5 Tips For Traveling With Children
Family vacations are special times of the year, but they can be very challenging for parents get through. Air travel is especially difficult and can be the cause of significant levels of stress for the entire family. Unfortunately for many types of vacation there is no way around going through an airport and flying by private jet is beyond most of our wildest dreams.
However, there are a couple of things that you can do to make the airport experience less stressful and not be a cause of arguments. The following points are very simple to plan for and will not result in significant increases in costs. Ultimately the trade-off will be a much happier day of travelling and family vacations will be more memorable.
1) Book Your Seats In Advance
To avoid being separated in different rows and even parts of the plane you should always pre-book your seats. While young babies up to the age of 2 usually are seated on a parent’s lap, this is not the case with children over 2. If you are delayed in any way on your way to the airport you will not be guaranteed seats together, so make sure you plan for this in advance.
2) Allow For Extra Time
Whether you are traveling with a baby or trying to deal with teenagers you will have to allow for additional time at the airport. Passing through security will take longer the more people you are travelling with and with heightened security procedures this can take several hours. The last thing you want to happen is to end up running to your departure gate only to be told that you have missed a flight.
3) Book Into An Airport Lounge
Especially when travelling with small children it is a lot easier to deal with an airport in one of the lounges. Most people do not know that you do not have to be travelling business class to get access to a lounge. The advantages are that for a relatively small fee you will have a closed off, quiet environment. Snacks and refreshments are also available, and many lounges have small play areas and other kid’s entertainment.
4) Have Small Surprises For The Flight
No matter how old your kids are, they will enjoy receiving a small gift. For a young child this can be as simple as a new book or pens to do some drawing. Dependent on the age the attention span will differ, so you may need to bring along a few small surprises. For older children you may need to spend a little more, e.g. on new games for a portable console or download some new music tracks ahead of time to listen to.
5) Do Not Rush Off The Plane
When is the last time you got to the luggage belt to find that you suitcase is already there? For most people this will never have happened, so when the airplane arrives at the gate, just stay seated and wait for everyone else to push and shove their way off. Especially with young children it is not necessary to be part of that hassle of being first off the plane.
7 Money Saving Cruise Tips for Carnival Cruises
So you’re thinking of going on a Carnival cruise! Here are some helpful tips that are sure to help you save money and enjoy your cruise to the fullest! These 7 cruise tips for Carnival cruises are guaranteed to maximize your cruise experience.
Cruise Tip #1 – Book your next cruise while still aboard the ship. Carnival cruises will many times offer great incentives and discounts when you take advantage of this offer. Many ships will have an agent on board to serve you with significant savings and credits to passengers who take advantage of this great option. You always have the option to alter or cancel the reservation if your plans happen to change. Carnival cruises will allow you to alter the reservation with no penalty if it is done 75-90 days in advance of your date of sail. If you can’t take advantage of booking while on the ship, timing is crucial in getting the best price off board. The best way to get discounted pricing on cruises is to either book far in advance or else take advantage of last minute deals. The further in advance you are able to book your cruise, the cheaper it will be. Carnival cruises also always prefer their ships to be full, so they offer fabulous discounts and incentives available very last minute. This is a wonderful option if you live near a cruise port or have a flexible schedule.
Cruise Tip #2 – Try to stay away from the casino and gambling areas, as well as other costs that are not covered in your cruise fee. Carnival cruises are pretty good about being all-inclusive, however many ships do not have gambling as a covered cost. Try to ignore the temptation, as the ships are commonly designed to draw you in with this extra expense. Stick to the activities that are already covered…such as movies, cooking classes or other demonstrations. There are plenty of free options that will keep you busy and entertained. Many Carnival cruises will offer great options such as wine tasting as a quality alternative to gambling.
Cruise Tip #3 -Always pay for your gratuities in advance when Carnival cruise offers you this option. Many experts in the cruise industry talk about this in depth. It’s customary for most cruise lines to pay tips to the crew, and many times this is done the last night. However, if you have the option to add it into your initial expense, take advantage of it! This is a great budgeting tool because it gets this cost out of the way early and will help you to make sure you stay within your designated budget amount.
Cruise Tip #4 – Be adventurous! Try exploring a port on your own as opposed to paying for an expensive on shore excursion. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can immerse yourself in the culture and feel of the place if you only stay open to what you might discover on your own. You can also fend for yourself when you’re on shore and book your own tours! If you prefer a guided tour or experience, try booking directly through a vendor upon your arrival as you will skip the cruise lines expensive mark-up. Carnival cruises make a ton of money on these day trips from various ports. If you book your day trip at the actual port directly through a vendor, you will be sure to skip the inflated cruise cost offered. Many popular options such as nature tours, tequila tasting and pirate tours are available to anyone, not just cruise customers. It’s really easy to book all of these excursions on your own!
