Stingray Travel

Can you gift a cruise?

2011-12-12T15:30:00.002-06:00

According to a retail analyst, 32.4 percent, nearly 1/3 of consumers said they would have their holiday shopping done by December 18th. 11.9 percent would not be finished until Christmas eve.

Great news for about 50% of the shoppers who still don't have their Christmas gift list complete - you can gift a cruise!

Whether your budget is $20, $200 or $2000 plus, there is a cruise gift for everyone. You can buy a cruise certificate from most of your local cruise agents in a denomination you want to spend. The great thing is, the person receiving the cruise gift can use it when they want (ask your agent for a one to two year redemption option, or more) and where they would like to travel and what cabin they would like to have on the cruise.

So, if you haven't thought of that very special, very different gift to give this year...a cruise is a really great option! What better gift, no matter how much you spend, can give someone the hopes, dreams and excitment of all the places, events and entertainment a cruise ship can provide.

How to Avoid the Demise of a Vacation

2011-10-19T09:33:00.007-05:00

Egypt, Greece and the list goes on of unrest. Hurricanes, volcanoes and the list goes on of natural disasters.

I particularly keep track of those events because I book my clients to cruises all over the world and I myself am taking a cruise that specifically stops in some of these affected places.

If I look on the positive side, I can't help but be thankful for both myself and my clients. Out of all the vacations you can plan, a cruise is one you can avoid most negative elements. We are not stuck in a volatile situation - we can leave a port or not visit a port and move on to the next place. We may have some disruption or changes in our cruise schedule but we are not adding thousands of souls to the damaged areas.

So plan carefully, opt for a cruise if you can and no matter what add travel insurance for the unexpected. Give yourself every out so your vacation has the best chance of survival.

Top 10: How do you know when you have a GREAT travel agent?

2011-10-12T10:55:00.003-05:00

Disclaimer: Author is a travel agent :)

You have their cell phone number and email address.
(Or at least they are willing to give them to you when you ask for it.) It’s not about reaching them between set office hours. It’s about how quickly you can get your answers.

You get a response within 24 hours or less.
Now remember, they may be on vacation too but they should have left alternate contact information whom you can depend on just as much.

They use social media while on vacation.
And let me clarify, it’s not for their own marketing purposes. It’s because they are so driven and obsessed with travel and making sure their clients have the latest information they are willing to put out a blog, send a tweet or post to Facebook DURING vacation just so you have the latest and greatest info.

They don’t always tell you what you want to hear.
You enlist the help of a professional because they have the expertise. Like any relationship, you won’t always agree on the options, no one should be pushing agendas and everyone should be compromising for the best outcome.

They will, no matter how many times you say no, ask you if you need travel insurance.
If you were on our end and experienced every single vacation with every single vacationer and heard every single story – good and bad you would never leave home without it – we don’t. So we will always encourage you, multiple times, to get coverage.

They will quote you what you ask for and always offer something more.
It’s not because our main goal is to upsell you (which we should do like any good business person), but because we know how little you get to vacation, how much you spend and how much you really need to get away and sometimes a $100 or two hundred is nothing compared to what you will get in return. We are trying to get you to buy in to the memories.

You get a handwritten note from them.
At least once a year on a special occasion. No matter how many clients you get in a customer service industry, someone should show they took at least a couple of minutes to jot down a few sentences about how important you are.

You should hear from them after your vacation.
Heaven forbid that you don’t hear from them before or during – that is grounds for divorce! But most importantly you should hear from them after you get home. A welcome home card or note, a quick questionnaire to find out how things went, something.

They are glad to hear from you.
No matter whether you are complaining or complementing do they sound happy to hear from you. I certainly hope so – you are never an inconvenience.

They want to put things right.
No matter how great your travel agent is, they are only human and mistakes will occur. This is when your agent will show their true colors. Do they disappear and become difficult to reach, do they give you excuses or do they keep in touch with you every step of the way while some type of resolution is in progress. The outcome may not be what you expect but the agent better be trying 150 percent.

I put together this little top ten on how you know you have a great travel agent based on responses from my own clients as well as my view of other industries and what I expect as far as customer service. I hope these tips are helpful when you look for that life-long partnership with a travel agent.

A day in the life of this Cruise agent

2011-10-06T11:20:00.003-05:00

Welcome to my Oasis. It’s a little place where I have joined together my past life as a web production, social media person with my love for cruising. It’s this combination that drew me to CruiseOne where integrating new technologies and cruising specialties make life as a franchise owner easier.

I’m all about easy, simple and balance. I spread that belief throughout my entire life, not just my work, which I even hesitate to call work. Sometimes the required details of a transaction can be less than attractive but I like spending the time in my Oasis and looking up to see the day is done and I never watched the clock. I call it my Oasis because I have created an office desk, which is giant, to look like a Bali spa area not excluding palm trees, coconut oil scent and island music in the background. (See the picture above.) What can I say, my work, I take it with me.

