ADVENTURES IN ROMANCE

ADVENTURES IN ROMANCE

Whether you’re a foodie, adventurist, or an incorrigible romantic, Cayman Islands should be at the top of your list for your destination wedding, honeymoon or a romantic getaway with your love. From horseback rides along the beach to kayaking in a luminescent magical blue bay, there are so many incredible experiences just waiting to be discovered.
As  Romance & Destination Wedding Travel Specialist (and Cayman Islands expert!) these are but just a few of my faves for “fun and full of romance” experiences on 
Grand Cayman.
This is a reprint from an article that I wrote, published in Cayman Vows Magazine – 2018 issue
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New TSA rules – Pandemic travel regulations

In response to COVID-19, procedure changes rolling out nationwide by mid-June
National Press Release
Thursday, May 21, 2020

  • WASHINGTON –  TSA has implemented changes to the security screening process that reduce the potential for cross-contamination at the security checkpoint in an effort to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. TSA has already begun implementation of these changes – with more to be implemented at airport checkpoints nationwide by mid-June.
  • “In the interest of TSA frontline workers and traveler health, TSA is committed to making prudent changes to our screening processes to limit physical contact and increase physical distance as much as possible,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “We continue to evaluate our security measures with an eye towards making smart, timely decisions benefiting health and safety, as well as the traveler experience.”
  • Over the past couple of weeks, TSA has experienced a steady growth of travelers coming through airport checkpoints. As procedure changes begin to rollout in the coming weeks, travelers should expect to:
  • Keep possession of their boarding passes. Instead of handing their boarding pass to a TSA officer at the travel document podium, travelers should now place their boarding pass (paper or electronic) on the boarding pass reader themselves. After scanning, travelers should hold their boarding pass toward the TSA officer to allow the officer to visually inspect it. This change reduces the TSA officer’s need to touch a passenger’s boarding pass thus reducing potential for cross-contamination.
  • Separate food for X-ray screening. Passengers should place their carry-on food items into a clear plastic bag and place that bag into a bin. Food items often trigger an alarm during the screening process; separating the food from the carry-on bag lessens the likelihood that a TSA officer will need to open the carry-on bag and remove the food items for a closer inspection. This requirement allows social distancing, reduces the TSA officer’s need to touch a person’s container of food and reduces potential for cross-contamination. TSA PreCheck members do not need to remove items from their bags. 
  • Pack smart. Passengers should take extra care to ensure that they do not have any prohibited items, such as liquids, gels or aerosols in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces, in their carry-on bags (water bottles, shampoo).
  • In response to COVID-19, TSA is allowing one liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags. Passengers are required to remove the hand sanitizer from the carry-on bag before being submitted for X-ray screening.
  • If a bag is found to contain a prohibited item, passengers may be directed to return to the divestiture table outside of security with their carry-on bags to remove the item and dispose of the item. The passenger may also be directed back outside of security to remove, items that should have originally been divested (such as laptops, liquids, gels, and aerosols, and large electronics) and resubmit their property for X-ray screening. By resolving alarms in this manner, TSA officers will need to touch the contents inside a carry-on bag much less frequently, reducing the potential for cross-contamination.
  • Practice social distancing. Passengers should allow for social distancing to reduce direct contact between employees and travelers whenever possible without compromising security. Noticeable adjustments leading up to the security checkpoint include, increasing the distance between individuals as they enter the security checkpoint, placing visual reminders of appropriate spacing on checkpoint floors and staggering the use of lanes where feasible.
  • No two airports are alike, so this could look a little different at each airport.
  • Wear facial protection. TSA officers at checkpoints are now using facial protection. Travelers are encouraged to wear face protection to the checkpoint as well. Please note, however, passengers may need to adjust it during the screening process.
  • Travelers are also encouraged to remove items such as belts, and items from their pockets, like wallets, keys and phones, and put them directly into their carry-on bags instead of into the bins to reduce touch-points during the screening process.
  • Travelers who have not flown since the pandemic are also likely to notice some other changes. They include:
    • Reduced security lane usage due to the reduction in passenger volume.
    • All TSA officers at checkpoints wearing masks and gloves.
    • TSA officers optionally wearing eye protection and clear plastic face shields at some locations.
    • TSA officers will continue the practice of changing gloves after each pat-down.
    • Plastic shielding installed at many travel document checking podiums, divest, bag search and drop off locations.
    • TSA officers practicing social distancing.
    • Routine cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces in the screening checkpoint area.

