Seaborne Airlines Takes Off to St. Maarteen

Monday, March 3, 2014

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tarting today, Seaborne Airlines, the fastest growing airline in the Caribbean, begins new non-stop daily service from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU) to The Princess Julianna International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten becoming the 19th airport Seaborne has launched during its expansion throughout the Caribbean

From the breathtaking cliffs of Cupecoy to gorgeous sandy beaches like Maho Beach, St. Maarten boasts many popular attractions and nightlife, only minutes away from Puerto Rico. 

 

Non-Stop Daily Flights

·        San Juan, PR (SJU) Departure Time 6:45pm

·        St. Maarten (SXM) Arrival Time 7:45pm

·        St. Maarten (SXM) Departure Time 8:00am

·        San Juan, PR (SJU) Arrival Time 9:10am

 

Fares from San Juan to St. Maarten begin as low as $88 one way, taxes and fees included. Flights can be reserved via SeaborneAirlines.com, Expedia, Travelocity or through your local travel agency. 

"St. Maarten is yet another exciting destination in the Caribbean that Seaborne is offering to our customers, as we build important trade and tourism links throughout the Caribbean" said Gary D. Foss, president and chief executive officer Seaborne Airlines.  

Seaborne has shown dramatic growth during the past months. Just recently, Seaborne announced service to its 18th airport, Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ) with non-stop service from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU) effective April 15, 2014.   Santo Domingo will be Seaborne's fourth destination within the Dominican Republic, the others being La Romana, started in December, 2013; Punta Cana beginning February 14, 2014 and Santiago beginning March 15th, 2014. For more information please visit www.seaborneairlines.com or follow us in social media networks: facebook/seaborne and @flyseaborne.

Seaborne recently announced the relocation of its headquarters to San Juan, Puerto Rico to be effective in March, 2014.  

About Seaborne Airlines   Seaborne Airlines has been operating in the Caribbean for over 20 years, carrying over two million customers safely. With over 2,100 monthly departures to eighteen airports planned by April, 2014. Seaborne serves San Juan's Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, Vieques, St. Thomas airport and seaplane base, St. Croix airport and seaplane base, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, La Romana, Dominican Republic, St. Kitts, Nevis, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic in February, 2014; and St. Maarten and Santiago, Dominican Republic in March 2014 .  All flights operate with two pilots and twin engines under Federal Air Regulation Part 121, the strictest code of the US Federal Air Regulation governing air travel. 

 

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Caribbean Most Romantic Places to Visit

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Love is in the air……

Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina

 

 

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or those who were trapped under the dome of Arctic air that camped out over much of North America this winter, the mere sight of a living palm tree may be enough to evoke euphoria. Add a warm wind and turquoise water and you have the perfect recipe for romance. If you're thinking of heading south for Valentine's Day, here are 10 trips that ought to be on your list

 

Hit the hot spot, Antigua

With five separate wedding gazebos scattered across 30 acres of beachfront at the head of Antigua's Long Bay, the Verandah Resort & Spa may well have the highest density of nuptial nooks in the Caribbean. Even if you're not getting married, the place reeks of romance. In fact, this Elite Island hideaway was recently featured on The Bachelorette. There are pools, gazebos, beaches, gazebos, beach bars, gazebos, a spa, gazebos, tennis, gazebos and of course that stunning electric blue water rimmed by lush tropical foliage and overlooked by -- gazebos. Still not sure? The Verandah has created a Valentine's Day sale special for USA TODAY readers: Luxury accommodations in a water-view suite; one couple's spa treatment plus a single spa treatment; all dining and beverages including beer, wine and premium spirits; non-motorized watersports; and a program of activities. All-inclusive rates start at $183 per person, per night, based on double occupancy in a water-view suite — a savings of more than 50% from the usual rates. The offer is valid for a stay of at least five nights between March 1 and March 31. Book by February 16, by visiting verandahresortandspa.com\prexclusives or by calling 800-274-0008.

