even thickness. Bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool completely.<br />
<br />
For the filling, beat the egg yolks and sugar on high speed in the bowl with a electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment for 5 minutes, until thick. With the mixer on medium speed, add the condensed milk, lime zest, and lime juice and sour cream. Pour into the baked pie shell and freeze.<br />
<br />
For the decoration, beat the heavy cream on high speed in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until soft peaks form. <br />
Add the sugar and vanilla and rum and beat until firm. Spoon or pipe decoratively onto the pie and decorate with lime. Freeze for several hours or overnight. <br />
<br />
NOTE: bake for about 15 to 20 minutes at 350 degrees, we take the raw egg warning seriously,(read below) therefore we bake the pie (allow to cool), before adding the topping<br />
<br />
*RAW EGG WARNING <br />
Consuming raw and lightly cooked eggs increases the risk of salmonella or other food-borne illness. To reduce this risk, if you use raw eggs(recipe calls for raw egg yolks) use only fresh, properly refrigerated, clean grade A or AA eggs with intact shells, and avoid contact between the yolks or whites and the shell. We separate using our hands.Most key lime recipes call for raw egg yolks!!<br />
<br />
This recipe is the result of trial and error to get the taste and texture correct.<br />
<br />
<br />
BLACK BEAN SOUP<br />
<br />
Note: this makes a lot of soup, you can always cut the recipe in half.<br />
<br />
12 cups,3 bags of black beans<br />
6 26 oz quarts of chicken stock<br />
3 cups diced carrots<br />
5 cups diced onion<br />
3 cups diced celery<br />
1 to 2 lbs of sausage<br />
depends on amount of meat you like in a soup.<br />
sausage can be Andouille,Kielbasa and some Carrizo.<br />
cook before adding to soup<br />
2 28oz cans of diced tomatoes drained<br />
2 6oz cans of tomato paste<br />
4 tablespoons of garlic<br />
1 tablespoon onion powder<br />
2 tablespoons of cumin<br />
1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper<br />
1 tablespoon of chili powder<br />
1 cup of butter<br />
1 tablespoon of black pepper<br />
1 tablespoon of salt, to taste, chicken stock contains salt<br />
1 to 2 cups of red wine<br />
<br />
Tablespoons are "full" not rounded<br />
<br />
You need a LARGE soup pot, 24 to 30 quart pot<br />
<br />
Black beans take a long time to cook,sort the beans before soaking. Soak <br />
the beans overnight. Allow up to 8 hours to cook the beans, you may need <br />
to add more stock. Beans need to start to soften, more cooking time later.<br />
<br />
Saute the carrots, onions and celery in the butter, add some olive oil <br />
if desired. Add to the stock mix. De glaze the pan with some stock <br />
and add back to the mix.<br />
<br />
Add the rest of the ingredients to the stock and continue to cook on a low <br />
boil until the beans are tender. stir occasionally.<br />
<br />
When serving the soup, top with a spoonful of sour cream, some shredded<br />
cheddar cheese and finely chopped green onions<br />
<br />
This freezes and reheats well in a microwave.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
CHICKEN TAGINE<br />
<br />
Also called North African Stew<br />
<br />
This is not really a Caribbean dish, but the first time we ate this<br />
was on Ambergris caye, Belize. We got a basic recipe from the cook <br />
and have modified it quite a bit!!<br />
<br />
Ingredients: <br />
<br />
Olive Oil, enough to coat bottom of pan<br />
3 onions cut into small chunks(not diced)<br />
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped garlic<br />
2 to 3 lbs. boneless chicken breasts,skinless,<br />
cut into small chunks, bite size<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
8 or more cinnamon sticks, bruised, also put cinnamon<br />
sticks into any leftovers for reheating<br />
1 to 2 teaspoons cumin, first time making try just one tsp<br />
1 teaspoon ginger<br />
3 tablespoons flour, white or wheat<br />
3 small to medium eggplants,cut into bite size pieces<br />
2 red bell peppers,diced, green will work<br />
18 ounces mushrooms, thin sliced<br />
5 cups chicken broth<br />
2, 15 ounce cans of tomatoes, with herbs, drained<br />
3, 15 ounce cans of chickpeas, drain and rinse<br />
2 cups of dried apricots, chopped<br />
1 tablespoon salt, salt to your taste<br />
1 tablespoon pepper, fresh ground if possible<br />
chopped cilantro as a garnish<br />
<br />
note: you can also add 2 tablespoons of honey and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric,<br />
we personally don"t care for the turmeric<br />
<br />
Over a medium heat, heat the oil, add the onions and garlic, cook slighty,<br />
may also cook the peppers a little. Add the flour and the chicken and cook <br />
until seared. Part way through the searing add the ground cinnamon,cumin,<br />
ginger,honey and turmeric. May want to add some of the chicken broth <br />
to the pan while cooking the chicken. Don't burn the spices. <br />
You want some of the spices to attach to the chicken<br />
<br />
Combine the above and the rest on the ingredients into a soup pot,<br />
mushrooms,tomatoes,chicken stock,eggplant,apricots,chickpeas, <br />
salt and pepper.<br />
<br />
Simmer until the eggplant, chickpeas and chicken are tender<br />
<br />
Add cilantro on top of a bowl or plate and serve <br />
<br />
Of course, feel free to modify to your taste.Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-30129505502660403932012-01-07T06:34:00.001-08:002012-02-26T07:02:41.232-08:00Caribbean Events and FestivalsCaribbean Events and Festivals<br />
<br />
This list is provided by <a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/" target="_blank">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a>. <br />
<br />
Planning a vacation?? Want to know what events are taking place at your destination?? <br />
<br />
CHECK OUR LIST OF EVENTS!!!<br />
<br />
<em><u><span style="color: red;">MAYA 2012</span> EVENTS ARE LISTED HERE AND ON OUR AMBERGRIS CAYE BLOG PAGE</u></em><br />
<br />
Note: the dates are provided by 3rd parties, we do not guarantee the dates are accurate and have not been changed. Please check your destination web site for any changes or we can check for you. <u>If a festival is</u> <u>important in making your travel plans, be sure that the dates are accurate</u>.We try to post any new festivals asap and we cross reference several sites.<br />
<br />
Carnival in the Caribbean <br />
<br />
Country - Month <br />
<br />
Anguilla - August <br />
Antigua - July or August<br />
Aruba - February <br />
Bahamas - December or January <br />
Belize - February <br />
Bermuda - May<br />
Brazil - Rio de Janeiro - Februart 17th/21st<br />
Cancun - February and March <br />
Curacao - January <br />
Dominica - February or March<br />
Dominican Republic - February <br />
Grenada - August 10th/14th<br />
Guadeloupe - February or March<br />
Jamaica - April <br />
Martinique - February or March <br />
Puerto Rico - February or March<br />
Saba - July <br />
St. Kitts - December <br />
St. Lucia - June <br />
St. Martin - February <br />
St. Maarten - April<br />
St. Thomas - April (runs for the month) (link to dates <a href="http://www.stthomasblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/carnival-2012.jpg">http://www.stthomasblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/carnival-2012.jpg</a> .<br />
Trinidad and Tobago - February or March <br />
Virgin Islands - April, May, June, or July<br />
<br />
CARIBBEAN HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH<br />
<br />
January<br />
•Barbados Jazz Festival<br />
•Rhythm and Blues Festival in U.S.V.I.<br />
•Grenada Sailing Competition<br />
•Mayan Village Show in Cancun<br />
•Junkanoo Jump Up in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Who Cares Wahoo Tournament in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Panorama Steel Pan Festival in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Round the Island Race in Antigua<br />
•Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts<br />
•Classic Yacht Regatta in St. Martin/St. Maarten<br />
•San Sebastian Street Festival and Ponce Carnival in Puerto Rico<br />
•Rebel Salute Music Festival in Jamaica<br />
*Jazz & Blues in Jamaica<br />
* Calypso Show in Dominica<br />
<br />
February<br />
•Trinidad and Tabago Amateur Ladies Golf Open<br />
•British Virgin Islands De Caribbean Regatta<br />
•Jamaica Pineapple Cup<br />
•Bermuda Couples Golf Tournament<br />
•Puerto Rico Freefall Festival<br />
•Bahamas Annual Track and Field Classic<br />
•Barbados Holetown Festival<br />
•Nautical Week in Martinique<br />
•Valentines Day Cup in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Holetown Festival in Barbados<br />
•St. Croix International Regatta in U.S.V.I.<br />
•Valentine Jump Up in U.S.V.I.<br />
•Sweethearts of the Caribbean and Classic Yacht Regatta in B.V.I.<br />
•Rum Cay Day Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•Casals Festival in Puerto Rico<br />
•Maricao Coffee Festival in Puerto Rico<br />
*Carnival in Dominica<br />
*Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago<br />
*Reggae Film Festival in Jamaica<br />
*Free Fall Festival in Puerto Rico<br />
*Carnival Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 17th / 21st.<br />
*Bob Marley festival, Ambergris Caye, Belize, February 6th/7th, <br />
<br />
March<br />
•Spanish Town Fishermam's Jamboree/Annual Wahoo Fishing Tournament in B.V.I.<br />
•Grenada Classic Yacht Regatta<br />
•Cayman Swordfish Challenge<br />
•Ladies Pro-Am Golf Classic on Bermuda<br />
•Transcaraibe des Passionnés in Martinique <br />
•La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge in Belize<br />
•Jazz Artists on the Green in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Tobago International Game Fishing Tournament in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Bermuda International Film Festival<br />
•Heineken Regatta in St. Martin/St. Maarten<br />
•Mardi Croix Parade in U.S.V.I.<br />
•St. John Blues Festival in U.S.V.I.<br />
•BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival<br />
•Caribbean Arts Festival in B.V.I.<br />
•PGA Tour's Puerto Rico Open<br />
•Taste of Rum in Puerto Rico<br />
*International Kite Festival in Antigua<br />
*Carnival in Jamaica<br />
<br />
April<br />
•Sailing Week in Antigua<br />
•Classic Yacht Regatta of Antigua<br />
•A Taste of St. Croix in U.S.V.I.<br />
•Aruba Piano Festival<br />
•Island Roots Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•Aqua Festival in Martinique<br />
•Salt Cay Splashdown Days in Turks and Caicos<br />
•St. Martin Open<br />
•Rincon International Film Festival in Puerto Rico<br />
•Soborea Puerto Rico<br />
*Taste of St. Croix<br />
*St. Thomas Carnival (month of April,dates above)<br />
<br />
May<br />
•The St. Croix triathlon in U.S.V.I.<br />
•International Ecofest in Dominica<br />
•St. Lucia Jazz Festival - May 5th/13th<br />
•El Festival de la Palabra in Puerto Rico<br />
•Jamaica Golf Classic<br />
•Jamaica Fiber Festival<br />
•Barbados Gospelfest<br />
•Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival<br />
•Urban Fiesta in Puerto Rico<br />
•Antigua and Barbuda Sports Fishing Tournament<br />
•Cancun Jazz Festival<br />
•South Caicos Regatta in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Windvibes Kite Boarding Tournament in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Big South Regatta in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Cashew Day in Belize<br />
