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Adventure Travel

Thinking About Traveling During the Coronavirus Outbreak? Using a Common Sense Approach

by JuJuB

While its completely understandable that so many people are concerned about traveling due to the coronavirus outbreak, I feel it’s really important to put everything in perspective. Even though there’s no one-size-fits all answer to this current predicament that’s literally affecting the entire world now, using a common sense approach is essential, as it’s too easy for some to let fear and/or their emotions get in the way of their ability to think clearly during this particular time in traveling history.

I want everyone to know that there are still many places they can travel to, as many places are still considered to be safe. So for those who want or need to travel at this time, it’s really just a matter of figuring out what places are still safe to travel to. This requires travelers to keep on top of all travel news related to the virus, making it essential that they educate themselves well. This is simple to do, as those who still want to go on with their travel plans at this time just need to keep on top of all travel advisories, as they can change at any given moment.

How to Protect Oneself

There are a few things travelers can do to protect themselves, as it’s necessary to avoid being exposed to the virus in order to prevent one from getting ill. The best ways travelers can protect themselves from getting the virus is to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, not touch their face, wear a mask if it makes them feel safer, and maintain at least 3 feet in between them and anyone who is exhibiting any signs of the virus, like coughing and sneezing.

The CDC has posted the following questions for travelers, which will help them make a final decision on whether or not they should travel during this outbreak.

  • Is COVID-19 spreading where you’re going?
  • Will you or your travel companion(s) be in close contact with others during your trip?
  • Are you or your travel companion(s) at higher risk of severe illness if you do get COVID-19?
  • Do you have a plan for taking time off from work or school, in case you get exposed to, or are sick with, COVID-19?
  • Do you live with someone who is older or has a severe chronic health condition?
  • Is COVID-19 spreading where you live?

Important Coronavirus Facts

Because I feel it’s so important for travelers to understand everything they need to know at this time, I thought it would be beneficial to make a list of facts to help travelers determine what they should do regarding traveling at this particular time. While all travel-related facilities are indeed taking great measures to reduce the risk of anyone getting diagnosed with the virus, it’s still necessary for all travelers to take matters into their own hands by doing everything possible to protect themselves from the virus, as there is no vaccine as of yet.

The list of facts below are beneficial for any traveler, as there’s so much information on the Internet and on the news nowadays, it can be difficult for travelers to understand what is fact and what is fiction.

 

  • FACT: The State Department has issued a Global Level 3 health advisory, which means that those who live within the United States are encouraged to reconsider any travels to other countries that have confirmed cases of the coronavirus. A Global Level 4 advisory, which has not happened yet, is the level that prevents travelers from taking part in any type of travel. So traveling is still an option.

 

  • FACT: Transportation facilities are taking extreme measures to clean high-touch areas often throughout the day, minimizing the risk of someone getting the virus when traveling by bus, train and airplane. Special attention is also being placed on cleaning areas where staff work, like check-in counters. They have also provided travelers with more hand sanitizing locations, encouraging travelers to use them often.

 

  • FACT: It’s an option for travelers to check in for their transportation travels using their cell phone. This is a good idea, as it means they don’t have to touch any self-service kiosks in order to check in for their reservation. And instead of handing over their phone to one of the agents or baggage handlers for identification purposes, they can simply hold on to their phone and show them the information.

 

  • FACT: Hotels are also responding to the outbreak, as they’re increasing the frequency of how often the clean any public areas. They’re also training employees on new ways to clean, helping to minimize the chances of any hotel guests being diagnosed. This includes cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting all areas of a hotel, including any food areas.