Come sail away, British Virgin Islands

You'll definitely be feeling it when you step aboard Feel The Magic, a 50-foot luxury catamaran that cruises the British Virgin Islands. Crewed by Captain Hank Hampton and chef/sommelier Micheale Zazo, the sailing yacht can host eight guests — or just two special passengers. The BVIs are one of the world's most popular sailing destinations: The islands are close together with spectacular scenery above and below the water. Some of the Caribbean's iconic images were taken here at places like The Baths, Virgin Gorda; Fallen Jerusalem; and Road Town, Tortola. Aside from toys — skis, wakeboards, scuba — to help you enjoy all that gorgeous water, you'll dine in style, too. Zazo won the 2012 and 2013 Virgin Islands Charter Yacht Show culinary contest. As a Valentine's present to their guests, the Feel The Magic crew is offering 10% off on a seven day/six night cruise for dates between Feb. 10 and Feb. 20. The special includes a filet and lobster dinner paired with fine wines plus champagne with chocolate-covered strawberries. Rates start at about $290 a night per person with a full complement of eight passengers. For more information, visit ftmcharters.com.

Chocolate lovers, British Virgin Islands

As spectacular as the BVI seascapes are the islands are just as stunning, even one with the unlikely name of Scrub Island. Don't let the name fool you: It's Caribbean tropical gorgeous. And for Valentine's Day the Scrub Island Resort is cooking up a whole lotta chocolate. The resort is on its own private island and features three beaches — one accessible only by kayak — the Ixora Spa, oceanfront accommodations overlooking the picturesque marina, acclaimed restaurants, pool, sailor's bar and more. And then, there's the chocolate. The Sweet Surf package includes a three-night stay in an Ocean View Suite, unlimited use of sea kayaks and paddle boards, resort ferry, 24-hour on-island transportation, and complimentary airport transfers from Tortola, champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival, a two-hour private surf lesson for two, a romantic dinner in Caravela restaurant, couples massage at Ixora Spa with Peppermint Mocha or Dark Chocolate and Coconut body polish, daily chocolate breakfast for two with enough chocolate-flavored foods (pancakes, waffles, pastries, crepes, cake, drinks and more) to satisfy an epic sweet tooth. But wait, there's more: During February the resort will also host a succession of chocolate-themed dinners and events, from a sunset cocktail party to a seven-course gourmet meal to a stay in the "Love Huts" on the beach to a chocolate martini mixology class with Hershey Entertainment mixologist Karl McCall. The price is pretty sweet, too: $2,775 per couple. Devour the details by visiting scrubisland.com or call 877-890-7444.

Nevis nights

Long before Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson was immortalized in stone in London's Trafalgar Square, he married the love of his life, Fanny Nisbet, at her father's sugar plantation in Nevis. The plantation, Montpelier, eventually collapsed along with the sugar trade, but it's been revived as an exquisite boutique hotel, part of the elite Relais & Chateaux association. The renovated Montpelier Plantation & Beach mixes traditional fieldstone details with a modern aesthetic, and just walking around you could fall deeply in love with the property — and each other. Couples who book a romance package during February will enjoy chocolate presentations and chocolate treats handmade by the executive chef throughout their stay. Romance packages start at $920 per person for a seven-night stay in a premier room, daily breakfast, dinner at the acclaimed Restaurant 750, 60-minute couples massage and a private picnic on Montpelier's beach. For more information visit montpeliernevis.com or call 869-469-3462.

Find your thrill, Jamaica

Fats Domino might have sung about Strawberry Hill instead of Blueberry Hill if he'd seen this spectacular Island Outpost property, perched 3,100 feet above sea level in the Blue Mountains overlooking Kingston. In the 1970s, the plantation was purchased by Island Records mogul Chris Blackwell and his most important artist, Bob Marley, was a frequent guest. An award-winning rebuild changed the property from picturesque to stunning. Today there's an infinity edge pool at the brink of the cliff overlooking Kingston and 12 colonial style cottages scattered across the grounds. The restaurant serves up "gentrified" Jamaican staples and modern dishes, there's a spa and, at night, all of Kingston lit up and glittering at your feet. Special rates for a minimum three-night stay start at $350 a night for a studio and include transfers, Continental breakfast and a dinner for two. There are few rooms and many eager guests, so act fast by visiting strawberryhillhotel.com or call 800-232-4972.

