Dreams and Destinations Travel

Mexicana Airlines Update

2010-08-11T22:16:00.003-05:00

Just back from an informative dinner discussing the current status of Mexicana Airlines. Thank you TI and Mexicana Airlines for hosting. I wanted to take a moment and share a few updates I received this evening.

1) Mexicana Airlines has filed for the equivalent to our Chapter 11 bankruptcy for financial restructuring. This is the same protection we've seen major US auto makers, and in the past, major US airlines file for.

2) Mexicana Airlines has reached an agreement with it's labor unions and with the commitment of it's employees is proceeding forward in its work towards financial solvency.

3) Mexicana is 89 years old. It was the first international airline to fly to the US. The first airline to have flight attendants. The first airline to offer an inflight magazine and it is one of the few North American airlines that still offers an open bar and a hot meal.

4) The Washington Dulles to Cancun route has been a popular route for Mexicana Airlines and at this time there is no talk of discontinuing it. Right now flights are operating as usual.

5) The situation with Mexicana Airlines could happen to any hotel, cruise line, airline or other travel company. This is why we stress over and over the importance of travel insurance. Peace of mind is worth just a few dollars more for your vacation package.

Jamaica Travel Advisory

2010-05-25T15:55:00.005-05:00

The US State Department has issued a travel advisory for the Kingston area of Jamaica. Kingston is located hours away from resort areas in Jamaica (for example 3.5 hours from Ocho Rios, 4 hours from Negril, 3 hours from South Coast Resorts, 4 hours from Montego Bay, etc...). At this time it is relaxation as usual in the beautiful resort areas of Jamaica far removed from Kingston, which is the capital city and primarily a business and corporate hub for Jamaica.

2010-05-19T19:21:00.001-05:00

Beginning January of this year Sandals and Beaches Resorts partnered with Martha Stewart to design their destination wedding packages. Martha’s creative influence is seen in each of their six wedding themes, from the simple and complimentary “Beautiful Beginnings” package, to the exotic “Island Paradise” package, featuring fresh tropical fruits and flowers with a Caribbean sunset as the backdrop. These packages offer every bride the opportunity to have a platinum wedding in an exotic local and each package can be customized according to a bride’s desires….prefer cupcakes rather than a traditional cake? Or a flip flop station for guests? Perhaps you would like your cocktails on the beach with a relaxed lounge look? All are a possibility with the Sandals and Beaches Weddings by Martha Stewart. As a Certified Sandals Specialist and a Preferred Sandals travel agency Dreams and Destinations Travel can provide more information and assist you with booking and planning one of these beautiful packages on the islands of the Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua or Turks and Caicos.

Passport Day is March 27, 2010

2010-03-24T08:21:00.001-05:00

March 27, 2010 is Passport Day! Many regional passport facilities will have extended hours this Saturday and you don't need an appointment! For those of you who have been putting off getting your passport now would be the time!http://travel.state.gov/passport/pptday/locations/locations_4442.html

Destination Jamaica

2010-03-24T08:12:00.004-05:00

Our featured destination for this winter was an easy choice. When you take lush green mountains, combined with white sand beaches, turquoise blue water, fantastic local food and rum, world famous music and the laid back warmth of island hospitality you have a dream destination that simply can't be overlooked. I'm just back from Jamaica and once again I'm lost without sand between my toes and a gentle island breeze through my hair. I miss the sunlight on the mountains rising above water that comes in a dozen different shades of blue and being called "my lady" with a warm, friendly smile. Jerk cuisine just isn't the same off island without the love that goes in to its careful preparation and I miss the familiar words "irie" and "no problem". Words that carry a philosophy of living that is a world away from the hustle of the DC Metro area. After years of booking travel, and a string of destinations in different areas of the world under my belt, I've found the places that feel like home and leave a longing in your heart are truly special. Jamaica is one of those places for me.

Got golf????

