Today we are in Ocho Rios

James Bond Beach

Today we are in Ocho Rios(aka Ochi)

Ochi is the garden of Jamaica, where rolling green hills spill over onto white sandy coves and turquoise blue waters of a craggy coastline. Ochi is buzzing with activities, shops, restaurants and nightlife. Here there is a perfect mix of excitement and serenity.

Here are my top tips

Rainforest at Mystic Mountain - See Ochi from a different vantage point. Taking a tropical forest adventure tour up to the 700 foot mystic mountain peak will do just that! This amazing attraction in Ocho Rios offers many adventure tours for all ages. Explore the forests rich eco-system, sparking rivers and spectacular views. Here you can enjoy bobsledding thru the forest, zip lining or coasting through the sky on a chair lift....whatever you're up for.

Green Grotto Caves - Time and tide have etched the limestone Green Grotto Caves, lined with the green algae that gives them their name. The caverns are home to bats and marine life, and over the centuries they’ve been a hideout for fugitives and runaway slaves.Hidden away in an inner cavern is the crystal-clear Grotto Lake. Overhead, pockets in the limestone provide filtered light through the caverns’ forest of stalactites and stalagmites.

Dunns River Falls - One of Jamaica's national treasures. Flowing falls extend up 600 feet, here you can climb the falls and hangout a lagoons and pools along the way. This is one of the most popular tours in Ochi. It is breathtaking and not to be missed!

Goldeneye Boutique Hotel - For my James Bond fans, stay here where Ian Fleming lived while birthing the character we all love "007". This is truly a unique and special property, please let me know if you would like more information. For those who cannot stay here, I recommend a visit to James Bond Beach which is located east of Ocho Rios on the island’s northeastern coast (just a little east of Oracabessa). It offers fabulous views and a heavenly tropical setting. The particular claim to fame for this beach is the fact that Ian Fleming spent a lot of time here enjoying Jamaica’s ambience.

Thank you for learning more about one of my favorite Caribbean destinations! For more info check out my blog www.jdtravelplanning.com

Today we are in Montego Bay

Montego Bay(MBJ)  is an exciting vibrant "hotspot" in the Caribbean. Renowned for its beauty and range of activities.  MBJ offer a variety of intriguing attractions. Nature lovers, history buffs, thrill seekers and those who love to shop will find plenty to do here in addition to amazing beaches and water activities.



My top recommendations

• Explore the "Hip Strip" Gloucester Ave is a mile long stretch of shopping, dining and partying, it is lively day and night. Be sure to check out Margaritaville with its 110' long chute that drops patrons from the deck into the sea.

• For my foodies I highly recommend the Sugar Mill Restaurant at the Half Moon Resort and Pier 1 on the Waterfront.

• History lovers, we've got you covered. The Cage which is a 19th century jail for runaway slaves and drunks.  Visit Rose Hall Great House and hear the eerie tales of the "white witch" Annie Palmer.  I also recommend taking a day trip to Falmouth- about 22 miles away,  you will find lots of history here as its one of the earliest planned urban developments.  They had running water before NYC. There was thriving commerce and culture in its heyday but the demise of rum and sugar production halted all of that.  Falmouth is ready for a revival.  Founded in 1790 rich in colonial history, Georgian architecture and cobblestone streets.  Arrange a Heritage walk with a local expert to experience it all.

• Thrill seekers will enjoy ziplining through the jungle canopy, off road exploring on an ATV, splashing through the surf on horseback and river tubing, and bamboo river rafting on the scenic Martha Brae. When night falls head over to the Glistening Waters Marina for a tour on the bioluminescent lagoon.

Margaritaville

Sugar Mill at Half Moon Resort

Rafting on the Martha Brae

Today we are in Negril

Negril on the west coast of Jamaica is known for its laid back vibe, amazing sunsets and world class beaches.  You will not find any high rises here, the resorts are no higher than the coconut trees and the buildings are set back you will find long, broad beautiful beaches here.  Eat and drink, love and laugh, play, party and be happy.  Negril — come and experience the pleasure.

My top recommendations

• Rick's Cafe on the west end of Negril is not be be missed.  There is a  real funky feel here with amazing cliff diving, hot sunset parties and more!  Grab yourself a cold Red Stripe and enjoy!

• Great seafood and Jamaican cuisine can be found at Norma's on the Beach and at Cosmos Seafood Restaurant.

• Live reggae bands and dancing are easy to find, there are exciting clubs along Norman Manley Blvd or you can check out the beachfront bars at Alfred's Ocean Palace or The Jungle Night Club & Sports Bar.  Enjoy the sounds of live reggae and the amazing beach views!

• Get out to the offshore reefs. The reefs attract and abundance of sea life, nature lovers will love snorkeling, diving or enjoying a glass bottom boat tour.

• The beach!!  All seven miles of it.....enjoy the sun, sand, surf and mesmerizing sunsets!  You can find the party spots or a nice secluded cove, the choice is yours.  Make Negril your home.

                                       

                                         Sunset in Negril.........mesmerizing!!

                                         Ricks Cafe


Visit my website blog for more interesting information  http://www.jdtravelplanning.com/blog/

 

Today we are in Jamaica

Jamaica is a very popular destination, many people once they travel here will return again and again.
It's a great place for families, honeymooners, destination weddings, golf groups, girls getaways and more. It is so easy to fly into Jamaica from most US or Canadian gateways. Yes you can drink the water, everyone speaks English and most places will accept the USD(and if not it's super to to find an exchange).

Aside from the above, my top 5 reasons(and believe me there are many more) to visit this incredible island are just below. Over the next few weeks I will focus on different areas within the country, so stay tuned.

Why visit Jamaica?

1) The people! Jamaicans are such a fun loving people who are full of pride. You can learn much about their culture and history through their dance, music and food. They love to chat you up.....just ask! The warmth of the people will keep you coming back.

2)Miles and miles of beautiful beaches, coves, waterfalls and rugged coastlines.

3)Jamaican food is fresh and locally sourced, so colorful and full of flavor it's not to be missed! Be sure to try some local Jerk cuisine and the national dish of ackee and saltfish.

4)Water sports are everywhere, whether you are a pro or a beginner needing instruction, there is adventure for everyone. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing(at Boston Beach), windsurfing and more.

5)Hotels and accommodations are abundant here. Jamaica is the birthplace of the All-Inclusive concept. But don't worry, there are many more options including villas, luxury hotels, boutique properties and more. The list of accommodations is substantial, I always recommend using a travel professional to help find the perfect stay for you.

Norwegian Breakaway Review

Wow, I am so fortunate, last week I was a guest of Norwegian Cruise Line onboard the Breakaway. It was so exciting to have Cardinal Dolan bless the ship and the Rockettes christen the ship. I want to share everything with you so here is my review of the Norwegian Breakaway.
This is New York Cities ship.... themed with the beautiful hull art by Peter Max, the Rockettes as the Godmothers, Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian's Ocean Blue and 3 Broadway Shows onboard, Rock of Ages, Cirque Dreams-Jungle Fantasy and Burn the Floor. Keeping with the NYC theme you will find Sabrett Hot Dog carts on the boardwalk, Carlo's Bakery and Gelato as well.
Dining: One of the greatest concepts onboard Norwegian ships is the "Freestyle Dining" and with 27 dining options onboard this is the way to go! The food in the main dining rooms was amazing our first night out I had "surf and turf" and the fliet was amazing and the lobster so delicious. Meals at O'Sheehan's and Ocean Blue were great as well. O'Sheehan's is open 24 hrs so it is great to stop here after a night out gambling and dancing!
Kids Clubs: Great safe play areas with supervised activities all day long, kids are split up into age appropriate programs and you will hear them say "I don't want to leave." The teen club Entourage is amazing and accommodates 13-17 year olds. Splash Academy is for ages 3-12 and here you will find interactive fun the kids will enjoy. There is even an area within Splash Academy open for kids ages 6 months-2yrs old with an adult accompanying them.
Sports Complex: This is an exciting area of the ship for all to enjoy there is the ropes course, "walk the plank" from 16 decks up and a zipline. The pool area has 5 waterslides, some are the largest at sea and you can shoot from the top to the bottom in 6 seconds....thrilling!
The Boardwalk: Such an exciting area(one of my favs), I can't believe this has not been done before. There is 1/4 mile of boardwalk lined with restaurants(inside and outside seating) a bakery, gelato and the famous NYC hot dog cart. There are great seating areas and bars on the boardwalk as well. At night this area is hopping!
Spiegel Tent: Jungle Fantasy themed with animal prints and animal themed art throughout. Quite a breathtaking show, be sure to arrive 30 mins before the show for best seating. The Premium seats here are worth the money.
Spice H20 hosts the weekly 80's themed party(dress up like Madonna and Don Johnson).They host a fireworks show right off the ship at this party-be sure to check it out! There are some cool wall murals in this area of the ship, maps of LI, Welcome to Fire Island and Rockaway Beach too! Keep your eye out for the NY theme all around the ship.
Main Theatre presents Rock of Ages and Burn the Floor, reservations suggested and arrive 45 minutes early for the best seats.
Carlos' Bake Shop: check out the goodies and coffee here from the "Cake Boss",  they have 2 locations Deck 6 in the Atrium and another smaller spot on the Boardwalk.
The Haven: This is a ship within a ship. Boutique style hotel with concierge and butler services, exclusive access to private restaurant and pool, preferred seating at all shows and access to VIBE Beach Club a private outdoor area with bar, cabanas and great seating areas.
678 Ocean Place: such an exciting area of restaurants, bars, casino, shops and great entertainment. Here you will find the dueling pianos at Howl at the Moon  and Slam Allen at Fat Cats Jazz and Blues Club.