Cloud nine, Costa Rica

Is there anyone who doesn't like surf 'n' turf? This year, Greentique Hotels has cooked up the Seventh Heaven Vacation Combo that allows visitors to experience two of Costa Rica's most intriguing destinations. The seven-night package includes three nights at Villa Blanca Cloud Forest hotel and Nature Reserve plus four more at the seaside Si Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge. Villa Blanca includes hilltop casitas and a hacienda near the Arenal volcano (tour included) with its thermal hot springs and surrounded by tropical forest. Si Como No Resort accommodations are also on a hilltop, but overlook the ocean and the beaches of Manuel Antonio. With your head in the clouds and your toes in the sand what else could you want? Both properties have pools, spas and a full menu of wildlife and adventure tours to choose from. Rates start at $1,040 per person; visit villablanca-costarica.com or call 877-256-8399.

Take flight, Barbados

First opened as a resort in 1887, The Crane is one of those British traditions that just keeps running like a well-built railroad watch. The resort is understated and opulent, and where the rich and famous go to tactfully disappear for a few treasured days of R&R. Barbados is home to many spectacular beaches, Crane Beach just below the hotel being the most famous among them. Accommodations are available either in the hotel or in private villas on property, with the full gamut of amenities up to a penthouse suite with a private pool. The Romance Package starts at $3,100 for a five-night stay in a one-bedroom ocean-view suite, transfers, dinner for two at L'Azure and a catamaran cruise plus an $80 spa credit to help you relax from all that relaxation. Find out more at thecrane.com.

Eco-adventuring, Bahamas

Even before your plane lands you'll see why the Abacos are a great yachting destination: miles of crystalline blue water. The Spanish called this area "Baha Mar," the shallow sea, and above and below the surface, are a profusion of coral, fish, birds and turtles that make this an eco-paradise. Within sight of the distinctive candy-cane-striped Elbow Reef lighthouse, the Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina is the perfect location for doing everything — or nothing at all. Accommodations are in oceanfront rooms or suites, in two-bedroom cottages or in villas. There's a private beach, pools, tennis courts and boat rentals and guides to take you to one of the nearby national parks such as Pelican Cays or Walkers Cay. In between your eco-adventures, unwind with the Romance Retreat package which includes: oceanfront accommodations for three nights, flowers in your room upon arrival, daily breakfast for two at Angler's restaurant, ferry transfer to nearby Elbow Cay and golf cart rental to explore the historic Hope Town, romantic dinner overlooking the beach including a bottle of wine, morning couples massage overlooking the beach, fenter console boat rental and guide to explore the surrounding beaches and cays, private gourmet beach picnic complete with Champagne. Rates start from $859 per person (double occupancy) for travel before Feb. 28. Visit abacobeachresort.com or call 800-533-4799.

Quick cruising, Bahamas

Looking for a quick fix of sun and sea? Consider a four-day cruise from Miami through the Bahamas aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Sky. The ship will leave the Port of Miami on Feb. 10 and make stops at Great Stirrup Cay, Nassau, Grand Bahama and then back to Miami on Feb. 14. The Sky is a large ship — 4,100 passengers — so it has all of the amenities: two swimming pools, five hot tubs, a Mandara Spa, a casino, five restaurants, shops, golf driving range, basketball/volleyball court, fitness center, bars, entertainment lounge and more. The cruise is well priced: interior staterooms start at $149 per person. For details visit ncl.com/cruise-ship/sky/vacations#tab_detail or call 866-234-7350.

Home suite home, Cancun

If you're looking for plush, posh and pampering for your Valentine's getaway, check out the new all-suite Grand Residences Riviera Cancun. This is an ownership community with all-suite accommodations designed as private residences. When the owners aren't at home, you can enjoy the granite counters, big bedrooms and private terraces plus all of the amenities of a high-end resort: beach, pool, gourmet dining, spa and salon. The resort is set on a sprawling and secluded beachfront south of Cancún — close enough for easy access yet away from the crowds. The Grand Valentine's Day package includes a spacious junior suite, welcome gift and complimentary Champagne on arrival, four-course candlelit dinner on the beach prepared by Executive Chef Yann Michel Cozic, complete with live music and a bottle of Champagne hidden in the sand, special turndown service of scattered flower petals and scented candles placed in the room, a 90-minute couples' massage at The Spa and Champagne sunset cruise aboard a private yacht. here comes the good part: The package starts at $1,190 for two for a two-night stay between Feb. 1 and Feb. 28. Visit grandresidencesrivieracancun.com or call 888-387-4702.

