I understand the journey is supposed to be as important as the destination, but I am not certain that aphorism applies to airline travel, especially in coach seating. There’s that kid just behind you foot-kicking your seat like a base drum, and ......  read more

Which fleet is best? What’s the best ship? Those are questions cruisers invariably ask, and almost impossible ones to answer since everyone’s tastes and priorities are so different. That said, we could help you pick your perfect cruise vacation by showcasing the main features of the major cruise lines.

Nine of the top 20 fleets are alphabetically listed below. Keep in mind that cruise lines attempt to please a wide range of people and all provide some common amenities. However, after a little research you’ll likely narrow your choices down to a couple fleets depending on your lifestyle, budget, and interests.

Azamara Club Cruises may only enlist two ships, but their itineraries reach far across Europe, Asia, and South America. You’ll find a country club atmosphere on these medium-sized, ultra-premium ships, in part due to the more casual dress policy and wood-paneled lounges. Expect exceptional cuisine and service, outstanding itineraries (with an overnight stay in port on every cruise) and upscale accommodations.

Carnival Cruise Lines is not only the world’s largest cruise line, but also the most popular. Hallmarks of this fleet include the cruise industry’s most vibrant nightlife, above average food, and large cabins. If you love Las Vegas, these ships will certainly fit the bill since the entertainment is dazzling and the casino is lively throughout the day and night. Families also flock to the “Fun Ships” because of Camp Carnival’s supervised activities, the spiral waterslides, and other kids’ facilities. Best of all, the super-low prices on Carnival make the fleet a hit with families, singles, couples, groups... just about everyone!

Celebrity Cruises offers an upscale cruise experience with a focus on food and service. These award-winning ships have a casual European atmosphere, with a great selection of modern art and contemporary design. You’ll find more newlyweds, couples celebrating anniversaries, and families with older children here. The fleet’s newest vessels offer plenty of balcony staterooms, gourmet restaurants, posh spas, glass-blowing demonstrations, and a real lawn for picnics, putting, croquet, or bocce ball.

Holland America Line offers a sophisticated style of cruising aboard medium-sized ships with larger-than-average staterooms and a rich history of premium service. These classically designed ships cater to cruisers who like a more tranquil cruise experience with refined entertainment, fine art auctions, and immersive enrichment classes. Holland America is a natural choice for many multi-generational families, travelers over 55, and couples marking special occasions.

Norwegian Cruise Line is best known for “Freestyle Cruising”, a big hit for those seeking an unstructured seagoing vacation. Eat whenever you want, with whomever you want, without a dress code in the main dining rooms. Small surcharges expand your options to seemingly countless specialty restaurants. Highlights on the newest ships include an ultra-chic lounge with plush beds and bowling lanes, a lounge made of ice, Blue Man Group performances, Second City comedy shows, and a Cirque du Soleil dinner theater. With all this for some of the most affordable fares at sea, the industry’s youngest fleet is popular with families, singles, and couples.

Oceania Cruises says it isn’t a luxury cruise line but the experience is close to it. Oceania’s food is overseen by Jacques Pepin and is among the best in the cruise industry. The 640-passenger ships fill up quickly with loyal guests (many of them retired) who enjoy single-seating dining in four restaurants, very polished service, and staterooms boasting down comforters, high-thread European sheets and, if you’re in a suite, personal butlers.

Princess Cruises has a loyal following of travelers who love the ships’ dining program where you may choose assigned seating or dining whenever and with whomever you please. The fleet has come a very long way since earning fame on the 1970s “Love Boat” TV show. Today, Princess’ ships feature contemporary design and stylish amenities alongside very good food, nice staterooms, friendly service, and superior shore excursions. While there are families aboard every cruise, these floating resorts primarily attract couples of all ages.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides a true luxury cruise experience with large staterooms, superb dining, exceptional service, onboard experts, and worldwide itineraries. Both ships host less than 700 guests, showcase Scandinavian décor, and offer extraordinary spas operated by Carita of Paris. Fares include opulent accommodations, roundtrip airfare, gratuities, all beverages, and unforgettable shore excursions.

Royal Caribbean International is among the most innovative fleets in the industry, boasting the world’s largest cruise ships and arguably the most with a real “wow” factor. Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas each offer an unprecedented set of onboard experiences: 2 surfing wave pools, high-diving shows at an outdoor amphitheater, scuba lessons in a pool, zip-line rides, a boardwalk carousel, street performers, loft suites, an outdoor grass park with sidewalk cafés, and much more. Previous ships in the fleet introduced the first rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, mall-sized promenades, and other onboard thrills. Endless options for dining, accommodations, and activities, plus amazing values make Royal Caribbean a favorite for families with kids, couples, singles, groups, and cruisers of every kind.

by: Anne Campbell

Before booking a cruise it is wise to determine the category of cruise that you will enjoy most, based on your lifestyle and expectations. Then choose the cruise line within the category that best fits your specific needs. 

