Q: Why is there so much variation with so-called ”all-inclusive” resorts?
(We went to one & were very disappointed.)
A: The all-inclusive concept is wonderful in theory but varies quite a bit in reality.
Accommodations and meals are a given but any or all of the following may or MAY NOT be included: beverages; land activities and water sports; spa or golf , service fees and gratuities. A few resorts and ships are truly ultra all-inclusive, many are definitely not!
Also, all-inclusive is NOT synonymous with high quality. Glossy advertsing can create unrealistic expectations.
If you are envisioning upscale accommodations; a la carte meals with menu items cooked to order; soft drinks, espresso drinks and premium cocktails; 24 hour room service and resort activities to all be included but instead find basic accommodations; 3 daily self-serve buffets, generic alcohols from a wall dispenser, limited room service and resort activities fees, then you are at the wrong place and will definitely feel let down.
This is a very black-and-white example but there are many shades of gray. Get some expert advice before you commit your vacation time and money.
Q: Do I REALLY need TRAVEL INSURANCE?
A: An unexpected accident, illness or injury before or during travel can derail the best laid plans. Cancellation fees and medical expenses can add up quickly. Insurance protects your financial investment. Any prepaid, non-refundable components of your trip should be insured.
Also, most U.S. health insurance plans do NOT cover international travel. Some provide reimbursement upon your return but it is your responsibility to have and submit the appropriate paperwork. It is very important to have a policy that includes an emergency assistance hotline, medical coverage and medical evacuation.
Q: Can you help me find a travel companion?
A: I do maintain a Will Share List for each group getaway and introduce same sex singles to each other with mutual permission from both parties. I recommend they chat or meet in person to gauge compatibility before they agree to room togther.
A few companies will place solo travelers together in shared accommodations. I caution my clients NOT to to do as you will be occupying close quarters with a complete stranger. You could potentially make a friend for life or find yourself in a very stressful situation.
At the moment, a few select travel companies are offering single accommodations based on availabilty at no additonal cost or a very small (10%-25% ) additional charge.
Cross Island Mountain Trek, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
For more information, go to:
www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
Q: Why are single travelers penalized?
A: This is actually a misconception. Hotel room and ship cabins are priced based on double occupancy. The total cost is divided and shared by two people. A solo traveler has to pay the entire amount. This is sometimes referred to as a single supplement which sounds like a surcharge. In fact, it is simple mathematics – either way the cost of the accommodations has to be paid, whether by one person or two.
Unless the traveler wants the luxury of single accommodations, which is often the case with personal retreats, I suggest that they invite a friend to join them. This way both can enjoy the trip components and the cost saving benefits.
Koala Conservation Center, Victoria, Australia
For more information, go to:
www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
Q: Do you ever have any great last minute deals?
A: A quick reminder that travel promotions and group space/rates are time senstive and do expire. Contrary to popular belief, there are NO great last minute deals. Generally, you will be shopping the clearance rack for the least desirable leftovers.
Remember that the BEST VALUE is about more than bottom line price. I seek 1) the highest quality products that 2) match my clients’ interests and needs at 3) the best available prices .
My best advice is to plan well ahead for the best advance discounts and best selection.
One Foot Island, the Cook Islands
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Q: Do you offer any discounts?
A: YES, everything is offered at the best available price at the time. I’m very savvy about pricing for high quality travel products. However, keep in mind that prices do change and space does sell out. The only time you should be paying full price is if it is the last minute after all sale prices have expired.
There are many types of discounts: promotional, seasonal, group rates to name a few. Advance GROUP RATES are among the best available. They offer low rates based on high volume.
Bonuses or amenities may include: bon voyage or welcome gifts; room/cabin upgrades; complimentary meals or nights; resort or shipboard credits; reduced or free air included with a resort stay or cruise vacation. These all constitute VALUE ADDED components that enhance your trip.
I also have access to great rates and amenities through a national travel network that has significant buying power. And I am happy to pass these benefits along to my clients.
marae site, Hiva Oa, Marquesas Islands, Tahiti
For more information, go to:
www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
Q: Do you have a (travel) WISH LIST?
A: Most serious travelers have a revolving travel wish list.
Here is my current personal list by geographic region:
1) South Pacific – the islands of Vanuatu & New Caledonia;
the Galapagos Islands, a unique wildlife expedition
2) Southeast Asia – Bali, the Island of the Gods (return visit)
3) Exotic Mediterranean – Morocco & Jordan,
(I have already visited Spain & Portugal; Egypt & Tunisia; Corsica & Sardinia)
4) Indian Ocean – the Spice Islands of Zanzibar; Seychelles, Maldives
5) Panama Canal – a historic voyage from Pacifc Ocean to the Caribbean Sea/Atlantic Ocean
King Tut Exhibit, Cairo Museum, Egypt
If wishes do come true, I will make it to all of them – -in due time.
September Raffle Question: What’s on YOUR Wish List?
For more information, go to:
www.IslandGetawaysTravel.com
Q: What is your FAVORITE place?
A: Tahiti - SIMPLY SURREAL in its beauty - from the high-peaked mountains of the Society Islands to the low lying Tuamotus Atolls to the remote and mysterious Marquesas Islands.
I fell in love with this destination on my very first visit years ago. It must be what Heaven looks like.
Bora Bora - photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourism
What’s YOUR favorite destination?
For more information, go to:
www.IslandGetawayTravel.com
Q: Do you offer JUST ISLANDS?
A: I have a personal interest in islands but I do offer other destinations.
There is a whole planet out there. I came to explore as much of it as possible, a little at a time. And then, in turn, introduce others to the extraordinary places, people and experiences I’ve discovered.
Island Girl
I was born on an island and expect to end up on one. In my lifetime, I have visited islands in other parts of the world (partial list): Caribbean (numerous), Mediterranean (Greek Isles, Corsica, Sardina, Malta), Atlantic (Bermuda, Canary Islands, Falklands), South China Seas/Southeast Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore, Phuket, Koh Samui, Bali).
My motto is “so many islands, so little time”.
The Sea Goddess always gravitates back to The Sea. I mention this quite often in my travel blog.
Q: Why did you name your company Island Getaways?
A: Well, back in 1997, I had to come up with a name and a theme to form my company. I didn’t want to start a general travel agency, we already had enough of those. I began with the (then new) concept of custom-designed travel for individuals and brainstormed several possibilities.
I was leaning toward Island Girl Getaways but thought the name would be too long. So, I shortened it to Island Getaways for practical reasons, not realizing at that time, that I would eventually specialize in the South Pacific islands of Tahiti, Fiji, the Cooks , the north & south islands of New Zealand and the island continent of Australia.
Do you detect a theme here?
One of my favorite places - the island of Moorea, Tahiti