 Bottom Line

It’s up to travelers whether or not they want to travel during this current outbreak. The above facts should help travelers make the right decision, as these factual pieces of information are in place in order to help travelers make the right decision. All travelers are definitely encouraged to use a common sense approach when making their decisions, vs. letting their fear or emotions take over. If the decision to travel has been made, then it’s essential for all travelers to buy a travel insurance policy.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Top 5 Hunting Destinations in the USA for Exotic Animals

by JuJuB

Hunting ranches are a popular travel destination for hunters, or anyone else who wants to hunt exotic animals for trophy reasons. While many people associate the term exotic animals with animals that are not to be hunted, in fact the term simply refers to a species of animal that’s not indigenous to a certain area. This means a variety of exotic animals can be hunted nowadays, with many hunting ranches available in the United States.

Top 5 Hunting Destinations in the USA for Exotic Animals

There are a few different reasons why hunters will choose to visit a hunting ranch, Two of the more common reasons is because they want to hunt a young female animal for the purpose of harvesting their meat, and because they want to hunt an older animal so they can display its head as a wall trophy.

The list below includes five of the more popular exotic animal hunting destinations located in the United States.

1. Texas = 5-Star Outfitters. This hunting ranch places a lot of emphasis on providing hunters with a safe environment. They offer guided hunts, with most hunters choosing this particular ranch because they’re looking for trophy animals. Exotic animals that can be hunted at this location include elk, ram, deer, turkey, and zebra. Accommodations include a hunting lodge and two cabins.

 2. New Mexico = Kiowa Hunting Service, Inc. This hunting ranch has been in business for more than 30 years and is a full service hunting organization. The private lands they manage allows hunters plenty of opportunities to hunt for a variety of exotic animals, including elk, mule deer, Coues deer, antelope, Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, ibex, oryx, and turkey.

 3. Maine = OMM Outfitters. This hunting ranch strives to educate, entertain, and it always be accommodating for hunters who are looking for an extraordinary outdoor hunting adventure. They have a respect for the wildlife on their land, as well as the environment they live in. Exotic animals that can be hunted at this ranch include moose, bears, coyotes, turkeys, geese and upland birds. Glamping is available.

 4. Florida = Outwest Farms, Inc. This hunting farm has been in business for almost 20 years and is one that specializes in offering hunters the ability to hunt hogs and alligators. Hog hunting and alligator hunting is available during every month of the year, which means hunters who want to go on a wild boar hunt or an alligator hunt can do so by signing up for one of the four hunting adventures they offer.

 5. Ohio = Double D Ranch. This hunting ranch is located in Ohio’s alpine wilderness, and tends to be an option for more serious hunters. This is due to the rugged location, which makes it more difficult to hunt exotic animals, and is exactly what many hunters are looking for – a challenge. The ranch is open year round and offers hunters the ability to hunt deer, ram, antelope, goat, elk, sheep and wild boar.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

New Zealand: From Glaciers to Beaches

by JuJuB

Thinking about taking your next vacation in New Zealand? There are many destinations to explore when in New Zealand, making it a good idea for travelers to find out more about this sovereign island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean before making any final plans.

New Zealand

New Zealand destinations include visiting its North Island, South Island, and/or other 3 islands. While vacationers can expect the scenery and landscape to be absolutely gorgeous in all locations, each destination comes with its own special and unique things to see and do. A short list of options include backpacking, snowboarding, luxury traveling, mountain bike riding, going to a health spa, shopping and enjoying the popular events that take place in new Zealand every year.

New Zealand Glaciers. There are many glaciers in New Zealand to explore! The contrast of gorgeous white glaciers set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s green rainforest is something that every adventure traveler will surely appreciate. Fox Glacier and Tasman Glacier are two of the more popular glaciers to explore.

New Zealand Weather. The weather in New Zealand tends to be unpredictable. Temperatures can drop as low as 14° in the wintertime and be as high as 79° in the summertime. There’s lots of rainfall throughout the year, with snow often appearing in between the months of June and October.

New Zealand People. The people who live in New Zealand, aka Kiwis, are extremely welcoming and down to earth. There’s a unique blend of cultural influences here that allow for a lifestyle that is simply like no other on the planet.

