3-1-1 Rule for Liquids in Your Carry-on

What do you do when you forget you have something such as perfume or lotion in your carry-on bag and it's over 3.4 ounces? Read on

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Power your gadgets with your own suitcase

This is a handy tool for powering your electronic gadgets while on the road.  It's powered luggage that doubles as a charger for your phone, ipod, etc!  Power your gadgets with your own suitcase

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Letter of Parental Consent to Travel

Don't let this happen to you:  You and your child are at Newark Airport and are ready to board a flight to Europe.  You are asked for a letter from your child's father indicating that he has given permission for the child to travel out of the country with you and you don't have one.  What now?

This is just one scenario.  Maybe your child is going to travel with grandparents, a school group, a sports team, or a friend, without either parent or guardian.  What documentation is needed?

While there are exceptions, travel out of the country will require a passport, even for a child. You will also need a notarized Letter of Parental Consent to Travel for the child.  The letter should include the dates of travel, the name of the adult traveling with the child, contact information for the parent(s) not traveling, and if the child is traveling without either parent or guardian, both parent's signatures must be on the form and notarized.

If the minor child has only one parent/guardian, as in the case of divorce, death, or adoption, then bringing a copy of the divorce decree, death certificate, or adoption papers or a letter from your lawyer, will be required.  And if the parents/guardians have different last names, such as the mother keeping her maiden name, bring along the child's birth certificate so authorities can see the parents' names.

A second form for authorization of medical treatment is also important.  A Medical Treatment Authorization Letter will give permission for the adult accompanying the child to be responsible for medical treatment in case of emergency.

Some cruise lines have their own letters which they require for minor children so make sure you have the proper documentation with you.  For example, in Carnival's case, without the Letter of Parental Consent to Travel the child will not be able to leave the ship in Mexico, even for a shore excursion.

Give yourself enough time to obtain a passport (especially if this is the first time applying for one) and to complete the letters and have them notarized. And while you are getting them notarized, have a couple of the letters notarized in case you need them.

Here are some government links to check out:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Department of State
Country Specific Information 

If you need a copy of a Letter of Parental Consent to Travel or a Medical Treatment Authorization Letter, please contact me and I will send it to you.


Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Ritz-Carlton and Clarisonic Help Support Breast Cancer Patients

Ritz-Carlton Hotels are contributing to Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a new program at its spas. The program, in partnership with skincare company Clarisonic, will donate $10 for each facial that is purchased at participating U.S. Ritz-Carltons.  Read more

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Don't Miss the Boat (or Transfer, Flight, Train...)

You're all excited about your vacation. Your bags are packed, pets are taken care of, you have your passport, and so on. What about your travel documents? Oh yeah, you have those also. But did you read them CAREFULLY? There is very important information in those documents, information regarding your transportation, whether it is for your flights, transfers, train, bus, tour, etc.

For your flights, you will most likely have e-tickets. You simply use the confirmation number on your paperwork to check in. In many cases, you can check in up to 24 hours prior to your scheduled flight and print your boarding pass. Make sure you check the flights at this time for any last minute changes the airline may have made. Also check their baggage rules, since they can change often; make sure to check the airport's check in regulations. It is best to be at the airport about 2 hours prior to a domestic flight and 3 hours prior to an international flight. There are regulations as to how late you can check in. One airport may say it is 45 minutes prior to flying while another may only be a half hour. If you miss the cutoff time, you will be out of luck.

For transfers that have been arranged for you, remember the driver will be there to greet you at the arranged time. Please check your vouchers for the time that you will need to meet with your driver. If you are going to be delayed, it is important to call ahead as early as possible so that you can reschedule the meeting time. If you miss the transfer and have not called ahead, you will lose the money spent on the transfer plus you will have to pay for another one.

For trains and buses in the States, you need to have purchased your ticket early enough before the train arrives. For international travel, there are different ways of validating tickets, etc, so please familiarize yourself with the rules before traveling.

Finally, for tours, your tour guide will tell you what time and where to meet for the tour. If you are not there for the scheduled time, you may end up missing the entire tour and losing your money which you paid for the tour.

Remember, when traveling, you need to schedule your time well so that you don't miss your transportation and most importantly, you don't lose the money you already paid for the services.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

World's Largest Cruise Sale

Welcome Aboard the World's Largest Cruise Sale!  This is a great time to book your next cruise.  Click here for a sneak peek.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Disney's Newest Resort: Disney's Art of Animation

DisneyWorld will be opening  the first phase of rooms at its newest resort, Disney's Art of Animation, next May. This phase of the hotel is themed after the movie, "Finding Nemo", and the remaining three phases are themed after the movies "Cars", "Lion King", and "Little Mermaid".  The remaining phases will open in stages through the end of 2012 and there will be 1,120 family suites, comprised of three-room units, in total.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

DisneyWorld has a new promotion for late 2011 and early 2012.  Call to book early while the inventory is still available!

Dates in 2011:  10/30-11/18 and 11/26-12/23
15% off All Star Movies Resort and Port Orleans French Quarter
20% off other Value and Moderate Resorts
25% off Animal Kingdom Lodge and Polynesian Resort
30% off Deluxe and Villa Resorts
Book by 11/19/11


Dates in 2012:  Most nights 1/2-2/20
20% off All Star Movies Resort
25% off Other Value Resorts and Port Orleans French Quarter
30% off Moderate Resorts, Animal Kingdom Lodge and Polynesian Resort
35% off Deluxe and Villa Resorts
Book by 12/21/11


Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Disney's Aulani Resort Now Open in Oahu

Save up to $800 in airfare for your family - receive an airfare credit of $200 per person for a family of 4 with a stay at Aulani, Disney's newest resort on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Restaurant Week in France from September 19-25, 2011

Take a look at the happenings which will be going on during France's Restaurant Week: France launches a new nation-wide event celebrating French food
This fall, France will be celebrating local cuisine with a brand-new food-centric festival.

© Maison de la France

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Lion World's Royal Treatment in South Africa

The Royal Treatment

STARTING FROM USD 8,769* + $190 TAXES & FEES (restrictions apply)   

B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner INCLUDES: International Airfare Washington or New York to Cape Town via Johannesburg Domestic flights as indicated in itinerary All services as specified 10 Breakfasts 5 Lunches 5 Dinners Game drives as specified in itinerary Accommodation in standard rooms Transportation in luxury air-conditioned vehicles including qualified drivers Sight-seeing as per itinerary led by qualified English speaking guide Half-day winery tour Complimentary half hour back/neck massage at Royal Malewane Entrance fees for sightseeing as indicated Lion World Tours representative Platinum Meet and Greet upon arrival EXCLUDES: Items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, etc. All other services not mentioned Gratuities/Tips for game rangers, tour guides, and drivers Costs of obtaining passports and/or visas Trip cancellation insurance