•Angostura Tobago Sail Week in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Taste T&T Festival in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•St. Martin Billfish Tournament<br />
•Festival of Laughter in St. Martin/St. Maarten<br />
•Barbados Celtic Festival<br />
*Creole & All that Jazz in Dominica<br />
*Carriacou Maroon & String Band Festival in Grenada<br />
<br />
June<br />
•Goombay Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•Rock D Spice Festival in Grenada<br />
•Caribbean Fashion Week in Jamaica<br />
•Tobago Underwater Carnival<br />
•Jadot Cup in Turks and Caicos<br />
•North Caicos Exravaganza in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Fools Regatta in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Dia de San Pedro in Belize<br />
•San Pedro Lobster Festival in Belize<br />
<u>LOBSTER FEST IS JUNE 15TH THRU JUNE 23RD(announced dates)</u><br />
•Tobago International Gospel Festival in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Jazz and Latin Music Festival in Aruba<br />
•Aruba International Film Festival in Aruba<br />
•St. Martin Music Festival<br />
•St. Martin/St. Maarten Fashion Week<br />
•Dennery Fish Festival in St. Lucia<br />
•Fishermen's Fest in St. Lucia<br />
•Pineapple Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•Espíritu Santo in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Cultural Festival in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Latin Music Festival in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Wind Cup Wind Surfing in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Puerto Rican Heineken Jazz Festival<br />
•Ocho Rio Jazz Festival in Jamaica<br />
*St. Kitts Music Festival<br />
<br />
July<br />
•Merengue Festival in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Crop Over Festival of Barbados<br />
•Bermuda Big Game Classic<br />
•Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica<br />
•Carriacaou Regatta Festival in Grenada<br />
•Highland Spring HIHO in B.V.I.<br />
•Festival del Merengue in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Caronlina International Jazz Festival<br />
•Makka Pro Surf Contest in Jamaica<br />
•Portland Jerk Festival in Jamaica<br />
•Little Ochie Seafood Festival in Jamaica<br />
*Carnival in St. Lucia<br />
*Carnival (start of) in Antigua July 28/August 7th.<br />
<br />
August<br />
•Crop Over Festival of Barbados<br />
•Caribbean Chess Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Yole Boat Race in Martinique<br />
•Middle Caicos Day in Turks and Caicos<br />
•Deer Dance Day in Belize<br />
•Emancipation Celebration in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Tobago Heritage Festival in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Carib Great Race in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•Mango and Pineapple Festival<br />
•Non Mariners Race in Bermuda<br />
•Rose Festival in August<br />
•St. Thomas Open in U.S.V.I.<br />
•Emancipation Festival in B.V.I.<br />
*Carnival Grenada - August 10th/14th<br />
<br />
September<br />
•Jolly Harbour Regatta in Antigua<br />
•Curacao North Sea Jazz Festival<br />
•Jamaica Rock and Blues Jam<br />
•St. George's Cay Day in Belize<br />
•Bermuda Jazz Festival<br />
•San Juan International Billfish Tournament in Puerto Rico<br />
<br />
October<br />
•Creole Week in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Harvest Moon Race of St. Croix in U.S.V.I.<br />
•National Warri Festival of Antigua<br />
•Annual Pro-Am Regatta in B.V.I.<br />
•Isla Mujeres International Music Festival in Cancun<br />
•San Fernando Jazz Festival in Trinidad and Tobago<br />
•PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda<br />
•King Edward VII Golf Cup in Bermuda<br />
•Bermuda Music Festival<br />
•Bermuda Culinary Arts Festival<br />
•Feast of La Marguerite in St. Lucia <br />
•International Creole Day in St. Lucia<br />
•Billfish Tournament in St. Lucia<br />
•Conch Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•International Culture Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•Bahamas National Trust Wine and Art Festival<br />
•Puerto Plata Festival in the Dominican Republic<br />
•Dominican Republic Jazz Festival<br />
<br />
November<br />
•Caribbean Culture Festival in Cancun<br />
•Turk and Caicos Conch Festival<br />
•Battle of the Drums in Belize<br />
•World Rugby Classic in Bermuda<br />
•Barbados Food & Wine & Rum Festival<br />
•Festival of Puerto Rican Music<br />
*Pirate Week in Cayman Islands<br />
<br />
December<br />
•Hatillo Festival of the Innocents in Puerto Rico<br />
•Reggae Marathon in Jamaica<br />
•Cayman Islands Marathon<br />
•Jazz à la Martinique<br />
•Carrefour Mondial de Guitare in Martinique<br />
•Lord Nelson's New Year's Eve Pursuit Race in Antigua<br />
•National Day in St. Lucia<br />
•Bahamas International Film Festival<br />
•Abaco Christimas Festival in the Bahamas<br />
•Dominican Republic International Film Festival<br />
*Festival of Lights in St. Lucia<br />
*Carnival in St. Kitts<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">AGAIN -- Check your destinations web site, dates can change and events cancelled.</span><br />
<br />
EVENTS FOR MAYA 2012<br />
<br />
January 11 Public Lecture 7:00p.m. Bliss Centre Lecture on the Maya calendar and 2012 by Dr. Mark Van Stone.<br />
January 12 Public Lecture San Ignacio Hotel Traditional Healers Workshop, George Price Center (Cahal Pech)<br />
<br />
February 18 Maya Festival Altun Ha Kinich Ahau Art Exhibit<br />
March 9 Nat. Heroes & Benefactors (Maya leaders) Belize Annual NICH event<br />
Mar 20-21 Vernal Equinox Caracol Overnight at Caracol to witness equinox. Will include ceremony by Maya priests, and traditional Maya food.<br />
<br />
April 1 – 15 May TravelingExhibition Country wide Exhibition highlighting Maya artistic achievements and significant historical moments in Belizean history. <br />
May 18-21 Cacao Festival Toledo Festival celebrating the Maya domestication and use of<br />
cacao. Maya deer dance and other activities<br />
June 17 Lamanai Canoe Challenge Orange Walk Canoe Race From Lamanai to Orange Walk Town.<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
June 20-21 Solstice (1 of 2) Caracol Overnight at Caracol for Solstice. Will include ceremony by Maya priests and traditional Maya food<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
June 26-29 Archaeology Symposium San Ignacio Annual IOA-ISCR Anthropology Symposium. Special Topic: Time and the Maya<br />
July 4-6 Bze. Film Fest Belize City Annual Event that will feature some films that celebrate<br />
Maya culture<br />
August 2-5 Costa Maya San Pedro Annual fair in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye<br />
August San Joaquin Fiesta San Joaquin Annual community fair in the Maya village of San Joaquin in Corozal District.<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
Sept. 21-22 AutumnalEquinox Caracol Overnight at Caracol to witness equinox. Will include ceremony by Maya priests and traditional Maya food<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
Oct.12-14 World Indigenous Music Fest.Belize City Musical festival at Bliss Centre for Performing Arts. Will feature indigenous music from the Americas.<br />
Nov. 22-24 Dance X Belize 2012 Belize City Special Dance festival at the Bliss Centre for Performing Arts.<br />
Dec. 12 Mass Wedding Cahal Pech This 12-12-12 event will be available for a limited number of participants who will have an opportunity to celebrate their wedding at the Cahal Pech Maya site.<br />
Dec. 21 Festival Cahal Pech Lubaantun<br />
THIS IS THE EVENT TO BE AT IF YOU CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
Dec 20-21 Solstice Caracol Cahal Pech<br />
Closing event with performance, music, fire ceremony, and<br />
torch run. Will also include a musical concert<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">If your event/festival is not listed, email <a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com">caribta@hotmail.com</a> and we will gladly add is to the list. </span><br />
Please "title" as Blog Page Edit.Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-48646778094008123272011-09-17T16:41:00.002-07:002012-06-17T10:00:51.413-07:00The Saints of the Caribbean 9+1<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THE SAINTS OF THE CARIBBEAN… 9+1 <sub></sub></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Presented by </span><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The SAINTS, by size, consist of St. Barts, St. Eustatius, St. Johns, St. Thomas, St. Marten, St. Croix, St. Kitts, St. Georges (capital of Grenada, the +1), St. Vincent and St. Lucia</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">These are the smaller Caribbean Islands ranging in size from 8 square miles (St. Barts) to St. Lucia at 238 square miles. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Smaller when compared to Jamaica, Puerto Rico or Haiti and the Dominican Republic. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">These islands all offer relaxing warm waters and white sandy beaches remaining mostly un-crowded and un-spoiled. Most have excellent lush tropical ecosystems.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Looking for a laid back, relaxing, sitting on the beach type of vacation these are the islands to consider. A few of the islands are big tourist destinations and Cruise Ship Ports. Some of the destinations have great nightlife, casinos and clubs. As one of the smaller island tourist sites state, "the choices are few". Most of the island attractions are the beaches, snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, Historical sites, boating and of course shopping. Most of the islands have duty free shopping. You may also rent a motor boat or sail boat, on your own or with a Captain.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can also go horseback riding, play golf (not all islands), go hiking, and do a zip-line.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting there:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The larger islands are serviced by a wide range of international airlines. The smaller islands are connected by regional carriers and by ferry in some cases. If you book your own trip be careful of the trip schedules, don’t arrive too late to catch the last ferry to your destination or the ferry/flight back to your main airport for your returning flight.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where to stay</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are wide choices available on all these islands. Choose from lavish resorts, hotels, villas, cottages, small inns and bungalows. Prices range from $75 to $800 or more per night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For a different experience, St. Eustatius offers a Homestay<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>program<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>where you will stay with a local family. On some of the islands of you are staying for a long time (over 30 days) check to see for you need a visa. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have included a little<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>information<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for each of the islands. Also where we could find a good YouTube video for the destination, the link has been included. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures travels the Caribbean to find the ideal destinations for your dream vacation. If you need assistance or advice call us at 1-866-802-2292 or email at </span><a href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/PC/My%20Documents/caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">caribta@hotmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. We have been to most of these destinations, (all but three).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You may research and book your own vacation from the<a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank"> MTravel</a> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">booking link. We deal with over 350 travel suppliers from all over the world.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Barts</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Barts is the smallest of the saints at eight square miles. There are numerous beaches on which to relax and of course you can scuba, snorkel, Jet Ski and even go on a submarine. You can rent your own boat, power and sail. Horseback riding is also available.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The cuisine is mostly French and Creole. If you are looking for a party atmosphere you will not find it on St. Barts. There a few cocktail bars, sometimes with live music.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where to stay? Accommodations range from villas, hotels and a few resorts to cottages and bungalows.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube links, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGBubDix6fY"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGBubDix6fY</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWbz9Ec3E6I"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWbz9Ec3E6I</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> (In French)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Eustatius</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Eustatius, known as the Caribbean’s Hidden Treasure, is also one of the smallest islands, 8.1 square miles. Known by the locals as Statia, it is part of the Netherlands Antilles.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Enjoy pristine diving as the reefs are in great shape. The shallower reefs range from 40 to 75 feet with abundant marine life and several ship wrecks. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The islands offer Inns, hotels and a lodge for accommodations. You can also stay with a local family<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as part of the Home stay Program. There are a variety of restaurants. As with most of the small islands, you are going for the laidback atmosphere of sitting on the beach.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube links: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwG1e0XLy84"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwG1e0XLy84</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ya2JVobMfz4&feature=related"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ya2JVobMfz4&feature=related</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Johns</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Johns, the smallest of the Virgin Islands is 20 sq miles in size.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Johns, St. Thomas and St. Croix are part of "America's Caribbean Paradise". NO PASSPORT IS REQUIRED!! To get to St. Johns, take the ferry from St. Thomas. Watch the arrival times and ferry times, try to arrive early to St. Thomas. It is easy to ferry from island to island and therefore opens this entire island group. Visit Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, Frenchman's Cay, Eustatia, Normans and more. It is also easy to take a commuter flight to Puerto Rico from the USVI direct to San Juan and Vieques. The British Virgin Islands are also part of "this group" of islands.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Accommodations go from plush resorts to villas, guesthouses, condos and inns that will fit every budget and taste.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The beaches are endless. All types of water sports are available. Snorkeling and diving choices are numerous. Go day sailing, kayak, and hiking, sport fishing, take an island tour. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Restaurants go from burgers in breeze cooled spots to world class cuisine. Shopping is not the usual tourist fare; there are wonderful distinctive shops, not tee shirt shops, duty free.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LF-GVqUmGU&playnext=1&li"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LF-GVqUmGU&playnext=1&li</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also, this is a link that covers the three islands that make up the US Virgin Islands: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2CPWLCEPPc&NR=1"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2CPWLCEPPc&NR=1</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Note, this video runs for 9 minutes</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Thomas</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Thomas is 31 sq. miles in area.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St Thomas is more of a tourist island than the other islands. You can visit as a destination or on a cruise. Note, there can be as many as 7 cruise ships in port on a single day, lots of people.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Thomas is called a "water lovers paradise". Take a few beach days, snorkel, dive, windsurf, kite boarding, sailing, kayak, parasail, take a day charter. Also play a round of golf. Visit the Ocean Park, ride the Sky ride or take an Ecotour.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Thomas has some lively night life. Bars and clubs feature Caribbean music to rock and roll. Shows feature calypso singers and steel drum players.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Restaurants vary on the island, from $25 to $40 for two people and the meal cost goes up in the more exclusive places. As always try the local food places for some of the best island/Caribbean food.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFofy_92I1E"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFofy_92I1E</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Maarten</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Marten is 37 sq. miles in area. As the tourism site for St Marten states, Visit Fascinating St. Marten, boredom is forbidden. All the hotels, restaurants, casinos, nightclubs and beaches, the possibilities are endless for your vacation. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A passport is required and a return ticket for visitors, also a departure tax applies (fairly normal in the Caribbean)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Marten has what you would expect for water adventures and sports. Visit the butterfly farm or do a zip line. This is also a cruise port, if you are there as a destination vacation, try to plan around the cruise ships. (We do this for excursions when we are in Belize, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye is our favorite)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can play all night in St. Marten. There are 14 world class Vegas style casinos and dance the night away.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Restaurants number over 350 on the island. Dining goes from gourmet to the local burger place. You have to try the local beach front places, wonderful Caribbean dishes and flavors.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=83zr_Ee4sRM"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=83zr_Ee4sRM</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=S9se4SMKfLs"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=S9se4SMKfLs</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Croix </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Croix is 82 sq. miles in area. It is part of the US Virgin Islands with St. Thomas and St. John.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Croix prefers casual dress, bathing suits, unbuttoned shirts and no shoes is frowned upon. (If you are on Ambergris Caye, Belize... no shoes, no shirt...no problem)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As part of the US Virgin Islands, again no passport is required only a picture ID, a drivers license. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As the largest of the three islands, Christiansted is also the largest town. The island is surrounded by reefs and sandy beaches. There is world class diving and snorkeling and there are two 18 hole golf courses.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Accommodations are typical of the other islands, from beachfront resorts to private rentals. Dining is a mix of gourmet to open air local restaurants. The choice of seafood is impressive.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CB8l9Yqi19c"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CB8l9Yqi19c</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Kitts</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saint Kitts is 133 sq. miles in area. St. Kitts is ranked as one to the 16 best vacation spots in the Caribbean. It is a beautiful island.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is a lot to do on St. Kitts, hike up and into the volcano, snorkel, dive, fish, take a cruise, go on one of the many tours, go horseback riding, do the zip line, and play golf. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dining ranges from Chinese to international and Caribbean favorites. If you are staying on the island visit "the strip" for a variety of music, dance, food and drink.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpqaP_PW_6o&feature=related"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpqaP_PW_6o&feature=related</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> this is an 8 minute video.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Georges, Grenada</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Georges is 133 sq. miles in area. St Georges is called the spice island and is well off the beaten path. The beaches are rated some of the best in the Caribbean. The best way to get around is to rent a car, a local license is required. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lodging starts at one of the nicer inns starts at around $60 to $80 per night and of course goes up at the resorts.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dining runs from a sports bar and grill to fine dining. Enjoy authentic Grenadian dishes, Creole and international seafood. Most of the restaurants have a bar and there is also Bistro Pub with live jazz. The dance clubs and bars are open every night and usually fill to capacity.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCjnY34uZ08"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCjnY34uZ08</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Vincent</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Vincent is 150 sq. miles in area. The Grenadines comprise 32 different islands. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Escape to a private island for the day, discover waterfalls, dive and snorkel the blue waters, great sailing, explore uninhabited islands, explore the volcano.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stay at a simple guest house or a luxury villa or resort, enjoy the pampered luxury. There are nine islands to choose from when booking your stay. St. Vincent is a bustling town, a throwback to colonial times with cobblestone streets. On the other islands life slows to a crawl and you can escape the world.