LUXURY

·  Crystal Cruises

·  Regent Seven Seas

·  Paul Gauguin

·  Sea Dream Yacht Club

·  Seabourn Cruises

·  SilverSea Cruises

The luxury cruise lines offer the most polished and sophisticated product in the industry. Exceptional service, elegant and refined ambiance, extra attention to passenger comfort and satisfaction, larger food budgets, a very high level of ship’s maintenance, and more inclusive pricing are some of the hallmarks. Some of the luxury lines have eliminated tipping, or have a “tipping not required” policy. Single seating dining and/or alternative onboard restaurants that are open throughout the evening (at no extra charge) are popular features.

Passengers generally tend to be older, more experienced travelers who desire a less structured environment, and are more interested in “life enrichment” than a high onboard activity level. Some of the very expensive small ships in tis classification offer almost no planned activities at all. The larger five-star ships usually offer production shows, movies, live music, and other activities typical of similar size ships, but oriented toward a mature clientele. If you have had a really great time on Contemporary/Resort cruises, and become addicted to the activity level on these ships, a Luxury cruise may not be for you.

PREMIUM 

• Celebrity Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• Cunard Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Virgin Voyages

The Premium cruise lines offer most of the amenities of the Luxury lines but at somewhat of a lesser cost. Smaller staterooms, a slight reduction in amenities, and perhaps a little less personalized service is often compensated for by an increase in things such as shipboard activities, theme cruises, more contemporary and/or more lavish stage shows, and increased nightlife.

Premium lines often attract a more diverse and somewhat younger clientele than the Luxury lines, but this also depends on the itinerary. Most travelers will not notice the difference in the food quality between the Premium and Luxury lines. 

RESORT/CONTEMPORARY

·  Carnival Cruise Lines

·  Norwegian Cruise Line

·  Costa Cruise Line

·  Princess Cruises

·  Disney Cruises

·  Royal Caribbean

Popular with young families and younger people in general. The Contemporary lines provide a good product and a good value. The general emphasis is on delivering a good cruise rather than absolute perfection afloat. The pace on the cruise is generally faster with activities planned through-out the day. Food budgets are typically lower and there may be less variety, but the food is good. Dining in alternative restaurants, when available, is usually not included in the price of the cruise ticket. Extra charges are often levied for services that are complimentary on the Premium and Luxury lines.

If you expect a lot of personal service, or have become accustomed to being pampered on a Luxury line, you may not feel that your expectations are fulfilled. 

NICHE/SPECIALTY

·  American Cruise Line

·  American Queen Steamboat

·  Compagnie du Ponant

·  Lindblad Expeditions

·  Star Clippers

·  Uncruise Adventures

·  Voyages of Discovery

·  Windstar Cruises

Niche and specialty cruises offer guests a cruise vacation with a distinct expertise and focus. Most niche/specialty cruise lines are destination experts and provide guests with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture that they are visiting.

RIVER CRUISES

·  AMA Waterways

·  Avalon Waterways

·  Uniworld River Cruises

·  Viking River Cruises

River cruises operate on protected waters, inland waterways, and rivers. Often offering specialized itineraries. In general, these lines operate ships that do not attempt to compete with mainline cruise ships in the areas of stateroom size and comfort, onboard entertainment, food and dining options. Instead, these ships offer unique features that traditional cruise ships do not. The passenger mix tends toward the elderly and the adventurous, people who are seeking something different from the typical cruise.

Take advantage of activity-packed All-Inclusive resorts in Cancun and the Riviera Maya area, intimate villas along the beach and historical sightseeing adventures along the beaches of Cancun, Riviera Maya, and nearby Playacar, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum and Xcaret. Whether you're planning a last-minute vacation, honeymoon or your yearly family vacation, this truly is the ultimate vacationer's paradise. Popular activities in Cancun and Riviera Maya include diving, fishing and snorkeling in the Caribbean, enjoying the warmth of the beach under the tropical sun, historical sightseeing and dancing the night away at World-famous bars and night clubs in Downtown Cancun. When planning a vacation to Cancun or planning a vacation to the Riviera Maya, it's important to remember that resorts on the Yucatan's Caribbean coast are largely divided between the two areas. Each offers high quality resorts, but with vastly different surroundings and atmospheres. 

