Where in the World Wednesday - Italy in Antigua?

Our group at scenic overlook during jeep tour.

I recently visited the island of Antigua on a Travel Agent FAM trip, and was able to visit a number of beautiful resorts and boutique properties. It was a wonderful work trip sponsored by the Antigua Tourism Authority, and I could definitely go on and on about how beautiful the island is, with a relaxed vibe and friendly people. We had 3 full days of hotel visits and site inspections, and still didn't get to see all the amazing resorts and styles of accommodations! We even did an island jeep tour, visited one of the amazing 365 beaches, and enjoyed an evening sunset BBQ. It was exhausting but SO. MUCH. FUN! (I love my job!)


So I'd like to tell you about a property that really stood out to me, and I absolutely loved! It got me to thinking about how popular Italy is as a bucket list destination for many of my clients. But I bet you didn't know you can also get the feel of Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast just 4 short hours away from Atlanta, at the beautiful Ocean Point Resort and Spa in Antigua.

Upon first walking in to the quaint and adorable reception lounge area, I had a true sense of being in Italy. There is a complete Mediterranean feel to everything about the property, beautifully decorated yet very relaxed and comfortable.

Just a side note: The resort is even owned by an Italian couple, and it was so fun during our tour listening to the romantic Italian accent of our handsome tourguide ;-) What can I say?! :o



The hotel has been refurbished and fully redone to resemble a true Mediterranean ocean front villa. So quaint and cute! And the views at the property are incredible. This resort sits at the north point of the island of Antigua, and only a short 7 minute transfer to/ from the airport, so it's in an excellent location. It's also right on the beach, whereas some other properties in Antigua are on the mountain so you must take a short transfer if you want to go to the beach. But not at Ocean Point Resort where you can sink your toes in the sand and swim in the calm relaxing ocean waters right off the property.

Another aspect I really loved about this property, and is very important to many clients, is the FOOD! Although we didn't actually eat a full meal there, we were treated to some amazing traditional Italian bites and snacks from the master chef at the property. Seriously, what a treat!! The chef is from Sardinia, runs an impeccable kitchen (we saw for ourselves), and sources many local foods from Italy to be shipped to the resort. So you can even have true, authentic Italian food and wines at this resort. The atmosphere and the food had me daydreaming that I was actually in Italy (and on vacation! Oh, I wish)....

Almost all the rooms at Ocean Point Resort have a beautiful ocean view with small balcony to sit and have morning coffee or tea. The rooms are nicely decorated, but not ostentatious, and seem very comfortable with all the necessary amenities you could ever need. Besides, Antigua is definitely the type of island that you can really truly enjoy and feel safe getting out and about. And Ocean Point Resort is one of those places where you want to be out enjoying all that the resort, and the surrounding area, has to offer. One cool thing that they will do for guests staying at the resort is prepare a To Go lunch in a cooler box that you can take with you to enjoy while you're out for the day. There is a small island that you can take a boat over to, and enjoy some peace and tranquility, go into St John's to do some shopping, or head to one of other amazing 365 beaches on the island. Getting out of the room and exploring the island is really highly advised so that you can truly experience the destination. So even though the resort itself has an Italian feel, you still get the easy-going, relaxed vibe and Caribbean flavor of the islands!




And one of my favorite parts of our tour at Ocean Point Resort and Spa was meeting the new resident, who is probably much bigger now, sweet little Mia. Puppy kisses... Amore!



I really loved Antigua... it's safe, it's beautiful, amazing weather, and 365 beaches to explore. It's the perfect destination for a family vacation getaway, destination wedding, Honeymoon, Spa trip... whatever!  It truly is beautiful, and is very safe to be out and explore while enjoying the local culture.

So if you would like more information about Ocean Point Resort and Spa, or are interested in an amazing vacation to Antigua, please contact me! 

And as I mentioned, there are so many hotels and resorts in Antigua, many are smaller, boutique-style that you don't hear a lot about. Whatever you do, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to use a Travel Professional to help you with arranging your vacation, and helping to match your desires with the right destination and hotel. I hate to see people waste their hard-earned vacation dollars on a bad vacation! You get your hair cut from a stylist, have your car oil changed by a mechanic, and you should definitely use a Travel Specialist to book your vacations! 

Call/ text 404-913-1285 or info@getupgotravel.com

*All photos are owned by Get Up Go Travel. Please do not use without permission or credit.

Happy New Year! 2016 Bring it on!

I hope that you had a wonderful holiday season and enjoyed time with friends and family! For me, I had a great holiday and spent some nice time with family --- Plus, the weather in Atlanta was incredible... although rainy, the temps were in the 70's which I absolutely loved. I had a fun and memorable New Years Eve with friends, rockin' in 2016 listening to a great local band!
(And this guy.... :o)

I'm definitely feeling really excited and looking forward to 2016 being an amazing year!