2009-06-18T14:54:00.003-05:00

Hey guys! What could be more perfect than a golf getaway for you and your closest friends? Right now you and your closest buddies can enjoy several golf choices at Beaches Boscobel Resort (one of my favorite resorts on Jamaica!) or if you want the girls to come along for a spa weekend while you play then you can also enjoy golf at Sandals Dunn's River and Sandals Grande Ocho Rios. Enjoy the "Play Paradise Golf Package" which includes a one day PGA golf school powered by Nike Golf, a golf club fitting with the Nike 360 fitting system, complimentary caddie, cart use and advance tee times, daily lunch on course (Jamaican jerk! Yum!), and a complimentary bottle of wine off the managers list. All this for only $395 per person (rates based on availability and subject to change). OR enjoy all of the above inclusions, along with a 4 night stay, a welcome cocktail reception, farewell dinner, poker night with cigars and cordials and a 2 man scramble tournament. November 12th-16th, 2009 at Beaches Boscobel, Sandals Dunn's River or Sandals Grande Ocho Rios from $915 per person based on double occupancy and depending on resort selection. January 14-18, 2010 is also available at both Sandals properties and starting from $1067.00 per person land-only based on double occupancy and depending on resort selection. Go to wwww.caribbeandreamescapes.com for more details.

Treated Like Royalty

2009-06-17T14:55:00.002-05:00

Royal Plantation Resort, a Small Leading Hotel of the World on Jamaica is offering 65% off, a complimentary night and a complimentary island cruise. Royal Plantation was voted the best all-inclusive for the 2009 Trip Advisor Awards. This intimate property is incredibly unique and every need here is catered to with the highest level of service and attention to detail. Walking through the doors of this resort it is impossible to not take a deep breath and just relax....be pampered...enjoy. What else could you need after the stress of day to day life!

The suites boast Egyptian cotton sheets, top shelf liquor, luxurious bath amenities and sumptuous furnishings. The resort is home to the only champagne and caviar bar in the Caribbean where the fine art of sabering (opening the champagne bottles with a sabre) is practiced. Le Papillon, the resort's French restaurant, is what I still consider to be one of the best meals in my life. There are 2 options for staying at this property...a European plan and the Royal Plan. The inclusions that automatically come with the resort's European plan are luxury shuttle transfers from the airport, welcome sugar cane bubbly, early riser's continental breakfast on the Terrace, mangosas, chilled towel, rosewater face and body misting, and cucumber eye cooling every morning on the beach by your beach butler, daily afternoon tea on the Terrace, Jamaican hot chocolate on the Terrace every Friday, cooking lesson with the chef at the Royal Plantation Wellness Luncheon, weekly General Manager's Cocktail Reception with open bar, hors d'oeuvres and martinis during Martini Moments on Fridays, complimentary pillow menu and complimentary use of 24 hour fitness area.

If this isn't pampering enough then you can always upgrade to the Royal Plan which also includes ala carte breakfast, lunch and gourmet dinners, traditional tea, in-room dining, in-room bar with premium liquor, extensive wine selection and all bar beverages as well as non-motorized watersports, diving if you are PADI Certified, cigar rolling classes and championship golf. This current special is absolutely incredible for a resort that can surpass any honeymoon expectation. Please don't hesitate to contact us via phone or email at 866-585-1631, 703-724-1243, or info@wheredreamslead.com with any questions or to book your luxury getaway at Royal Plantation.

New Nonstop Service to St. Lucia!!

2009-06-15T09:41:00.003-05:00

Great news!!! Jet Blue is beginning non-stop service from JFK to St. Lucia this fall! Introductory fares are incredibly low $434 from JFK and from the Washington DC area $482.61 per person (we haven't seen fares this low in over a year from this area!). From JFK its only a 4 hour and 44 minute flight! What a perfect time to take advantage of the great sales at Sandals (3 to choose from with privileges at all) or Grand Pineapple Resort. Call or email us for details!

Fuel Surcharge Reminder

2009-06-11T11:24:00.002-05:00

When fuel prices reach $70 or more a barrel many cruise lines and airlines will impose fuel surcharges. In the case of cruise lines this will often be added on to the cost of the cruise regardless of final payment.

Passport Reminder!!!