So while I set in the Oasis (after my morning swim – you knew I couldn’t create an oasis without water!) I digest email, drink my vitamin breakfast, read my blogs and feeds, post to Facebook, network on LinkedIn and tweet. I’m also obsessed with learning, so reading my travel subscriptions online, in print and taking webinars is also a large part of my daily tropical experience. I try to limit it all to a couple of hours because I could do that all day. It’s like a good long walk on the beach.

But I do love cruises too, so, moving on…mid-day is about my clients. The ones I send to an oasis while I set in my Oasis. I check in with them, phone them, email, send invites, answer questions about their cruise and talk with them about their families. I don’t know any other way to let them know how important their trip is to me except to treat their vacation like I would my own and that is to nail down all the details. I want them to smell their vacation, I want them stick their toes in the sand before they ever get there.

The latter part of my day is making contact with new clients, implementing pieces of my marketing plan, integrating ideas I’ve come across throughout the day and trying to think of the next big creative thing to wow my clients and soon to be clients. That island music really gets the juices going!

Somewhere in all this, I’m always planning my next getaway – I have an addiction to fill you know and I can only do it vicariously through other people to a point! Of course even these getaways are filled with ship inspections, meeting the crew, begging for an exclusive peak and looking for what my clients would love to experience next. Not because I have to, just because it’s there – why not!

At the end of the ‘work day’ I try to learn from any failures and pat myself on the back for any client praises. Oh and sometimes I have after-hour networking events. May the connections remain as countless as the sands. Please pass me that margarita now, it’s 5 0’clock here.

What Do I Pack to Wear?

2011-09-06T18:40:00.004-05:00

If you ever asked that question because you were concerned about looking like a tourist, not fitting in, then read on. Most of the time you find list and few visuals for not looking like a tourist. Here is my recommendation for looking appropriate: search out the local webcams. Just 'Google' webcams and the location you want to visit. Bookmark and visit them at different days and different times and observe the locals. Worse case scenario you will just find a bunch of tourist on the webcams which means you will fit in just fine.

Las Vegas - Downtown, Budget or Luxury

2011-05-26T13:44:00.001-05:00

We usually stay on the strip but we wanted to experience the character of downtown. We stayed at the Golden Nugget and also at El Cortez as it had received several awards in the last few years. Even in downtown you can go the budget or luxury route.

Luxury
The Golden Nuggest was not overly posh but did not lack in luxury amenities. We rented a cabana one day and were not disappointed. We stayed in the Rush Tower and the room came with robes, safe, flat screens and more. Whether you are 80 or 8, you should not skip going down the water tube through the shark tank and enjoy the pool where you can see a full view of the tank and a lot of exotic fish. There are a lot of suprises at the Golden Nugget and you should take the time to explore. Rent a taxi from downtown to the strip for about $30 with tip but don't skip checking out some of the shows in downtown like the Brat Pack and the comedy shows.

Budget
The El Cortez was priced very reasonably. It was a nice clean hotel and very friendly staff. It isn't a bad two block walk to fremont street but can save you over the other hotels directly on Fremont Street. You should try out the little lunch bar in the back of the Golden Gate Casino where you can get the $1.99 shrimp (and they don't skimp) as well as sandwiches and sides for under $10. If you want a strong drink for a good price go for the La Bayou and get a frozen daiquiri at the back of the small casino and I recommend not adding extra alcohol! Take the Deuce bus to the strip for $5 a person and it runs about every 30 minutes.

Want any greater detail on downtown Las Vegas or the strip, contact us. We have verterans on our team!

Questions for a Travel Agent - Group Cruising

2011-01-22T10:33:00.000-06:00

There are amenities your travel agent can retain for you when traveling in groups. In most cases a group consists of at least 8 cabin bookings with 15 full fare guests but some luxury lines can be as low as a group of 5 cabins. So, always ask your travel agent what defines a group on the particular cruise you are interested in taking.

What are amenities? They are 'points' the cruise lines assign to ships/sailings based on supply and demand. Less demand will yield higher amenity points because the cruise lines are trying to fill the ships. Amenity points can only be awarded to groups and can be exchanged for free items like a bottle of wine or chocolate covered strawberries in your cabin, onboard ship credit or even cocktail parties for groups.

How do you get extra amenities? Sometimes your travel agent can secure extra items or services at no cost. You will not usually get these items if your group is sailing during peak periods or on ships in high demand. If you want to secure additional amenities for your group you will need to have a flexible sailing period so your travel agent can let you know when you can get the most amenities.

What else does group bookings get you?