Speaking of a great year, 2015 was incredible and we are so happy to have had the opportunity to plan some amazing and life-changing trips for our clients. Our business at Get Up Go Travel is continuing to grow, and we are so appreciate of all our clients (who have become friends) for entrusting us with their travel plans and allowing us to help fulfill those travel dreams and bucket list experiences.

We have been very busy behind the scenes getting ready for the new year, and have spent the month of December putting some plans in place. For starters, I'm VERY VERY EXCITED to say that soon we will have a brand-spanky-new website!! Woohoo! This is something that I have been wanting to get done for a very long time, and I'm really excited that it will soon be coming to fruition. I think the website will have a much more clear design, and provide some useful info in an easier to read format. Even though the website is not quite ready yet, it should be done very soon, and I will definitely keep you posted with updates and timing of completion.

We've also been working on designing some new destination itineraries and potential group trips for later in 2016 and 2017, so stay tuned for more news on that. Once I have more details, I will be sharing more information in a future blog post and newsletter.

Another new exciting plan for 2016, I will be starting a weekly Newsletter highlighting destinations, travel info, things to be aware of when traveling, tips and of course pictures.
Look for my first newsletter to come out this Wednesday!
If you would like to sign up for the weekly newsletter, please sign up here --- Sign Me Up!

So I think that's all the main updates for now. Sorry it's been a while since my last post, but am committed to being more regular with posting and sharing some great info with you all.

Have a wonderful week!! Best Wishes for 2016!

Barbados ~ A Beautiful, Tropical Paradise (Vol 1)

There are so many islands in the Caribbean, and some even sound similar... Anguilla, Antigua, St Martin (US), St Maarten (Dutch), Dominica, Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Bonaire, Bahamas.  Unless you are a wiz in geography, it's very easy to get these islands confused and 'The Caribbean' is a big place. Each island can be very different as well, which is why using a Travel Agent to help with your planning needs is really critical! (wink wink)

But regardless, when you think Caribbean, we all pretty much have the same vision ~ A relaxed island setting, tropical weather, beautiful beaches, sunny skies, and amazing sunrises and sunsets.  That was definitely the case when I visited the beautiful island of Barbados recently.

I was fortunate to attend a short trip to Barbados on the inaugural Delta flight to commemorate this new non-stop service from Atlanta to Barbados twice a week. We were only on the island for two nights, but it was jam-packed and busy, and probably one of the best work-related trips I've ever been on.


Upon stepping off the plane after the relaxing 4 hour flight from Atlanta to Barbados, we were greeted by the local Tourism Board members and officials. We shook hands as they all welcomed us to the country. It was a beautiful day, and the sound of Caribbean island music was playing nearby. I couldn't contain my smile and enthusiasm for our visit!



We took a short shuttle ride, approximately 30 minutes, to our host hotel The Crane Resort. I loved the narrow, bumpy roads weaving through roundabouts and bicycle riders. The island really had such a Caribbean feel, with a little bit of Africa, a little bit of Jamaica mixed in. The vibe was relaxed and island-y. No problem!

I was so amazed when we got to the resort. My reaction was basically 'We get to stay here??'
The resort was surrounded by beautiful flowers and foliage, tall tropical palms and plumeria trees flowing in the island breeze, koi ponds, and monkeys jumping through the trees.
A deep breath in, ahhhhhhh.




What an incredible setting. We checked in, while sipping a rum punch (of course, duh) and then taken to our rooms.






I was brought to a 1 Bedroom Ocean Front Penthouse Suite with private rooftop terrace..... :o Seriously? Ok, sounds great to me!  Check it out:


The suite had a full kitchen with fridge, washer/ dryer, Sitting room with flat screen TV, two bathrooms including the luxurious Master bath, full deck with furniture, separate bedroom with four-post bed, and of course the private rooftop deck overlooking the ocean. It was stunning. The decor was neutral but elegant, and very Classic European.


I immediately made myself at home, and headed upstairs to the deck to soak up some much needed Vitamin D.

The weather was perfect. Hot, a little humid, but not too bad. Beautiful puffy clouds, and the sound of the ocean waves crashing nearby. I could only rest for a little bit before needing to get ready for our event that evening, but I wanted to take in as much of the resort (and my room!) as I could.

The Crane Resort is just such a diverse property, with so much history, and yet manages to maintain it's classic charm while still keeping up with modern improvements. The Crane would be perfect for a Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, or even a family trip as the resort does allow kids. They have also just started offering an all-inclusive package, but you can opt for an EP plan too if you prefer. It's great to have options! The service at the resort was great, and everyone I encountered was extremely helpful and friendly.

