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The Responsible Traveler

by JuJuB

What responsibilities does a traveler have when booking a trip? While many people associate responsible travelers as those who are mindful of their carbon footprint, respect the culture and customs of the places they’re visiting, and will take the time to learn about a place before choosing to travel to that location, there are other ways that travelers need to be responsible. Ready to learn more?

The Responsible Traveler

Anytime a traveler uses a travel agent to book their next trip, both the traveler and the travel agent must be sure to pay very close attention to their individual responsibilities. The responsibility of the travel agent is to plan the trip in a way that meets all of the travelers wants and needs. This includes doing things like making travel reservations, hotel accommodations, tour reservations, entertainment reservations, and selling them necessary travel insurance.

 

The list below includes the many different ways that travelers need to be responsible when booking their next trip, whether they use a travel agent or not.

  • Make sure all documents are printed and taken with you on your trip. Making 2 copies and keeping them in separate places is recommended, as well as leaving copies with trusted friends and/or family members.
  • Make sure any travel company you want to do business with is legit. Simply performing some detailed research will give you the information you need.
  • Be sure to get every person’s name you’re dealing with. This supports your ability to have a trail when it’s necessary to contact these people for any reason.
  • Make sure your passport will not expire in the next 6 months. Most countries won’t let travelers enter unless their passport expires at least 6 months after their last day of travel.
  • Know where you are and who to contact in case of an emergency. This is one of the first things you should do when staying in a new location.
  • Take out travel insurance, for you and all who are traveling with you. You never know when something will happen, like an injury, or someone back home gets sick. The current Coronavirus crises is a perfect example of why you need travel insurance, as it’s not the responsibility of the hotel, airline, or travel agent if something happens to you during your travels. When buying travel insurance, be sure to read all the fine print, and find out what the cancellation policy requires you to do.

 

Have a Great Time, Responsible Traveler!

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

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

 

A Day at Torciano Winery

by JuJuB

Traveling to Italy? Taking time to visit the Torciano Winery is a must for those who appreciate luxury wines. This Italian winery offers visitors a welcoming place where they can enjoy all things wine, while relaxing and enjoying the extraordinary views.

Torciano Winery

The Torciano Winery was founded in 1720 and is now in its 13th generation of wine producing. The warm hospitality found here is like no other, as the focus of the winery is on celebrating both their style and heritage. Pierluigi Giachi, owner of Tenuta Torciano Winery, places a lot of attention on creating an Italian experience for those who visit his winery that is simply like no other. One of his many goals is to help travelers understand how to pair the right food with the right wine, which simply makes every dining experience all that much more enjoyable.

Wine lovers will enjoy the variety of both red Italian wines and white Italian wines available here, as well as additional wine options, like sparkling wines and dessert wines. Visitors will also get to learn proper glass etiquette, a skill that will take them far in their wine tasting adventures. Because the Torciano Winery has such an impressive history and is able to offer visitors so many options, this is a winery that needs to be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

The following are just some of the options available when visiting Torciano Winery. Making reservations is recommended due to their popularity.

 

  • Lunch in the actual winery, includes tasting
  • Dinner in the actual winery, includes tasting
  • Truffle hunting, includes lunch and tasting
  • Tour the vineyard, includes tasting in winery
  • Cooking classes, includes tasting in winery

 

For those who love wine and are looking for one of the most romantic and scenic venues located in Italy to get married, know that the team at Torciano Winery will take care of all the details. Newlyweds can also expect romance with every dining experience, as a romantic dinner in the winery includes wine tasting and much more.

For those who enjoy a luxury wine vacation, the option to take a full tour of the winery via a private helicopter is available. This truly incredible journey allows visitors to explore the Tuscany area from above, making for incredible lifetime memories.

For those who are interested in getting a group of friends together to take a vacation based on all things wine, there is simply no other winery that can offer them the warm hospitality offered here, which all stems from the Giachi family’s passion for their Italian heritage.