A lower deposit. Sometimes for as low as $25 a person your group can book their cruise.
Your agent also ensures your group has cabins and dining times together.
Usually when you meet the minimum group requirement as defined above, you earn a free berth. A free berth means you get the cabin cost free but you will still have to pay the government fees and port charges on that berth. This amenity is generally always available.
Best of all the travel agent can handle the coordination of your group cruise so you don't have to do all the planning and work by yourself!

So, if you think you have a group, contact your travel agent! You will be rewarded with less work and extra perks for your group.

Questions for a Travel Agent - Cruise Planning

2011-01-10T14:51:00.000-06:00

Second in my series of blogs on Questions for a Travel Agent is what to know before you go on a cruise. (Read Blog One on Balconies here) There are so many things to plan for, including additional costs that may be involved outside of the cruise cabin payment. Here is a list of things to consider:

Embarkation and Disembarkation
Travel Documents
Air and Sea Packages
Parking at the Pier
Pre and Post Hotel Stay
Porters
Tipping
Dining Requests
Onboard Account
What to Wear
Children's Programs
Things to Bring
Contacting Someone from the Ship
Luggage
Excursions

If you are planning a cruise and don't have information on one or more of these areas, contact us for the "Know Before You Go" brochure which answers these questions and more.

Questions for a Travel Agent - Balconies

2010-12-28T14:35:00.000-06:00

I thought I would spend time on my next several blogs for the new year, to answer questions I get asked frequently as a travel agent.

The first question that comes to mind is...should I get a balcony cabin?

Let me throw two facts out there

Out of all the cruises I have been on or booked or anyone I have ever talked to who cruises, less than 1% would ever go back to an inside or oceanview after having a balcony cabin.
The number one reason I get from people who always book an inside cabin is: "We don't spend any time in the cabin so it isn't worth the additional investment."

Why are there two such contradictory statements on getting a balcony? Well, there will always be the group that money is the most important aspect and they will always book the least inexpensive options. That is their preference. But, for anyone who is looking for value as well as a good investment should consider booking a balcony cabin. Here is a list of very good reasons:

You can order free room service and have a meal on your balcony watching the sunset or sunrise. (or anytime inbetween)
The balcony can expand your space by about 100 square feet or more in most cabins.
You can watch the morning arrival to your newest port destination in your pajamas, on deck.
Enjoy a private area in the sun or enjoy a quiet reading area.
Look over the side of the ship and see or listen to the ocean waves lapping, watch fish swimming or dolphins diving - very relaxing balcony nap ensues.
Great place to wave at all the poor dudes that aren't cruising with you.
You don't have to turn on any lights, just open the curtains and brighten your day - and open the doors for fresh ocean air.
As long as the ship isn't in motion, it makes a nice place to dry your bathing suits. (Don't do it while the ship is moving as they will blow away!)
If you are a smoker or like cigars, you don't have to find a designated smoking area on the cruise ship. (which can be very limited sometimes). You can smoke right on your balcony.
Wonderful place to have private celebrations with horderves and champagne.

I'm sure there are other 'creative' ideas and uses for the balcony. Anyone who has an idea, email me. (Unless it's about serious romance on the balcony - I left that one out on purpose :)

Applying for a passport or passcard

2010-08-17T14:47:00.000-05:00

You have the option now of applying for either a passport or a passport card but they do not necessarily cover the same things. One major difference is, you can't use the passport card for international air travel. Another difference, the passport card can be a lot cheaper. Check here for the difference between a passport and a passport card.

If you have applied for a passport before, you can apply online.

If you haven't applied for a passport before, then you can download this form and must apply in person.

To find out what facility to go to, search here.

You will need to present one of the following proofs of citizenship below:
Previously issued, undamaged U.S. Passport
Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state*
Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship

*This MUST be a birth certificate from the state with an embossed, impressed or multicolored seal with the state registrar's signature. Copies of birth certificates will not be accepted.

This is not a legal, authoritative summary and is only intended to provide assistance in the direction of online government passport resources.

Is travel insurance worth it?

2010-04-27T01:05:00.000-05:00

Considering most people can save for a year or more for a vacation, it makes complete sense you should ask this question. But, here are the real questions you should be asking yourself to determine if you need it.

1. Is this a special occasion? Remember, it's about getting away from all the problems and issues and enjoying yourself. Don't let an unexpected event bring more to you on your vacation when you have a special event to focus on.

2. Are you traveling overseas? Most travelers are not aware that their insurance will probably not cover overseas travel, certain rentals, etc. So, check with your insurance before you think it does.

3. Are you traveling with a group? Traveling with multiple people only creates more opportunity for something to go wrong. Read on...if you have some of these types of people mentioned below in your group, insurance might be worth considering.

4. Are you traveling with senior citizens? Senior citizens these days can be extremely fit and healthy. It doesn't mean we are not susceptible to injury, illness or other normal things that plague us as that age.