Many airlines and airports are also providing specific COVID-19 related guidance to travelers; please check with your airline prior to your trip. Travelers are encouraged to arrive at the airport early as COVID-19 has affected staffing and operations across the airport environment. This will allow adequate time for checking bags, completing security screening and getting to the departure gate. Individuals who were traveling in the early months of the pandemic became accustomed to arriving at the security checkpoint shortly before their flight departure time. TSA recommends that travelers no longer do so (or arrive well in advance of their flight) since more people are flying and new procedures such as social distancing have been implemented in airports, potentially adding time to the pre-flight experience.
For more information on the TSA security screening process during the pandemic, visit www.tsa.gov/coronavirus.Read More

Travel in the New Normal

Where will you travel, when you can travel again?
A Travel Professional “New Normal” travel series

Have you given this thought, like all of us, with confusion and wonder of what it will be like? Have you dreamed of vacations of the future only to enter into thoughts of the unimaginable? Do you fear that we will never be able to travel again with safety and confidence?

Let’s recall back to when being free to safely travel, became literally unheard of, directly after 9/11. Much like now, pretty much all travel stopped, for Corporate, the teleconference became the new normal for business meetings, today we have ZOOM. I was managing a corporate travel office at Stride Rite Corporation at that time. Travel became almost extinct. Our corporate travelers that had been doing round the world trips, visiting buyers and production plants completely stopped!  We had no clue on how it would commence. Air travel for business and vacations were cancelled! We slowly ventured into the unknown. And then a new set of rules came into place. Rules that shook travelers, rules that we would have balked at, incredulously laughed at and cringed at if proposed pre 9/11. Rules that we accepted as the “New Normal” to be able to travel again. Rules that are now so common, does anyone recall what it was like before TSA? And the rules got stricter as time went on, to adapt as the New Normal shifted with the threats of safety!

So now what? Can we even imagine? Do the temperature and virus testing at airlines/airports become the new TSA? Do masks become the new proof of identity? Does deep cleaning the plane finally become a norm that we wished had been there to protect us pre-Covid19?  Will we actually need a medical passport? Will what once was considered a threat, people with masks on, now be part of being safe from harm? Will we sadly, shy away from fellow passengers, once a way of societal norm of intermingling.

And what about the airlines? They will need to get back on stable grounds financially, but they will be forced to make changes that travelers have wanted to see in place for years! No middle seat. Truly cleaning the plane after each flight. No change fees! More flexibility in changes to travel. Will these “New Normal” procedures actually cause travel to cost more? Eventually? I cannot see how it cannot affect the cost, as the airlines try to stay in business!

What will the safe flight protocols entail and at what cost? We lost so much of our privacy with the new security procedures put in place after 9/11. Did you ever imagine that a perfect stranger could literally go through your personal belongings even your wallet and ask invasive questions, even taking away your possessions? So now what? Can we be denied boarding from a flight for not wearing a face mask, most likely. Will the people that have the coveted seats in the front of the plane be the last to board, pretty much so. Will we take on our own snacks, drinks, water and maybe pay more for our airline tickets with none of these minor benefits, count on it. 

We must also be prepared for longer lines as distance is enforced, and changes that can’t even be imagined still!


How will you choose to travel, when you can travel again? Will you choose villa style hotels or private rentals vs larger hotels? Will you cruise in confidence that the cruise lines are following new safety protocol? Will All-Inclusive properties still have the draw without mass dining options, buffets and close gatherings. Will you venture internationally, or stay domestic? Will you frequent hotels that have stripped down their services to such great extent, they are no longer recognized for the luxury levels of service that drew guests to their brands.

Hotels will possibly do away with bellman, valet and even housekeeping. Guests will do their own bedding changes, towel exchanges and trash collection with housekeeping in a most clandestine way! Love to have a drink, a snack, a cup of coffee in your room? That will also most likely go away in protection of you! All that will protect you, will compromise the very joys you once cherished when staying in a hotel. 

But just as the protocol have been put in place in prior emergencies, so will protocols be in place, for the safety of all. Hospitality will take on a new meaning, ghost like in actions, but there non the less.