Overall I found this ship to be a perfect spot for couples to travel together and for multi-generational families, there is so much for everyone to do while onboard or if you choose to do nothing at all there are great quiet spots for that too. If you have questions about the ship please feel free to contact me as I am a "Norwegian Breakaway Specialist."

Next up is the Norwegian Getaway, she will begin sailing Jan 2014 year round from Miami, this ship will have all the great attributes of the Breakaway with a Miami theme. Broadway show is Legally Blonde and each week they will have Grammy award winners or nominees onboard as well as Illusionarium(replacing the Spiegel Tent) with a magical, immersive experience that will blow you away!

Bon voyage.....
Jessica Dempsey
Cruise Planners
631-780-6195

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www.jdtravelplanning.com

Brides Dress Rehersal 2013

Brides Dress Rehearsal

BRIDE'S DRESS REHEARSAL

Spend 3 Nights and 4 Days - This is a fantastic way to view the resorts, and yes there are 8 of them, check out the wedding locations, taste the food and experience the warm welcome from the people of the Mexican Riviera.

Contact Jessica Dempsey, a Karisma Resorts specialist to book this amazing offer! Call today 631-780-6195

Details:

For only $399 per couple, brides and grooms who have not yet booked their destination wedding can stay for 3 nights at their hotel of choice and have the opportunity to taste different cake options, sample menu items and even view the various locations and setups for their ceremony and private events.

This promotion is good for any El Dorado Spa Resort or Azul Hotel by Karisma, and is offered once a month for the rest of 2013.

Azul Beach Resort

Here are the dates for 2013  

                                                                  
March 7

 

April 11

 

May 16

 

June 27

 

July 18

 

August 15

September 19

October 10

November 7


December 5

And here are the highlights of this promotion:

Upgrade to best available room upon arrival

Sample gourmet delicacies and wedding cakes from the private event banquet menu

$500 food & beverage credit after 10 rooms or more are booked*

Meet photographers and other vendors and view wedding set-ups

Meet wedding coordinators

 

Romantically decorated suite

And more!


Terms & Conditions

This promotion is not combinable with the Bride & Groom stay free promotion. No coupons may be used on these bookings. Transfers included between resorts only, airfare and airport transfers are not included. GIVC points cannot be used to pay for this package. GIVC will not receive points for this booking. Not valid if wedding date is held or deposited. Travel agents are not permitted to attend. $500 credit will not apply to groups with less than 10 rooms. *$500 food and beverage credit available when wedding date is confirmed within 30 days of Brides Dress Rehersal. All couples will be required to sign a disclaimer at check-in stating that they will attend a site inspection of the host hotel as well as a presentation at El Dorado Royale on Saturday. *Clients who want to travel outside of selected dates will be required to pay the current hotel rate at the time and will not receive the $500 towards the food & beverage portion of any private event they book. Booking must be made 30 days in advance; space is limited.

Celebrity Summit Review

The Celebrity Summit was recently "Solsticized" in 2012. What does that mean? Glad you asked. It all began when many features from the Millennium Class ships inspired Celebrity to create the Solstice Class ships. Now the Millenium Class ships have undergone a $140M investment to be revitalized.

On the Celebrity Summit, you'll now be able to indulge in the spa-inspired AquaClass staterooms with exclusive dining in the Blu restaurant, enjoy access to Persian Garden spa where you can decompress on the heated tile loungers, enjoy fresh tea and water service daily and have access to your Aqua Class Spa Concierge.  Go on a culinary journey in Qsine where food and art merge into dishes guaranteed to surprise and delight where you will  make your dining and wine choices from the iPad menu. After dinner head on over to the ultra-hip Crush Martini Bar, where you will find an ice-topped bar and the bartenders entertaining you while they mix up your martini from a full menu of classic and contemporary martinis.  Stay connected at the hip Celebrity iLounge, the first Authorized Apple Reseller at sea. You can take classes here to master photography, video or audio skills or shop to purchase the latest gadgets duty-free.

The Celebrity Summit is sure to appeal to  many with the newest upgrades and easy accessibility from Cape Liberty, NJ.

Contact me to start planning your next cruise onboard the Celebrity Summit.