5. Does someone have health issues? Did you know that travel insurance can cover a air-lift off a cruise ship or from a foreign port to an english speaking hospital? If someone has a heart attack, breaks a bone, there is only so much the local doctors may be able to handle. Being air-lifted can cost at least $50,000 or more. So don't think your insurance just covers the cost of the trip. It also covers medical.

6. Are you concerned about the baggage you will take? Some people pack important items, electronics, etc. And that doesn't include the luggage itself. Travel insurance will cover your lost luggage as well as delayed luggage.

7. Is there a potential for bad weather? Lost luggage, transportation, hotels and other side issues may not be covered even if the travel company you are using reimburses you for the trip itself due to a cancellation. Travel insurance can fill in those gaps.

If these issues don't relate to your travel and you are mostly doing a short, local trip, then travel insurance may not be for you. If one of those questions matches your vacation plans, then you should consider insurance.

When you plan your vacation, ask for a copy of the travel insurance so you can see what it covers. (Check here for an example of what insurance can cover) And don't forget to carry the travel insurance phone number with you when you leave for your vacation!

Travel far but carry a little stick.

2010-04-12T16:02:00.003-05:00

I recommend to all travelers to make their life easier when traveling. One thing you should always carry with you is your passport. The second thing I suggest is getting all your travel documents on a memory stick.

If you carry this little stick with you wherever you travel, you will feel secure in having whatever you need at your fingertips. Memory sticks are small enough to carry with you or secure in your room safe while out and about.

Here is a list of copies you should keep on your memory stick for each passenger:

Passport photo page
Drivers license or other state issued photo ID
Any booking confirmation emails
Photo of your credit card(s)
List of contact numbers.

travel agent
local emergency numbers
immediate family member numbers (in case you lose your cell phone and don't have them memorized!)
travel insurance
cell phone company
bank - credit card division
physician for prescriptions

Scan any of the physical items into your computer, save them to your password protected memory stick and delete files from your computer or make sure they are secure. Create a list of contact numbers for anything you have in your wallet or any important items you will carry with you during travel. Now if you lose your credit cards, wallet, phone, etc., you still have all the numbers necessary to make sure you still enjoy your vacation.

Are hidden travel fees out of control?

2010-03-21T15:47:00.000-05:00

My husband and I booked travel through a large online travel company for a two week vacation. It was only after a couple of days into our trip that we found out the resort was charging $15 a day for spa and exercise room use.

When we tried to address it with the hotel, there seemed to be, all of the sudden, a language barrier.

We were saved only by the fact that the large online travel company happened to have a representative in the area who called to check on our service. They managed to have the fees removed from our stay. Have you encountered hidden fees like this. They are not disclosed on your booking yet someone feels it is appropriate to append it to your bill.

At least ours was only $15 per day and it was resolved. Check out some of the other hidden fee stories. About the only way to fight these hidden fees currently is to have someone in your corner with the power to eliminate them. Make sure you book with a reputable travel agency who will stand behind your bookings!

Let a virtual vacation enhance a real vacation

2010-03-17T10:07:00.001-05:00

Somewhere online I read we spend 4-6 weeks researching a vacation. That's probably about right since we currently book vacations an average of 3 months in advance.

Whether you take your virtual vacation before or after you book it, having some tips on where to go can be helpful. Here's some 'ports of call' you can visit on your next virtual vacation:

Step one: You have already completed step one, I'm sure. This is where you determine the reason for your travel. Is it just to get away, is it for a life-time celebration like an anniversary or wedding? Is it a family get-together or a business retreat?

Step two: Determining where you are going to stay. OK, you decided why you are going, now what amenities do you need. Is it for two or for a group? This is a good time to consult a travel agent. In large, travel agency services are free so it is a no-brainer to find someone who can not only make recommendations across competing travel sites but can also be there every step of the way to reduce stress in planning important occasions. Like company cruises or honeymoons.

Step three: Now you know where you are going to stay (whether on a cruise ship, all-inclusive, etc.), now what are you going to do and see? If you are on a cruise ship, there are ports of call. If you are staying at an all-inclusive, there are local excursions. Either use your travel agent or check out the online web links for place you are staying and there will be a list of activities. Also check the local chamber of commerces or go to Google and type in, "things to do in ________ (name of location)". Your travel agent may already have the web links and resources compiled for your travel destination so check there first.

IMPORTANT: If possible, you should book your tours and excursions before your vacation. They can fill up quickly and you will miss out on that once-in-a-lifetime thing you wanted to do. Most often if you decide at the last minute you don't want to do that tour or excursion, you my be able to get a refund, or transfer your payment to another excursion. Better to book early when possible.

TIP: Ask about best price guarantees or satisfaction guarantees. These can be important if you need to make changes pre- post or during your trip. Example Guarantee.