TIP:  Ask about our seasonal non stop charter flights to Cancun, available with our featured partners Funjet Vacations and Apple Vacations! 

For the most convenient option, packed with value, we will work with you to customize a complete All-Inclusive package. This will include your non stop airfare, hotel accommodations, transfers from the airport to your resort, and your meals, drinks and non motorized sports! These are are BEST SELLERS! Not all resorts are equal. You will find hotels rated on a scale of 1-5 stars, 5 being the best. We typically recommend 3.5-star experiences and up for the best value for your vacation dollar.

Below is an overview of each area to determine which is best suited for you.

Cancun

Known as being on the "7", Cancun is a bustling, modern city. High-rise hotels stand side-by-side along the beaches, and jet skis buzz across the sparkling aqua water. New hotels are being built each year.

Staying at resorts directly in Cancun (or along Cancun's hotel district) is great for vacationers who want to explore outside of the resort, try different restaurants, walk to shops and experience the vibrant nightlife at nearby clubs. There are countless activities to try both day and night, and it's impossible not to pick up on the air of excitement. Interested in a Cancun destination wedding? No problem!

In Cancun you'll have the chance to walk along the white sand beaches for miles. Tips: Taking a walk along the beach at sunrise is great opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Caribbean and you'll have the best views of the bright aqua ocean and city of Cancun from top floors of your hotel.

Key areas of interest:

• The Hotel Zone of Cancun, located along the world-famous "seven" shaped peninsula at the eastern tip of Mexico, is truly a shoppers' paradise, with everything from lively street markets to the world's most exclusive boutiques within walking distance of fantastic resorts.
• Cancun's array of dining choices will entice every palate, ranging from local specialties to five star restaurants.
• The glittering nightlife still reigns in Cancun, with all-night discos, live music, piano bars and even jazz clubs open year round.

Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen

Just south of Cancun is the beautiful Riviera Maya and the town of Playa del Carmen. This area is a remote oasis away from the active city. Rising no more than three stories high, most resorts along the lush Riviera Maya are All-Inclusive with a wider variety of restaurants and bars than their Cancun counterparts. This area is better for travelers who prefer to stay right at the resort for dining and nightlife during the majority of their stay. The pristine beaches offer opportunities for relaxing or trying various water sports. You will also find more historical parks and ancient ruins in the Riviera Maya.

Key areas of interest:

• Relax all day on at remote resorts in a hammock beside the Caribbean Sea or walk the powder-white sand beaches that stay cool as they reflect the heat of the tropical sun.
• Visit the nearby town of Playa del Carmen, with shops featuring local art and handicrafts, where you can take the ferry across to the island of Cozumel.
• Uncover the ancient culture of the Mayans and visit ruins that reveal their lives and beliefs. Afterwards, cool off with a swim in a cenote, a freshwater pool bringing water from underground limestone caverns to the surface.
• Romantic All-Inclusive resorts that cater to destination weddings in Riviera Maya and to couples in love.

Weather in Cancun / Riviera Maya

The average temperature is 27° C (80° F) with more than 240 days of sunshine, and rain is rare. In summer the temperature goes higher, but an onshore breeze makes the climate enjoyable throughout the day.

Tipping in Cancun / Riviera Maya

Tips in Mexico are generally 15% - 20%, tipping cab drivers is not expected, and tipping the maid in the hotel a couple of dollars a day (per room) is greatly appreciated.

Wedding Requirements for Cancun / Riviera Maya

There is a two day waiting period, and couples require a passport/driver's license, birth certificate, certified copies of both parents' birth certificates or valid passports, four witnesses, and blood tests not older than 15 days.

Airport Information for Cancun / Riviera Maya

Travel to and from Cancun uses the Cancun International Airport.

Rental Cars in Cancun / Riviera Maya

A dozen rental car companies operate at the airport and at many hotel locations (including Advantage Rent-A-Car, Advant Rent-A-Car, Avis, and Budget Rent-a-Car). Note that car rental is relatively expensive, and often does not include unlimited mileage. You must be 25 years old, hold a driver's license and major credit card. Road signs are in Spanish.

No Artificial Ingredients! Orchids bloom and toucans preen their feathers in treetops above the dense rainforest... Sun glistens over a volcanic sand beach and a troop of Howler monkeys prance from branch to branch. You are there, flying from platform to platform in a harness from the highest tree (The Canopy Tour) or lazing in a hot spring below Arenal Volcano. Yes, it's a beach vacation, but you'll need your binoculars and sneakers-for it's a jungle out there!

Please Note: The only acceptable proof of citizenship for persons traveling to Costa Rica is VALID U.S. Passport only. Birth certificate and photo ID are not accepted and you will be denied boarding.