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnIDXunVzRc&feature=related"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnIDXunVzRc&feature=related</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?annotation_id=annotation_442556&v=vsWC78M-sqc&feature=iv&src_vid=wnIDXunVzRc"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?annotation_id=annotation_442556&v=vsWC78M-sqc&feature=iv&src_vid=wnIDXunVzRc</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> a long video at 14 minutes.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Lucia</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Lucia, your romantic island getaway is the largest of the "small" islands at 238 sq. miles.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Lucia is a perfect destination adventure. Miles of beaches, unspoiled rainforests, breath-taking views and friendly locals. Tropical weather and world class resorts and intimate inns await you. This is really a paradise island. Rated as one of the best romance islands for a honeymoon. Live your own romantic getaway.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are mountains to climb and stunning dive sites. Enjoy skiing, sailing, windsurfing, ATV rides, horseback riding and mountain biking to name just a few of the great activities.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dining on St. Kitts is unparallel. The cuisine is a blend of French, African, Indian and Amerindian to purely Caribbean. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">St. Kitts is also for families. There are many perks offered to parents, room upgrades and select discounts and complimentary babysitting may be available.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cars and scooters are available for rental. There is also an airport charge and a departure tax.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">YouTube link: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6Hu0agTQvk"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6Hu0agTQvk</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Note, the YouTube links will lead to other videos of the same place. If we have any errors or you would like to add any content feel free to email us at </span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">caribta@hotmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> or visit our web site, </span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.caribbeantraveladventures.com"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">www.caribbeantraveladventures.com</span></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks, Tom and Karen, your hosts at Caribbean Travel</span></div>Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-44823295659305477712011-03-26T08:13:00.000-07:002013-02-10T10:18:41.768-08:00Ambergris Caye, Belize<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ambergris Caye, Belize</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Maya 2012 is past but we have left the info and links for the maya sites.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: red;">A NOTE: Maya 2012</span>, with this being the year of the Maya in which the Maya long count calendar ends on 12/21/2012, here is a link to the Maya Ruins in Belize <a href="http://ambergriscaye.com/pages/mayan/mayasites.html">http://ambergriscaye.com/pages/mayan/mayasites.html</a> This link does not include Tikal in Guatemala however Tikal is easy to access. Other Maya sites to see are Xunantunich and Caracol. A very limited tour is the ATM CAVE. Rather strenuous and you must be able to swim. Go deep into an underground cave that has not been looted, it is well preserved. The Maya ancestors<u> do not consider this as an end but</u> <u>as a new beginning</u> in which the calendar rolls over and starts anew, which is what the other Maya calendars have done in the past. Call us, there are many festivals and ceremonies that are planned. All are easily accessible from Ambergris Caye. We can also book lodging in the jungles, at the Maya sites. READ THIS LINK, <a href="http://www.2012hoax.org/">http://www.2012hoax.org/</a>. THE REAL STORY ON THE MAYA 2012 CALENDAR.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">AT THE END OF THIS BLOG WE HAVE ADDED A CALENDAR OF MAYA EVENTS AND FESTIVALS</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a> +++ We have lodging from $60 (clean and basic) to luxury to $500 plus.+++ We spend alot of time in San Pedro and know what to do, where to stay and where not to!!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting There: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your best flight for getting to Belize is from Continental, they have a flight from Houston to Belize that arrives in Belize at 2:30 pm. This flight is almost always on time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.customs.gov.bz/traveller.html">Belize Customs</a> is rather restrictive on bring in food, fruits and vegetables. Look at their list before you arrive.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> American Airlines also connects thru Dallas to Belize.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another great way is to do a 1 day visit on a cruise. Cruising is a good way to visit a destination before you commit to a week or more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two of the best Cruise Lines, in our opinion, for cruises are <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank">Carnival</a></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank">Royal Caribbean</a></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. Visit <a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">CTA</a>’s web site to find current Cruise Deals and for several cruise videos. We can arrange great off ship tours, call us. Note, we recommend only the tours operators that we have personally booked with. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Belize and Ambergris Caye are great vacation destinations. There is a good <a href="http://ambergriscaye.com/index.php">map of Ambergris Caye</a> to print.(Maps are on the left side of the page) Note the maps have not been updated for at least 3 years.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: red;">Tropic Air</span> ( the BEST commuter airline of Belize ) has several flights daily to San Pedro. Also flights to Caye Caulker and other destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are arriving at BZE International it is convenient to fly from there. You can fly from Municipal it is a lot cheaper but you have to take a taxi to get to Municipal. I would suggest flying from the International Airport (BZE). If you fly back to Belize for a tour, have the tour operator pick you up at Municipal, cheaper!! Note there are different baggage<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>restrictions on the commuter planes. Our personal preference is to fly, we use Tropic Air, 20 minutes verses 1 1/2 hours by water. Please allow us to book the commuter air for you, we don't want you to miss your connections.<u>(We do not currently recommend Maya Island Air)</u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The last water taxi leaves for San Pedro at 4:30 pm. The taxi ride from the airport is about 20 minutes, you need to arrive on the flights that arrive in Belize by 2:30 pm in order to get thru customs and get to the water taxis. There is also an earlier flight.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you go to Belize on a cruise, always check your arrival time for the port.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can usually make the 8:30 am flight to Ambergris. To get to shore early, go early to get on the list for the first tender. You will have to exit the back of the shops at the dock thru security to get a taxi. If you are on a Cruise Ship, you need to book the 2:30 pm flight from Ambergris back to Belize. This is local Belize time. Note there is a 1 hour time difference if you are on daylight savings time.(ships time)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting around Ambergris:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are only a few cars on Ambergris, mostly taxis. In most cases you can walk or rent a bicycle or a golf cart. Most of the golf cart rental places will not rent for north of the bridge. The road north of the bridge is rough.(note in June 2011 the road had been improved) You can go as far as Captain Morgan’s and there are a couple of good places to eat at the North end. Ultimate Rentals Belize will rent for north of the bridge <u>and </u>north of Captain Morgans. We use Ultimate when we are on the island. There are times of the year that the road will flood and you can only go so far, also the road becomes soft sand the further north you go. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The locals refer to the streets as Front, Center and Back Streets. Front street being the ocean side. If you can not find something, ask, the locals are more than willing to help. Also. Coastal Express is the local "water" taxi for places north of the bridge. After 4:30 PM they run every hour, if you are on the pier they will pick you up, no problem</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where to Stay:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Three great places in town are Ramons Village and Blue Tang Inn. These are very nice places to stay. All have excellent reviews. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ramon’s offers a meal plan (no kitchenettes) and Belizean Reef Suites has full kitchens and Blue Tang Inn also has kitchens. Blue Tang is at the north end of town, and is convenient to everything. We like the third floor units #10 and #15, great view!! Allen and the staff are very friendly and helpful. The Palms Ocean Front Suites, located on the south edge of town, is modern and nicely updated and reasonably priced. Always read the reviews on any place you are going to stay. Also there are All-Inclusive Resorts on Ambergris. A good source for reviews is Trip Advisor. Beliizean Reef Suites is an easy walk to town, they are south of town past the air strip. Check out their web site, beautiful place and good prices. Note, I no longer recommend Xanadu due to a "personal" conflict over reservations. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have <u>several other accommodations</u> we can recommend (from very inexpensive to ultra luxury), <u>please call</u>. Simple but clean accommodations from $50/$60 (good trip advisor reviews plus we have previewed the property) to luxury from $500 plus per night. There are excellent choices available from $100/$150/$175 to $250/$285 per night. </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A lot of these are right in town!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where to Eat:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are restaurants everywhere on Ambergris. Some that we prefer are …</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.palapabarandgrill.com/">Palapa Bar</a> and Grill (about 5 minutes north of the bridge)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.redgingerbelize.com/">The Red Ginger</a> (really, really great food. located in town, at the Phoenix)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://bluewatergrillbelize.com/" target="_blank">Blue Water Grill</a> (beach front at Sunbreeze Hotel, across from Tropic Air)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.calientebelize.com/" target="_blank">Caliente</a> (beach front at the Spindrift Hotel, Mexican and Caribbean)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://portofinobelize.com/">Portofino's </a>(6 miles north of town, take the water taxi, Coastal Express)</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.hiddentreasurebelize.com/" target="_blank">Hidden Treasures</a> (south of town, before Victoria House) Wonderful Cuisine<br />