Let me know what tips you use to plan your virtual vacation before you take your real one!

Trigger a delayed vacation response with gadgets

2010-03-01T14:46:00.000-06:00

Studies abound that show utilizing all five senses can improve your memory. What better thing would you like to remember than your vacation getaway! Here are some gadgets that will help you remember your vacation for a long time to come.

Engage your hearing by taking along an ipod loaded with music specific to your current vacation. Play it every day at a specific time when you are most relaxed. It may be when you get up in the morning or are relaxing in a hammock in the afternoon. Play the music at home and let it trigger your feelings for that time.

Locate a local scent that you really enjoy - smells of the ocean, the local fauna blooming by your window and then find candles, sachets, oils, etc., that you can take back home with you.
Enjoy a local drink or food and ask for the recipe, record it on your iphone so you can replicate it at home. Try easy recipes like a cocktail, an appetizer or a snack. (Don't want to work yourself up over a complicated recipe!)

Purchase a souvenier that is both beautiful to look at and interesting to touch. Place it somewhere in your office or home so you pass it frequently and can enjoy the sensations of the crafts from your vacation.

Calling all scientists - travel needs help!

2010-02-10T15:23:00.000-06:00

Do we have any travel amenities left?

Wow! Pillows and blankets for travel could now be $8 bucks on some flights. Pretty soon the beverages will be charged for and then we will be trapped between the moon and New York City paying $5 for a small drink because we can't bring anything into the airport.

The more we have to pay for, the less we can bring on board - or the less we get.

Here are some items we really need invented for the poor everyday travel consumer:

Powdered Water - just add air.
Thermo Patch - just add pull. We should be able to stretch a small piece of material into a big enough blanket with a tight enough weave to prevent hypothermia.
Memory Foam Pod - just add hot air. It should expand into a small pillow just by breathing on it.

Email me! Tell me what else we need from our scientists for travel.

Hotels should take a tip from grocery stores.

2010-02-01T11:55:00.000-06:00

Internet access is a business travel staple.

Times are tough and hotels are trying to make their money and stay open just like any good business. But maybe they should take a second look at where and how they make their money.

Let's look at grocery store practices. They are great at marketing to the consumer on a consumer level. Grocery stores will lure you in by giving you the greatest discounts on the 'staples' - those things you just can't live without. For grocery stores, that would be milk, butter, bread, etc.

What type of hotel are you and what are the staples for your clientle? If you cater to business travelers then it's probably Internet access. Your clientle's staples should really be a part of the package - especially when they are inexpensive for you to provide and your clientle know it!

Good to know that some travel related venues are taking note of their clientle's staple needs. USA Today reports the need on the elimination of Internet changes. The San Francisco airport is now plugging in to free Internet acess. I hope it's spreading.

How to use the Internet to get around baggage fees.

2010-01-17T12:19:00.000-06:00

New baggage fees but no new customer service.

Come on. I'm not the only person to get irritated about unnecessary fees. The ones that are just supplementing the business costs and provide no real service to the consumer.

Baggage fees fall clearly under that definition. I know there are penny pinchers, starving students or others out there like me who just want to save a buck or buck the establishment.

Here's a few tips on using the Internet to get out of baggage fees that can range from $25 to $100 or more!

1. Look up the local Goodwill or Salvation Army where you are traveling to and just buy up what you need when you get there. (If you really find stuff you like, you can always ship it home for like $20 bucks. Cheaper than baggage fees!)

2. Use Southwest Airlines where they are tender and loving and respectful of bags that travel.  So much so that bags fly free.

3. Look up local garage sales on Craigslist. (Same process as number 1 above but a little more time consuming and when you are done, you can always drop them off at the local Goodwill.) Select your city. Under 'For Sale' click on garage sale.

4. Find a resale shop. Not as cheap as Number 1 and 3 and maybe as much as baggage fees but at least you have something to show for your purchase.  Under 'What' type in 'resale' and under 'where', put in your city and state.

5. Ship your stuff. If you don't have much, ship a box fed-ex. At least your items will be insured and if they are banged around or damaged you can be refunded - unlike airline baggage.   Select the location you are sending from. Under the tab 'Ship', find locations near you.

Hey, if all else fails, layer all your clothing and carry on a folded up duffle bag. You can always pull them all off later and tuck them back in your bag. You might be asked to 'strip down' at security though so it may take a while to save.

Happy hunting and saving!

With TSA new rules, what keeps us connected?

2009-12-30T13:56:00.000-06:00

The TSA is prepared to eliminate any efforts of potential terrorists to know what's going on during a flight. That of course means us too. A new TSA rule for international flights could mean asking passengers to stow personal items, turn off electronic equipment and remain seated - at anytime during the flight. So, how do we stay connected? We have all this technology and no where to log in.