Weather in Costa Rica/Guanacaste
From December thru May, it is sunny with dry tropical weather and an average temperature of 86°F.

Tipping in Costa Rica/Guanacaste
A 10% service charge is automatically added to the bill, an extra 5% is optional if service is good.

Wedding Requirements for Costa Rica/Guanacaste
Applicants require passports, a bilingual lawyer (can obtain lawyer through hotel), birth certificate, police record, & affidavit of single status. The lawyer needs info concerning line of work or professional degrees, parent names & a sworn statement.

Airport Information for Costa Rica/Guanacaste
Travel to and from Costa Rica/Guanacaste uses the LIR - Liberia Airport.

Rental Cars in Costa Rica/Guanacaste
In order to rent a car, you must have a valid American or international driver's license, be at least twenty-five years old, and have a Visa or MasterCard with enough credit to cover the total cost of the rental (you should also check with your credit card company in order to find out whether or not you can be insured if you pay with your credit card in Costa Rica). Renting a car in Costa Rica is expensive, approximately $320 a week for a compact; perhaps double that for a four wheel drive. The price includes insurance. Fuel is not expensive, around $10 to fill a compact car, $20 for four wheel drive ( most of the rental cars are stick-shift).

The island of Cozumel lies just twelve miles off the Yucatan Coast of Mexico, a 45 minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen. Best known as a scuba diver’s paradise, the island of Cozumel has a selection of popular All-Inclusive Resorts, and is a common stop on Caribbean cruises. Cozumel vacation planning can be exciting! To get the most value when you travel to Cozumel, either by cruise or when staying at an All-Inclusive Cozumel resort, we recommend asking for advice and assistance when planning a trip to Cozumel. You'll save time and have peace of mind when planning your vacation!

Dive into the crystal blue waters of Cozumel and discover why Jacques Cousteau called it the "best diving area in the world." Palancar Reef, the second largest in the world, provides an incredible diversity of species, stunning sites and visibility of at least 150 feet.

On land, it’s a dream Caribbean destination too, with a lively small town (San Miguel), long, palm-shaded beaches, lush jungle, and ancient Mayan ruins like El Cedral and San Gervasio.

Local Cozumel Travel Tips:

Car Savings and Jeep Rentals- Don’t expect to haggle with local rental-car or jeep operators - prices are generally firm; the best way to save money is to call or book ahead online.Jeep rentals in Cozumel are popular among tourists looking to explore the island, especially when cruise ships arrive. Be sure to stop at the many local bars and restaurants in Cozumel as you explore the islands.

Walking and Exploring The Island - If you’re arriving on a cruise ship at Punta Langosta, you’re less than half a mile south of the central plaza. Puerta Maya and the International pier, however, are 2.3 miles farther south. Some tourists walk and others catch a cab. Your resort might have shuttle options into town if you're staying on the island.

Hotels - Consider Location and Maybe Skip the View: Hotel rooms in San Miguel that face the sea often come with traffic noise from the busy streets below - so think twice before booking one and consider what you're looking for when it comes to a resort vacation - while more affordable, it may not be worth the cost. Where you sleep will depend on your priorities: Lazy beach vacationers will prefer a base at one of the resorts on the coast, either north or south of town, but San Miguel’s accommodations are less expensive, smaller, and right in the middle of the action.

Cozumel Excursions - If you are staying on the island at a hotel or resort, we recommend exploring the variety of Cozumel excursions and activities offered by our preferred tour operators, for a safe and affordable option. In addition, if you are cruising to Cozumel, the cruise lines will have a wide variety of Cozumel excursions for you to choose from onboard!

Weather in Cozumel
There is only a four or five degree variance between winter and summer temperatures in Cozumel, with winter highs in the mid 80's °F and summer highs around 90°F. August through October is the rainy season.

Tipping in Cozumel
Tipping is normally 15%, with a 15% sales tax and 10% value-added tax on most items.

Wedding Requirements for Cozumel
Civil ceremonies are the only ones recognized in Mexico, no residential requirements are applicable. Marriages are performed at the Civil Registrar's office for a fee (can range from $100 - $250 in resort areas).

Airport Information for Cozumel
Travel to and from Cozumel uses the Cozumel International Airport.

Rental Cars in Cozumel
Cars can be rented at Smart Rent-a-Car.

Come to Jamaica and Feel All Right! Nothing is a problem on this island paradise where reggae, romance and the Caribbean sun come together. Land in the bustling tourist center of Montego Bay and discover a variety of great beaches, attractions and shops.

