Category:

Elite Incentive Travel

House of Blues: New Orleans

by JuJuB

As everyone surely knows, there are quite a few places to enjoy listening to blues music while visiting New Orleans! One place that immediately comes to mind is the House of Blues, a perfect combination of a live music concert hall, bar and restaurant. They hold musical concerts and events, and in a variety of genres, throughout the entire year, so there’s really something for everyone.

 House of Blues: New Orleans

There are now 12 House of Blues locations in the United States, and in my opinion, the one in New Orleans is one of the absolute best! This particular House of Blues is located on Decatur St., in the French Quarter neighborhood. I recently visited the New Orleans House of Blues and decided to take advantage of their Foundation Room offerings, a VIP membership option. Because the Foundation Room only sits about 50 people, it makes for a more personal experience.

Their private member club includes LOTS of perks that I think are well worth the cost of membership. And I really enjoy the Bohemian feel. The priority access, the private VIP tables, the personalized concierge service, the ability to order from their premium menu, and more, all come with VIP membership. There’s even an option to attend pre-concert events and meet and greet with a variety of artists, as this is also part of the VIP experience.

My group was very excited that we got to enjoy a very personal VIP concert by Candlebox when we went, an American rock band that’s released multiple albums in the many years they’ve been together. There were a total of 6 in our party and every single one of us truly enjoyed the experience from the very beginning to the very end!

A few things to know about this House of Blues location – attire is casual, they serve brunch, lunch and dinner, and their food choices include American, contemporary, seafood and Cajun.

I used to be a member of the Las Vegas House of Blues. Because I have a travel agency that caters to a lot of corporate clients, as well as weddings, I would often use the membership as a perk for both types of clients. The entire staff at the House of Blues is very accommodating.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

The Top Three Spa Resorts in the World

by JuJuB

Thinking about taking your next retreat in one of the top rated spas in all the world? Good for you! When you choose to take your next vacation centered around a spa resort, you can expect to experience a great deal of luxury.

Top Three Spa Resorts in the World

The below list includes the top three spa resorts in the world as of today.

 

1. BodyHoliday, Castries, St. Lucia. This top spa resort is one that places a large focus on overall wellness. Every suite is designed to offer guests a private sanctuary experience, with the ocean views suites offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. These luxury suites also offer guests tropical garden views, giving them choices. The resorts food philosophy is centered around healthy eating, and includes organic fruits and vegetables grown in their own garden.

The Wellness Centre is considered to be a true sanctuary, as it offers a variety of soothing treatments that were specifically created to help guests return to a place a wellness. A focus on helping guests reach their optimal health is a priority, and includes using relaxation therapies as well as a variety of pampering spa treatments.

2. Chablé Resort & Spa, Chocholá, Mexico. This top luxury spa resort offers guests deluxe villas, of which all include their own private pool. The overall atmosphere is one that immerses guests into the rich culture and history of this part of Mexico, allowing them a true blend of exotic nature and comfortable luxury. The culinary offerings are like no other, as one of the best chefs in the world designed the menu. With a total of only 36 suites, guests will enjoy this luxury experience while enjoying their privacy.

The Chablé Spa focuses on combining ancient healing techniques with modern science. The spa gets its natural energy from a power source created by the Mayans, allowing for the ancient healing the spa is well-known for.

3. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, Santorini, Greece. This top spa resort is located on one of the more romantic coastlines in the world. Guests can expect to receive the personalized service they deserve, all while relaxing in one of the luxurious suites. Many of these suites include an infinity pool, which are built in a way that allows guests to enjoy the setting sun over the Aegean Sea. While this top luxury spa resort offers guests all the amenities they can imagine, the overall atmosphere is one that is sophisticated, warm and welcoming.

The Kallos Spa is located within the resort and offers guests beauty treatments, health enhancing treatments, therapeutic relaxation treatments, yoga sessions, detoxing meals and a variety of holistic therapy techniques that support one’s overall well-being.

