VIP Travel Experience Blog | Luxury Vacation Ideas & more

An Alaska Adventure Into The Last Frontier

November 5, 2020 at 5:32 PM

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Topics: travel destinations, romantic getaway, #travelwithfriends, #milestonebirthday, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, travel

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A Dreamy New England Escape During Covid

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 5, 2020 at 1:46 PM

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Topics: travel destinations, romantic getaway, #travelwithfriends, #milestonebirthday, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, Romance Travel, travel

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Ireland's Iconic Must See Sights

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 5, 2020 at 12:00 AM

The dramatic Wild Atlantic Way along south west Ireland's coast and its natural beauty is highlighted again in the new Star Wars movie.

I was mesmerized a few years ago, in the final moments of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" watching Jedi master, Luke Skywalker standing on Skellig Michael Island (his hideaway planet) has inspired me to highlight this area for recent travelers. The world will see much more of this site and many other Irish breathtaking views in "The Last Jedi" as we watch Rey learn the ways of the Force from the exiled Jedi master.

While Skellig Michael may not be a hideaway planet, it will most certainly take traveler's breath away even more so as they travel the Country Kerry coast. Can you imagine the view from the Atlantic of the 714 feet UNESCO World Heritage site which served as Gaelic Christian monastic settlement from the 6th to the 8th century. If you travel between March to early October, an hour long boat tours journeys from the coastal village of Portmagee to the island, but absolutely book well in advance, demand is VERY high. Not for the faint of heart, it can be a rough ride in certain weather conditions. Once you arrive, you will need to climb hundreds of rock steps to reach the U shaped valley as shown in the movie.

Don't miss the remains of the monastery on a terrace shelf 600 feet above sea level. In tact and in remarkably good shape, it consists of six beehive huts, two oratories, a medieval church and a graveyard.

One thing you won't find on Skellig Michael are the beloved Star Wars Porgs. However, take a closer look at the large population of puffins (the birds that flock to the island from March to October, their breeding season inspired the creation of porgs). Film designers were asked to superimpose over the birds instead of digitally removing them which is how porgs were created. And they don't fear humans.

If it happens that you can't get to the actual island, filming took place all along the Wild Atlantic Way from the most northern point in Malin Head to the most southern, Brow Head, and several in between.

Are you dying to see "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" now to see the places mentioned? ANd there's more:

County Donegal: Malin's Head's cliffs near Banba's Crown were used for scenes with the Millennium Falcon.

County Clare: Loop Head with its rocky coast is featured in several pivotal scenes.

Dingle Peninsula: Sybil Head was used quite a lot, sets were constructed to appear like structures on Skellig Michael. Tip: I usually suggest travelers visit Dingle Peninsula if they are going in super busy summer time. Some locals actually believe its prettier and more authentic.

County Cork: The scenery and rock faces at Brow Head are very similar to Skellig Michael. Some filming was in abandoned mine shafts as well.

Diehard fans may be tempted to stay where "Luke Skywalker" stayed while filming, The Moorings Guesthouse and Restaurant.

Not a Star Wars fan? Can you think of other hugely popular movies with ties to the Emerald Isle? It's natural beauty, diverse landscapes from stunning cliffs to rugged coastlines, cozy villages to vibrant, bustling city centers, all of which make a lasting impression and desire to visit Ireland. There are many other movies, all featuring iconic scenes shot in Ireland that will make you want to pack your bags and hop on the next available flight. Can you guess a few?

BraveHeart (Trim Castle in County Meath),
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (Cliffs of Moher in County Clare)
P.S. I Love You (Wicklow Mountains in Counties of Wicklow, Dublin, Wexford and Carlow)
The Quiet Man (John Wayne, Ashford Castle, County Mayo & Galway )
Saving Private Ryan (Normandy Beach was shot on Curracloe Beach in County Wexford)
Game of Thrones (Northern Ireland in Winterfell in County Down, and Counties Fermanagh and Antrim)
Titanic (not filmed here, but the real Titanic took on passengers at Cobh (Queenstown then)

VIP Travel Experience can create that PRICELESS Ireland vacation along the Wild Atlantic Way and beyond. We realize that searching for the Ireland Vacation of your dreams can sometimes seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. Give us a few hints, do you love iconic movie spots, Saint Patrick, heritage or genealogy, golf, cycling, castles and kingdoms, history, Vikings, Myths & Legends, Waterford Crystal, Guinness, Jameson and we will create that dream Irish vacation that you will remember FOREVER.