For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to the seven miles of spectacular beach in Negril. Or stay in lively Ocho Rios and climb the 700 foot cascading waterfalls at Dunn's River Falls. Falmouth, Braco and Runaway Bay are growing resort areas that offer popular hotels and fabulous all-inclusive resorts.

Wherever you go on this island paradise, the friendly smiles of the Jamaican people will keep you coming back.

Top Resort Areas and Port Cities in Jamaica
Montego Bay, better known as MoBay, is surround by mountaintop jungles and lies on miles and miles of tropical beaches. Montego Bay is one of the largest cities in Jamaica and where most Jamaica visitors arrive by air, landing at Sir Donald Sangster International Airport. Travelers who venture into town can find duty-free shops and a crafts market on Harbour Street and a few historic sites around Sam Sharpe Square, named for the leader of a failed slave resort who was hanged here in 1832. If you are planning a short stay in this area, there are a variety of All-Inclusive Resorts to choose from. 

Negril has had lots of time to learn the ins and outs of being party central. During the early 1700s heyday of piracy, Negril was the gathering place of treasure-laden galleons about to sail out of the Caribbean and on to Europe. Back in the days of piracy, Calico Jack Rackham and his female pirate mates once guzzled too much Jamaican firewater - aka rum. British party-poopers subsequently raided Calico Jack's rum rumble and made arrangements for his death by hanging. 

Ocho Rios, Jamaica's number 2 tourist magnet is about 70 miles from Montego Bay and around the same distance from Kingston. Ocho Rios sounds like ochos rios, Spanish for eight rivers. Located in the northeast coastal parish of St. Anne, Ocho Rios is home to a major cruise port and its attractions can be flooded with tourists when the cruise ships are docked. Some travelers opt to avoid the crowds by staying in quieter Runaway Bay about 10 miles away, which is home to several All-Inclusive Resorts. This former fishing village is home to two of Jamaica’ most famous tourist attractions, Dunn’s River Falls and Fern Gully. 

Destination Weddings in Jamaica
Destination weddings in Jamaica are growing in popularity, with more and more All-Inclusive resorts catering to couples in love and family and friends who join them. Learn more about our Jamaica destination weddings here. 

Weather in Jamaica
Jamaica's average annual temperature is 80°F / 27°C. The average yearly temperature range is between 78°F and 85°F. Extreme temperatures range from a low of 65°F to a high of 95°F.

Tipping in Jamaica
Hotels have a service charge of 10-15%, the same amount is generally accepted at restaurants.

Wedding Requirements for Jamaica
Original or certified copies of birth certificates. If either party is divorced, original or certified copies of divorce papers. If either party is widowed, original or certified copies of spouse's death certificate. Couple must be in Jamaica for 48 hrs.

Airport Information for Jamaica
Travel to and from Jamaica uses the Sangster International Airport, Norman Manley International.

Rental Cars in Jamaica
To rent a vehicle, the driver must be 25 years of age. A valid drivers license, valid for 12 months, may be used for up to a 3 month period. The driver must post a bond to meet insurance regulations with cash, major credit card, or travelers checks. Rentals are available from many different companies.

Negril has had lots of time to learn the ins and outs of being party central. During the early 1700s heyday of piracy, Negril was the gathering place of treasure-laden galleons about to sail out of the Caribbean and on to Europe. Back in the days of piracy, Calico Jack Rackham and his female pirate mates once guzzled too much Jamaican firewater - aka rum. British party-poopers subsequently raided Calico Jack's rum rumble and made arrangements for his death by hanging.

Where Mexico Comes Alive - Fall in love with Puerto Vallarta's old world charm and dreamlike natural beauty. Lush tropical jungles surround this quaint colonial city with interesting architecture, cobblestone streets and white-washed buildings. Discover chic boutiques as you stroll along the Malecan, then check out the exploding art scene and sizzling nightlife. Sprawling golden beaches, Pacific blue waters and heart-stopping sunsets that reflect on majestic mountains complete this picture-perfect vacation spot.

Weather in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta enjoys a warm tropical climate all year round, the rainy season is late June through September (afternoon showers). January through April - high 86°F, low 63°F; May through Dec. - high 92°F, low 70°F.

Recreational Activities in Puerto Vallarta

Golf

Hotel-Affiliated Courses

The Vallarta Palace offers golf options at the following courses:

• Flamingos Golf Club
  One of the first golf courses in Puerto Vallarta. Designed by renowned English golf course architect Percy Clifford.
• Marina Vallarta Golf Club
  Marina Club de Golf offers a challenge for all levels of golfers. Designed by Joe Finger.
• Vista Vallarta
  • Nicklaus Course
    Target-style golf with breathtaking views of Banderas Bay and the Sierra Madre mountains as a back drop. Designed by Jack Nicklaus.
  • Weiskopf Course
    Precision is required from tee to green with several bunkers along the way. Designed by Tom Weiskopf.