Please don't think I'm anti-technology when I say, even with all the new technology that helps us with and through travel, it's travel itself that keeps us connected. I'm also not saying to not fight for and push for our rights as upright citizens to have access to our daily communication tools. But, in the face of a temporary issue, we could try a different approach.

The 'tool' next to you in that seat who keeps taking over the arm rest might have access to communication on a travel idea, site or place you have never entertained. Go ahead and log-in and see what humanity has to offer. Course I believe in balance so a little humanity, a little technology goes a long way. I should have access to both and for my own sanity, I should access both.

So, what do you do when you can't get at your tools?

Search Terms: (Here are words you might use in a search engine, like Google, to find similar information) TSA flight rules international

Tweet yourself to a vacation

2009-11-22T10:37:00.000-06:00

It's never a point of argument whether you need a vacation or not. It's just about when. Here are my top 20 tweets you can send to yourself or a significant other to either convince yourself you need a vacation or get yourself ready for one. Guaranteed ready to use, under 140 characters.

It's time you tweeted yourself to a vacation!

Honey, I'm on my way home with two to-go margarita's. Pack the bags.
We are going to eat at every formal dinner, hit every buffet, including the midnight buffet and go for pizza & ice cream. I love cruises.
Wow! I freakin' won those free airline tickets. Need I say more. Boss, I'm calling in sick.
I'm feeling lucky with money to burn. Las #Vegas here I come!
I have to spread my job hunting to other states so I might as well take a tax deductible vacation. I'll text my new home address.
The car broke down but we got a loaner. Probably a good time to take that weekend drive we were talking about.
My company has laid off seven people so now I'm doing the job of eight. I think it's about time one of them took a #vacation.
They are all driving me crazy - you know who. I'm outta here with suitcase in tow. And no, I'm not telling you where I'm going.
No money, no car, no worries. With two feet and a thumb I'm a vacation vagabond.
The rents says I can go on one condition. I promise to tweet an undate every hour. Remind me to send one from the bus.
Right. At least when a stupid person asks me a stupid question, I can ask for another round of drinks with a little umbrella.
Found a map on the top 30 bars in New Orleans. I have three days to check them all out. You game?
Three days, two nights, all-inclusive, $239 per person - Friday through Sunday. Please!?
I think it's time I spread random acts of kindness. I'll be mapping out my 2,346 mile agenda today. Stay tuned.
Check out the #volunteer vacations. I can learn a new language, help out the community, live like the locals - on the cheap.
Blindfolded with the Travelzoo top 20 list. Wherever my mouse lands, that's where I'm going.
Remember that little bistro on the corner with the large umbrella's and the sweet waiters. I'm there now.
Tell them I don't care where the R/T tickets go. As long as it's under $250 per person and the sun is shining.
Day 1: The sun is shining, the corona's are great. I can hear the ocean. Don't expect anymore tweets for seven days
RT @labelden "Honey, I'm on my way home with two to-go margarita's. Pack the bags."

Email me how you tweet yourself to a vacation!

Is travel what it used to be?

2009-09-22T13:36:00.000-05:00

Are you a pioneer looking for some unexplored piece of land or sea? Are you an explorer looking for something you have never seen before? Or do you just want to get away? Are these needs still being met in todays travel? I think so.

There are expert travel places now that still give you the unseen and unexplored. Over the years, travel itself hasn't changed much. We still go by the same travel modes; planes, trains and autombiles plus, ships. We still get the same dining and sleeping options. Whether you are a pioneer, an explorer or someone who just wants a change of scenery with the same old routine, it's still available.

What has changed? How we make our travel plans. We don't have to set aside large amounts of time for research, price comparisons or relying on extensive knowledge to book the best deals. One example: Travelzoo. You will see them come up a lot in my travel blogs. They pull all the research together, give me the best prices and I can piece together my own trips if I want. (Don't miss their 'Destination of the Week - Dallas') We don't even have to pay a set price on travel deals now. We can place a bid or be notified if there is a price change. I recently bid on, and won, a price of $30/night for a Sheraton hotel in Dallas for a week!

No matter what trip you are taking, check out my travel blogs. My goal is to serve up Internet resources as related to travel. Is travel what it used to be? I think it's a whole lot more if you want it to be. You have more control over your options, can find more options online and you can cut out unnecessary travel expenses. What are you waiting for? Are you traveling yet?

A vacation nomad visits Cozumel, Mexico (Part 4 - More to see)

2009-07-24T12:09:00.000-05:00

Score a hole in one in Cozumel.

Cozumel is a unique island in many ways, especially because it has like two unique personalities. Earlier I visited the east side of the island of Cozumel with you, the more rustic, adventuresome side. The west side of the island is positioned facing Mexico instead of the wide open sea so the beaches are calmer and there is a lot of snorkeling and scuba diving to do. This side of the island has electricity so your credit card and dollar work everywhere. On the west side of the island here's how I enjoy Cozumel, Mexico.