Don't take the stressful route, sit back and enjoy every moment of your trip with experienced local drivers.

Local drivers do more than drive you from point a to point b. They enhance your trip with their stories and ties to their beloved country. Absolutely take their word over mine with their recommendations of good, authentic eateries and shopping spots. Be careful what you mention to them, they will move Heaven and Earth to exceed your expectations. Just ask Mr. Tom, his driver, John, saw that he was about to buy a Shillelagh (a walking stick or cane) in one of the tourist areas and he said "Don't buy here". It took several days for John to locate the genuine cane maker, but he would not give up or let Mr. Tom buy anything less than authentic. As the trip was nearing the end, John drove Mr. Tom and his family several hours out of the way to a Village of Shillelagh in County Wicklow to a family business which hand makes genuine Irish Blackthorn walking sticks. Not only did he purchase something more authentic, but he learned alot about the history of it as well.

If you're to start planning your iconic Ireland adventure, let us know. I would love to explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: travel tips, #travelwithfriends, #viptravelexperience, reasons to use a travel consultant, Anniversary Travel, ireland, luxurytravel

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Paris Is Always A Good Idea

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 4, 2020 at 9:58 PM

Who's ready for a visit to Paris? Our book club read several books last year set in PARIS and now I'm trying to figure out how to get a girls trip to Paris or a couples trip to Paris/Normandy/Beaune on my travel calendar PRONTO!! If you love books about Paris and World War II, check these out! "Paris Time Capsule" and "The House by the Lake."

WARNING: You will have an urgent desire to visit Paris soon...and when you do, here are few tips for your next vacation to Paris. Keep reading if bespoke Paris speaks to you, making a Paris trip even more MAGICAL.

Top 8 MUSTS when in Paris:

1. Visit O Chateau for the absolute BEST wine experience! They offer so many options...ranging from a single glass of wine to a Champagne Cruise on the Seine to a full day small-group tour to the Champagne region of France! www.o-chateau.com/paris-wine-tasting.

2. Stop in to the L’Orangerie museum to get “up close and personal” with Monet’s incredible Water Lilies. This small museum is easy to get in and out of, usually with no crowds, and is a fantastic way to see some of the most amazing art in France – hassle free! CLOSED TUESDAYS

3. One of the best values in the Paris art scene is the Sculpture Garden at the Rodin Museum. For only 1 Euro per person, you can wander around and view some of Rodin’s most famous works, including “The Thinker”. There is also a quaint café in the gardens if you want to enjoy a coffee or glass of wine with your culture! CLOSED MONDAYS

4. Be sure to save a few hours to spend on the incredibly charming market street, Rue Cler (in the 7 th arr). This area is a favorite of travelers and you can find just about anything you might want to eat, drink, smell, see, hear or buy! If you are “munchy” try a freshly made crepe from the stand outside Ulysses restaurant...can't think of a better way to start your day with one every day (ha ha )! CLOSED MONDAYS

5. Buy the “fixings” for a great picnic at one of the many markets and eat “al fresco” for lunch! Where else can you enjoy such wonderful food in the shadows of the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame cathedral? A small bottle of slightly chilled French rose wine to share completes the experience!

6. It is hard to go too wrong with Parisian cafes and restaurants....look for places with locals who seem to be enjoying themselves....avoid the ones with big “WE SPEAK ENGLISH” signs and “TOURIST MENUS” advertised out front. Most all have English-translated menus if you ask. Remember that Parisian waiters are paid well...not like here in the US! Slow service is good service...you are basically in no rush...the meal IS the entertainment. (Unlike here where we grab a quick bite before a movie). You must ask politely for the check when you are ready to leave...a waiter will never bring your check spontaneously because they don’t want to seem to rush you...it is considered rude! Relax and enjoy the experience!

7. I know the Eiffel Tower is a “must” for many people, but there is really no reason to go all the way up to the top. The view is actually better from the 1st and 2nd levels since Paris is so flat. Reservations can (and should) be made at www.tour-eiffel.fr. On the 1st level, there is a nice restaurant for lunch and you can walk around the perimeter that is marked with signs explaining what you are viewing – and if you have a reservation for the restaurant, you can bypass the massive line for the elevator. It is a great way to get the layout of the whole city without the crushing crowds at the top.