Independent Courses

• El Tigre Club
  One of the first golf courses in Puerto Vallarta. Designed by renowned English golf course architect Percy Clifford.

Sport Fishing

Banderas Bay’s deep blue waters provide an abundance of sailfish and marlin along with smaller game fish. October through February is the best time for sailfish and black or blue marlin. And the International Sailfish and Marlin Tournament, the largest fishing tournament in Mexico, takes place in November.

Whale Watching

The best months to see the majestic humpback whales are the months from December through March, when they are in their calving season and before they make their migration north.

Watersports & Beach Activities

All your favorite watersports and beach activities can be found in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy snorkeling and diving under the water; surfing, boogie boarding, and sailing above the water; and beach volleyball and other activities on the golden sand. It is recommended to avoid parasailing in Puerto Vallarta, as well as independent vendors offering horseback rides on the beach.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Tidbits

Fireworks

There are fireworks every night at 9 pm from the Marigalante, a pirate ship in the bay.

Art

Check out the local art scene and a wide variety of intriguing art forms while having fun (and free cocktails) at the Old Town Art Walk, every Wednesday from 6-10 pm.

Change of Scenery

Bus routes include the north coast, up to Bucerias and Punta Mita for a fun day trip away from town.

Hidden Beaches

From Los Muertos beach, you can also take a boat — a panga — to the beaches of Animas, Quimixto, and Yelapa, which are only accessible by boat.

Groceries

If you’re in need of snacks or beverages, Rizo’s Supermercado is a great place to stock up.

Gourmet Festival

Vallarta’s restaurants really overachieve during the 10-day Gourmet Festival in mid-November. More than three dozen establishments invite guest chefs to prepare special menus, some of which influence restaurant offerings in the following year.

How do I get around town?

Transfers

Roundtrip transfers between the airport and hotel are included with air and hotel packages. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) is off the highway six miles north of town, near Marina Vallarta. Upgrades to a direct private transfer are also available.

Rental Car

Rental cars are a fast and efficient way to get around the Puerto Vallarta area, especially if you’re planning on traveling to the northern coast of Banderas Bay. If you’re more likely to spend all of your time at a resort, a rental car is not necessary.

Taxi and Bus

Camiones (local buses) and colectivos (minibuses that are a cross between standard buses and taxis) both run set routes throughout the city and the coastal strips at either end, servicing all of the major hotels in the process. Taxis veer their way through predetermined city zones, with the price of a ride climbing as you pass into a new zone. Negotiate the cost of a trip before getting into the vehicle.

Tipping in Puerto Vallarta

Mexico generally follows the 15% tipping rule, and a 15% sales tax will be charged on most items.

Wedding Requirements for Puerto Vallarta

Only civil ceremonies are recognized, and there is no residency requirement. Marriages occur at the Civil Registrar's office (fees range from $100-$200), both parties must have a birth certificate or passport, a tourist card, divorce decree (if applies).

Airport Information for Puerto Vallarta

Travel to and from Puerto Vallarta uses the The Gustavo Diaz Airport (PVR).

Rental Cars in Puerto Vallarta

Local car rental agencies include: Budget, Hertz, Alamo, Thrifty, National, Avis, Dollar, Tom & Jerry Volkswagen Rental, Advantage, and Turimax Rent & Buggy. To rent a car you must be at least 25 years of age, hold a valid driver's license and a major credit card.

The NEW Caribbean! The unspoiled scenery of Punta Cana will leave you breathless. Forty miles of pearl-white sand beaches and First Class luxurious, All-Inclusive beach resort hotels line the eastern coast of this island. Punta Cana has put a priority on its ecological efforts. Vacationers can hike trails and view some of the native and rare species of animals and vegetation while the island's mineral springs offer a cool and refreshing refuge.

The Dominican Republic is known for many things, but soon it will be known as one of the premier golf destinations in the Caribbean. Golf is available at three 18 hole Golf Courses. One of the most popular courses is the Cocotal Golf & Country Club they offer an 18 hole championship golf course that is just a few minutes away from every major hotel in Punta Cana. Punta Cana is 90 minutes from the famed "Teeth of the Dog" championship golf course.

Punta Cana Travel Tips
Dress- Punta Cana is more laid back, so casual dress is acceptable. At most resorts you will need a cover-up for your bathing suit in the restaurants. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes for walking in rocky and rugged areas. Check with your hotel for any specific dress requirements.