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MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR THE ABOVE RESTAURANTS ...</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other good places are George’ Kitchen (out the road south of the airport) – Legends Burger House (north of the bridge)--Elvi's Kitchen(about the middle of center street)– El Fogon</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">El Fogon is worth finding, it is a small outdoor place. Go to the Tropic Air Terminal(looking at the end of the building) and go North,(turn right). Go the first street(dirt), turn right. They are on the left next to the Doctors office. There is no sign, just a wooden gate. Lunch is ready about 11:30. Also one of the girls makes a fantastic key lime pie, just delicious. Note, most of the local places do not have air conditioning but there is always a good breeze. Another favorite is Mango's, south end of front street in the dead end.(Make reservations at Mango's, they are booked by 6pm) Robin's Kitchen, they have really great food, located on the road south of town. A small thatched hut, watch for sign.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are staying where you have a kitchen, there are several places to buy groceries. The largest is <a href="http://www.island-supermarket.com/">Island Supermarket</a> (on the road south past the airport). Also <a href="http://www.belizegateway.com/db_clients/2717.php">Richie's</a> has a good selection (located at the north end of center street in the roundabout). Green House has good fresh produce and groceries(the middle of center street) Also, Maria's fruit and vegetables is a good place for produce. (going South before Georges). We like the bakery, Casa Pan Dulce, on center street across from the meat market. You have to try the cinnamon rolls plus the bread is great.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.belizegateway.com/db_clients/2717.php">Lagniappe Provisioning</a> and <a href="http://matagrandegrocery.com/">Mata Grande</a> are delivery services. They both will deliver for a reasonable fee. Mata Grande delivers north of the cut. You will find that food prices are higher than in the states.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Things To Do: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is so much to do I don’t know where to start. There is wind and kite surfing, fishing, diving, zip lines, cave tubing, Belize zoo, and the Mayan ruins, night life. Take a day sail to Caye Caulker, you can snorkel and have lunch on the Caye, try Rose's Bar and Grill, award winning food.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You should try to see the Lamanai Ruins. A great tour operator is SEArious. SEArious Adventures is the place for your tour, offering snorkeling,fishing,Mayan Ruins plus other tours, call us to book. Allen at Blue Tang Inn has great tours available. Also go to ambergriscaye.com for other tours. </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are numerous guides for diving and snorkeling. Look around the Ambergris web sites to find one that provides the style of diving you prefer. If you have time, fly back to Belize City and book a full days tour with Explore Belize Caves. The prices are great and they will do custom tours, also they work within the cruise ship times for all sorts of tours. They have excellent reviews and will work with you for what you want to see and do. Let us book this for you because of the travel from the island to the mainland, don't get stranded.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can find whatever party atmosphere you want. To name a few there are Fido’s, Big Daddy’s, Jaguar Temple, and the Barefoot Iguana. Several of the hotels have bars and entertainment. On the south end check out Lola’s Pub.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Aida at Caribe Creations makes handmade apparel in 24 hours from great tropical prints (north end of center street up in the dead end). Want a good cup of coffee, try Cafe Cubano (front street across from the park). If you are in town on Friday night, go to Wahoo's for the "chicken drop", starts about 6PM (on the south end of front street. You have to go!!! Looking for flowers for that special someone, The Candle Garden is the only flower,and party supply shop on the island, on Caribena street behind the bank.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a> can book all your travel arrangements for you, <em>lodging, commuter air,</em> <em>golf cart for on the island, water taxi</em> and save you a lot of time and trouble. We will take care of all the details for you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call us at <span style="color: red;">1-866-802-2292</span> or Email us at </span></span><a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">mailto:caribta@hotmail.com</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> . </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span style="color: red;">Note</span>, we need to do the bookings to San Pedro as most of the lodging, tours, commuter flights</u> <u>and water taxis are not on our main booking links</u>.</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> We have a secure <a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=p3qt5CtadFlCr064aJlfV1wJETIgUXCfFqDOYxT0oe0uxjbbLJFgdmsk2yy&dispatch=50a222a57771920b6a3d7b606239e4d529b525e0b7e69bf0224adecfb0124e9b61f737ba21b081988562bf19d61623c6f33db8e87506be10" target="_blank">PayPal</a> link to cover reservations to San Pedro and Belize.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We specialize in Caribbean Travel, Cruises, Destinations, All-Inclusive’s ,Tours and Vacation Packages. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please visit the web site for more videos, traveler resources and current sales and promotions and ourbooking link, <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/">http://2662.mtravel.com/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">HAVE FUN, Tom and Karen</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you have an update, would like to add information or feel there are errors on the page, please email us.(<a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com">caribta@hotmail.com</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fpgj67nO74">YouTube video</a> for Ambergris Caye. Also another <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiZfr1haDI0&feature=youtu.be">video</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR MAYA 2012</span><br />
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January 11 Public Lecture 7:00p.m. Bliss Centre Lecture on the Maya calendar and <br />
2012 by Dr. Mark Van Stone.<br />
January 12 Public Lecture San Ignacio Hotel Traditional Healers Workshop, George <br />
Price Center (Cahal Pech)<br />
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February 18 Maya Festival Altun Ha Kinich Ahau Art Exhibit<br />
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March 9 Nat. Heroes & Benefactors (Maya leaders) Belize Annual NICH event<br />
Mar 20-21 Vernal Equinox Caracol Overnight at Caracol to witness equinox. Will <br />
include ceremony by Maya priests, and traditional Maya food.<br />
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April 1 – 15 May TravelingExhibition Country wide Exhibition highlighting Maya <br />
artistic achievements and significant historical moments in Belizean history. <br />
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May 18-21 Cacao Festival Toledo Festival celebrating the Maya domestication and use <br />
of<br />
cacao. Maya deer dance and other activities<br />
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June 17 Lamanai Canoe Challenge Orange Walk Canoe Race From Lamanai to Orange Walk <br />
Town.<br />
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June 20-21 Solstice (1 of 2) Caracol Overnight at Caracol for Solstice. Will <br />
include ceremony by Maya priests and traditional Maya food<br />
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June 26-29 Archaeology Symposium San Ignacio Annual IOA-ISCR Anthropology <br />
Symposium. Special Topic: Time and the Maya<br />
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July 4-6 Bze. Film Fest Belize City Annual Event that will feature some films that celebrate Maya culture<br />
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August 2-5 Costa Maya San Pedro Annual fair in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye<br />
August San Joaquin Fiesta San Joaquin Annual community fair in the Maya village of <br />
San Joaquin in Corozal District.<br />
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Sept. 21-22 AutumnalEquinox Caracol Overnight at Caracol to witness equinox. Will <br />
include ceremony by Maya priests and traditional Maya food<br />
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++<br />
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Oct.12-14 World Indigenous Music Fest.Belize City Musical festival at Bliss Centre <br />
for Performing Arts. Will feature indigenous music from the Americas.<br />
Nov. 22-24 Dance X Belize 2012 Belize City Special Dance festival at the Bliss <br />
Centre for Performing Arts.<br />
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Dec. 12 Mass Wedding Cahal Pech This 12-12-12 event will be available for a limited <br />
number of participants who will have an opportunity to celebrate their wedding at <br />
the Cahal Pech Maya site.<br />
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Dec. 21 Festival Cahal Pech Lubaantun<br />
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THIS IS THE EVENT TO BE AT IF YOU CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
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Dec 20-21 Solstice Caracol Cahal Pech<br />
Closing event with performance, music, fire ceremony, and<br />
torch run. Will also include a musical concert<br />