8. The Louvre is one of those museums that irritates the fire out of many! It is absolutely HUGE, hot and crowded...but everyone feels like they need to go. You don’t, unless you are a serious artist or art-history buff. If you really are into art, be sure to purchase a Museum Pass that will act as your ticket to most of the major museums in Paris....AND the card lets you bypass most of the lines! CLOSED TUESDAYS

Since it is the mission of VIP Travel Experience to take you BEYOND the highlights for bespoke or unique EXPERIENCES, here are some of my favorite things to plan for my clients:

- Eating a fabulous Michelin starred 5 course dinner in the Eiffel tower with wine pairings.
- A private, personalized excursion with a local tour guide to take you to the most interesting sites of D-Day and Normandy Beaches to discover the battlefields you've always to see, or some you may not have heard of.
- An unforgettable, simply magical night at Mont Saint Michel.
- France has another city, Lyon. I dare you to go without a list of recommended eateries. There are literally hundreds of precious little cafes and restaurants in France's culinary /gastronomical capital, and it's also home to an amazing lights festival.
- Private driver through gorgeous Burgundy countryside to get to charming Beaune. You will absolutely LOVE it and feel like you stepped back in time.

So depending on how much time you have and how far you want to stray from Paris, don't miss out on the many little hidden gems of France.

If you're to start planning your iconic Ireland adventure, let us know. I would love to explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: travel tips, #travelwithfriends, #girlstrip, #viptravelexperience, reasons to use a travel consultant, Paris is Always a Good Idea, Anniversary Travel, luxurytravel

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A First Timer's Guide To Italy

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 3, 2020 at 9:46 PM

ITALY is, by far, the European country requested most by my clients...in fact, over 46 million tourist visit this amazing country every year. They come from all over the world, for many different reasons and many will return again and again for that magic that only Italy can deliver. Italians are very kind, outgoing, family-centric and extremely patient (unless they are driving). The Italians realize how blessed they are to be the safe keepers of some of history’s most magnificent relics and art treasures and they are happy to share them. However, there are a few things that most Italians want Americans to know before we arrive in their country. Here is “VIP Travel Experience's” list of the Top 10 ways to blend right in to Italian Culture:

1. Slow Down: You will NOT see it all!
Trust me, the reason that the 46 million tourists flock to Italy each year is because there is so much beauty to see and experience: culture, art, vineyards, food, museums and the amazing people! A lifetime isn’t even enough time! So, slow down, take it all in, appreciate what you DO see….and then plan to return! I had to tell myself "Enjoy every second, you will see what is meant to be seen on your first visit". At the time, I thought surely I would never be able to return, thank goodness that wasn't true.

2. Dress more conservatively than you do at home.

Miniskirts, short-shorts (they're for the beach); halter tops and saggy jeans will not live up to the classic fashion taste of Italians. You don’t have to be formal and uncomfortable…just neat, put-together, and a little more modest. Some Cathedrals (including the Vatican) will not let you enter if your shoulders and knees are not covered. Cover up, unless you really are spending the day on a beautiful Italian beach. And leave the stilettos at home…Cobblestone streets and high heels don’t get along very well!

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3. Cappuccino and Café Lattes are morning-only drinks!
A true Italian would never dream of ordering one after late morning, or especially after a meal! If you need a caffeine pick-me-up later in the day, stop in a coffee bar for a quick shot of espresso. Did you know that Italy is one of the only countries that doesn’t have a Starbucks? They are illegal there because the Italians are so proud of their coffee culture.Italian coffee is superior and should be enjoyed as the real Italians do…Give it a “shot”!(Pun intended!) Sshh, don't tell but I don't drink coffee, so this bit of info is from friends.

4. Dinner is not usually served earlier than 8:00pm!
Showing up at a restaurant before 7:30 will probably get you a view of the staff having their own pre-service meal and a totally empty dining room! Your meal will be more enjoyable in a restaurant full of happy localsand with the wait staff ready to do their thing! Most places charge a “Coperto”, or cover charge, for each table. This is NOT a ploy to take advantage of you…it is routine! It is explained as the cost of washing the linens, dishes, and providing the “free stuff” like bread (pane in Italian) or tap water. Get used to it!