Here's a picture of the beach at The Crane:

 

And one of the pools:

I have so much more to share about Barbados and will be adding more in a future post.

So stay tuned!

And if you think you'd like to visit beautiful Barbados, please send us an email or give us a call at 404-913-1285. We'd love to help with your travel plans!

Riviera Maya, Mexico --- A Luxury Destination

I recently returned from an amazing trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico. This was a Travel Agent training trip, so we visited 10 different resort properties in this area, about 1 hour south of Cancun.

All-Inclusive resorts are becoming very popular and there's a great reason why! All Inclusive means  that basically everything for your vacation is included! --- your room, meals, beer and cocktails (perhaps THE best included feature!), entertainment, room service, gratuities, and some even offer resort credits that can be used for spa, excursions, golf, and much more!

Many of the resorts that cater to families even include baby and kid amenities (child size bathrobes, toys, cribs, high chairs, strollers, kids club programs, and so much more!). There are also resorts that only cater to Adults or Couples and are perfect if you're looking to celebrate a Honeymoon, a special occasion, or any vacation for adults (usually over 18) that prefer to not have the younger ones around while on vacation.

Here are just a few pics from some of the properties that we visited:

Gorgeous rooms and bathrooms with luxury amenities. 

Imagine THIS for your Honeymoon or Anniversary trip!

Swim-up bars are SO perfect when on vacation! And a great place to meet and chat with other travelers too!

Maroma Beach with powder sugar sand. Voted one of Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the world!

Romantic, tropical, and breezy. Ahhhh :-)

Special added amenities can be arranged when booked with us!

Fabulous pools with tons of lounge chairs or palapas.

Features for the kids make them feel special too! And easier packing for parents!

Mexico is a wonderful destination and is also an excellent value for anyone looking for a family or romantic vacation. Cancun is not all about rowdy spring breakers or partying... there are lots of different resorts to suit any desire or preference, and again because it's such a great value, it's the perfect destination to consider. But because there are so many different properties and options, it's very important to use a Travel Professional that can help you discern the differences and choose a resort that offers the type of vacation that you want to have.

Contact Get Up Go Travel if you would like more info on booking your vacation SOON! Winter is coming!

Whether your playground is a snowy ski slope or a relaxing seaside, Club Med Sea & Ski Getaways are your chance to discover the world’s most exotic destinations combined with Club Med’s world-renown, all-inclusive value.

With over 45 properties included in this special event, you’re sure to discover the ideal sea or ski destination for your next vacation.

Book your 7-night getaway by October 28th and save big on all-inclusive packages from $129* per person, per night for travel through May 1, 2015.

Please contact your preferred travel agent below to book your next Club Med vacation:

Get Up Go Travel
3605 Sandy Plains Rd Ste 240 - #428
Marietta, GA 30066
404-913-1285

*Sample price is per person, based on double occupancy in a Club category room on select weeks at Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico; Sandpiper Bay, Florida; and Turkoise, Turks & Caicos. Prices on other dates and/or at other resorts may vary. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay (7-night minimum for Columbus Isle). Available at select resorts. Does not include airfare. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates through 5/1/2015 and must be booked by 10/28/2014, subject to capacity control and may increase at any time.

(1) Sample price is per person, based on double occupancy in a Club category room for a 7-night stay at Club Med at Club Med Chamonix Mont-Blanc, France. Round-trip flights and transfers to/from the resort are not included. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay and is available at select resorts. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates through April 18, 2015 and must be booked by October 28, 2014. Subject to capacity control and may increase at any time.

(2) Sample price is per person, based on double occupancy in a Club category room for a 7-night stay at Club Med at Club Med Chamonix Mont-Blanc, France for a departure from JFK to GVA. Round-trip flights and transfers to/from the resort included. Offer requires a 3-night minimum stay and is available at select resorts. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates through April 18, 2015 and must be booked by October 28, 2014. Subject to capacity control and may increase at any time.

** Children aged under 4 years stay for free at select resorts on select dates.. Children aged under 4 years stay for free at our family destinations.  Children aged 4-12 years stay at up to 50% off adult price at select family resorts. Children aged 13-15 years stay at up to 40% off adult price at select family resorts. For flights that are booked through Club Med, tickets for children must be paid for by the client. Children who are eligible to stay for free must be lodged in the same room as the adults who are paying for their stay, or in a connecting room. Blackout dates apply. Costs associated with Baby & Petit Club Med are at full day rate during entire stay booked.