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Cruise Tip #5 – You can have your massage and not pay an arm and a leg for it. Inquire with the on-board spa if it offers day port specials. Many Carnival cruise ships offer this option. Cruise Diva author Linda Coffman recommends this option as massages can be pricey. However, spas on board sometimes struggle to attract customers when the boat is ported, and will offer impressive discounts to those who take advantage of port days. If you don’t mind missing some of your time ashore, explore this option. Another way to take advantage of spa facilities is to find out which spa comforts are free and use them as much as possible. Much of this information is not publicized and can be really useful if you’ll only ask! Many Carnival cruise ships have free saunas, steam rooms and don’t forget the pool! You will usually have access to the exercise equipment as well. Ask if your Carnival cruise offers complimentary exercise classes or facials through out the cruise.
Cruise Tip #6 – If you like to partake in alcoholic beverages, pack your own booze! Bringing your own alcohol may be discouraged, but most Carnival cruises will allow you to bring it aboard. Prices on the ship are drastically inflated, not to mention the gratuity fee we already discussed being added, and the liquor you buy at duty free must be set aside till the trip is over. That being said, if you plan to drink, you should take advantage of whatever allowance you can bring on board. Free drinks are sometimes handed out at events like the captain’s welcoming reception or the cruiser’s return party. Make sure you know when these events are and make good use of them. Also, if you do drink at meals, you can avoid the corkage fee by ordering room service or bringing the food back to your room.
Cruise Tip #7 – Stay committed! You’ve done your homework and know that Carnival cruise suits your needs. Now make sure you’re rewarded for staying to committed to the same line. If you do, you can often get large discounts for customer loyalty. After you’re on the mailing list you’ll be able to take advantage of disounted rates on cruises, and you’ll get special offers and perks, including on board credits and free on board meal upgrades.
It’s not hard to see the appeal of taking a cruise for your next vacation. We know these cruise tips for Carnival cruises will help you save so much money that you can easily control your costs and continue to cruise for years to come!
Happy sailing!!
The staff at AhoySailor.com have one thing in common. Passion. For sailing, boating, cruising and basically anything that will leave get them out on the water! They enjoy sharing the tips and resources that many years waterbound has taught them.
More FREE resources on Cruising!
Get full access to FREE tips, resources and tools to enhance your time on the water.
Experience the Fun Aboard a Carnival Cruise Ship to the Bahamas
Bahamas Cruises present a breathtaking vacation encounter that the whole family may treasure concurrently. A birthplace to amazing old style design, sunlit shores, elegant shopping, scorching nightlife, savory cuisine, these cruises to the Bahamas have become one of the best tropical holiday destinations. If you merge everything with the ambiance of a Carnival cruise, you get a retreat of a lifetime.
It’s not difficult to acquire Bahamas cruises at very reasonable prices, particularly if you’re speaking about a Carnival Cruise to the Bahamas. These cruise destinations can be searched in the internet so look for the entire cruises which caters to your best interests. Notwithstanding if it’s a 3 day or a week long cruise; there are diverse holiday packages to suit your requirements.
Bahamas Cruise schedule offer traveler a chance to experience a sample of the whole thing which these interesting islands have to give, on-board one of the most gorgeous and fabulous cruise ships in the planet. Lots of cruise lines stop at famous ports of Nassau and Freeport, besides their own exclusive islands while cruising to the Bahamas. Several cruise lines highlight 7 day cruises to the Bahamas, while a somewhat longer travel to the same place is also prevalent.
Carnival Cruise Bahamas focus stops in Nassau, Freeport, and Key West on a 2 to 6 day Bahamas cruises. When you have additional time, try a week long cruises to these islands, which maybe uncovered at excellent costs akin to the value of a brief cruise.
Carnival Cruises is identified for its “Fun Ships” that presents in excess of what you paid for. If desire to cruise with Carnival, anticipate capacious lodgings, excellent dining, and thrilling on board occurrences. Such Carnival Cruise is a remarkable choice for couple’s with kids, since these ships are supplied with several enhancing children’s program.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Voyages to these islands and the whole Caribbean are recognized among the cruisers and visitors everywhere. This reputation is due to the warm amiable weather and exciting stopovers. The weather is most suitable for sunbathing and tanning. Besides, there are abundant beaches where one can savor the waves and the coldness of its turquoise waters.
If you wish to experience excitement for an economical price, opt for a Carnival cruise. This is an ideal way to indulge your whole being. There’s no need to be apprehensive about spending for additional meals, leisure time and an array of events. With carnival you eat, fantasize and party as you navigate from one exotic destination to another. It’s prevalent with first time cruisers, teenagers, couples, and persons of all age levels. Carnival is a leisure liner for the unmarried, couples and families and it caters to all age levels than any other cruise ships. In Carnival you have set foot in utter opulence with roomy and relaxing accommodations.