For visiting families, know that there are fun activities that make visiting the winery exciting for the whole family, including mini bowling and archery.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Why it’s Important to Take an Annual Vacation

by JuJuB

When’s the last time you took a vacation? While many people tend to think that taking an annual vacation is a luxury, taking a break from one’s normal routine is actually recommended for a well-balanced life. Just like choosing the right foods to eat and exercising on a regular basis, taking a vacation every single year should be on everyone’s list of things to do as it can help them live a truly happy and healthy life.

January 30th is National Plan a Vacation Day, a great reminder for those who work hard all year long that it’s time to plan a vacation!

Reasons why it’s important for everyone to take regular vacations

Remember how exciting it was to have some time off when going to grade school, high school, college? Not only did you get the entire summer off, there were also many breaks when you didn’t have to attend school, i.e. spring break, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas. But once you get started on your new career path, this tends to change. It’s now easy for you to get caught up in your workload, which is one of the reasons why many workers will put off taking a vacation, because they don’t want to fall behind or lose their competitive edge.

Even so, the many benefits that come with taking an annual vacation are not to be missed and for that reason should be a part of everyone’s yearly calendar of things to do. The following is a list of the top reasons why it’s important for everyone to add taking regular vacations to their calendar.

 

  • Vacations are good for your health and well-being. Everyone needs a break from the pressures of everyday life. A vacation allows for the resting and relaxation, giving your body the ability improve and mend itself for better overall health.

 

  • Vacations improve relationships. Vacations are the perfect time for bonding! Whether it’s a couple or a family, doing fun and exciting things together while on vacation supports togetherness and therefore is invaluable.

 

  • Vacations allow for a refocus. Studies show that when someone is so involved with their work that they don’t make time for much of anything else, they will often experience memory problems and focusing problems. Taking an annual vacation allows them to refocus so they can return to work more energized.

 

  • Vacations make you happier. Vacations are a time for fun and relaxation, which means no stress and no worries. When there’s nothing to stress or worry about it’s hard to be anything else than happy.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Summertime Skiing

by JuJuB

How does summertime skiing sound? If you’re someone who enjoys the cooler months more than the warmer months, then taking a ski trip during the summertime is definitely worth your time looking further into. There are quite a few summer skiing destinations for you to choose from, which means you’re sure to find a destination that is just right for you.

Summertime Skiing Destinations

The following is a list of some of the best summertime skiing destinations, which are becoming more popular nowadays as more and more people are looking for cooler vacation options to take during the summertime.

 

  • Treble Cone in Wanaka, New Zealand – This summertime ski area is a great choice for intermediate skiers and expert skiers. It opens the end of June and allows skiers some of the best skiing slopes as well as access to some of the most gorgeous wintertime scenery.
  • New South Wales, Australia – This Australian ski resort is located in the Kosciuszko National Park and includes four different areas for skiing, making it one of the biggest ski resorts located in the southern hemisphere. Other options besides skiing include snowboarding, snow tubing, and tobogganing.
  • The Chilean Andes, South America – Ski Portillo offers over 1000 acres of skiing trails in a very remote location, and is a great choice for families or newbie skiers. While the skiing trails are indeed the main reason while people choose this summertime ski resort, a close second is to enjoy the absolutely spectacular scenery.
  • Kaprun, Austria – This year round ski resort is a great choice for intermediate and expert skiers. Lots of run choices and a total of eight jumps easily allure summertime skiers, making this a skiing resort that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
  • Zermatt in Switzerland – The Matterhorn is one of the most well-known peaks and is located very near Zermatt. This is not only the largest summer ski area in Europe, it accommodates all types of skiers, from beginners to experts.
  • Blackcomb Mountain, British Columbia, Canada – Even though this popular ski resort is only open from mid-June to mid-July, millions of people choose this summertime skiing destination due to the fantastic snow runs and excellent temperatures.
  • The Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood, Oregon – This United States based summertime skiing option is popular as it’s the only ski resort in the United States that offers year round skiing. Both intermediate skiers and expert skiers will enjoy skiing down Mount Hood, which is a volcano located within the Cascade Range.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Where is the Best Place to go to Exchange Currency for Travel?

by JuJuB


Getting ready to travel abroad? Wondering where the best place is for you to exchange currency? Because currency exchange rates are going to vary, understanding where you can exchange your currencies so you can get the best rate is a smart idea. Carefully choosing a place where you can exchange your currency for another can save you lots of money, as you’ll be avoiding both poor exchange rates and potential high fees.