5. Simplify your schedule!
Leave time in your day to just wander around and poke your head into the real Italy. If you just get a couple of blocks away from some of the most famous tourist sites, real Italian life is in front of you. Stop to listen to a street performer (and tip!), stop into a neighborhood café for a glass of wine or a coffee or slurp a cone of gelato with the locals. Plus. If you are always trying to keep up with a tight schedule, you and your travel companions will just plain get grumpy!

6. You need to call for a taxi, or go to an actual taxi stand.
You cannot just hail a taxi off the street in Italy, and many Italian taxi drivers get their entertainment from watching tourists try to do so! As an alternative, familiarize yourself with the public transportation systems in your town. Busses, Subways, Trains and Boats are remarkably efficient and manage to get millions of Italians where they need to go every day…Why not you?

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7. Italian is the official language of Italy!
I know this seems obvious…but some Americans go barging in to other countries expecting everyone to speak English fluently? Just learning a few common words and phrases in the local language will make a big difference in your experience. We have seen Americans screaming “DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?” at someone (they aren’t deaf…just Italian!) try “I’m sorry, but my Italian is poor…Parla l’Inglese?” (Par-la Een-glace?) Even if you find yourself in the rare circumstance with no English-speakers, Italians speak with their hands, so go back to your charade talents and you will get your point across and have a good laugh doing so!

Note: there are apps now that demonstrate how to say words or phrases in another language, which we tried to do out of respect.

8. Speaking of waiters in restaurants, slow service is good service!
European restaurants are drastically different than most here in America. When you take a table for a meal, it is yours for the night or as long as you want…Waiters are NOT trying to “turn tables” fast so they can make more tips. (tips are not required, but a small gratuity for good service is always welcomed) Waiting tables is a respected profession in most of Europe and they are paid well. Italians enjoy their mealtimes and are not in a rush to dash off to a movie or other event. Dinner IS usually the event! Relax and go with the slow flow! And you must ask for the check when you are ready to leave. It is considered rude for a waiter to bring your check before you ask because he doesn’t want to rush you! Get the picture???

9. Everyone in Italy doesn’t want to kiss you!
Italians are very welcoming people, but there is a certain etiquette for reaching out and saying hello! You will see friends, family and even acquaintances kissing each other on the cheeks and saying “Ciao” all over, however, as a stranger, that might be a little bit “overboard”. When you meet an Italian, take their lead…but a smile and a firm handshake is probably the most appropriate until you get to know them a little better. Also, Italian culture respects its elders and, if someone is introduced as Signore (Mr.) or Signora (Mrs.), it is best not to address them by their first names until they request it.

10. Smile!
You are in a country that has welcomed and inspired visitors for centuries! Enjoy the people, the beauty, the art, music & literature. You are one lucky duck…and don’t forget it! The Italians will be happy to share a smile with you and you will return home already planning your return trip in your mind! And remember…”VIP TRAVEL EXPERIENCE” specializes in custom-crafted Italian vacations! Let us help you plan your next adventure to put these newly learned skills to use!

My first experience in Italy was nothing short of magical, and I would love to help you have that same experience!!! If you're to start planning your first trip to Italy, let us know. I would love the explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: travel tips, romantic getaway, #travelwithfriends, #milestoneanniversary, #viptravelexperience, Italy, reasons to use a travel consultant, #RiverCruise, LOVEITALY, Anniversary Travel, luxurytravel

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Tahiti & Bora Bora Bound

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 3, 2020 at 6:30 AM

hugues-de-buyer-mimeure-Papeete French Polynesia-unsplash A trip to Bora Bora and the Tahiti Islands is your first class ticket into discovering and exploring a new and colorful world of its own. Plush green mountains crystal clear lagoons will be waiting for you in this picture perfect paradise. Tahiti and Bora Bora are renowned as a honeymooners' and lovers' heaven on Earth. Every island in Tahiti offers a multitude of activities and endless possibilities: a dive in Rangiroa, a hike in Moorea, an unbelievable encounter with manta rays in Bora Bora, swim in Tahiti's cascades, or even a chance to enjoy the authentic Polynesian culture in Raiatea. A vacation to Bora Bora and Tahiti is a one of kind experience, a tropical paradise and unique discovery which you can only understand while there. It was really hard for me to choose just one bungalow picture to share with you from my trip.