2009-06-09T01:20:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder that as of June 1st, 2009 the latest passport requirements were implemented. A passport or passport card will now be necessary for people traveling from the US to Canada, Bermuda, Mexico and the Caribbean via air, land and sea. Take note cruise clients! You will now need a passport or passport card to cruise! Air travel internationally will still require a passport rather than a passport card, which is for land and sea travel. Go to http://www.state.gov/ or http://www.getyouhome.gov/ for more information. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us at http://www.wheredreamslead.com/.

Dreams and Destinations Jamaica Music Fest November 5-8,2009

2009-06-03T13:20:00.002-05:00

Don't forget our first annual Jamaica Music Fest November 5-8, 2009 at Sandals Montego Bay!

Please visit our website at http://www.wheredreamslead.com/ and click on our Groups or Events pages for more details! See you in Jamaica 'mon!

Sandals and Beaches Caribbean Event!

2009-06-03T13:18:00.001-05:00

We will be holding a Caribbean Event on July 12, 2009 from 3pm-5m at the

Broadlands Apartment Clubhouse, Ashburn VA, 20148

Please RSVP by July 9th, 2009

Come and see the newest additions to some of the most innovative resorts in the Caribbean!

S.W.A.K (Sandals With A Kiss)

2009-01-27T12:17:00.002-05:00

Sandals with a Kiss (S.W.A.K) Package! Sandals Resorts, the Luxury Included® vacation created for two people in love, is making Valentine's Day a little sweeter this year and sealing the deal with a special kiss! Because one day of romance simply was just not enough - we wanted the whole month to celebrate this red hot occasion! Book a Luxury Included® vacation to any Sandals Resort and stay 3 nights or longer, for travel February 1, 2009 through March 15, 2009, and enjoy the S.W.A.K. (Sandals with a Kiss) Package - because at Sandals, they seal every vacation with romance and a kiss!

The 'Sandals with a Kiss' Package includes*:

A complimentary bottle of Sparkling Wine

Two Celebration Crystal Champagne Flutes by Marquis by Waterford--$100value**
Chocolate Covered Tropical Fruits

Turn Down Service with Caribbean -inspired Love Notes and chocolate Hershey kisses

Complimentary 15-minute photo session & keepsake romantic photo

*SWAK Offer valid for US bookings only, made between January 9, 2009 and January 31, 2009 for arrivals February 1, 2009 - March 15, 2009. Applicable on minimum 3 night stays in a third room category or higher. Not applicable for group or group wedding bookings. **Flutes mailed after travel.

SUPER WINTER SALE! FUN AND SUN FOR ALL!

2009-01-27T12:12:00.002-05:00

Free Nights and Up to 60% Off Luxury!!

Only 2 days left for up to 60% off and free nights at Sandals and Beaches Resorts! Enjoy an amazing Caribbean honeymoon or wedding with white sugar sand between your toes and turquoise water creating the perfect backdrop for romance! Or beat the winter blues and whisk the family away for some much needed R&R! Book now for only a $200 deposit per person with final payment not due until 45 days prior to departure. Ask us about Sandals Resort's great active duty military rates as well! Your Luxury Included® honeymoon, wedding or vacation escape is also an incredible value!

SANDALS ROYAL BAHAMIAN $500 REBATE ENDING SOON!!!

2008-12-18T10:06:00.004-05:00

Don't forget to book your all-inclusive Sandals Royal Bahamian and Offshore Island winter holiday before December 20th and receive a $500 rebate off of your package from the Bahamas Tourist Board! That is along with the great 50% savings Sandals is offering right now! This fantastic resort has everything...great dining, beaches, pools, spas, entertainment, and of course its Sandals so the Luxury is definitely Included!! Call 703-724-1243 or email info@wheredreamslead.com today for more details!

Travel Makes A Great Gift!!

2008-11-27T22:22:00.002-05:00

Black Friday is tomorrow and as you look over your list and check it twice don't forget that the gift of travel provides memories for a lifetime and is something everyone loves!

Call or email today for our great specials!! Get $1000 spending money for a Bora Bora escape or enjoy huge savings in the Caribbean. Listen to the haunting sounds of Fado in Lisbon or enjoy great wine and tapas in Spain! The options are endless. For all the families out there now is the time to book that spring Walt Disney getaway. For the cruise lover try a cruise Down Under during their summer and escape winter's cold!