Privacy Policy: Your Personal Information is solely intended for use by members of the Club Méditerranée Group. We respect the privacy of our web site visitors and follow strict guidelines for protecting and maintaining any and all information we may have about you. This responsibility is fundamental to our business. In connection with meeting this responsibility, Club Med Sales, Inc. is a member of the Direct Marketing Association and participates in its DMA Privacy Promise to American consumers. A visitor providing information through this site may delete personal information that we maintain in the ordinary course of our business. You can exercise this option by calling 1-888-WEB CLUB (1-888-932-2582, toll free), or by sending a letter to: Guest Relations, Club Med Sales, Inc., 2151 E. Broadway Road, Suite 217, Tempe, AZ 85282.

I've created a survey about travel preferences and I'd love

your feedback! It's very short and takes less than 5 minutes 

to complete. 

As a Thank You for completing the survey, I will send a 

comprehensive Destination report for your Bucket List 

destination on the survey (but please include your email). 

Thanks so much for your help!

Click here ----->       Travel Survey

Wave Season 2014

Hard to believe that it's 2014 and already the first month of the year is nearly behind us! Wow! But you know what that means, don't you? Yeah, that's right, IT'S WAVE SEASON!!  If you haven't already begun to think about your travel plans for this year and next, NOW is a great time to put some plans in place. And if you have been thinking about it, where to go, what to do, well NOW is the time to make those plans or dreams into reality.  To help make things easier, many cruise lines and land-based suppliers are offering great deals and incentives to help you get that family vacation, girls trip, romantic getaway, reunion or other vacation on your calendar! This is the best time to take a look at your bucket list and see what you can do this year to check a destination or adventure off that list.

Here's just a few of the promotions that I think are really fantastic!

NCL

Norwegian Cruise Line is offering The Free Upgrade Wave: 

• Free balcony upgrades 
• Up to $1,000 in air credits 
• E-coupons worth over $300
• Up to $250 off base fare for AARP members 
• Discounts for Latitudes Rewards members 
• Military discounts, if applicable

Booking Dates: 12/10/2013-4/4/2014

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is offering a 3 for Free Sales Event, The Next Wave is back with three new offers on Alaska, Europe and 7-day Caribbean (May thru August) cruise vacations:

• FREE Shore Excursion Spending Money: up to $200 FREE shore excursion onboard credit per stateroom† 
• FREE 8” x 10” Framed Keepsake Photo: (a $50 value) ‡ 
• FREE Bottle of Wine: picked by the onboard Sommelier (a $30 value) ††

You will receive ALL 3 offers for FREE with only a $100.00** reduced deposit. 3 for Free is combinable with Cruise Sales, Group amenities and counts towards TCs. Up to $280 in FREE benefits.

Booking Dates: 12/27/2013-2/28/2014

Royal Caribbean International

Offer: Royal Caribbean International is offering another WOW Sale during Wave Season for 6-night or longer sailings departing March – December 2014:

Onboard credit of up to $300 depending on type of stateroom booked

BONUS! Book a Europe sailing and add $100 onboard credit 

Viking River Cruises

2-For-1 Cruises
PLUS up to 2-For-1 Airfare

2014 Romantic Danube aboard an award-winning, Viking Longship
Riverview, Standard (CAT F)
Dates available throughout 2014
2-For-1 cruise fare from $1,756 per person

Ports of call: Budapest, Hungary; Vienna, Austria; Melk, Austria; Passau Germany; Regensburg, Germany; Nuremberg, Germany

2014 Grand European Tour aboard an award-winning, Viking Longship

Riverview, Standard (CAT F)
Dates available throughout 2014
2-For-1 cruise fare from $3,662 per person

Ports of call: Amsterdam, Holland; Kinderdijk, Holland; Cologne, Germany; Koblenz, Germany; Miltenberg, Germany; Würzburg, Germany; Bamberg, Germany; Nuremberg, Germany; Regensburg, Germany; Passau, Germany; Melk, Austria; Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; Budapest, Hungary

Globus 

SAVE up to $200 per couple on airfare

Plus enjoy an EXCLUSIVE promotional offer on select 2014 Globus or Monograms European Vacations**

Italian Vista

8 days - Rome, Orvieto, Assisi, Florence, Padua, Venice, Verona, Milan, Italy

Vacations include:

• Breakfast daily

• Accommodations in first class hotels

• Guided sightseeing

Call for details on specific dates and prices.

Sensational Spain

12 days - Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Cordoba and Torremolinos, Spain

 
Vacations include:

• Breakfast daily
• Accommodations in first class hotels
• Guided sightseeing

Call for details on specific dates and prices.

Beautiful France

16 days - Paris, Burgundy, Chamonix, Chambery, Cannes, Nice, Avignon, Nimes, Carcassonne, Periguex, France 

Vacations include:

• Breakfast daily
• Accommodations in first class hotels
• Guided sightseeing

Call for details on specific dates and prices.

Contact Us to get started on your 2014 Vacation Planning and take advantage of some of these fantastic offers!