Language & Currency- Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. English is spoken in more tourist areas. The peso is the country's unit of currency. American dollars may be taken in some areas. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the exchange rate before you arrive.

Sightseeing- If you're looking for something more to do than watersports or sunbathing, check out Marinarium Marine Park or Punta Cana Ecological Reserve. Both are located within the city. Before venturing off the resort grounds, be sure to check with the hotel staff about areas you should avoid.

Weather in Punta Cana
The coastal zone is blessed with a warm subtropical climate. The year-round daytime average temperature is 82 degrees F.

Tipping in Punta Cana
A 23% gov't tax is added to all bills, including a 10% service charge. All hotel and restaurant taxes and tips are included in All-Inclusive packages.

Wedding Requirements for Punta Cana
Getting maried in Punta Cana is popular. A couple needs to inform the hotel at least one month in advance, with a minimum of 15 days notice, in order to reserve the judge, look for hotels offering wedding packages who will handle this for you. The hotel will inform guests of all the required documents they need to present in order to legally wed in the D.R.

Airport Information for Punta Cana
Travel to and from Punta Cana uses the Punta Cana Airport.

Rental Cars in Punta Cana
You must be at least 25 years old to rent a car, and you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driving permit. Although we do not recommend renting a car, car rentals are available for approximately $50 - $65 per day. Several internationally recognized companies (I.e. Hertz, Avis and Budget) operate in competition with many local operators. The latter usually offer customers substantially lower prices, but could be a source of problems in case of accidents. Insurance is relatively expensive, collision-damage waiver is essential if you don't want to pay for the full value of repairs for damages in cases of accident. Be sure to check that there is adequate coverage if you rent from the local operators and that there is a spare tire and jack for repairs.

As a travel professional we are paid by our preferred suppliers on a commission basis. The only way we receive compensation for the work we provide is to book the reservations once all the planning is completed. Unfortunately, there are those that gather information supplied (i.e., the best place to travel, best accommodations, best options, etc) and take the information and book with an online agency site thinking they'll find it "cheaper" or find a "better deal". Because of this, I'm pretty selective with the clients I work with. My services start in the planning phase and end when you return home from your vacation. Having the ability for someone to take care of all the details, call with questions or concerns, monitor your vacation plans are just a few reasons why many people use my services.
When you book directly, you contact many diverse companies in order to satisfy your transportation, destination, activity, and hospitality needs. As you contact each company, the employees you speak with, including desk agents and phone operators, will typically receive the commissions generated from your bookings. These people work for the companies with which you are doing business and are paid to represent their interests, with little ability to coordinate with each other.
When you go through a travel professional, they simply earn the same commissions that the other individuals would have otherwise received, all while representing you instead of the other parties. In the end, you will benefit from a higher level of service. As a travel professional, we work for you and our loyalties lie with you. From the moment we receive your first call, we will be working hard to ensure that your destinations and connections flow smoothly together. We pay attention to your goals, research your options and, once you approve, we handle your bookings. In most cases, our work is done at no additional charge to you. Fostering long-term relationships with our clients is our primary goal and we will strive to exceed your expectations each and every time you allow us to serve you. Someone is making a commission when you travel, so wouldn't you rather that person be working for you?

Yes, I would almost always recommend travel insurance. Travel insurance not only protects your vacation investment, but it also protect you, your party, and even your belongings. 
The primary purpose of travel insurance is to protect your travel investment if you're unable to follow through on your travel plans. If you have to cancel, whether it be for medical emergency, inclement weather, lack of funds, or any other unforeseen circumstance, travel insurance will allow you to recoup your investment, minus the cost of the insurance itself. Personally, I've had to use it twice myself when medical issues in my extended family caused us to change our plans at the last minute. Some packages are so comprehensive, you can even get your money back without giving any reason at all.
Travel insurance can also protect you and your party during your travels. If you develop a medical condition, suffer injury, or if political unrest n a foreign country causes a change of plans, your insurance will cover your additional expenses. Some plans will even cover loss or damage to your belongings while traveling. Most plans even cover medical, legal, and concierge services at no additional charge.
Travel insurance it completely optional, and not everyone opts to use it, but I would personally never travel without it.

Passports are required when traveling outside of the United States. For many destinations a valid passport is one that is valid for 6 months past the date of return from your travels. 

Starting in 2025, you will need a passport to fly within the domestic USA, UNLESS you have a real ID.

Do you have a current passport for traveling?

Is your passport in good condition?

Do you know where you passport it?

For more information about passport requirements, renewal and application, please visit travel.state.gov.