New Zealand Cuisine. New Zealanders place a large focus on fresh and diverse cuisine. Some of the more popular, and therefore favorite new Zealand foods include mussels, oysters, roast lamb, seasonal vegetables, fish and chips, pavlova, and cheese.

New Zealand National Parks. There are 13 National Parks in New Zealand, all of which are in place in order to preserve the natural heritage of this beautiful country. Must-see parks include Whanganui National Park, Abel Tasman National Park, Mount Aspiring National Park, and Arthur’s Pass National Park.

New Zealand Beaches. There are numerous beaches in New Zealand to explore, as the country’s borders are known for its long stretches of sand. The diversity of beaches is also exciting, as there are rocky beaches, sandy beaches, tree-lined beaches, cove beaches, grassy dune beaches, pebble beaches, and beaches that perfectly support marine life viewing.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Australia: Adelaide and Kangaroo Island

by JuJuB

Thinking about taking your next vacation somewhere on the beautiful continent of Australia? This bucket list vacation destination offers some of the most natural wonders in all the world! There are also many things to see and do in Australia, including appreciating the absolutely gorgeous beaches, witnessing the interesting lifestyle of Aussie’s, exploring the many fascinating adventure opportunities that exist here, and exploring some of Australia’s greatest cities.

Adelaide

Adelaide is located in Southern Australia. With a population of just under 1.4 million people, this Australian city is known as South Australia’s cosmopolitan coastal capital. There’s plenty of perfect white sand beaches in this coastal city, as well as a long list of local farmers markets, restaurants, and wineries to explore. The large population of both seals and dolphins living along the coastline make for great views for those who choose to walk or bike ride through Adelaide’s many trails.

There’s also a large focus on the arts, music and dance here, which is why people from all over the world fly out in order to attend its 2 biggest festivals – Fringe and WOMAD. The city is also a well-known for its popular sporting events, with tennis, cricket and football being three of the more popular sports.

Since Adelaide is only a short 30 minute plane ride to Kangaroo Island, those who choose to visit Adelaide are encouraged to also visit nearby Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo island is Australia’s third biggest island. The beaches are clean and rugged, making them one of the top reasons why this island is quickly becoming a top vacation destination for beach lovers. Add the ability to explore its underground caves, learn about the conservation techniques used to protect the wildlife here, check out the historic lighthouses, and enjoy eating some of the best gourmet cuisine, and you can see why this Australian island is one that must be discovered!

While the ability to see the native wildlife that lives here up close is a top reason for visiting the Island, the artisanal food scene is one that any food lover will enjoy as the Island is also known for its award winning beers and wines. One of the best luxury hotels in all the world is also located here – the Southern Ocean Lodge. This lodge is situated on a cliff above the sea, and overlooks one of the most beautiful, rocky stretches of coastline the Island has to offer.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Croatia by Sea

by JuJuB

Thinking about taking your next trip somewhere in Europe? How does cruising the coastline of Croatia sound? Croatia is located in Southeastern Europe, and includes more than 1100 miles of coastline right along the Adriatic Sea. There are more than 1200 islands along this coast, ranging in size from small rocky islands to larger yet still private islands. Directly across the Adriatic Sea is Italy.

About Croatia

Why is Croatia becoming a top vacation destination amongst today’s travelers? Croatia is a unique European destination that simply offers some of the most interesting and beautiful scenery. The Mediterranean country is one that emits an old-world feel, as there are many Unesco World Heritage Sites that exist here, and accordingly one of the top reasons why many travelers choose to visit the ancient country. The Roman architecture is very well preserved, which is very exciting to those who enjoy exploring old architectural buildings.

Why Visit Croatia’s Coastline?

The fact that Croatia has one of the most gorgeous coastlines in all of the world makes booking a cruise to enjoy its coastline a must! The ability to explore the beauty of Croatia via its coastline is something every traveler will enjoy, no matter what their age. And because the area tends to experience a mild climate all year long, travelers can book a cruise with one of the cruise lines that travel up and down the gorgeous coastline of Croatia any time of the year.