What really matters is that we know that there are trusted resources to refer to, trusted professionals to reach out to, trusted travel providers to warmly welcome you! What we can be sure of is that what will be done, is to protect the safety of all. It is all a  must, to be the “New Normal”. We all will once again come to understand, times have changed where we cannot go back to “Normal” but that we move ahead to the “New Normal”

For now as we still venture into uncertainty, so does this blog, the musings of this travel professional. In future blogs I hope to bring you more updates, encouraging future of travel, safe, fun and effective…

For now we are armchair travelers. For now we let our dreams take us, our minds wander, our hearts embrace our wanderlust dreams. But rest assured, we will once again travel, we will once again read each page in that book of destinations waiting to explore. We will venture out, and then venture further and then connect again with cultures and heritages, locations and destinations. But until then…we dream…

Linda Mitchell ~ Your Trusted Travel ProfessionalRead More

Destination Wedding planning tips

Destination wedding tips to consider….

Thinking of a destination wedding? Dreaming of the romance of your nuptials on a beautiful beach? Destination weddings have grown in trend in the past 15 years. So how do YOU decide if a destination wedding is right for you?

Checking with relatives and closest friends is a nice way to get an idea on the perspective of your guests traveling as you consider a destination wedding. If you want older relatives to be there, ensuring they’re okay to fly. Families with children, will you work around their dates?

Does the destination offer what you would like included in your celebration? Consider authenticity of heritage and customs that can be included. Is the destination totally in keeping with what you and your guests would love to experience? Does the destination have a strong focus on destination weddings with fabulous experienced vendors? Most of all, will it make awe inspiring memories to last a lifetime?

Image by Rebecca Davidson Photography

Once you’ve decided on your Destination Wedding location, and begin to build your planning team, consider working with a destination wedding travel specialist. This integral part of your wedding planning team will be a substantial asset in value, knowing the destination, hotel and travel values and assisting you and your guests. A destination wedding travel planner specialist is different than a wedding and events planner. Your destination wedding travel specialist is a travel planner for you, coordinating every single element having to do with the destination, travel, concierge services and helping your guests arrive happy and ready for your special events!

Guests are so excited to travel to destination weddings, as they also make it a vacation trip as well. With the services of Luxury Destination Travel, your guests are treated to services just for them that includes booking their travel, answer questions about the trip, travel, destination and most important, travel documents required. Imagine the delight of your guests getting info on activities, where to dine (when not at the wedding events), local info, wedding info and just having someone they can reach out to at any moment and through their travel to your wedding. This experience for your guests is invaluable, to you it is incomparable in relieving your being the person your guests would go to for their travel questions.! Leaving you time to plan your wedding, not their travel!

Check out a few tips to navigate today’s travel environment!Read More

Wedding Traditions

 
 

TRADITIONS

Traditions! They stand the test of time, they ring true with Fiddler on the Roof famous song, they capture the essence of what was and what will be.
Traditions: A long established custom or belief that has been passed this way! Traditions, customs, beliefs all very much a part of weddings. Couples integrating family traditions into their wedding ceremony and events!

I carried a beautiful piece of my Armenian Grandmother’s wedding gown which she had made into a beautiful hanki! It was a beautiful tradition she started for all her grandchildren! I had something borrowed and something blue as well! My family and friends danced around my husband and I as we came into the celebration venue, they had fun items they “borrowed” from my home in their hands, another Armenian tradition!

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Wedding packages..do they work for you?

A package (noun) by definition…….A bundle of something
Something conceived of as a compact unit having particular characteristics
A group, combination or series of related parts or elements to be accepted or rejected as a single unit
To combine the various elements for sale as a unit
So how does the package relate when looking at weddings and travel? What constitutes the wedding package? What is included in the travel package? Does a destination wedding package work for you?

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Why Granite Ridge?

Image by Kivalo Photography

 

When you’re thinking about planning the perfect rustic outdoor wedding, look no further!
Set within some of the most beautiful forest areas in America, Granite Ridge is the perfect place to celebrate your special occasion! Located in the charming town of Norway Maine, it is a hidden gem!

Granite Ridge Estate offers wonderful amenities for you and your guests. The Estate Lodge is a rustic and private haven that comfortably sleeps 15 people. With the lodge comes an outdoor hot tub, a commercial grade stainless kitchen, cathedral ceilings and a large granite fireplace. The amazing large windows  give guests an unrivaled, panoramic view of the mountain and the Estate’s 128 private acres. It’s the perfect place for family and friends to gather during your wedding weekend!Read More

Why St Lucia?

Why St Lucia is a perfect destination wedding location!