Where is the Best Place to go to Exchange Currency for Travel?

In order to make sure travelers are not taken advantage of when traveling to another country, it’s best for them to exchange their currencies before they take their trip at a well-known bank or hotel.

 

  • Before Leaving Home: there are many banks in the United States that will allow their customers to purchase foreign currencies before taking a trip outside the country. All someone needs to do is contact their bank and ask if they offer this service. If they do, they need to also ask what their exchange rate is and whether or not they charge any fees for this service. Comparing the bank’s exchange rate to the global exchange rate will let people know if they’re indeed getting a good deal by using their bank to exchange their currency for travel.

 

  • Using a Known Hotel for Currency Exchange: many hotels in other countries will allow their guests to exchange their currencies at the front desk. Be sure to understand their buy and sell exchange rates. And know if they charge you 10% or less to do the transaction, that this is a fair fee.

 

  • Using a Credit Card to Exchange Currency: while using a credit card to exchange currency is often an option, understand that the exchange rates when using most credit cards are going to be high. Using a credit card that doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees is therefore recommended.

 

Travelers who happen to have any foreign currency left over after their trip should exchange it before leaving the country, as this will allow them the best rates.

 

A few currency exchange tips:

  • Don’t let a foreign merchant charge your credit card in dollars
  • Don’t use your credit card to get cash advances in foreign countries
  • While using a currency converter website may seem convenient, the exchange rates will not only be higher, you also have to pay for the delivery charges

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Packing Light for Winter

by JuJuB


Planning on traveling this winter? Looking for ways to NOT overpack when traveling during the colder winter weather months? Good idea. You definitely want to avoid lugging around heavy suitcases while traveling, and by learning a few simple tips for packing light in the wintertime you won’t have to. Since the winter months are right around the corner, now’s the time for you to understand how to pack for winter as it really does require a whole new packing approach.

Ready to learn some really great tips that will make packing in the wintertime a breeze?

How to Pack Lighter During Cold Months – A Few Tips

Packing appropriately for each and every trip is definitely an art. You don’t want to under pack as you want to be sure you bring everything you need, and you don’t want to over pack as this can make it difficult for you to find anything, and overpacked luggage is heavy! This makes it a fine line when it comes to packing the perfect suitcase.

When packing for wintertime travel, of course you’re going to need to pack clothes that are going to keep you warm, like sweaters, jackets, warm pants, scarves, etc. So what are a few things you can do to make packing when traveling during cold weather super simple?

Here’s a list of the best winter packing tips you can follow.

TIP: Wear your heaviest sweater and bulkiest coat when boarding your plane.

TIP: Put your jacket in your carry-on bag it the bag is large enough.

TIP: Wear one pair of weatherproof winter boots and bring two pairs of really warm socks.

TIP: Pack a neutral colored lightweight hat, 2 neutral colored scarves, and a pair of thin, neutral colored waterproof gloves. Neutral colors go with everything!

TIP: Pack thin items that can be layered, i.e. thin sweaters, thermal tops, thermal bottoms.

TIP: Pack 2 pairs of warm pants, one black pair and one neutral colored pair.

TIP: Use a compression bag to pack thick sweaters and jackets.

TIP: Invest in a quality, lightweight carry-on bag that offers lots of pockets for organizing.

TIP: Instead of packing pajamas, sleep in thermals.

TIP: Plan out your wardrobe be laying out all of your options on your bed so you can create at least 10 outfits by mixing and matching the same items.

Good to Know! When you board a plane, the further back you go the less likely you’ll have any overhead space to put your belongings.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Highlights of Aruba

by JuJuB


Thinking about traveling to Aruba? Where the weather is sunny all year long and the white sand beaches beckon all who walk by to come, sit down, enjoy the views and relax for a while? Add the friendly locals and the exotic cuisine and it’s easy to see why Aruba is a popular tourist attraction these days. This makes Aruba a perfect destination choice for newlyweds, families and groups of friends who are looking to have some fun and adventure. Ready to find out what some of the best highlights are when visiting this picturesque Caribbean Island?

Highlights of Aruba

The following is a list of some of the must see and must do’s when traveling to the beautiful yet fairly small island of Aruba. While Aruba is indeed a popular vacation island, it never feels too crowded. Best time to visit Aruba is between the months of April and August.

 

  • Visit Eagle Beach – ranked as one of the top ten beaches in the whole world, this highlight is a definite must see!
  • Visit the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
  • Take a Jeep Safari Tour
  • Visit the Museums – two must see museums are the Archaeology Museum and the Historical Museum
  • Go Reef Diving – Aruba has fantastic coral reef gardens
  • Sign up for a Snorkeling Tour
  • Sign up for a Kayaking Tour
  • Sign up for a Fishing Tour
  • Take a Cruise around the Island
  • Take a Sailing Tour around the Island
  • Visit the Natural Bridge – Aruba’s most photographed attraction
  • Sign up for a Taste of Aruba Tour – explore local products made on the island, i.e. Balashi Beer and Aruhiba Cigars
  • Visit the California Lighthouse and the California Sand Dunes – located near Arashi Beach
  • Take a guided tour in the largest passenger submarine in the world!
  • Visit Eagle Beach – famous for its turtle nesting area
  • Bon Bini Festival in Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital city – Every Tuesday evening in the outer courtyard of the Historical Museum Aruba’s history is expressed through local music, art, folklore dancers, and culinary specialties. Fun!
  • Explore Aruba on horseback
  • Explore Aruba while riding ATVs, UTVs and/or Trikes
  • Go Skydiving – jump out of an airplane and enjoy the gorgeous views all the way down
  • Explore Arikok National Park
  • Visit Palm Island – a fun day trip that includes water slides, small pools for kids, snorkeling and a huge buffet for all ages to enjoy
  • Explore the Antilla Shipwreck – the largest shipwreck dive offered in the Caribbean Sea
  • Visit the Hooiberg – this volcanic formation is a must see for nature lovers

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Bucket List Travels – Greece: The Island of Spetses

by Tammy



Greece is a fantastic bucket list destination! Located in Southern Europe, the Island of Spetses in Greece offers vacationers some of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches that are just perfect for spending the afternoon with family and friends. Spetses is a perfect location for those who are wanting a more secluded vacation experience, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a little privacy during their trip.

Driving through the stunning countryside is a must. There are plenty of backroads to take, all giving unforgettable views of the gorgeous scenery that exists here. The Greek island of Spetses is also full of interesting history, which can be seen through their style, and architectural buildings. Walking through and around town is necessary as no cars are permitted on the narrow-cobbled streets of Spetses. If feet get tired, a horse and buggy will be the mode of transportation.

The local cuisine fully represents the culture and is delicious! Some favorite seafood options include grilled octopus, stewed mussels in white wine, tuna fillets and salmon tartare.     

Boat racing is a popular attraction and people from all over the world will come to watch the Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta, which takes place every year. The backdrop is the beautiful Mediterranean Sea dotted with islands, blue skies and white clouds, making for a perfect day for boat lovers.

Other fun things to do on the Island of Spetses include taking a day hike, sailing on the ocean’s blue waters for the day, taking long walks through the countryside, soaking up the Greek sun while lying on beautiful white sand beaches and taking long horse and buggy rides through the cobbled streets of town.

The Island of Spetses is able to offer those who are wanting a truly exceptional and unique vacation experience an adventure they will treasure forever.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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