There are both small cruise lines and large cruise lines available to view the beautiful country of Croatia by sea. Discovery cruises offer travelers the ability to learn about Croatia’s fascinating history, including the reasons behind all of the many castles and cathedrals that exist in Croatia. Luxury cruises that explore Croatia’s coastline tend to lean towards relaxed luxury travel vs. high end luxury travel.

Sailing cruises are for travelers who are looking for excitement, romance, or a little of both! The world’s largest full-rigged sailing ship is available for travelers who want to experience a different type of cruising. Large cruise ships, local cruises, and day cruises are also available, making it worthwhile for any traveler wanting to explore Croatia’s beautiful coastline to look into all of their available options.

Katerina Lines offers coastline itineraries of Croatia, and offers travelers a large number of Croatian coastline itineraries. There are many different types of itineraries to choose from, which means there’s a perfect itinerary for everyone. Examples include itineraries based on relaxation, bicycling, hiking, young fun, and simply enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

The Ritz Carlton in Aruba

by JuJuB

Every traveler needs to include Aruba on their travel bucket list! I recently visited this small Southern Caribbean island, which is not included in the hurricane belt. This means travelers can expect to experience fantastic weather throughout the entire year. I stayed at the Ritz Carlton, and had such a great time that I wanted to share my experience with you all!

Aruba

Aruba is also known as Caribbean Paradise, and no wonder as it is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. The people are friendly, the beaches are absolutely stunning, there are really interesting caves to explore, and a really great natural pool to lounge in. The beaches are what lures travelers in, as Aruba is well-known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, the oceans turquoise color, and its comfortably warm sea waters.

The Ritz Carlton

My stay at the Ritz Carlton was fantastic! This luxury Caribbean hotel is especially a great choice for incentive travel, destination weddings, and honeymoons. It’s located on one of the nicest of all the beaches in Aruba, which means some of the best views of the Caribbean Ocean. This five star luxury hotel offers all of the amenities one would expect – a variety of exceptional dining venues, luxury spa treatments, a 24 hour casino, live entertainment, beachfront venues, custom catering, a club lounge, and of course luxury rooms and suites.

 

  • All of the rooms offer ocean views via a balcony or terrace, with most offering ocean front views. The décor is inspired by all things Caribbean, making the overall design one that’s vibrant and welcoming.
  • The variety of dining venues means there’s always a new cuisine to try out. There’s a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, a breakfast buffet restaurant, a casual outdoor restaurant by the pool, a sushi bar, a lounge bar, and a café that makes some of the best coffee and a variety of handmade baked goodies.
  • The luxury spa is to die for! We indulged ourselves in many of the spa offerings, and we were completely satisfied with the services.
  • The 15,000 square foot casino has all of the traditional games one would expect to find in a casino. Live entertainment can be enjoyed in the lounge area right next to the casino.
  • There are cabanas available by the pool and the beach, allowing for a perfect day of luxury lounging! The servers use Segway’s as to not waste any time bringing our drinks.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Traveling in Italy: Capri and All the Great Things to do There

by JuJuB

Considering taking your next vacation in the beautiful country of Italy? Italy is a top vacation destination, which shouldn’t be a surprise due to all of the many great things to do there. Capri is a great place in Italy to explore this year. This beautiful island offers all of the picturesque views vacationers are looking for, as well as a touch of mythical charm.

Traveling to Italy

Is traveling to Italy on your bucket list? This European country is home to some of the world’s most iconic images, which is one of the top reasons why vacationers want to explore the vibrant country of Italy. Additional reasons include wanting to explore the rich culture that exists here, the ability to relax on Italy’s great beaches, wanting to enjoy consuming its delicious cuisine and getting to know the friendly locals.