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

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

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

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

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

Small Group Travels to Europe are Best

by Tammy

Thinking about planning your next trip to Europe? Great! A European vacation is able to offer travelers a number of unique and exciting things to do, giving them memories that are easily going to last a lifetime. When you choose to take your next vacation in Europe, you’re going to get to experience all of its rich history and fascinating culture, which is one of the main reasons why Europe is still a top vacation destination. If you’re wanting to get a group together, be sure that it’s a fairly small group, as small group travels to Europe are best.

A European Vacation

The history, the culture, the splendid cuisine, the exciting nightlife, the charming villages, the lovely ambiance and much more are all to be found when vacationing in Europe! Because there is so much to do and see when in Europe, the following is a list of some of the more popular things to do or must see attractions when vacationing  in Europe.

 

  • While Paris, Rome and Florence may be crowded, they are a must see and accordingly are well worth the visit!
  • The Swiss Alps are a perfect vacation stop for travelers who enjoy winter sport activities and small charming towns.
  • The Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is a must see for its sheer beauty, a perfect place for nature lovers.
  • The European architecture includes many styles and is absolutely spectacular, making it a good idea to schedule in some tours of famous architectural buildings.
  • European museums are many and include some of the most impressive collections worldwide.
  • Eating musts include – tapas, pizza, cheeses. Drinking musts – wine.

Why Small Travel Groups are Best

Why are small travel groups best when traveling to Europe? Because small group travels allow travelers to explore their destinations in a much better fashion when compared to large travel groups. Smaller traveling groups are simply able to better enjoy seeing and exploring all of the many sights there are to see when vacationing in Europe. Small groups allow everyone to get to know each other. When there are too many people in a group, it’s easy for travelers to get lost in the crowd.

 

Small group travel benefits:

  • See things the way locals see them – more intimate – places are more easily accessible – can make new friends – has access to places larger groups cant go, like small, local restaurants – impact of small groups is smaller, important when visiting smaller European villages.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Eden Roc All-Inclusive 4-Star Miami Beach

by Tammy

Now that summer is almost officially here, travelers are looking for the best all-inclusive hotels to spend their summer vacation! This means that there’ll be a lot of vacationers looking for the best beach vacations, and all over the world. Because it’s summertime, this also means that families are looking to take their family summer vacations, making finding a family-friendly hotel a top priority for vacationing families.

The Eden Roc is an all-inclusive 4-star Miami Beach hotel and has been recently updated. This top vacation spot is perfect for both couples and families who enjoy the beach cosmopolitan lifestyle, which is what the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami is all about.

The Eden Roc All-Inclusive 4-Star Miami Beach Hotel

The Eden Roc is now an updated all-inclusive family-friendly hotel as it has recently undergone some huge transformations. While the Eden Roc has always been a popular hotel choice for those vacationing in or around the Miami Beach area, the $250 million they spent modernizing the hotel ensures every guest experience will be one they will never forget.

One of the many reasons why the iconic hotel has been so popular over the years is because it isn’t located directly on the beach, which allows for a more relaxing vacation. The Eden Roc also offers many of the modern room packages vacationers are wanting nowadays, making it easy for them to choose a package that’s going to best meet their wants and needs.

While all-inclusive vacations are a top choice for couples who are looking to take a luxury summer vacation, they’re also a top choice for vacationing families as it simply makes everything so much easier.

Eden Roc Rooms

Rooms now include private balconies that offer the most spectacular ocean views, high speed wi-fi, a flat screen TV, radio speakers, coffee machine, rainfall shower heads, 24 hour room service and more! There are four different pools to choose from so any age is easily accommodated when staying at the Eden Roc Hotel.

Fun Things to do!

Guests who stay at the Eden Roc all-inclusive hotel in Miami Beach are able to:

  • Enjoy organic farm to table poolside dining
  • Book a private yacht charter
  • Participate in water sports, like jet skiing
  • Visit the Bass Museum of Art
  • Visit the Miami Children’s Museum
  • Visit the Miami Seaquarium
  • Play golf on the Bayshore Golf Course or the Miami Beach Golf Club
  • Get full body massages, spa treatments

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

Newer Posts
Older Posts

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept