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
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
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.
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information
This fall, France will be celebrating local cuisine with a brand-new food-centric festival.
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Lion World's Royal Treatment in South Africa
The Royal Treatment
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch D = Dinner
INCLUDES:
EXCLUDES:
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* 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
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
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
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
Friday, April 08, 2011
Cape Town Hotels and Tours
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| View of Table Mountain |
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| Table Bay Hotel |
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| Bread & Wine Restaurant |
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| Penguins at Boulders Beach
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information
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Tuesday, April 05, 2011
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
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
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.
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.
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| Deluxe suite at 15 on Orange Hotel |
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| Deluxe suite - living area |
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 or email Mary@thetravelbugonline.com for more information
Monday, March 14, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
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
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
Saturday, February 12, 2011
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
Friday, February 11, 2011
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
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
Friday, February 04, 2011
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
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187 for your cruise planning
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Dinner at Bloody Mary's - Not to be Missed on the Island of Bora Bora
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©Mary McGrath |
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| ©Mary McGrath |
Bloody Mary's is not the most elegant dining on the island but it is the most fun!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
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
Friday, January 28, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
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
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
Saturday, January 22, 2011
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
Contact Mary at 732-747-8187
Thursday, January 20, 2011
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 McGrathFor more information:
Mary@thetravelbugonline.com
732-747-8187
http://www.thetravelbugonline.com/
Saturday, January 15, 2011
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
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