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Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-34229272194489924532011-02-13T14:50:00.001-08:002012-06-30T20:24:33.482-07:00Caribbean Travel Adventures/Travel Insurance<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a>/Blog/Travel Insurance</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TRAVEL INSURANCE</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do you really need travel insurance? You bet you do!!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Whether you are taking a cruise, going to a destination or booking a vacation package, going on a tour…YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Be prepared for the unexpected. Weather can cause flight delays and cancellations. Luggage can get lost. Someone becomes sick or injured. You are injured during your trip and need medical evacuation. YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Purchase a good plan from a reliable Travel Insurance Company. Caribbean Travel Adventures </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> represents Travel Guard. We can arrange for your travel insurance at the time of your vacation booking. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are going on a Western Caribbean Cruise, an Eastern Caribbean Cruise or a Southern Caribbean Cruise you should consider Travel Insurance. The ships decks can be slippery; you can be injured on a shore excursion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(We hit a tree doing a zip-line).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> A good policy will include Medical Evacuation to hospital of choice, to us this is IMPORTANT. </span>We are now using Travel Guard and believe it is the best on the market. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Note, you can't just cancel the policy. There is a "review of the policy" time period, usually 10 to 15 days in which to cancel the actual policy. You can not decide later that you do not like the coverage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are seeing travel insurance “specials” from a number of travel suppliers priced at $49 to $69 for trip insurance. The coverage on these plans is <u>quite limited.</u> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Depending on your age, medical and cancel for any reason coverage, trip insurance will cost somewhere around 5% to 10% of the trip cost. Example: if your prepaid trip cost is $3,000 and you are 60 years old the premium is about $300 to $400. If you are 25 years old the same coverage is about $175 to $230. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Benefit Schedule Choices for a typical plan;</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> Coverage</span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span><u>Benefit </u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Trip Cancellation<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Trip Cost<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Trip Interruption<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>150% of Trip Cost</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Missed Connection<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;">(3 hours or more) </span>$2,500 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> Travel Delay (more than 6 hours)<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>$150 Per Day (Max. $750)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Actual coverage must be quoted. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Medical Expense and Emergency Assistance</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Accident and Sickness<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>$100,000<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> Emergency Evac and Repatriation<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>$1,000,000<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One Call Assistance<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Included</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Baggage Delay<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>$250<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Baggage and Personal Effects<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>$2,500<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Accidental Death/Dismemberment<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$25,000</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> CANCEL FOR ANY REASON<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Up to 100% of Non-Refundable Trip Cost</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cancel for any Reason must be purchased within 15 days of the initial deposit or trip payment for your trip. If you initially cover only the pre-payment amount, be sure to increase the coverage to the full amount later when payment is made in full. Also cancellation must be 2 or more days before your trip. There is also a pre-existing</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> medical waiver if you purchase your policy within a specific time period of booking your trip. It is best to get cancel for any reason and the medical waiver when you make your trip deposit, DON'T WAIT !!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You should be covered for missed nights and be reimbursed, if you to get a hotel the insurance will pay for this expense, insurance will pay for extra nights and expenses. Be sure to get proof that your trip was delayed, etc. The airline will provide this upon request.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As you add tours, air travel, car rental to your trip be sure to add these costs especially any that are pre-paid to the coverage if not already included. Your benefits are limited to the amount of coverage purchased.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cancel for Any Reason covers everything and in our opinion is a good choice to add. If the weather forecast for your vacation is rain or you are called to jury duty or you have booked air etc and now can't find the lodging you would prefer....you need Cancel For Any Reason. You do not need to be concerned if you are "covered", this covers anything...period!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The medical insurance which is secondary medical insurance <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">is primary for international travel. </b>Your personal insurance normally does not cover you when you leave the country. This coverage also will make an immediate payment for your medical expenses where your coverage on your regular policy will not. Coverage will also include treatment while on a Cruise Ship. Medical coverage usually includes an amount for dental.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Traveling sometime soon, going on a Caribbean Cruise, we can customize your insurance to match your trip to cover any travel emergencies you may encounter. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> can book all your travel arrangements for you and save you a lot of time and trouble. We will take care of all the details. We have to quote the insurance. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Call us at 1-866-802-2292 or </span></span><a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">mailto:caribta@hotmail.com</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. You can also go to the <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank">MTravel</a> booking link</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and book your own travel.</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We specialize in Caribbean Travel, Cruises, Destinations, All-Inclusive, Tours,Weddings and Vacation Packages. Western Caribbean Cruises, Eastern Caribbean Cruises and Southern Caribbean Cruises and the most popular. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">HAVE A SAFE VACATION, Tom and Karen </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">PLEASE CALL US TO BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE, the coverage is complicated and you may not be covered for what you think you are. (1-866-802-2292)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you wish to add information or feel there are errors on the page, please email us at <a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com">caribta@hotmail.com</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Note: Problems aligning columns, information is correct( just hard to read )</span></div>
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<br /></div>Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-63078816400464039992011-02-05T08:03:00.002-08:002012-06-17T10:06:17.182-07:00Caribbean Travel San Juan, Puerto Rico<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">VACATION DESTINATION</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">San Juan Puerto Rico</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This Blog mainly covers Where to stay and What to Do. We will cover the History and the Culture of Puerto Rico in a future Blog.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting There.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting to San Juan is easy. <a href="http://www.san-juan-airport.com/">Luis Munoz Marin</a> airport is<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>serviced<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>by 17 different airlines. Travel from the U.S to Puerto Rico requires no passport. All that is required is a government issued photo ID, a driver’s license.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Get out and explore the island. The best way to get around is to rent a car. There are several agencies at the airport. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The roads are well marked and it is easy to get around the entire Island. Also, there are taxis, ferries, trolleys and busses. FYI, the traffic in San Juan is very heavy; suggest you add the rental agencies insurance to the rental. It obviously adds to the cost of the rental but will save you if you do have an accident.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where ever you are staying leave early if you are going into the city and expect to have to look for a parking place. There are parking garages close in. You should expect to have a short walk; we usually find spaces up by the fort if the garages are full.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For road maps of Puerto Rico go to <a href="http://www.maps.google.com/">Google </a>and enter- San Juan Puerto Rico- in the search box. Good source for road maps of the Island and the City. Also this is another good <a href="http://www.mappery.com/maps/Old-San-Juan-Tourist-Map.gif">map of Old San Juan</a> that shows where all the attractions are located. Print the maps before you leave home, these are better than most maps you can find on the Island.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A good source for information on Puerto Rico is <a href="http://www.seepuertorico.com/">see puerto rico</a>.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where to stay.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are so many choices, from relative inexpensive to lavish all-inclusive resorts. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time of this writing rooms were available starting at $70 per night. Also the “Puerto Rico Sparkles” promo was in effect, every third night free when you book four nights, depending on the particular resort promotion. Some of the larger resorts are starting at $335 per person for three nights.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is a list of just a few of the top places to stay. If you do a Google search of the property you can view their details and rates. Also look at the reviews and make your choice, the list is not a recommendation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Always check the reviews for lodging or tours. Trip Advisor is a good place for reviews . We stay at two that are on the list when we are in San Juan. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We can book any lodging for you from <a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a> site</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> or you can search and book your own travel plans from our <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank">MTravel</a> booking link.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Listed under B & B’s ...