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The feeling of going down these steps into the most amazing waters...I toured many over the water bungalows while there and quickly realized there are many differences in resorts and even the range of bungalows at any one resort.

For being such quaint places Bora Bora and Tahiti offers endless adventures abound...

Underwater cycling on aqua bikes. Perched a white seat, you descend slowly as the hydraulic platform of the pontoon boat you ride out to the spot lowers us into the waves - the warm, tropical waters gradually creeping up to your bikini tops. Once in the water, spot the coral gardens looming ahead - tree-like elk horn corals and cauliflower corals, dappled by shafts of sunlight piercing through the blue. Your guides, point out a starfish 30 centimeters (1 foot) in diameter, a parrot fish hovering over an undulating welcome mat of hot-pink anemone, and what looks suspiciously like a shark shooting out from under a craggy outcrop and disappearing into the murk.
Aqua safari via helmet dive. This enterprise involves donning a cubed yellow-and-white helmet that keeps your head completely dry as you descend a ladder to the sandy ocean floor. Feet clad in rubbery boots, walk in slow motion through craggy outcrops of coral and lengths of seaweed fluttering in the currents, feeling like a puppet as you carefully lift one foot and then the other, hands buoyed and bobbing at waist level.

Topics: beaches, romantic getaway, #viptravelexperience, bucket list travel, Anniversary Travel, Honeymoon, Tahiti

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Serendipity in Sicily

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 2, 2020 at 10:19 PM

I've just started a great new book as recommended by my bestie, "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke. It has brought back many memories of our trip to Sicily earlier this year. The beginning of the book is set in Florence, and it's pretty awesome to read about all of these places I have visited. But of course, it lists a few new places which I plan to check out next May when we are in Florence again. One of the main characters in the book is a chef born and raised in Sicily so that has definitely spurred memories of the wonderful food we sampled while in Sicily. But let's talk about Sicily.

I was very anxious to explore Sicily after realizing that Allison's great grandparents were from small towns in Sicily. We researched to find the specific towns where her great grandparents lived and we couldn't wait to experience the culture that her ancestors grew up in. I have always been obsessed with Genealogy and my burning question has always been WHY here, why did they settle in the towns they did.

My first impression was how different the landscape and food was from mainland Italy and how much things reminded us of home. I loved how friendly and approachable the Sicilians were to us. I admired their value of family and the hospitality they showed us through their love of food, much like most southerners.

You don't have to have ancestors from Sicily to really enjoy their culture and traditions; they will make you feel welcome no matter your heritage.

Three things that really stuck with me:

Sicilian Heritage: The connections were evident as we drove through the countryside and saw names of cities and towns that were surnames of people we knew. While we were touring with a private guide in Agrigento, he mentioned that he had visited the United States, he felt most at home in New Orleans because the culture and temperatures were familiar AND THE FOOD!
Rural Landscape: Sicily is wide open country, and every quaint town we visited was pretty far from the next. As we traveled along we passed wide open green spaces of livestock, farms, fishing villages, and beautiful coasts (photo below). As we traveled, our incredible local guides talked about the history of Sicily, their culture and traditions, as well as prepared us for the next stop. The value of these local guides cannot be understated.

Proud Sicilians: I don't know that I would have appreciated as much of Sicily without the local introductions and hands-on experiences with the dairy farmer, winemakers, chocolatier, etc. They are such so proud of their heritage and traditions and welcomed us into their homes for the best home cooked meals I have experienced. They explained about zero-kilometer foods grown and prepared in their gardens and communities using only in-season vegetables. I know that I enjoyed foods I don't normally enjoy at home and I think it was because everything was so fresh. This also reminded me of our ancestors living off of the foods they grew on their farms.

Exploring the Sicilian connections, experiencing the rural landscape and interacting with proud Sicilians are only a few of the things that attracted us to Sicily.

If you think Sicily sounds like a place you would like to visit, please reach out, I would love the explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: romantic getaway, #travelwithfriends, #viptravelexperience, Italy, LOVEITALY, Anniversary Travel, luxurytravel

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Is Butler Service Worth It?

Posted by Tammy Murphy

October 30, 2020 at 12:00 AM

Just ask anyone that has had Personal Butler Service at Sandals...Once you have experienced vacation with a butler, it is really hard to imagine not having a butler on all your vacations.