If for several causes you are dissatisfied with your cruise you can inform carnival in advance you are permitted to disembark at the primary port of call of your cruise lines. Carnival will return the unconsumed portion of your charge and pay off for your return air fare. You can always put your trust in carnival cruise holiday protection plans for a stress free vacation.
Want to know more about a Carnival Cruise Bahamas [http://bestbahamascruises.com/best-cruise-lines-operating-in-the-bahamas] holiday? Check out Best Bahamas Cruises, a resource cruising site owned and maintained by Wena Sinclair, author of various cruise articles. Don’t delay.
YTB Travel
Enjoy Your Travels With YTB Travel Network. Book your vacations from your own website.
Hyatt Zilara & Hyatt Ziva Hotels
Hyatt Ziva
At the tip of the Baja Peninsula lies Los Cabos, a desert landscape where you’ll find panoramic ocean views, unparalleled opportunities for adventure and the unending indulgence of Hyatt Ziva. This fully renovated, all- inclusive resort features spacious accommodations, gourmet international cuisine and awe-inspiring views of whales approaching the beach at dawn in one of the most unique locations on earth.
Hyatt Zilara
Recently named to AAA’s prestigious Four Diamond List, Hyatt Zilara Cancun is a haven of spectacular accommodations, attentive service and enticing amenities in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone. Unlike most all inclusives, here adults, marrying couples and group attendees alike will find Bulgari luxury amenities, complimentary use of spa hydrotherapy circuit, unlimited local & international calling and more.
Historic Fun in Barbados!
\CartyStudios Corporation\Auto Blogging Software\data\Enjoy Your Travels\GOGO Vacations\Boat.jpg)
History and paradise mingle in the island getaway of Barbados. Bridgetown and its Garrison is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2011, and is one of the oldest cities in the Caribbean. With rich, colorful architecture, mixing beautiful colonial buildings and modern business offices, the city offers an exploration into the past and present with the oldest Jewish synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, the house where George Washington stayed, and trendy shopping opportunities with local merchandise to indulge.
See the incredible arched windows and the elegant balconies you can discover during your visit to Barbados!
While discovering the island’s powdery beaches, contrasting brilliantly with the royal blue waves, try your hand at windsurfing, kitesurfing, or boogie boarding in the south. On the east coast, the wide beaches and mighty waves make it the perfect setting for surfing, and on the west, the gentle waves and characteristic palm trees make the ideal paradise. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the island boasts an average high in the mid-80’s, and outside of the hurricane belt, Barbados is in perfect position for lovely beach weather year-round with little rain.
First time in Barbados? Try these amazing resorts.
A family-friendly resort, Tamarind Hotel offers the complimentary Flying Fish Kids Club for your little ones to meet and play with others their age and the Club Tamarind for family fun with video game consoles on large-screen TVs, air hockey, pool, and ping pong! Tweens can also enjoy chaperoned movie nights at the local theatre and other organized activities. Adults will enjoy a private sunset catamaran cruise, an intimate beachfront meal, couple spa treatments, and their own adults-only pool! There are also specialty designed activities for two! Book now for a breakfast buffet for two daily and one child, 12 and younger, stays free.
\CartyStudios Corporation\Auto Blogging Software\data\Enjoy Your Travels\GOGO Vacations\terrace04.jpg)
The Barbados’ first resort hotel, The Crane Resort and Residences opened in 1887 and has been named “one of the best beaches in the world” by Lifestyles of the Rich and the Famous; No. 23 in Top 100 Beaches in the World by CNN; and one of the Caribbean’s 10 Best Hotel Villas” by Caribbean Journal! The resort prides itself on its exceptional service and unparalleled accommodations, some with private pools, gardens, and rooftop terraces. Its restaurants are delectable, including Zen with fine Japanese and Thai cuisine that took the Zagat #1 rating for food in Barbados in 2009 and 2010. Book now for savings up to 40% and myTime exclusives, such as $40 spa credit, $40 resort credit, and kids seven and younger eat free.
Hilton Barbados has been voted the best hotel in Barbados at the World Travel Awards. Rooms and suites with stunning views of the Carlisle Bay, private balconies, complimentary continental breakfast, a private bar, and exclusive check-in, check-out, are just some the special touches you’ll receive from this pampering resort. For a little adventure, the hotel presents jet skiing, scuba diving, sightseeing tours, snorkeling, and more. The hotel’s two restaurants include The Grille, with light fare and gourmet items, and Lighthouse Terrace Restaurant with seafood offerings and themed buffets in the setting of a lighthouse! myTime exclusives include $50 spa credit, and 15% food and beverage discount at The Grille Restaurant!
Check out all the Barbados offers at GOGO Vacations!