2008-11-20T23:41:00.002-05:00

ASTA Offers Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Trips

Alexandria, Va., Nov. 13, 2008-In two weeks, the holiday travel season will officially kick off for Americans and with the traditional meals come the now traditional dire predictions of overbooked flights, long delays at check-in and lost luggage. So what's a hopeful holiday traveler to do? "The holiday season is always the year's busiest time for travel, but it doesn't have to be frustrating," said ASTA President and CEO Chris Russo. "One sure way to make holiday trips smoother is by having a travel agent take care of all your travel details. Travel agents' always have inside information and can make holiday travel a lot less stressful."

Tips for air travel include:

Book your ticket ASAP. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates--ask your ASTA travel agent to check into holiday fares; the slow week between Christmas and New Year's; or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your holiday vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport. Your travel agent can advise you on the new rules and how to apply.

Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.

Keep a close eye on all your belongings. Just as airports are extremely crowded during the peak holiday period with travelers, they can also be fraught with thieves working the airports. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a close watch over tickets, wallets, purses, and other belongings at all times.

Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don't be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the "standby" seat assignment list.

Remember 3-1-1. New regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.

Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines place special restrictions during the holidays and allow only one carry-on. Ship your gifts to your destination ahead of time. If you do not send your gifts ahead, do not wrap them before the flight. With safety a priority for all airlines, security personnel will need access to all items. Pack collapsible gift bags to be used as wrapping upon arrival.

Tips for travel by car include:

Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.

Get a tune up. Before any long-distance drive, make sure to have your oil changed and your brakes, fluids and tire pressure checked. The slightest deficiency in air pressure significantly reduces your car's gas mileage. On the flip side, too much air can result in a flat.

Get an early start to avoid holiday gridlock. Traveling during late night/early morning hours helps. The worst times to travel are after meals since most travelers postpone leaving until they've eaten with their families. Make sure that all drivers are thoroughly rested.

ABOUT ASTA: ASTA's (American Society of Travel Agents) mission is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable, growing and a rewarding place to work, invest and do business.

Honeymoons and Destination Weddings

2008-11-10T18:19:00.002-05:00

Engagement season is almost upon us! What do I mean by engagement season? Traditionally we see the highest number of engagements in the period between the December holidays and Valentine's Day. It is the time when those of us who work with newly betrothed couples are at our busiest and it is one of my favorite times of year. I love to hear the stories of first dates and creative proposals...it is such a great honor to be involved in the process of two people joining their lives together. Honeymoon travel is one of my favorite types of travel to plan and at Dreams and Destinations Travel we'll recommend all those little details to make the honeymoon experience truly unique and memorable. I firmly believe the honeymoon is the most important part of the wedding and should be treated as such. This is the time when the two of you reconnect and remember all the reasons why you fell in love and decided to get married. By the time you get to the honeymoon typically wedding planning has turned in to a second full-time job and you forget to converse outside of place settings and seating charts. The honeymoon is the time to recover and contemplate the years you have to look forward to together.

For those who want to avoid the traditional wedding headaches and stress then a destination wedding is definitely the way to go! There are so many fantastic places and ways to get married...the world is pretty much at your doorstep! This type of wedding gives brides and grooms the chance to really enjoy family and friends prior to the wedding and typically (depending on the destination and type of wedding) is much more economical than traditional weddings. Family and friends love the opportunity to combine wedding joy with vacation fun and you can transition easily from your wedding to honeymoon. Dreams and Destination Travel works with brides to coordinate travel arrangements for the wedding, but we also act as a liaison between the brides and wedding coordinators, we provide save the date cards, wedding web pages, wedding registries, wedding newsletters and VIP amenities.

Whether you choose a traditional or destination wedding regardless of what your honeymoon needs may be it is important to begin planning the travel components to your big day early. Make sure you set a budget and decide on the most important factors such as time of year and destination. It is important to enlist an experienced travel consultant or concierge early in your planning to make certain things go smoothly for you and to be there to guide and advocate for you if things don't. It is never too early to start planning and this should be one of the more enjoyable tasks ahead of you...the more it is delayed the less enjoyable it is. Trust me...you don't want to be the groom contacting a travel consultant 2 weeks before the big day to book your honeymoon only to find out that all the good resorts are booked. By allowing yourself plenty of time you'll have first pick of resorts, wedding dates and times, specials and booking bonuses. It also gives you the opportunity to set-up payment plans to make paying for your special vacation a little easier.