Day 1 Depart from New York or Washington, DC for your flight to Cape Town, South Africa via Johannesburg on South African Airways.  Day 2 Upon arrival at Johannesburg's Oliver Tambo International Airport a security approved representative will meet you at the aircraft, and escort and assist you through customs and immigration and then to the baggage carousel where you will be assisted with your luggage. You will be accompanied into the arrival hall where a Lion World Tours representative will welcome you and escort you to the Domestic Departure Hall for your flight to Cape Town. On arrival in Cape Town a Lion World Tours representative will meet you and hand over your travel documentation. They will answer any questions you may have regarding your travel arrangements in South Africa and then assist you to your onward transfer to hotel. The luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa lies where earth, sea and sky meet, poised above Atlantic rollers and flanked by majestic Table Mountain and her Twelve Apostles Mountain Range in glorious Cape Town. This intimate 5-star hotel fully lives up to its stunning location, with exceptional standards of service and relaxed Cape hospitality, providing the perfect counterpoint to its dramatic backdrop. Deluxe guest rooms and spacious suites, two breathtaking pool gardens magically perched above the ocean, the glorious Azure Restaurant accompanying exquisite cuisine, wonderful friendly service with endlessly seductive sea views. All barely ten minutes from the bustling heat of the city, with nearby attractions including prime diving spots, nature trails, and seals, dolphins, whales and penguins. Accommodation: Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa Day 3 Today is a day to enjoy the wonderful city of Cape Town at your leisure. Cape Town is a city with a diverse range of attractions, sights and activities to offer and has something for everyone. From the landmark beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay to the vibrant V&A Waterfront and Cape Town city center - time spent in Cape Town will not be forgotten. Cape Town is a sophisticated city at the gateway to a majestic continent. The Mother City is a place where old and new harmoniously converge in history, architecture, cultural pursuits and the essence of its people. Warmed by the African sun, the city is dominated by a towering, table-shaped mountain, set on a peninsula of soaring, rocky heights and lush valleys, where two oceans converge - Indian and Atlantic. Immense natural beauty and the fast pace and bright lights of a great urban center meld effortlessly here. Firmly positioned on the international map, Cape Town offers a myriad of things to do and places to see, whatever your tastes, inclinations or budget.  Accommodation: Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa (B) Day 4 You will depart on your full-day Cape Peninsula tour after breakfast. See for yourself how this spectacular southern tip of Africa became known as the 'Fairest Cape'. Drive past the pristine beaches of Camps Bay, Clifton and Llandudno - currently the hottest real estate in the world - to Hout Bay, a functioning harbor and heart of the local crayfish industry (optional Seal Island cruise, time permitting). After a stop for lunch (your own account), it's on to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where you are able to ride the Funicular to the scenic viewing point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The spectacular sea and mountain views are reason enough to make the 66km/41mile trip from Cape Town. Amid the rocky landscape - home to mountain zebra, eland and ostriches - blooms magnificent Cape flora. Continue along the coastline to the beautiful Boulders Beach where you can sit among a colony of penguins. Our last stop is the naval port of Simon's Town, the country's third oldest European settlement. Return to the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa in the late afternoon.  Accommodation: Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa (B) Day 5 After breakfast, you will be transferred from the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa to La Residence in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands. This most sought-after boutique hotel stands on a private 30-acre wine and olive estate in the picture-perfect Franschhoek Valley. This private hotel is considered a work of art by its discerning guests. The brand new villa houses eleven ultra-luxurious suites, each boasting restful views over the vineyards, olive orchards and lavender fields. Explore the beautiful village of Franschhoek finding amazing arts, crafts, antique shops and galleries. The main streets are lined with coffee shops. Eight of the "Top Ten" restaurants are situated in Franschhoek which is probably why it is often referred to as the gourmet capital of South Africa. Most of the wine farms still bear their original French names, and have Cape Dutch homes, oak trees and sweeping vineyards. The area also boasts a wide selection of wine cellars, from small wineries to large cellars.  Accommodation: La Residence (B) Day 6 Today you will be taken on a half-day tour in Stellenbosch, the second oldest European settlement in South Africa, which has some of the best preserved historical buildings. The tour includes a visit to the Taal Monument, a walking tour of Stellenbosch, as well as a wine tasting and cellar tour. Historical Stellenbosch, with its Cape Dutch architecture is the heart of the beautiful Winelands, surrounded by stunning wine estates. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Winelands as you explore Stellenbosch, tour a wine cellar and enjoy wine-tasting with an opportunity to buy wine. You will also see fine examples of Cape Dutch architecture.  Accommodation: La Residence (B) Day 7 You will be transferred from Franschhoek to Birkenhead House in Hermanus. Birkenhead House is perched high on the cliffs of Hermanus, overlooking the whale watchers paradise of Walker Bay, and accommodates guests in the utmost luxury. This is the perfect destination for those seeking the pinnacle of seaside living. Accommodation is arranged to deliver the utmost comfort, with a collection of inspired artwork, spectacular mountain and sea views and breathtaking beaches and pools. World-class seafood delicacies, international spa treatments and hospitality are of the highest standard.  Accommodation: Birkenhead House (B, L, D) Day 8 This will be a leisure day. Some optional activities to choose from are: Dyer Island Cruises - A unique whale watching experience in season. Dyer Island cruises invite you on an unforgettable journey to the domain of the Southern Right Whale with their accomplished skipper and trained guides. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve - This internationally recognized Nature Reserve is the largest private fynbos conservation area in the world. Day trips are offered to enjoy this very special environment. Local Wine Tour - The Hemel-and-Aarde Valley is one of South Africa's best kept secrets. The valley boasts four amazing wine vineyards, award winning wines and breathtaking scenery. Meet the wine makers, taste the wines, tour the cellars and learn a few things about the South African wine industry.  Accommodation: Birkenhead House (B, L, D) Day 9 Today you will be transferred from Hermanus to Cape Town Airport for your flight to Hoedspruit. On arrival in Hoedspruit you will be transferred to Royal Malewane Safari Lodge and Spa. Arrive in time for a late lunch and afternoon open vehicle game drive. Resplendent in a Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane Safari Lodge and Spa redefines the concept of comfort. With interiors inspired by the elegance of colonial simplicity, rich wood terraces and private pools, luxury finds easy residence in the uncompromising African bush. Each of the eight freestanding and private suites features a palatial air-conditioned bedroom/sitting room with a fireplace, antique furniture and canopied king-size bed, as well as an extravagant bathroom with a window-side Victorian bath and indoor and outdoor showers. Elevated walkways link the suites to the main camp with the African sky your ceiling. The main camp complex consists of the library, shop, dining and reception areas. Furnished with rich antiques and Persian carpets, every fitting creates the feel of original colonial elegance resting in harmony with its magnificent surroundings. There is a wonderful new gym and spa facility. Guests may enjoy spa treatments at the luxurious spa or in the complete privacy of their own suite. Accommodation: Royal Malewane (B, L, D) Day 10 Enjoy a morning game viewing activity in this spectacular wildlife kingdom in an open vehicle. Spend the hottest part of the day relaxing around the pool or perhaps take a siesta to make up for the early morning wake-up call. In the late afternoon, you will be taken on another unforgettable safari through the unspoiled African bush. Accommodation: Royal Malewane (B, L, D) Day 11 Spend another day in the bush with a similar schedule to the previous day, however every game drive is a different and exciting experience. Relaxation by the pool or at the spa is rejuvenating between game drives. Accommodation: Royal Malewane (B, L, D) Day 12 After an early morning game drive to track the animals that may have eluded you so far, transfer to Hoedspruit Airport for your flight back to Johannesburg. Upon arrival in Johannesburg you will connect for your ongoing flight back to the USA on South African Airways. (B) Day 13 Arrive home with a lifetime of memories!