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Simple – The license process for St Lucia is easy and uncomplicated! Apply for a same day license immediately upon arrival or have your wedding planner to organize it for you!
All inclusive – St Lucia offers so many different choices in hotels as well as dining plans! If your thoughts are for an All Inclusive, St Lucia has some of the very best and they offer wedding inclusive plans that can be as simple or as extravagant as you would like!
Indulge – in world class dining with a creole heritage! Your wedding dining experience will encompass the fresh island produce, the local fish fresh from the waters and the brilliance of chefs with dynamic culinary distinction!
Notice – the long list of distinctions that St Lucia is proud to be recognized for, Top 10 island in Caribbean, Leading Honeymoon Destination, Sexiest Romance destination in the Caribbean, and Travel & Leisure’s World’s Best #1 leading luxury resort in the caribbean is on St Lucia, Jade Mountain!
Tranquil – Dive or snorkel the waters of St Lucia and with a feeling of tranquility that the natural reefs and captivating sea life will romance your senses!

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A dream of a Bermuda wedding!

Greetings

Dreaming of a destination wedding to a fun place with closest family and friends. Want to travel but not to far?
Bermuda, less than 2 hours flight from most east coast gateways is the perfect choice!
Bermuda Travel guides you on all of the elements of a Bermuda destination wedding! Celebrate your special day on a pink sand beach surrounded by the gorgeous azure sea!
Let the unique culture and warm hospitality of this special island be your place to begin your lifetime of memories!

Imagine a setting – so picturesque and beautiful!

Envision arriving at your ceremony in a horse drawn carriage fit for the Princess you are!

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Visit the West End! Snorkel Park Beach, Calico Jack’s, Frog & Onion Pub and so much more!

There are so many fun and different activities for Bermuda visitors to enjoy! Each area of the island represents a culture in and of it’s own as well as a flair and vibe so different even on this small cluster of the island of Bermuda!

When visiting Bermuda, one destination within the destination to visit is certainly The West End formally know as The Royal Naval Dockyard. Getting there is fun, easy in a variation of ways! Hop a moped and create your own island tour, enjoy the relaxing services and local expertise of an official Bermuda tour guide, enjoy a ride on one of Bermuda’s charming and iconic pink buses where you will meet local islanders including the very well behaved school children and not to be forgotten, take in the ocean breezes and sights from the water on the high speed ferry, Sea Express from Hamilton or St George’s to Dockyard! The sights are amazing which ever you choose!

When you arrive at Dockyard there is so much to do and see! Check out these fun and varied suggestions, including some ofLuxury Destination Travel’s tried and true favorites!!

  • Freeport Seafood – where the locals dine on amazing fresh fish sandwiches!
  • The Frog & Onion Pub – traditional pub style food, pub style setting, have a local brew, a proper english pint in a really cool restaurant in the historic Cooperage.

 

  • The Dockyard Pastry Shop – Stop by for authentic afternoon tea with fresh scones, clotted cream and marmalade. Yummy pastries, sandwiches and even coffee and cappuccino
  • Enjoy shopping at The Clocktower Mall and as well the many local crafts people throughout the area!
  • Visit Dockyard Glassworks, Bermuda’s own glass blowing factory with actual artists working their glass masterpieces – take home a memory that you watched being made!
  • The Bermuda Rum Cake Company – YUM! They have samples!!!!
  • The world’s finest mini golf is now on Bermuda! 1 acre of challenging holes that represent the finest golf courses in USA, Scotland and Bermuda!
  • The National Museum of Bermuda is a walk through history unparalleled! A must do and see and the views are amazing from the Commissioners House!
  • Snorkel Park Beach – where fun meets the sun meets every water activity imaginable!
  • Calico Jack’s Floating Bar is the newest addition and oh so much fun! Pure pirate glory, upbeat fun, friendly and colorful staff and an unlimited supply of rum! Who knows you may even see Capt Jack Sparrow there!

 

  • Destiny Water tours – Glass bottom boat tours taken to a whole new level – see the sea life below, the homes of the rich and famous above and at night the stars in the sky!
  • Dolphin Quest!!!! Yes you can swim with the dolphins at Dockyard as well! Be sure to make a reservation – the warm and friendly mammals are waiting for you!

 

These are but a few suggestions but as you can see, The Royal Naval Dockyard is a destination to visit when in Bermuda! Do keep in mind that this is also Bermuda’s cruise port. King’s Wharf is where the cruise ships come in so lots of activity happening there!Read More

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