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Carnival Concierge Unleashes a Premium Travel Experience for T&T Carnival 2K14

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Following a successful inaugural 2013 Trinidad and Tobago Carnival travel tour, professional travel management company Carnival Concierge LLC is gearing up to once again serve international festival lovers and first-timers an unparalleled vacation package during the 2014 edition of the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’.

The New York based boutique travel coordination company is the brain child of Trinidadian natives and founders Aisha Smith and Keisha Williams. They specialize in group travel to a variety of cultural festivals internationally, with special focus on Caribbean Carnivals.

Launched in 2012, Carnival Concierge provides custom packages and highly individualized care to meet every need of each client participating in the Carnival.

For T&T Carnival 2K14, the company designed one of a kind packages for its clients. These packages consist of first rate, locally owned hotel accommodations in Trinidad, a choice of all-inclusive parties, J’ouvert and Carnival costumes (customized to fit each body type), a relaxing after-Carnival excursion to the sister isle of Tobago and safe and reliable ground transportation throughout the duration of the trip to both islands.

With a mission to expose people worldwide to an unforgettable experience, the company was born out of a passion for the annual festival and an understanding of the often daunting task foreigners face in planning their own trip. The company coordinates costumes, party tickets and hotels. Both ladies, who currently reside in the US have participated in numerous international Carnivals and have assisted countless individuals in navigating the T&T Carnival landscape.

As a result, the duo has created this effective, customer-friendly solution, for interested persons to have a memorable adventure in the Mecca of Steelpan and Soca.

Founders Aisha Smith and Keisha Williams

This initiative appeals to many first-time, foreign-based Carnival hopefuls from various parts of the world including Asia, Continental Europe and North and South America. Carnival Concierge is equipped with the resources, contacts and a strong circle of influence to access the various facets of the festival. Smith and Williams are devoted to providing a solution for their clients via their concierge business and a high level of service unmatched by any other entity in the Global Carnvial industry.

Most notably, the ladies of Carnival Concierge provide personalized attention to their clients e.g. consultations to ensure maximum comfort during the celebrations.

They aspire to constantly improve their product by building new relationships with various service providers (i.e. party promoters, Mas band owners, hoteliers) while maintaining their focus to create a pleasurable, professionally organized experience for their C2K14 participants.

They shared, “Much like 2013, we are dedicated to making sure that each client has everything he/she needs (similar to a concierge at a hotel).  We are focused on the client, their safety, their enjoyment of the ultimate carnival experience.  If they trust us to ‘Serve them Carnival’ they will not be disappointed”.

Some of Carnival Concierge's clients at the action packed Carnival

 

For more information on Carnival Concierge please utilize the following contacts:

Phone: (973) 454-4599 or (917) 340-2396

Website: www.carnival-concierge.com

Email: info@carnival-concierge.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarnivalConcierge

 

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Antigua & Barbuda Wins Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

The twin-island state of Antigua & Barbuda confirmed its title as the ‘Romance Capital of the Caribbean’ when the destination was conferred as the “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” at the 20th Anniversary of the World Travel Awards Caribbean & The AmericasGala Ceremony held on September 14th 2013.

The elite travel awards event which is known as the “Oscars” of the travel industry recognizes and awards excellent performance throughout various areas of the world travel and tourism industry.

“After years of cultivating our Wedding & Honeymoon market it is indeed an honor to be recognized by an organization like the World Travel Awards as the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination,’ especially since the selection is made by members of the travel trade and consumers” said Honorable John Maginley, Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation. “We are excited to receive this top accolade however I would like to recognize the hard work and dedication of our hotels, tourism partners and all workers in the hospitality industry, that without their efforts this achievement would not be possible. We intend through continued strategic marketing and improvements to our tourism product, to continually enhance the visitor experience.”

By winning the WTA for the “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” it automatically affords Antigua & Barbuda the opportunity to be nominated within the same category at the WTA Global Awards. This is an accolade that the destination will be striving to coup from its Caribbean competitors.