Wish You Were Here! – Aruba
Dear Travelers:
Have you missed the caress of the sun, its radiant glow cradling your cheek in a warm embrace? Have you forgotten the swish of the waves as they slide across the powdery beaches or the soothing turquoise color of the Caribbean Sea as it deepens in the afternoon sun? Surely, you remember the feeling of utter relaxation as you mingled with the fofoti trees or explored nature’s beauty at Arikok National Park. Return to the tropical paradise of your romantic getaway or your family fun vacation. Plan a wedding or honeymoon and join us for the first time. Indulge in the happy island of Aruba.
Not sure what to see or do here? Then check out this installment of the webseries Paradise Found: Aruba for a complete run-down of all that’s available to you.
There’s no better time to plan a getaway to the happy island than during Aruba Week at GOGO Vacations! Choose from great resorts with world-class dining and amenities!
Stay at the Renaissance Marina Hotel, an AAA Four-Diamond Resort with its recently renovated rooms reflecting the polished and grand look of custom yachts. With a palate of light colors and sleek, modern design, you’ll be refreshed and ready to explore the island, and with the rain-style spa showers and 300-thread cotton sheets, you’ll be pampered into ultimate relaxation. If you want a thrill, head down to the on-site Seaport and Crystal Casinos to play a hand with chance, or if you want serenity, rejuvenate with blissful facials and treatments at the Okeanos Aruba Spa. This hotel presents adult-only pools, dining, and rooms for a quiet, enjoyable escape. Book now for savings up to 40% and a guaranteed room upgrade. myTime exclusives include up to $50 resort or spa credit, savings up to 25% at Okeanos Spa and more.
Radisson Aruba Resort
Head to the Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino and Spa on the magnificent Palm Beach! Activities and adventures await you with an on-site diving facility and an on-site casino. If you’re looking for modern comforts and luxury, then enjoy the complimentary WiFi access and the full-service Larimar Spa with its signature treatments, such as the Aloe Vera and Rum Massage. You’ll also want to savor the Mediterranean flavors of the Sunset Grill, the only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant on Aruba and voted “The Best Restaurant in the Caribbean” by Caribbean Travel & Life Magazine. Book during Aruba Week for savings up to 35% and $50 resort credit. A GOGO Exclusive—stay 6 nights or longer and receive an additional $50 resort credit. myTime inclusions present $50 casino credit, up to $50 beverage credit, savings 20% at the spa and more.
Also located on Palm Beach, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is where luxury meets paradise. The resort boasts the largest guest rooms on the island and offers 37-inch LCD flat-panel TVS and private balconies. A 24-hour casino is open to feed your rush, and you’ll savor the succulent entrées of Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Dip in the H20asis adult-exclusive pool, or stay at the Tradewinds Club—a grand hotel-within-a-hotel with a members’ lounge and private beach. Book now for exclusive savings up to 45% and a guaranteed room upgrade.
Check out all the other great deals on GOGO Vacations, and soon you can be writing this on the bottom of your letters:
Wish you were here!
From the Island of Aruba
P.S. Like what you saw? Vote for Paradise Found: Aruba for a Telly Award! Click on the icon below for all the deets.
View the original article here
Paradise Found PREVIEW!
Every vacation should take travelers to paradise. Whether that be the warm sands of the Caribbean or the hot nightlife of the Yucatan Peninsula, everyone has a different criteria when it comes to his/her ultimate getaway. So how do you find your distinct paradise? Check out GOGO Vacations’ web series Paradise Found, which explores the luxurious hotels and destinations of the Caribbean and Mexico.
Currently, Marketing’s own Nikki B. and Melissa are down in the DR with Emmy-winning host Ashley Colburn for the next installment at the stunning Paradisus Palma Real. Check out the behind-the-scene photos below!
Ashley and crew arrive at the hotel.
Who wouldn’t want to swim in the crystal waters of the resort’s main pool?
Room service? Yes, please!
The Yhi Spa offers natural, elegant surroundings and products to help you relax. Enjoy one of the many rejuvenating body treatments in a private massage room or exhale at the hydrotherapy pools.
Well, for the sake of production, the private massage room is a little more crowded than usual.
Bringing the entourage? Then check out these cool amenities just for kids.
Yummy!
Loving the toothbrush color!
Getting the perfect shot!
Everyone say hi to Nikki! (She’s the one holding the reflecting panel.)
Next stop for Paradise Found: Melia Caribe Tropial, also in the DR!
Still looking for your paradise? Then check out the earlier episodes of Paradise Found!
Paradise Found: Aruba
Paradise Found: AM Resorts
Paradise Found: Excellence Resorts
Paradise Found: Oasis
Paradise Found: Riu Resorts
If you like the Paradise Found series, then vote for us for a Telly Award! Voting ends May 9th!
Check out all the deets here: Telly Awards – Paradise Found.