Dzul Ha is a great, secluded beach area. There is great snorkeling here and diving. Even the cruise ships have their snorkeling excursions here and if you are on the island, it doesn't cost you anything to enjoy it. You can walk right off the beach into the ocean blue and enjoy many different types of fish, coral and more. There are palapas, tables with umbrellas, etc., here so be sure and order a drink or something to eat off the menus. It's expected you exchange a little order for the use of the tables but you can stay all day. The Money Bar is right there and a waiter will come out to your table to take orders so you can sip beer or margaritas without even getting up.

San Miguel is the main downtown of Cozumel. If you are priviledged to be there on a Sunday nights, go to the central plaza and join the local families for music, dance and food. Skip across from the plaza and walk down the boardwalk next to the ocean. San Miguel has a lot of seating and statues along the boardwalk that make it a beautiful and romatic walk at night.

There is a restaurant, Plaza Leca that is the first place you come to on the right hand side of the plaze in San Miguel. I always like to stop there. There have 2 for 1 drinks and the best tacos ever. For a low price you can set and people watch and not be rushed out. If you have a long stay in Cozumel and need something different from mexican food, try to the French Quarter and you will find exactly what you expect to find there. My family is from New Orleans and I can vouch the food is on spot. Good place to sit up on a balcony and enjoy a glass of wine too. And of course there is no end to the mexican food restaurants you can enjoy.

You can play Putt-Putt or as in Cozumel, called mini golf on a course like no other. Not only do you feel like you are playing in a jungle with all the foliage, you also can have drinks/beers delivered to you while you are playing. It just can't get any better than that. Tip: Play later in the evening or first thing in the morning during hot summer days.

Search Terms: (Here are words you might use in a search engine, like Google, to find similar information) Cozumel west downtown Miguel money bar french quarter mini golf

A vacation nomad visits Cozumel, Mexico (Part 3 - what to see)

2009-07-21T10:21:00.000-05:00

Visit both sides of the island in Cozumel.

Cozumel is a unique island in many ways but in one particular way, it has two sides. The east and west sides of the island are opposites because of the way the island is positioned between land and the wide open sea. Today we are going to visit the less developed east side of Cozumel. But, no less adventuresome and interesting because it faces the open ocean. On the east side of the island here's how I enjoy Cozumel, Mexico.

1. You definitely need a rental vehicle to get over to this side of the island and explore. Even as cheap as taxis are in Cozumel, a taxi will cost you more than a rental car for the day and is less flexible in exploring every stop on the east side of the island. So, get you a rental car and

let's explore.

2. The east side of the island does not have electricity. All food and drinks are prepared using gas or propane tanks. This also brings up the issue that without electricity, you can't process credit cards. So get enough cash to last you for the day for food, drinks and trinkets. And bring your camera.  There are ocean pictures you can get here you don't want to miss. And print out a map. Not that you will get lost but just so you will know where the landmarks are.

3. There are restaurants, bars and shops every so often down the east side of the island. Get a map and stop at as many as you want. Here are a couple I would recommend as highlights. Coconuts Bar & Grill is built on a cliff and has the most awesome view in Cozumel.   You can also walk down a path from Coconuts to a mostly secluded beach. If you go during April to September, you can also see sea turtles. You can also enjoy Mescalito's as one of the first or last bars you hit on your east side trip.   You can also rent boogie boards or enjoy hammocks at most of these places that are open until dusk.

4. Visit the Celerain lighthouse and the southern most point of the island.   It is on a wildlife reserve so you can see other creatures, including the feeding of crocodiles. You can walk to the top of the lighthouse and they also have an interesting little museum. It's a little on the high side at $10 per person but worth at least a one-time visit.

5. There is a main road that cuts across Cozumel and it is about half-way on this road between the east and west side that you will find the Mayan ruins of San Gervasio. You can pay a small fee and at your own pace view the ruins or you can pay a set fee of $50 or more for a guide. There are very few trees covering the ruins so be sure to take hats, sunglasses and water. There is a little bar there and shops so you can pick up what you need there if you forget anything.

Search Terms: (Here are words you might use in a search engine, like Google, to find similar information) Cozumel coconuts map east Coconuts Mescalito lighthouse

A vacation nomad visits Cozumel, Mexico (Part 2 - how to live)

2009-07-20T10:38:00.000-05:00

Be a local and try new things in Cozumel.

Going to Cozumel is more like going home. So, I want to get a house, car, find the grocery store and set up camp. I'm more into staying in the local scene, mixing with the locals, learning something new, instead of visiting the same things I can visit in the U.S. on a daily basis. That is why you are more likely to find me at a B&B or a local rental versus an all-inclusive and driving an old volkswagon or jeep versus and air-conditioned car. Here's how I makethat happen in Cozumel, Mexico.