THE ROYAL TREATMENT -
* Prices are in US Dollars and are per person based on double occupancy accommodations and include fuel surcharges. Government taxes, departure fees and September 11th Security Fee of $190 are additional and payable prior to departure. 

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

MSNBC Travel Tips: & ways to keep your stuff safe when you fly

7 ways to keep your stuff safe when you fly
You don't have to be paranoid and suspicious every moment of your trip; start out by trusting everyone, but don't make it easy for anyone.  Read on...


Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Cape Town Hotels and Tours

View of Table Mountain

Table Bay Hotel

Cape Town was beautiful! I was there with a group of travel agents and we stayed four nights. 10 of us stayed at 15 on Orange Hotel which is in the center of the city. Beautiful hotel, large rooms, perfect for business travel. Others in our group stayed at three other hotels: The Commodore, Table Bay, and the Twelve Apostles. The Commodore was very nice, perfect for groups, and very close to the V&A Waterfront. Table Bay is right on the Waterfront and 5 star. Perfect for someone who wants to be right in the middle of the action and also have luxurious accommodations. And for those that want over the top, the Twelve Apostles was ultra luxury with a beautiful view of the water and a shuttle that takes their guests down to the waterfront.

Bread & Wine Restaurant

We took the cable car up to Table Mountain (hiking up the mountain was not for me but we did see others doing it). I have great pictures from the top of the mountain and the day was very clear, mid 70s. We also took the Cape Peninsula tour and the tour of the Winelands. Had lunch at the Bread and Wine at Le Quartier Francais which is a pretty little boutique hotel. Lots of pics of penguins at Boulders Beach! We also visited the Amy Biehl Foundation where they are providing a program for kids to learn to play musical instruments (they take donations of instruments as well and will arrange for the shipping) and they also learn dance. We joined in and had a great afternoon.

Penguins at Boulders Beach

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Why Tahiti?

Tahiti's Faa'a International Airport is under 8 hours by air from LAX airport

Daily nonstop flights from LAX airport

On the same side of the International Date Line as North America

In the same time zone as Hawaii – now only three hours behind California!



Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information                                                                                                                 

Paris With Kids: Things To Do, Places To Stay & Family Travel Tips!

Interesting article about traveling to Paris with kids: Paris With Kids: Things To Do, Places To Stay & Family Travel Tips!

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Cape Town, South Africa

Day 1:  Cape Town, South Africa
After flying from JFK to Johannesburg, then on to Cape Town, I am here at 15 on Orange, the hotel I will be staying at for the next four nights.  Even though the flight from JFK is long, South African Airways has comfortable seating with a lot of leg room in coach so you aren't too cramped.  We were served a hot lunch, sandwich platter for dinner, and a hot breakfast.  Soft drinks, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are included.  The airline also provides an eye mask, socks, and a toothbrush with toothpaste. 

15 on Orange is part of African Pride Hotels, and is located right in the heart of Cape Town. On a clear day there is a magnificent view of Table Mountain from the hotel.  You are greeted by the hotel staff upon entering, and after checking in, a staff member personally escorts you to your room.  The decor is modern and the Deluxe Suite is very large and comfortable with two flat screen TVs, a soaking tub, rain shower, king bed, sofa, DVD selection, and Ipod docking and charging station.

Deluxe suite at 15 on Orange Hotel

Deluxe suite - living area

  Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Temporarily Closed

As a result of high storm surge from the earthquake-generated tsunami, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai sustained some debris-related damage in certain areas. As a result, the resort has temporarily closed and relocated in-house guests while while they begin clean-up efforts to restore the Resort to its pristine condition.

Ensuring the safety and comfort of its guests is their foremost concern, and in order to do so it was determined best to close while these efforts take place. The Four Seasons Hualalai plans to reopen the Resort on March 21, 2011. Overall, the Resort sustained minimal damage caused by water and sand from the storm surge, primarily to landscaped areas and the beach. All guests with reservations prior to this date are being contacted and given help in making alternate arrangements.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

2011 Vacation Trends

2011 vacation trends have increased in numbers since last year.  This year has started off with an increase in vacation bookings for my agency.  For couples planning their honeymoons, I have found an increase in the wish for exotic and adventure travel.  More couples are looking for the "wow" factor, bragging rights, for their honeymoon travel.

I have found that South Africa, in particular, is growing more and more in popularity.  Many couples who plan to go to South Africa add on another destination such as the Seychelles, Mozambique, or Mauritius.  They want to spend time in South Africa's wine country and seek adventure in Kruger Park on safari, then follow that with some R&R on a beautiful island setting.



Planning ahead is very important especially when it comes to the safari lodges.  The lodges are generally smaller, more intimate, than hotels in the cities, such as Capetown, so they may not have the space if the planning is last minute.  Pricing is about the same as last year, but airfare has been getting more and more expensive, and probably will continue that trend for a while.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information

Cunard Raises Fuel Surcharges

Due to the continued escalation of fuel prices, Cunard Line will increase their fuel supplement from $6.00 (USD) to $9.00 (USD) per person per day. This supplement will not exceed $300.00 per person, per voyage. The supplement applies to each paying guest travelling, including 3rd and 4th person fares and paid children's accommodations.

The new fuel supplement will apply to all new bookings made on or after 28 February 2011 for voyages departing on or after 14 April 2011.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for more information

Oahu - The Gathering Place

Of all the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is probably the most well-known.   Oahu is known as "The Gathering Place" and for good reason.  Honolulu Airport is the starting point for many visitors to Hawaii, whether they plan to stay only on the island of Oahu or venture to the other islands of Hawaii.

Oahu has many things to see and do.  Honolulu offers culture and museums, galleries, botanical gardens, Chinatown, and an array of dining options available.  The University of Hawaii is located in Honolulu.  Waikiki is a popular hotspot for clubs, crafts, even hula lessons.  Every Friday the Hilton Hawaiian Village has a fireworks display.  And don't forget to visit Diamond Head!

Along the Windward Coast are some of the best beaches such as Waimanalo Beach, Lanikai and Kailua Beach.  The North Shore is home to legendary surf beaches and to the Polynesian Cultural Center.  In central Oahu visitors can explore Pearl Harbor or why not try the Pineapple Garden Maze at the Dole Plantation, which is the world's largest maze, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records.  These are just a few of what visitors can see and do on the island of Oahu, The Gathering Place.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for more information

Why Use a Certified CLIA Travel Agent?

CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association, Inc, shows how using a travel professional for your cruise planning has its benefits. Don't trust your vacation planning to just anyone. Watch this video to see how important it is to contact a professional.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for your cruise planning

Dinner at Bloody Mary's - Not to be Missed on the Island of Bora Bora

©Mary McGrath

©Mary McGrath

One of the most popular attractions on the island of Bora Bora is Bloody Mary's restaurant and bar. The local fishermen bring their fresh catch each day (except Sunday) and the fish is displayed on ice. Fish is not the only choice for those meat lovers out there - there is also a selection of beef on display. Patrons come up and choose their dinner which is then prepared and served along with a salad, vegetable, and a choice of sauces on the side. The soft, white sand floor and coconut palm tables add to the relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Bloody Mary's is not the most elegant dining on the island but it is the most fun!

Contact Mary at 742-747-8187 for more information

Intercontinental Bora Bora and Thalasso Spa

 

The Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa resort is one of my favorite resorts in Bora Bora.  By far, they have the best spa on the island.  When a spa treatment is scheduled, you are entitled to use the rest of the spa areas for the day.  The spa has a relaxing Pearl Rain Massage, Deep Sea Hydromassage Bath, Deep Chiller Walk (you walk through a narrow canal of water with jets aimed at your calves, stimulating blood flow), jacuzzi, steam room, and the Arctic Plunge (go from the steam room to the Arctic Plunge and feel the exhilaration!).  The wonderful thing about the massage tables is when you are face down on the massage table and looking through the opening in the table, you are looking through a glass floor and watching the colorful fish swim by.  What could be more relaxing?

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for more information

Give the Gift of a Day at the Spa

With Valentine's Day fast approaching, have you thought about what you might want to give your significant other as a gift?  With the way this winter has been, with all the snow here in NJ, why not give the gift of a day at the spa? What is better than being treated to a hot stone massage, a mani/pedi, maybe a seaweed wrap?  Or how about a couples' massage?  Now you both get the royal treatment!

Bernadette Smith, a Health and Spa Travel Specialist, reminds us of the basic spa etiquette that should be followed, such as arriving early to your appointment, turning off your cell phone, and more.  So check out some spas in your area and pick up a gift certificate or schedule that special day for your loved one.  It makes a great Valentine's Day gift.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for more information

Cruise News

The Norwegian Dawn and the Norwegian Spirit will be going into dry dock for refurbishment in May and September, respectively.  The Norwegian Sun is back in business after having her 33 suites and public areas upgraded.  One of the changes is that the Pacific Heights restaurant was replaced with Moderno Churrascaria, a Brazilian barbecue restaurant.  The Norwegian Epic has the same restaurant and it has been a very popular venue on the ship.

Royal Caribbean will be adding solo passenger cabins in the spring when the Radiance of the Seas goes into dry dock.  There will only be three such cabins, all inside.  The Norwegian Epic has inside studio cabins for solo passengers.  These studios have a common area, living room style, where the solo passengers can meet and get to know each other.

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for further information

Bridal Show at the Buttonwood Manor this Week

Please come visit The Travel Bug Vacation Planners at the Buttonwood Manor this Thursday, January 27th!

Contact Mary at 732-747-8187

Getting Married in Tahiti

Now that weddings in Tahiti are recognized as legal in the United States, what could be a more romantic setting than on the beautiful warm, sandy beaches of Tahiti.  Some of the resorts you might consider are the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort and Spa, the Intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa, and the Intercontinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort.  The ceremonies can be as elaborate or as simple as the bride and groom would like. 

The ceremony usually takes place on the beach, with tiki torches, Polynesian dancers, and musicians playing their music.  One tradition is the blowing of the conch shell.  Someone blows into the shell three times at the start of the ceremony.  This represents the presence of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), and is based on a Christian influence.  The couple may dress in wedding pareos with vibrant flower prints on them.  The women wear theirs as a dress and the men tie their wraps as a skirt.  The bride may also wear a haku lei, which is a small circle of flowers, around her head for the ceremony.