Capri – All the Great Things to do There

The island of Capri offers vacationers a number of things to do, making it a good idea to make a list of must-sees and must-dos. In order to get to the island, visitors must take a ferry or rent a private boat. The following is a list of some of the more popular experiences and exciting tour opportunities that Capri has to offer.

 

  • Take a boat tour around the island. Booking a boat tour allows vacationers to enjoy the gorgeous views. For those who love to explore, they can even enter a wooden rowboat that allows them to check out the Blue Grotto sea cave, a true once in a lifetime adventure.
  • Take a chairlift to the peak of Mount Solaro. Taking a chairlift up to the top of this spectacular mountain allows for some of the most scenic views available on the planet. Vacationers are encouraged to enjoy the views while taking pictures, as well as encouraged to order drinks from the nearby café.
  • Watch the sunset. The Punta Carena Lighthouse is the only location on the island where vacationers can actually watch the sun set into the Mediterranean Sea. Vacationers are encouraged to arrive at the lighthouse a few hours before sunset so they can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a cocktail, allowing for a truly enjoyable afternoon.
  • Enjoy an evening at the Taverna. Vacationers who want to experience the Capri nightlife are encouraged to reserve a table at the infamous Taverna nightclub. The energy, the upbeat music, the dancing, and the great drinks all make for a really fun atmosphere.

 Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Alaska Cruises: Elite Travel vs. General Travel

by JuJuB

Thinking about cruising to the last frontier? Alaska cruises offer travelers a fantastic opportunity for exploring to wilderness and wildlife that live here. The vast spaces of gorgeous unspoiled land, the magnificent glaciers, the awe-inspiring waterfalls, the humpback whales, the bears and soaring bald eagles are all just a few of the many wonderful sites to behold.

Alaska Cruises

There are many options for taking an Alaska cruise. Larger ports for cruising in Alaska include Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, Icy Straight Point, Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm. Smaller ports include Dutch Harbor, Haines, Homer, Kodiak, Nome, Petersburg, Seward, Whittier and Wrangell.

Elite Travel

Travelers can choose to book an elite Alaskan cruise, which allows them to enjoy all of the extravagances that come with making luxury travel accommodations. This option is great for travelers who want to experience all that comes with elite traveling, like personalized services, gourmet dining, private suites, balconies views and guided shore excursions. Elite travel cruise ships are offered on large ships as well as small ships. Smaller Alaskan cruise ships are able to access many remote destinations that larger cruise ships are simply too big to explore.

 

  • The Seabourn Sojourn is an all-inclusive Alaskan luxury cruise. With a limit of 462 passengers, this is one of the smaller cruises that allow for spectacular scenic cruising and visiting many smaller, more hidden Alaskan ports.
  • The Seven Seas Mariner offers all 700 passengers luxury accommodations, and is a great choice for couples who want to experience all the best amenities a cruise ship can offer.

 

General Travel

Travelers can also choose to go the general travel route. While general travel accommodations do not offer travelers the same luxury accommodations as luxury travel cruise ships do, this type of traveler is interested more in exploring Alaska vs. enjoying the luxurious many Alaskan cruise ships offer. This option is great for large traveling groups and families.

 

  • The Carnival Legend is a popular choice for families. There are plenty of fun and interesting things to do for all ages on this large cruise ship that holds 2,124 passengers. A few examples include mini golf, water slides and educational games that allow the younger crowd to learn about Alaskan culture.
  • The Nieuw Amsterdam is an Alaskan cruise ship that appeals to large groups. This cruise ship offers a more relaxed and therefore traditional cruising experience, which is exactly what many travelers are looking for nowadays.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Argentario: Italy’s Hidden Gem

by JuJuB

Considering taking your next vacation in Italy? Italy has a lot to offer travelers! The friendly people, the gorgeous countryside, the fantastic array of delicious food options, the cobbled walkways, the history, the architecture, the plazas, the museum’s and the church’s are just some of the allure that makes Italy a top vacation spot.