Mi Casa Su Casa.

One of the first places I will check is with Cozumel Insider. Sherri's website provides an indepth overview of everything Cozumel and where to stay is a great part of it. You can find all kinds of price ranges, locations and amenities to suit your need. I do have a weakness for Casa Del Mar that is right on the ocean and has a swim-up bar. It's a step away from a local place but right on the beach, very quiet and a little outside of downtown. The last place I stayed was at Casa deja Blue. You almost have your own private pool and it is a convenient few blocks walk to Chedraui marketplace.

Where to get a cheap auto rental

I always go rent a topless VW bug at Smart Car Rental. Let me give you several tips for using them though. Know that they will try and get extra money wherever they can so here is how to work with them.

- Print out the page from this link that lists the prices (because the prices may be quoted different when you arrive. Fill out their online form and make sure you get a response. Print a copy of that.

- When you arrive at the airport, Smart Car rental is not in the airport. If you look out the front glass doors of the airport, you will see it across the field (about a 1/2 mile walk). So, plan to have someone wait in the A/C at the airport with all the luggage and have another jaunt over to get the car. It isn't a quick process so it can take maybe 20 minutes to get everything done.

- Get the name of the person who rents you the car and have them follow you around the car while you take pictures with your digital camera. Be sure to have a conversation about any damage issues to the car. I once had them try to get $50 bucks out of us for a dent that was there when we picked it up. Since we started getting the name of the person and taking pictures with them there, no problems!

To me all the haggle is worth it because you can get a car for like $16.50 a day - way cheaper than any other rental. Also look on Sherri's site above for current gas prices and tips for getting gas.

Where to get groceries (and everything else)

Chedraui (pronounced sha-drah-wee) is a large marketplace similiar to Wal-mart, but with even lower prices if you can imagine that. It's a great place to buy souveniers and grocery shop. You can buy an assorted dozen pastries for like $5. Try some interesting variations on yogurts, ice cream and other items. Make your own salsa to enjoy at your rental. A bunch of tomatoes, cilantro, onions, jalapenos will cost you all of like two bucks. Don't spend it all in one place. Also the best spot to stock up on your beer or alcohol for beach excursions. Chedraui is just a little outside of downtown and also has a movie theater there.

OK, you have a roof over your head, transportation for anywhere on the island and food to eat. Join me next time for what to see in Cozumel, Mexico.

A vacation nomad visits Cozumel, Mexico

2009-07-16T09:12:00.000-05:00

Getting to Cozumel can be part of the fun!

(Part 1 - Getting there)

Some people get homesick, I get vacationsick. I can't stay away from a vacation too long before I feel separation anxiety and feelings of longing. I am a vacation nomad moving from vacation to vacation. Operating as a nomad, I have to keep expenses low so I can do it often. Here's how I make that happen in Cozumel, Mexico.

First I fly in to Cancun.

I hardly ever fly directly into Cozumel because it is very costly. As as nomad, I'm fine with saving money and experiencing a great adventure. So here is how I usually get to Cozumel. During the off season (June-August because the season is extremely hot), rates are more equal but during peak season (November-April), flights can run almost double directly to Cozumel. Compare the airfare prices between Cancun and Cozumel.

Take a bus to Playa Del Carmen.

You can catch the bus to Play Del Carmen right at the Cancun airport. It's $7 per person (less if you purchase roundtrip) and takes about 45 minutes. You get to ride with the locals and have a really neat view of the country side on the way. There are buses going out on a regular bus schedule so you might want to plan your flight to arrive to catch one of these departing buses.

Catch the ferry to Cozumel.

The ferry costs about $13 per person ($25 or so for roundtrip) and it takes about 30 minutes. The ferries leave about every hour so it is a beautiful ride across the ocean in an air conditioned ferry. Even if you get there and have a small wait, there are several restaurants on the pier to sit down and start your vacation with a drink! Note: It is several blocks on bumpy sidewalks to get from the bus station to the ferry port so be prepared for about a 10-15 minute walk with any luggage you bring! You can catch a taxi for that short distance but, more money.

Basically this jaunt costs you $20 per person - $40 roundtrip. So you can add that to your plane ticket cost and see if it's cheaper than a direct flight to Cozumel. Or, maybe you want to pay it just for the nomade experience! The nice thing about getting there in this manner is, not only can you save money but with a little nomad effort, you have experienced more cities in Mexico and more of the culture too. Now if I could just find something that could make me a full-time vacation nomad.

Search Terms: (Here are words you might use in a search engine, like Google, to find similar information) Cozumel Mexico off season ferry bus schedule Playa Del Carmen