Sun, Sand and Fun

Let me paint a picture: quiet lapping water, gentle ocean breeze, powdery soft sand sliding through your toes, cool beverage in hand. Got your attention? Don't, I repeat, don't look out your window, just close your eyes, and imagine the above.

Often people want to go somewhere warm, with a non-stop flight but are not sure where exactly or how to choose. During the winter season Edmonton has several destinations to choose from, including Jamaica, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Cuba and Bahamas, Costa Rica, all available on charter packages. An all inclusive package generally means return direct airfare, transfers from airport to hotel and back, 7 nights accommodations and all meals and drinks, including alcoholic beverages and some activities depending on the resort facilities. What I like to refer to as a "drop n flop" vacation; all you have to do is pack your bathing suit and show up at the airport and the rest is taken care of. Perfect for those of us who need a relaxing, rejuvenating holiday that is warm, fun and easy!

Depending on the company and destination, you can choose a variety of durations, the most common being 7 or 14 days. Often people will ask us, is it better to book last minute, or book a package or separate it, how do we do that? This is where our knowledge kicks in, we can sort out the best way depending on your needs and time constraints. Companies generally are more flexible these days and you can get durations other than 7 or 14 to some locations, allowing you to choose what works in your schedule.

Choosing a destination can be as complicated also, Cancun/Mayan Riviera is one of the most popular, due to extra activities (Mayan Ruins, ecological parks, swimming with dolphins etc) and beautiful beaches. Another great option for that white sand is the Grand Bahama, (new this year from Edmonton) and has powder soft sand beaches and a variety of activities again. Cuba, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic are well known for their beaches and swaying palm trees and relaxing atmosphere.

Pacific side of Mexico is a bit more colonial, rugged, some areas are not ocean swim friendly (Cabo can have a strong undertow for example but fabulous pools), but Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Hucatulco are charming, economical, with the golden sand beaches and lost of quaint towns and architecture. Costa Rica is an eco-tourism lovers paradise, and Jamaica is well known for it's outstanding resorts and stunning beaches of Negril.

Now trying to explain the ins and outs of booking a sun vacation in 500 words is tricky; but suffice to say we are more than happy to help you with your vacation needs and talk more in detail personally.

Between us we have been to Cancun, Mayan Riviera, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas, Hucatulco, Cuba, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, not to mention Hawaii, but that's another blog all together!

Drop us a line for more details in finding the perfect vacation that you deserve!

Cheers

The Travel Desk,
Ned and Alison
780.968.1173
info@thetraveldesk.ca