So as we come up on the upcoming season of love and commitment congratulations to all of the newly engaged couples out there! I wish you a lifetime of happiness and we would consider it an honor to assist you in planning your dream honeymoon or destination wedding!

Warm regards,

Melinda--Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Specialist, Certified Sandals Specialist

Dreams and Destinations Travel

Where will your dreams take you?

2008-11-07T15:50:00.004-05:00

GREAT DEALS AT THE GRAND HYATT KAUAI!!!

HOLIDAY SUNSHINE ON SALE
Every 6th night free adn a daily buffet breakfast for 2 valid for new bookings of travel between December 22, 2008-January 3, 2009!!

SUNSHINE ON SALE
Every 3rd night free (stay six and get 2 free!!!) and daily buffet breakfast for two. Valid for travel November 6-December 21, 2008!!

Dreams and Destinations Sandals and Beaches Caribbean Night November 6th!!!

2008-10-23T19:55:00.005-05:00

Dreaming of the ultimate destination wedding? Looking for a romantic honeymoon or couple's vacation? Or do you just need a great family getaway? We are partnering with Annalee's Formals and Sandals and Beaches Resorts on November 6th from 7pm-9pm at Annalee's Formals Brambleton Town Center for our Sandals and Beaches Caribbean Night! It will be a fun night highlighting the Luxury Included vacations at Sandals and Beaches Resorts! Enjoy a mini fashion show featuring destination wedding dresses and followed by a great destination presentation! Please come join us! RSVP by November 5th at 703-724-1243 or info@wheredreamslead.com

Test Drive Your Honeymoon!!!!

2008-10-23T17:39:00.005-05:00

Contact Dreams and Destinations Travel at www.wheredreamslead.com or click on http://www.sandals.com/index.cfm?referral=120203 for more details!

The More the Merrier

2007-08-08T21:44:00.000-05:00

Think about all the people you're close to. All of those individuals who make life that much more enjoyable. Now picture yourself on your next holiday with them. Explore ancient ruins in Mexico together, enjoy beautiful vineyards and even lovelier wines in New Zealand, see who is the best surfer or rock climber...on your next cruise, or simply bask in the Caribbean sun and enjoy the company of good friends and the sound of the waves kissing the shore. Whatever your travel interests may be, they are always better when shared with those you care about. I don't know how many times in the course of my travels I've enjoyed something and wished I had the people closest to me to share it with.

Group travel is a great way to share experiences with the people closest to you or other like-minded people with similar interests. When you travel with a group you often get the benefit of lower rates, itineraries specifically designed for the interests of your group, and often many bonus features and perks. Not to mention great company! Right now would be a great time to start planning your 2008 group travel...whether it is a fundraising cruise to the Caribbean for your civic group or place of worship or just a fun weekend getaway for 20 of your closest girlfriends (and guyfriends). Typically the earlier you book the group the better the space and discounts will be for your group. Also, if you travel during off-times rates can be really great. For example that family reunion in Ireland in March or the Caribbean cruise in October (ask us about our October 18, 2008 space on Carnival's Liberty).

Regardless of the size or interests of your group we are happy to help you make your next group vacation a fun and relaxing process!

Updates

2007-07-20T14:12:00.000-05:00

The past few months have been a busy time. This spring we relocated the office. In May Melinda traveled to New Zealand for a week and had a chance to experience New Zealand's Luxury Lodges and Wine Country. Keep an eye out for our summer newsletter and photos highlighting New Zealand as our featured destination. This is really a wonderful country with so much to offer...everyone should go at least once!

We also just wanted to remind our clients that if you haven't applied for your passport you really need to do so. The backlog in travelers receiving their passports has been overwhelming...early planning can avoid the stress of not receiving your passport in time. See our homepage at http://www.wheredreamslead.com/ for more details.