In addition to winning the “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” a number of Antiguan hotel properties and businesses were also recognized at the prestigious gala ceremony including, Hermitage Bay, as Caribbean’s Leading Boutique Hotel, Carib World Travel was named Caribbean’s Leading Destination Management Company, Curtain Bluff Resort & Spa received awards for Caribbean’s Leading Green Resort and Antigua & Barbuda’s Leading Spa Resort. The Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa was recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort and Antigua & Barbuda’s Leading Resort, Ayers Creek Residences at Nonsuch Bay Resort received the award for Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Residences and Blue Waters Resort won Antigua & Barbuda’s Leading Hotel.

The tropical landscape and natural beauty of Antigua & Barbuda with its beautiful secluded beaches and coves is the perfect backdrop for romance. This coupled with the destination’s easy wedding requirements, which allow couples wanting to get married to do so in less than 24 hours, make the destination the perfect paradise for any couple wanting to be wed.

There are no residency requirements to obtain a marriage license and the paperwork is almost hassle-free. A couple can literally have a “same-day” destination wedding with numerous options available to accommodate every couple’s needs. Antigua and Barbuda have also received several accolades by both Brides Magazine and About.com as one of the Caribbean’s top destinations for weddings and honeymoons. The Huffington Post has also recently cited Antigua and Barbuda as one of the top five honeymoon destinations in the world.

Receiving the top accolade of “Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” also comes on the heels of Antigua & Barbuda hosting the two –part finale episodes, including the Season 9 final Rose Ceremony episode, of the ABC TV Primetime Reality series ‘The Bachelorette’. The popular reality show has introduced the destination to millions of fans around the world and with formidable airlift to access the destination scheduled for the upcoming 2013-2014 winter season, Antigua & Barbuda is poised for growth.

 

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Travel: Grand Lucayan, Bahamas Goes Glam With Rewards

Monday, September 16, 2013

On the heels of launching its new “Classic Bahamian Experience” brand identity, the award-winning Bahamas has unveiled the Grand Lucayan Ambassador Agent Program(GLAM). Travel agents who go “GLAM” can reap the rewards of two distinct programs when they book the beachfront resort, located just 55- miles off the Florida coast.   

GLAM Agents, a certificate program, is offered through Travel Agent University at www.glamagents.com and provides travel agents with everything they need to know about Grand Lucayan and the Bahamas. GLAM Agents is full of exclusive incentives for agents and their clients. The program’s current special offer features rates starting at $99* per night for travel through Dec. 25, 2013 and is available through the GDS using promo code GDSPRO.

GLAM Rewards, an incentive rewards program, provides registered agents with an Amazon Gift card of up to $75 at www.glamrewards.com. Agents can earn $50 upon joining the program, which is redeemable when their first booking is approved, plus $25 for each booking of four nights or more based on double occupancy. As a bonus, agents who book for travel Sept. 1 through Nov. 15, 2013 will earn an additional $25 per booking.

Grand Lucayan, Bahamas offers guests a classic Bahamian experience and is an ideal destination for couples, families and groups for its ease of access, affordability, and the range of soft adventure activities available on the island. For more information on Grand Lucayan, Bahamas or to make reservations visitwww.grandlucayan.com or call (877) 434-2996.

*Offer is subject to change and other restrictions apply. Rate is commissionable at 10 percent. For full terms and conditions visit www.grandlucayan.com/travel-agents.

 

About Grand Lucayan, Bahamas

Located on Grand Bahama Island, Grand Lucayan, Bahamas has 542 guestrooms and suites and is situated along an expansive 7.5-acre beach with views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Just 55 miles off the coast of Florida, Grand Lucayan, Bahamas offers some of the finest amenities in the Caribbean. Guests enjoy spacious accommodations, a selection of restaurants, three swimming pools, four tennis courts – all offering Grand Slam surfaces, a 25,000 square-foot Senses Spa & Fitness Center, 18-hole championship golf course – The Reef Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and 90,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space and a Las Vegas-style casino. Like us o Facebook, facebook.com/grandlucayan or follow us on Twitter, @grandlucayan.

 

 

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