For more information about REAL ID, please visit your local DMV.

Grab your friends, family, special interest group, etc and let's travel together!

There are benefits to be had from traveling as a group from exclusive amenities, private parties, group activities, etc.

Types of Groups

* Family Reunions

* Destination Weddings

* Birthdays + Anniversaries

* Bachelor + Bachelorette Paries

* Class Reunions

* Home-school Groups

* Friends

* Faith-based 

* Retirement 

* Holiday Travel

* Special Interest Groups

and more!

It’s time for you to set sail on a Caribbean cruise that mixes flawless beaches and private paradises, relax as you watch the beautiful Alaska sunrise peak over a glacier, and snap a photo of spectacular architecture as you travel on a European River Cruise!

Whether planning your honeymoon, family vacation or group getaway, I can find the cruise that fits your budget and is perfectly tailored to your needs. There are several ship atmospheres to choose from including ones that boast family fun, have non-stop action & adventure, or emphasize the luxury of the finest cuisine and onboard entertainment.

Along with expert guidance and dedication to customer service, I can easily arrange your cruise, shore activities, tours and air transportation, so you’ll be all set to kick back and enjoy.

What's Included in the Price of a Cruise?

Your accommodations, entertainment, activities, meals and transportation to picturesque destinations all conveniently included in the price of your cruise. In fact, cruises are ranked as one of the top vacation experiences because they provide travelers with the best value. With pools, around the clock entertainment and live shows, spa and fitness centers, shops, and more bars and restaurants than you can count; there’s always something to keep you busy on your cruise.

Top Cruise Destinations

Experience one of these amazing and diverse destinations and best of all...you only have to unpack once!

Alaska
Bermuda
Canada
Caribbean
Panama Canal
South Pacific
Europe
French Polynesia
Hawaii
Mexico
South America

Traveling for business purposes can be stressful and busy enough without having to worry about travel arrangements. That’s why it’s so important to be able to book corporate travel in the most convenient and easy way possible.

We can help you to organize your entire travel schedule and itinerary. Everything from your flight and car rental to your hotel accommodations can be taken care of, which lets you completely focus on making your trip a success.

What could be better than having your airfare and transfers to your resort, accommodations, food, alcohol, activities, entertainment, gratuities and taxes all included in one pre-paid cost? 

All-Inclusive Resorts are the best way to see and do it all without worrying about emptying your wallet. If you've ever taken a vacation, you know how fast your expenses can add up. Suddenly, your $5000 budgeted romantic getaway is now $7000. 

With an All-Inclusive Vacation, there are no surprise expenses because everything is conveniently included in one upfront cost. All-Inclusives provide you with everything you need to have a good time and with many resorts that are adults-only or family friendly, there's a suitable fit for every lifestyle or group.

Give us a call and we can determine if an All-Inclusive Vacation is right for you and your family. If you're nervous to travel to an unfamiliar destination for fear it will not meet your expectations, I can make recommendations on resorts and/or destinations that I have personally visited or researched. After our discover call or meeting and hearing some of my advice and suggestions, you may want to venture out of your comfort zone and travel to an exotic island you've never even considered.

If it’s your first time flying or you need some advice about your flight, simply contact me and I’ll help to make your air travel as comfortable and smooth as possible. You can also check out TSA's website for current travel guidelines.

Tips for a Stress-Free Flight Experience:

When in doubt, arrive early.

The last thing you want is to be running to catch your plane. Based on your airport and flight times, I can help you by making suggestions on necessary airport arrival times. And don’t underestimate the time you’ll need for connecting flights! With many large airports, you’ll need to consider the time it takes to navigate to your gate.

Know the carry-on restrictions.

Save time when going through security by keeping in mind these important requirements for carry-ons: 

• Ensure all of your liquids or gels are in 3 ounce or smaller containers (more than 3oz permitted in checked baggage).
• Place those containers in a 1 quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag.
• Place 1 bag only per traveler in the security bin for screening.

Also, be sure to check the maximum carry-on luggage sizes–they vary based on the specific airline!

Speed through security.

Do you want to wait 5 minutes or less? Traveling with children? You can get TSA Pre✓®

Track your flight.

While no one wants to experience cancellations or delays, with weather conditions and unpredictable mechanical issues, it’s always a good idea to stay-up-to-date. Along with airline apps, I can also recommend other apps and alerts to help you stay informed about your flight schedule.

Layers, layers, layers.

Since you don’t know how warm or cold it will be on the plane, be sure to wear layers so you can effortlessly adjust to changing temperatures. A scarf can double as a blanket or even a pillow. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to remove at security.

Consumer Guide to Air Travel.