I know with the fun of lazy summer days it is difficult to think of the holidays and winter vacations, but currently there are more people traveling now than pre 9/11. This is great news for the travel industry, but it also means that the booking bonuses are really for those who book early. Right now we do have 2008 pricing and it is definitely the time to think about booking that winter cruise or sunny escape. In most cases a small deposit will hold your space and final payment isn't due until 60 days prior to departure. For popular summer trips like Alaska or Mediterranean cruises book now for summer 2008 while there is still space in the best cabins.

For those of you who don't want to plan more than a few months in advance there are some great fall packages available to the Caribbean. A good example is the "Best of Barbados" package we have right now...for a 7 night/8 day stay you can get accommodations, a discount on your airfare, breakfast daily, and discounted excursions for right around $1650 total for 2 based on supplier availability and pricing. It really is a great deal from the East Coast and it won't last long!

If you don't necessarily want to travel on a passport, but want an exotic destination with great value and exceptional service we have Hawaii's "private island" of Lanaii and the Four Seasons Manele Bay from $1950 for 5 nights land only. We can even set up surfing lessons for you if you like!

Luggage Tip

2007-02-12T14:48:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to remind everyone to add a distinguishing feature to your baggage when you travel. Don't pack irreplaceable items or items of value in your checked baggage and make sure that you make it to the baggage claim area quickly after your flight. In December, when I arrived for the Travel Expo in Las Vegas, I stopped for a much needed Starbucks latte and then made my way to baggage where I thought my suitcase didn't make it to Las Vegas with me. I found that only 1 airline scans baggage so airlines really have no idea where your baggage is when it is lost... identifiers are very important. Imagine all of the black bags they sift through daily! Airlines are allowed 24 hours to find your bag and then after that will provide $25 per day for incidentals so you will end up paying out of pocket. Remember that purchasing travel insurance through Dreams and Destinations can really offset these costs. At about 10pm the day I arrived in Las Vegas I received a call from Deb at US Airways baggage claim at LAS. It turned out that during my Starbucks stop my suitcase along with about 4 others was stolen from baggage claim and dumped near the airport. Thankfully the bags were discovered and turned in to the airline by Las Vegas police. I was really lucky...only an evening coat and some toiletries were missing since I carry on all valuables, but my suitcase that has traveled the world with me was slashed badly. US Airways provided a suitcase to load my belongings in and I was thrilled to not spend the the first day of the Expo shopping! However, I have learned a very valuable lesson, luggage before coffee no matter how bleary eyed you are because occasionally an airline will surprise you and your bags can actually be waiting on you!

Luxury Travel Expo

2007-02-12T14:25:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

The Luxury Travel Expo in Las Vegas this past December was one of the best so far. I had a chance to network with suppliers and learn about new or improved products, incredible destinations, and unique acccommodations that I can, in turn, offer to you.

I stayed at Mandalay Bay this year and I'm looking forward to seeing the changes to the rooms next year. The Mandalay Bay is currently undergoing renovations one floor at a time.

While in Vegas you can't have all business and no play I took the time to enjoy the casinos at MGM, TI, Paris, Mandalay Bay, and The Venetian...if you're interested I can recommend the best nickel slots, but that is the limit to my gambling experience. I did play roulette for a friend...it has to be the fastest $20 I've ever spent! Since many of our first choice shows were dark during our time in Vegas we went to a tried and true delight...Mystere by Cirque du Soleil...as enjoyable as ever. We did take the time for a very chilly gondola ride at The Venetian...make sure you select the indoor ride along the Grand Canal...is is only $2.50 more per person and allows you to glide past cafes and shops.

For restaurants I wanted to mention a little Thai restaurant just off the strip (you'll definitely want to cab it to this location). The Lotus of Siam is located in the Commerce Center strip mall. Excellent curry and an an overwhelming menu to select from. Also good was Il Fornaio the at New York, New York with their "sidewalk" seating and enjoyable Northern Italian cuisine. Our big splurge for the week was at Mon Ami Gabi located at Harrah's Paris. Excellent food in a French bistro setting with truly impressive service.