</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Coqui <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Del Mar, Andalucia <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Guest House and Caleta 64 plus about 22 more. Also Posada Colonial has great reviews.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Listed under Hotels and Resorts …</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Doubletree by Hilton, Hotel El Convento, La Concha Resort, Marriott San Juan Resort and Caribe Hilton Resort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>El San Juan hotel and Casino, Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort. Plus many more. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you enjoy golf, there are several stunning beach and golf resorts to choose from for your stay.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What to do.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is so much to do and see a week is not enough, if you can, stay longer. Puerto Rico is such a wonderful vacation destination.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A great vacation idea is to spend a week and also take a <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank">Southern Caribbean Cruise</a> from San Juan. Carnival</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> and Royal Caribbean</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> both have 6, 7 and 8 day cruises out of San Juan. If you want to go cruising, there are several other cruise lines out of the port. There are a few Southern Caribbean Cruises out of Florida.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beaches are everywhere, you can surf, go windsurfing or find a quiet beach to just relax or swim in one of the bioluminescent bays.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Puerto Rico is rich in Art, History and Culture. To absorb all there is to learn, hire a guide. They will be able to take you on very informative tours. They can take you to the great Cultural and Historic Places. There are also “walking tours” of Old San Juan. Most of the streets in Old Town are paved with cobblestones that are cast from furnace slag. The old part of the city is “considered” safe to walk in. The Visitors Center in Old San Juan is just west of the Cruise Dock.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the Eastern end of the island are the two islands of Culebra and Vieques. The snorkeling and diving are great in these locations. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can also find great lodging on these islands, everything from small beach front cottages to lavish resorts. For an all day snorkel trip with lunch, try Spread Eagle II.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Enjoy a round of golf at one of 24 courses on the Island. Visit El Yunque, the only rain forest in the US. Go to the Cave Park or the Wildlife Refuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go on a tour of Bacardi and sample the rums. You must visit El Morro, Castillo de San Felipe del Morro. The fort was started in 1540 and not completed to its present form until 1786. The 20 foot thick walls rise 140 feet. Walk thru the Cathedral de San Juan built in 1540. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">San Juan offers some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, great attractions, some of the finest resorts and spas, the liveliest bars and night clubs along will friendly people. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Music is a mix of Salsa, Meringue, Jazz and Tropical all with that wonderful Latin, tropical beat. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Criollo Cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Taino and African. Besides the many fine restaurants, try the local food carts for some really great local food.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have only touched on some of the many exciting places on Puerto Rico. A few pages can not do justice to an adventure you must experience firsthand.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is a article that appeared in USA Today...</span><br />
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Puerto Rico may only be the size of Connecticut, but this tiny island nation of 4 million boasts a colorful array of tropical beaches and verdant jungles to rival any in the Caribbean. Brimming with the beats of salsa, reggaeton and plena, Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of travel destinations to explore in each of its regions.<br />
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San Juan<br />
The capital city of San Juan sits on the north coast of Puerto Rico. The Old Town center was founded in 1521 and still features many of its original Spanish colonial buildings, including the surrounding city walls which date from 1633. This area is now a US National Historic Zone, and visitors flock here to see prominent sights like the San Juan Bautista Cathedral and the Forts of San Cristobal and San Felipe del Morro. Travelers will encounter more modern attractions in New San Juan outside the historic city center. Tourist districts like Santurce, Condado Lagoon, Ocean Park and Isla Verde have everything from high-rise hotels and chic shopping malls to booming discos and upscale restaurants.<br />
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Central Puerto Rico<br />
The Cerro de Punta in Puerto Rico's Cordillera Central ranks as the highest mountain peak in the country. Trekkers hike to the 4,349-foot summit for stunning views of the wilderness. Also of interest are the Camuy Caves near the town of Arecibo. This is the third-largest cave system on the planet, according to iExplore. Nearby lies the Arecibo Observatory, which houses the biggest radar-radio telescope in the world. Slightly south of the observatory sits the Caguana Indian Ceremonial Park, which was constructed by native Taino Indians as a gathering place for sport and worship over 800 years ago.<br />
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Eastern Puerto Rico<br />
Eastern Puerto Rico encompasses El Yunque, the only rainforest within the US National Forest network. El Yunque sprawls over 28,000 acres of pristine jungle, offering visitors a chance to see some exotic flora and fauna while hiking the park's 13 trails. Farther east lies the port town of Fajardo with its yacht-filled marinas. Also in the region is the Balneario La Monserrate. This government-maintained beach brings in throngs of vacationing families, thanks to its attractive facilities and close proximity to San Juan and Fajardo.<br />
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Western Puerto Rico<br />
Mayaguez, the third-largest city in Puerto Rico, functions as a commercial center for the western half of the island. The Mayaguez Botanical Garden stands out as the city's premier attraction. The nearby town of San German remains a tranquil place off the beaten tourist path, but visitors that make the journey will find the charming Porta Coeli church, which dates back to 1606. Also worth visiting are the coastal towns of Rincon and Aguadilla, both of which feature ample tourism infrastructure and excellent surfing beaches.<br />
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Southern Puerto Rico<br />
The city of Ponce in Southern Puerto Rico is the island's second-biggest urban center behind San Juan. Trolleys and horse-drawn carriages rumble along the streets and the main square of Plaza las Delicias. Area attractions include Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral, the Castillo Serralles mansion and observation tower. On the outskirts of town, travelers can check out the Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes with its museum and pre-Taino ruins. Farther west on the lower heel of the island stretches Guanica State Forest, which is a United Nations Biosphere Reserve.<br />
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Islands of Puerto Rico<br />
Puerto Rico has several islands off the mainland, three of which receive modest tourist traffic. Culebra and Vieques sit only a few miles east of the mainland. Both offer secluded beaches and coral reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving. Vieques has a more sizable and developed tourism infrastructure, according to Frommer's. Off the western coast of Puerto Rico lies the uninhabited island of Mona. Cliff-ringed Mona lacks facilities, but it does provide an ideal setting for day-trip cruises and sea-bird watching.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.caribbeantraveladventures.com/">Caribbean Travel Adventures</a></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> can book all your travel arrangements for you and save you a lot of time and trouble. We will take care of all the details.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Call us at 1-866-802-2292 or </span></span><a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">mailto:caribta@hotmail.com</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. You can also</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> book your own travel from the booking links on the web site. Travel Impressions and Funjet have links to Puerto Rico.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We specialize in Caribbean travel, Cruises, Destinations, All-Exclusive’s, Tours, Weddings and Vacation Packages. Western Caribbean Cruises and Eastern Caribbean Cruises are the most popular. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">HAVE A GREAT VACATION, Tom and Karen</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lHgDyhvYdElqzpdyrNEWnDyMX9AZXBfCyxQRXOZhzXkGeXzJfRuc0S9urajjJMuimqQOb7bLbvypsWsiTQYaw6etJJAfMTcWvUAyJ5W4r1KOggRFQrpAom6olOsgeouIOXWCnhIX_d-j/s1600/100_0844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lHgDyhvYdElqzpdyrNEWnDyMX9AZXBfCyxQRXOZhzXkGeXzJfRuc0S9urajjJMuimqQOb7bLbvypsWsiTQYaw6etJJAfMTcWvUAyJ5W4r1KOggRFQrpAom6olOsgeouIOXWCnhIX_d-j/s200/100_0844.JPG" width="200" /></a></div> <img border="0" h5="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVjOIlU0uyUahHRT6JWqP_Xf3SE7u0M_MjZNt1jyXOhYDQq7d3SWKYQ1by3VMECpi2bc-BQ11Z8LWCG04VXeeGMQS5yri9vqprby_OljGY7jd4sb2kEz9-E3o-aTRsW4mytxNG7N0r0hY/s200/100_1484.JPG" width="200" /><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgC3h6a40UU">LINK 1</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvOLT7fjQ3Q">LINK 2</a> to a YouTube videos of Puerto Rico<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><br />