The bride and groom may choose to exchange leis with each other during the ceremony as a sign of their everlasting love. The bride and groom traditionally kiss after the leis are placed around their necks. After the ceremony, the bride and groom are wrapped in a wedding quilt called a tifaifai, which is decorated in traditional Polynesian style.   

Photo © Mary McGrath
For more information:
Mary@thetravelbugonline.com
732-747-8187
http://www.thetravelbugonline.com/

Overwater Bungalow or Beach Bungalow?

Last March I spent 8 days in the islands of French Polynesia, visiting the islands of Tahiti, Tikehau, Taha'a, Moorea, and Bora Bora.  I stayed in overwater bungalows in all but one resort.  These bungalows are beautiful - he rooms are large, the view spectacular, and there are "Tahitian televisions" in the rooms.  The Tahitian televisions are either glass in the floors or in a table which gives you a view beneath the bungalow where you can see the coral and watch the colorful fish swim by. You also have a private deck with steps leading down to the turquoise water below.  I think everyone who goes to these islands should make sure to spend a few nights in an overwater bungalow. 

There is a benefit, however, to staying in a beach bungalow.  If you would like to be able to go outside your bungalow and lounge on the beach, this might be the option for you.  Your beach area is private to you only, there are usually lounge chairs set up for your bungalow, and you can walk right in to the water from your private beach.  Since many people visit more than one island in French Polynesia, maybe your best bet is to stay in a beach bungalow at one resort and follow it with an overwater bungalow at the other resort. 

Photo  © Mary McGrath

What to See and Do in Tahiti

Many visitors to French Polynesia only use the island of Tahiti as a stepping stone to the other islands.  This is fine if you only have a week or so to spend in French Polynesia, and during that time, most people will visit Bora Bora and Moorea.  However if your plans include a longer stay, say two weeks, why not include two nights in Tahiti so you can see what the island has to offer.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme

There are many things to see and do in Tahiti.  In addition to all the sunbathing and water sports that are available, there are many other things to do on the island of Tahiti.  Here is a short list:

• Visit the Black Pearl Museum, which is the only museum in the world dedicated to pearls.  
• Explore the Paul Gauguin Museum and learn about the life of the famous French painter who spent his final years in French Polynesia
• Go shopping in the market, Le Marche, in Pape'ete where you will find black pearl jewelry, colorful pareos, handcrafted items, and vanilla
• Go on a whale watching expedition
• Take a helicopter tour of the island
• Explore the lava tubes
• Watch an outrigger canoe race (especially popular during the celebration of Bastille Day)
• See the Tiki statues which are religious statues made of wood and stone

I feel that this island is often overlooked and undervalued, but as you can see, there are plenty of things to see and do if you plan to stay a couple of days.

Why Not Plan a Trip to French Polynesia

Tiare Flower
© Mary McGrath

French Polynesia, commonly referred to as Tahiti, is comprised of over 400  islands in the South Pacific, with the islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea being the most visited.  They are part of the Society Islands and they are not as far away as many people might think.  The flight from Los Angeles is only 8 hours, and by flying Air Tahiti Nui, the flight becomes part of the fun.  After taking off, the flight attendants, dressed in traditional uniforms, change into flowered shirts and casual clothes.  All your food and drinks are included in the flight and you have your own personal tv set with many options from movies, tv shows, games (which you can also play against others on the plane), or just watch the course of the plane ride while listening to music.  The flight attendants are so accommodating and make sure you keep well hydrated by passing around glasses of water throughout the flight.  On your return, you will take a red eye flight back to Los Angeles.  If you are flying to another destination after Los Angeles, you might want to spend a few days there first.  Same goes for the flight to Tahiti.  If you are flying from the east coast, why not break up your flights by an overnight stay in Los Angeles and then continuing on to paradise, the Islands of French Polynesia.

Coming next ---what to see and do in Tahiti

Please contact me for your trip to Paradise! 
Mary McGrath
732-747-8187

Adding Another Dimension

I have recently become a writer for the examiner.com.  You can read my posts and comment on them by clicking this link.  I hope you enjoy reading my posts - I have been assigned to write romance travel articles.  If you have any thoughts as to articles you would like to read, or if you have any questions you would like answered, just post them here or on the examiner site and I will be happy to answer you.