Mayan Riviera Special

2006-10-25T12:40:00.000-05:00

As many of you know I've just returned from Mexico's Riviera Maya. This is a beautiful vacation destination and the perfect spot to melt away winter blues! If you book a 4 night or longer all-inclusive vacation through us we'll give you $50 off per couple just to get you started! Check out our website for more on my adventures in Riviera Maya!

~Melinda

**Book between October 25th-December 22nd, 2006 for travel 12/2006-4/2007. Space is limited and based on supplier availability. Packages must be inclusive of air to qualify. Offer may be changed at any time by Dreams and Destinations Travel.

Where will your dreams take you?

Holiday Travel Tips from ASTA

2006-10-25T12:38:00.000-05:00

ASTA Offers Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Trips

Alexandria , Va. – Oct. 24, 2006 – With the 2006 holiday travel season fast approaching, the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is offering some basic tips, specific to the mode of travel, to help people avoid common travel mistakes and inconveniences.

"The holiday season is always the year’s busiest time for travel, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating," said ASTA President and CEO Cheryl Hudak, CTC. "One sure way to make holiday trips smoother is by having a travel agent take care of all your travel details. From knowing which hotels have pet-friendly amenities to which airports have play areas, travel agents’ always have inside information that those outside of the industry do not have access to."

Tips for air travel include:
· Book your ticket ASAP. However, if circumstances force you into booking at the last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates--ask your travel agent to check into holiday fares (flights on Thanksgiving; Christmas and New Year's Day), the slow week between Christmas and New Year’s; or consider flying into an alternate airport, renting a car, or using connecting flights. If your holiday vacation includes air travel outside the United States , make sure you have a valid passport. Beginning Jan. 8, 2007, air travelers will be required to have a passport to enter the United States . Your travel agent can advise you on the new rules and the most convenient way to apply for a passport.

· Arrive early for your flight. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. It is important to give yourself extra time by getting there early. Those arriving earliest on an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard. Check your airport’s Web site for real-time parking status and estimated check-in waits.

· Pack gifts, liquid items in checked baggage. Due to this summer’s thwarted airline terror plot, there have been numerous changes in the rules regarding what you can carry on a plane. Limits vary based on your destination, type of aircraft, and even your airline. To avoid problems, instead of carrying items on board such as gifts, pack them, unwrapped, in baggage that will be checked. Be sure to tag all carry-on and checked baggage, with name, address and phone number both inside and outside your bag. Ask your travel agent to provide you with baggage and carry-on information for your specific flight(s).

· Keep a close eye on all your belongings. Just as airports are extremely crowded during the peak holiday period with travelers, they can also be fraught with thieves working the airports. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a close watch over tickets, wallets, purses, and other belongings at all times.
Tips for travel by car include:

· Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.

· Get a tune up. Before any long-distance drive, make sure to have your oil changed and your brakes, fluids and tire pressure checked. The slightest deficiency in air pressure significantly reduces your car’s gas mileage. On the flip side, too much air can result in a flat.

· Get an early start to avoid holiday gridlock. Traveling during late night/early morning hours helps. The worst times to travel are after meals since most travelers postpone leaving until they’ve eaten with their families. Make sure that all drivers are thoroughly rested.

For a full list of essential holiday travel tips, log onto www.TravelSense.org, ASTA’s consumer Web site. The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents and its affiliated organizations is to enhance the professionalism and profitability of members worldwide through effective representation in industry and government affairs, education and training, and by identifying and meeting the needs of the traveling public. The Society is the world's largest and most influential travel trade association with more than 20,000 members in 140 countries.

Our first blog!

2006-10-24T21:03:00.000-05:00

Thank you for checking out Dreams and Destinations Travel blog! We'll keep our first post short, but keep checking back for updated information! We plan to share travel tips, destination information, photos, specials, and events with you on a regular basis.

Right now we would like to remind everyone that passport regulations are changing! As of January 8th, 2007 you will need a passport to fly to Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. Starting in 2008 you will need a passport for all land and sea journeys. Check out www.state.gov or email us for more information. Also...if you are a brand new passport holder (Congratulations!) many resorts and destinations are holding specials just for you!

We'll look forward to hearing from you and sharing ideas and information with you.

Dreams and Destinations Travel

Where will your dreams take you?