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</div>Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7554522105263821871.post-75731634764767130612011-01-30T07:00:00.002-08:002012-06-17T10:07:27.572-07:00CRUISE ... CRUISES ... CRUISING<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">CRUISE</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> … </span><span style="font-size: 24pt;">CRUISES</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> …</span><span style="font-size: 28pt;">CRUISING</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cruising the Caribbean</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures/Blog/Cruises</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://caribbeantraveladventures.com/">http://caribbeantraveladventures.com/</a></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now it’s FUN TIME</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cruises are a great vacation, they are All-Inclusive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Cruise is an experience to never forget. Cruising allows you to visit many different destinations and go on many exciting tours. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A cruise allows you to relax and have time together one moment and then go on a great adventure the next.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On a Cruise will you be bored !!! , find nothing to do !!!, NO WAY !!!.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Whether you book a cruise thru us or direct with the cruise line there is a commission built into the price of the cruise, also any car, hotel, destination or tour you book has a commission built into the price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does not cost you any extra to use an agent. As a travel agent I take pride in personal service, will cover the details for you and will take the time to ensure you have a great, worry free vacation.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Visit the Cruise and Destination video pages on the web site, see what you are missing on a cruise!!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let’s start with the Ship.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On board activities , depending on the Cruise Line, include:</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Full Fitness Center<u></u></span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Full Service Spas, with saunas and therapy pools</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ice Skating</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rock Wall Climbing</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Zip Line</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Casinos</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pools and Hot Tubs</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9 Hole Golf</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Water Slide</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And this only names a few of the many activities that are available on the ship.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are on Carnival and board early head for the Shore Excursion Desk and ask for the “Behind The Fun” tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will get a tour of the inner parts of the ship, the bridge, galley, crew areas, etc. Note the tour is limited to 16 people, get in line ASAP. This is fun to do. The Cruise Director on the each ship decides whether to have this tour we are told.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the evening choose from the main show, most are pretty good, to dancing to one of the bands in one of the lounges. The band on Carnival Miracle is <u>great</u>. We also like the band on Carnival Dream.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caribbean Travel Adventures has <u>all the current sales and promotions and incentives</u>. We also receive specials that are not published on the cruise sites.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Food, Food and More Food</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Dining options are endless. Choose from the Dining Rooms or the Buffets. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eat at one of the specialty delis on deck. For Breakfast go thru the buffet where you can have an omelet made to order. Stop on deck at one of the delis for lunch and have a sandwich made to order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are food<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>choices to satisfy every appetite on all the ships. Try the specialty Steakhouse or a specialty Italian restaurant. The reservation only specialty restaurants do have a surcharge. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Carnival has open dining, if you select this for your dining time, you are free to dine at your leisure otherwise choose from early (6 pm ) or late dining at 8:15 pm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the other Cruise Lines also have open dining. We prefer to not to be on a set dining time. Check the menu posted at the dining room and decides if you want to eat in the dining room or the buffet. The dinner buffet has most of the same courses.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Shore Excursions, Fun…Fun…Fun</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where do you want to go, what do you want to do and see. Try something new !!!</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We enjoy the ship board activities but really look forward to the off ship excursions. We do not book excursions exclusively with the ship. There are tour operators that offer great tours at reasonable prices and usually in smaller groups and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>also offer private touring. We<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>look at the time the ship departs and the time the tour returns, <u>this includes ship tours</u>, and decide<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>if we chance returning in time. We have never had a problem, but we are also careful on timing. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We always carry our passports and a credit card just in case. Always look for reviews on a tour operator and decide for yourself. Trip Advisor has reviews on almost everything.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The following tour operators have been reliable for us on our trips plus we have many more, just tell us where you want to go. (Caribbean Travel Adventures will book these excursions for you, PLEASE CALL TO BOOK ). For this writing we are only including the Western and Eastern Caribbean. The Southern Caribbean is not covered on this writing. We will cover Puerto Rico on a separate blog.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Shore Trips</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Island Marketing Ltd.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Coral Breeze Tours,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Belize. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bodden<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tours, Roatan. Do a Bodden Tour on Roatan. This is the best way to see the island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will not be disappointed. Ask your guide to stop at</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">a local </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">place for lunch. Try the Iguana !!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">CostaMaya Tours </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Explore Belize Caves does all kinds of tours </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stanley Submarine on Roatan, Deep dives to 2500 feet !!!</span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are planning on snorkeling or diving check on the condition or the reef before you book. The hurricanes have really damaged the reef at several locations.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Caribbean Cruise will include the following ports (not all on the same cruise)…</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Key West <span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Jamaica<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cozumel<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Tortola</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Costa Maya<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>St. Maarten</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Belize<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>St. Thomas</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Grand Cayman<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Bahamas</span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Colon, Panama<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Limon, Costa Rica<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Where do you want to go, what<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>do <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you want to do, what do you want to see. The</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">choice is yours.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We apply these questions to our own trips and then decide what cruise to take. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A quick note on gratuities. The cruise lines automatically add tips. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If for instance you are eating in the buffet and not the dining room, go to the purser’s desk and ask that the tips for the dining staff be removed. On a back to back cruise we went to the dining room twice. Give your room Stewart the difference in a cash tip, they deserve it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For drinks a tip of 15% is automatically added each time you order.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">During the winter months, or anytime of year, the Norovirus or some call it the stomach flu is prevalent. That many people in a "small" space and a virusr spreads quickly. Take hand sanitizer and use plenty of it. Do not touch your face without washing your hands. The virus is spread from surfaces you touch and also through food and water.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Caribbean Travel Adventures</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> can book all your travel arrangements for you and save you a lot of time and trouble. We will take care of all the details for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call us at 1-866-802-2292 or Email us at </span></span><a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">mailto:caribta@hotmail.com</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> or you can go to <a href="http://2662.mtravel.com/" target="_blank">MTravel</a>, our CRUISE booking link and book your own trip.</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> If you do not see the cruise line you want, call us, not all are on the booking links. We deal with over 25 Cruise Lines worldwide, from Carnival and Royal Caribbean to chartering a private yacht(power and sail) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We can book the following speciality cruises for you ... Costa, Crystal, Alizes, Oceania, Regent, Seabourn, Silversea, Windstar, Paul Gaugiun, Sea Dream, and Viking River Cruises. Plus several private yachts. Fantastic cuisine, excellent service and usually all alcoholic drinks, shore excursions and water sports are included in the price.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We specialize in Caribbean Travel, Cruises, Destinations, All-Inclusive’s, Tours and Vacation Packages. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The web site</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> has several videos on cruises, travel<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>resources, other links and current sales and promotions.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">HAVE FUN, Tom and Karen</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you have an update, would like to add information or feel there are errors on the page,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please email us at <a href="mailto:caribta@hotmail.com">caribta@hotmail.com</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
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</div><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc;"></span>Tom Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10855706074792535861noreply@blogger.com0