Argentario Italy’s Hidden Gem

Monte Argentario is located in Tuscany and is one of Italy’s most exciting hidden gems! While it used to be an island, it’s now connected to the mainland via sand bars. Visitors will not only enjoy exploring the seaside as well as mountainside opportunities, they will also enjoy the inclusiveness and privacy this hidden getaway in Italy offers. Nearby islands include Giannutri and Giglio, allowing for a fun and exciting day of island hopping.

Additional things to do and explore here include visiting the lagoons, golfing by the sea, taking a walk through the village, shopping in high-end boutiques, enjoying cheese and wine tasting opportunities at local farms, signing up for relaxing massages, going on a boat tour, visiting the 17th century Spanish Fortress, renting a canoe to explore the coastline, going swimming or diving in the crystal clear blue waters, going mountain bike riding, visiting the nature reserve, and participating in one of the many local events that take place here, i.e. parades, firework shows, treasure hunts.

Popular destinations include Porto Ercole, Porto Santo Stefano and Cala Piccola. Popular attractions include Cala Mar Morto, Riva del Marchese and Cala del Gesso. Popular restaurants include the Sandwich Club, La Vivienda and Gourmet Con Gusto. July and August are busy months, as there are lots of festivities and events taking place during this time. Fall and spring are the best times for vacationers who are looking for a little more privacy to visit this hidden gem.

Is Monte Argentario the Next Positano?

Monte Argentario can be compared to the vertical town of Positano. This well-known and popular city in Italy was formed in the 19th century and became even more famous in the 18th century when it developed into a major port and trading hub. The beach in Positano is absolutely spectacular and one of the largest located on the Amalfi Coast. Once road construction made it easier to access the Amalfi Coast, these beaches have become a popular vacation spot amongst all types of vacationers, including famous artists, actors and celebrities.

The many similarities between Positano and Monte Argentario has many people wondering if Monte Argentario is the next Positano. What do you think?

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

 

Villa Esperanza in Costa Rica

by JuJuB

Getting ready to plan your next vacation in beautiful Central America? Costa Rica offers some of the most beautiful scenery to behold in the Americas, as well as some of the most luxurious accommodations. While many vacationers do opt to stay in a luxury hotel when visiting Costa Rica, there are just as many vacationers who prefer their accommodations to take place in a private luxury home.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular vacation destination, and for all types of travelers. It offers the ability for visitors to explore two different oceans, hike through massive green and very lush jungles, enjoy seeing a variety of wildlife that exists here and even climb an active volcano. Costa Rica is simply a destination for anyone who appreciates taking part in and exploring the many types of outside adventure opportunities available here, whether it be a solo traveler, a newlywed couple, a family or an entire group.

Villa Esperanza

Villa Esperanza is a private luxury rental home that offers some of the most beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. This Spanish colonial style villa has a total of four bedrooms and five bathrooms, which provides accommodations for up to ten people. The three different levels means there’s easily more than enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy their Costa Rican experience. While there is more than 5500 square feet of living space available, the design of the house allows the space to feel cozy and comfortable, especially the kitchen and nearby lounging area.

This beachfront home not only overlooks the ocean, it also includes a pool and pool area for lounging. There’s plenty of backyard privacy as palm trees surround the villa, which makes it’s easy to spend the entire day out by the pool swimming in the cool blue waters while soaking up the sun. There are two dining areas outside, and shaded terraces that allow for fantastic views of the ocean all day long.

For those who are considering visiting Costa Rica, if you’re looking for private luxury accommodations that are somewhat off the beaten path, Villa Esperanza is the place for you. It simply offers the perfect combination between modern conveniences and old world charm, which is responsible for its great allure.

With advance notice, travelers can have access to a private chef, daily maid service, a personal driver, and the ability to book tours for all to enjoy the beauty of the island.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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