Why do butlers make for the best travel experience? It's where luxury meets exceptional hospitality!

Many clients are interested, but may be a little skeptical at first. Some say "I don't need a butler, I'm not high maintenance." While this may be true, none of us really need a butler, but if there is any way I can help elevate my clients experience - the butler service is one that makes them so happy.

I too was apprehensive at first about having a butler. When we first made the decision to have a suite with butler service, I was almost too embarrassed to let Nicola (our first butler) do anything for me. Then I learned what an honor it is for the staff to become a Butler. They sincerely love their jobs and it's almost disrespectful to not them do their jobs. They strive to do any and everything in their power to make your stay as special and as perfect as possible.

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When clients contact me about planning their trip, I try to share my experiences with a butler to see if that is something they would enjoy. We determine what they are comfortable spending and if there is any way the budget will allow a butler, I highly recommend it.

Ten years ago we were planning our first visit to Sandals and we had dreamed of visiting St. Lucia for quite a while. However, after looking at what options fit our budget, we opted to visit Jamaica with a butler as opposed to St. Lucia without a butler. As much as I hated not seeing St. Lucia ten years ago, I still think its the best decision we ever made, never before then have I felt so pampered --It's not something most of us experience too many times (until we return to Sandals). While the Sandals website provides a short list of the butler perks, it is only a starting point and just barely scratches the surface. I can never fully explain how awesome the butler service can be, because they take the que from each client. Their goal is to anticipate your every need and then exceed it. As a Sandals specialist, it makes my job so much easier because I feel relieved once my clients are in the hands of the butler, I know everything will be just perfect. Almost every client that has selected a suite with personal butler service comes back from vacation bragging that "their butler was the best ever." In fact I typically hear more about the butler than the excursions. I have also noticed that clients that experienced butler service usually have their friends calling me within days of their return. I think really connecting with the local hospitality through the butlers, and island people fill our souls with gratitude and service.

Curious about how to get the most value of butler service at Sandals? Here are a few important things . . .

Work with a travel professional!
Your travel professional will communicate your preferences the butler prior to your arrival. When you arrive, your travel professional will have already double checked that your suite is confirmed and your butler will have double checked that it is prepared per your preferences: Club Sandals Lounge keys, His and Hers plush robes with bed slippers, 24 hour room service, In-suite bar stocked daily with Mondavi wines, spirits, sodas, juices, water, fine Egyptian cotton linens and pillow menu including feather down pillows, coffeemaker with Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and free wifi in room. Everything just to your liking!

The butler knows your expected time of arrival and will be waiting for you in the lobby with lemongrass-scented hand towels to refresh you from your flight.
Here are just a few ways a butler enhances your arrival:

Welcome cocktails and culinary treats
Escorts you to your suite for check-in in the privacy of your suite and coordinates your luggage handling
Provides you with resort and room orientation
Reviews your personal preferences communicated through your travel professional
Supplies a cell phone to reach him during your stay
Offers to unpack your luggage
Press your first night's clothes complimentary

During Your Stay

Butler makes your dinner reservations, cabana rentals, spa treatments and any other activities you have added to your stay.
Reserves your chair at the beach or pool and serves your favorite drinks while you relax
Serves your lunch at the beach or pool
Confirms your room is serviced while you are away and ensures it is kept in perfect order
Ensures your table is arranged at the restaurants of your choice and escorts you to your table with preferential seating, skipping all lines
Per your request, arranges a perfect romantic dinner for two in the privacy of your suite or patio. They can order from any resort restaurant menu for dining in-suite.
Shine/clean shoes for dinner
Tend to your wardrobe
Collect and return all laundry
Leaves amenities in your room between meals (per the preferences provided by your travel professional or things he hears you mention during your stay)
Ensures your bed is turned down and that you have anything you need for the night.

Before your Departure

Provides you with check out details
Offers to pack for your departure
Ensures your bags are brought to the departure area
Escorts you to the butler lounge to process check out
Escorts you to your transportation and bids you farewell (i promise you will want to take them home with you, I know I did)

A few other tips your Sandals specialist can help you decide:

For the same price as an entry level butler suite at one resort, you can stay in one of the top butler suite at another
The higher the category of room, the bigger the room and better the view (usually)
Some rooms have a private plunge pool or tranquility outdoor tub

Loosen Up:

They will make it abundantly clear that they are at your beck and call, but who can wrap their head around that, right? Remember, this is his job and you are depriving him of what he loves to do. Making the most of your butler experience may include asking him for your favorite drink while you are on the beach, or saving your chair at beach or pool or reserving your table at your favorite restaurant, etc. The more you allow him to get to know you and learn about him and his life on the island, the more you will enjoy your stay. Imagine your surprise when you return from dinner to find this? He mentioned that he heard you mention your feet hurt.

What to Expect?

Ask your travel professional what to expect. Think about how much you hate to pack and unpack, take advantage of his offer. I usually recommend that you unpack a few personal items and leave the rest for him to unpack while you are exploring the resort. Or another idea would be to pack your personal items in a carry on which you unpack and ask the butler to unpack the other bags when they arrive. Here's a little hint, my butler unpacked and packed WAY better than I did.

Remember, the only way they know what you want is if you speak up.

Nothing makes you feel more special than a personal note on your pillow from your butlers reminding you "Love is All You Need".

True VIP Travel Experience is anything you want at the press of a button.

It's okay to say no. Butler service is not for everyone and we understand and respect that. For those that are not comfortable with the idea, the concierge service at Club Sandals may be the right fit for you. Club Sandals is a quiet lounge offering snacks and drinks and free wifi, televisions and even kindles to borrow.

As you know Sandals has a strict no tipping rule. However, butlers and spa attendants are the only Sandals employees that are able to accept tips from guests. If your butler does an outstanding job enhancing your stay, consider leaving them a tip to show your gratitude. If you aren't sure how to tip them, ask your travel professional.

So is butler service worth every penny? For me 100% yes, but you are the only one that can decide for yourself. The one thing I tell my clients is if you aren't afraid to use your butler service, it is worth every single penny and much, much more!! In my very humble opinion, once you try the butler service, it is almost impossible to go back!

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, group travel, paradiseescape

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What Is Your Travel Personality?

Posted by Tammy Murphy

October 20, 2020 at 2:30 PM

Travel heightens the experiences life gives us. It caters to the unique interests of each discerning wanderer. Taking ideal journeys for food and wine lovers, history buffs, families, the culturally curious and anyone who dreams of exploring this great wide world we live in.

Every person has a different travel personality. This can make it difficult in finding what should be top priority for the trip and it's our job as Travel Experts to figure out what type of traveler YOU are. This helps us customize your vacation to be exactly what you have dreamed and hoped it to be. There are many different personalities for travelers and none are mutually exclusive.

Here are just a few examples of some of travel styles we see most often.

What travel personality are you?

Escape Artist
For those choosing to escape for the holidays or escaping with the whole family and make it just a little more special, like Christmas in the Swiss Alps. These clients would probably prefer something cozy and more intimate to enjoy the company they're with as well as the scenery surrounding them. This client wants experiences to last a lifetime and add a little something extra to the festivities. Some activities may include dining or cooking class in home of local chef or in clients private villa renal, as opposed to cooking school.

Foodie
They seem to enjoy the culture and culinary experience from many different destinations and may be more interested in wine tastings, and authentic cooking classes over the typical sights and landmarks.

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Active adventurer - All adventurers are not alike!
Testing their limits is what this traveler is all about. Clients that want action and adventure are usually going to want more secluded destinations that have kayaking, rock climbing, zip lining, hot air ballooning. Anything to get that adrenaline flowing. Yet the wanderer can be anywhere enjoying the exploration and immersing themselves in the culture maybe taking leisurely hikes or what about biking through wine country.

Sightseers
Laid back, calm, happy-go-lucky, and typically the type of person who is up and ready to go so you can start soaking up anything and everything possible to fully take in your destination. These clients might have a specific destination in mind and ready to check places off that bucket list.

History Buffs
These clients love history, museums, and the arts. The client will be more prone to traveling to older, historically rich destinations. The want to see and hear about everything. They thirst for knowledge and are anxiously observing all the sights and sounds around them. Gearing the vacation to landmarks and museums, or maybe even the occasional castle. These clients may enjoy after-hours tour of museums and other tours along these lines.

If you're wanting more travel inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life click here.

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, group travel, paradiseescape

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