Until next time.....
Jessica Dempsey

www.jdtravelplanning.com

Dolphinarium at Moon Palace Resort - Mexico

Palace Resorts has announced the addition of a dolphinarium at the brand’s signature property, Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, in Cancun. Part of the resort’s multi-million dollar enhancement project, the attraction is managed by a team of trainers from Dolphin Discovery, members of the International Marine Animal Trainers Association, with facilities in Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, Puerto Aventuras and throughout the Caribbean. This latest addition to Palace Resorts’ offerings will allow guests the opportunity to safely swim and interact with eight friendly dolphins, in a state-of-the-art, saltwater aquarium that is more than 37,000 square feet in size. Guests can also use the Palace Resorts $1,500 Resort Credit offer to book this new activity, although the $1,500 Resort Credit can only be used toward Dolphin Discovery activities when booking the Ultimate Swim Experience.
Starting at $129 per person, visitors to Dolphin Discovery will participate in a 15-minute orientation followed by a 40 minute dolphin experience for guests where they learn about these highly intelligent mammals before suiting up with a life jacket, goggles and snorkel to engage in activities with the dolphins that range from belly rides to feedings. Children under the age of eight years old must be accompanied by an adult.
The interactive experience is available up to five times a day for 10 to 15 guests at a time. The attraction will offer three types of experiences for guests: Dolphin Encounter, Royal Swim and Ultimate Dolphin Swim.
The Dolphin Encounter is ideal for families, with the opportunity to swim with the dolphins and receive warm handshakes, hugs and kisses.
The Royal Swim is a program which includes the famous foot push, where the dolphins swim underneath the guests and gently push them to the surface by their feet. The interactive program also features the dorsal tow, where two dolphins pull the guest with their dorsal fins.
The Ultimate Dolphin Swim offers free time with the dolphins, a belly ride and a peek at the friendly mammals through submarine views.

I recently stayed at Moon Palace and have  first hand information on Palace Resorts. My personal contacts at these resorts will ensure my guests have the greatest time. Call me today for information 631-780-6195

Discover the River Cruise Difference

THE RIVER CRUISE DIFFERENCE

Peaceful and scenic, river cruising offers a smooth, gentle ride along the
world’s most remarkable waterways. Supreme comfort and convenience
make it the premier way to experience magnificent cities, historic villages
and little-seen enclaves. From your stateroom balcony, endless natural beauty
combines with evolving views of the colorful local scenery. Castles and
fortresses tower on both sides, as if you could reach out and touch them.
When your ship docks in the heart of town, stroll ashore for included excursions
 or set off to explore on a complimentary bicycle. Unpack just once then settle
 in as each destination comes to you. With no need to navigate from place to
 place, you’ll find a sense of adventure and a sense of home all in one vacation
.

Unpack Once and Get Comfortable Visit different cities and countries while your hotel travels with you. A river cruise offers the amenities of a first-class hotel from which you’ll never feel uprooted. Discover local delights on shore then return to your large, stylish stateroom. Relaxation comes easy. Watch the scenery slip by from your balcony as you leisurely sail to your next destination.

Dock Right in the Heart of Historic Cities Enjoy the excitement of waking up in a new town, docked just steps from markets, museums and landmarks. Ships rest close to the town center so you can easily sample local culture and favorite past times. Simply walk off the ship and into the heart of the city. Take a guided excursion or instantly blend in with daily life.

Discover the World’s Most Scenic Waterways Cruise through some of Europe’s oldest cities or on the world’s most scenic waterways. These were the original highways between great cities built along the water’s edge. Over the course of your journey, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling vineyards, hilltop castles and time-honored cities. Vibrant locales not accessible by sea or that can take hours to reach by motor coach are up close and personal on a river cruise.

Intimate Environment, Inclusive Value With river vessels accommodating a mere 150 passengers, you will never wait in a long line to board or disembark. Smaller tours and intimate meal settings with open seating create a warm, personal atmosphere accentuated by five-star service. Your inclusive vacation provides incredible, value from the champagne breakfast and free-flowing hand-selected European wines with dinner to a fleet of bicycles, free Internet access, included sightseeing excursions and live cultural entertainment onboard. On a river cruise, your vacation’s price tag doesn’t keep adding up.

A Smooth, Relaxing Way to Cruise Constant, soft-flowing river waters are always peaceful and smooth, so leave any fears of motion sickness behind. Take a dip in the pool or sink into the bubbling whirlpool, get pampered with decadent spa services or enjoy live music in the lounge. The deck invites at any time with a fresh river breeze and unforgettable changing scenery.

Questions or comments regarding a River Cruise?? Call Jessica Dempsey of Cruise Planners today. We are an award winning American Express Representatives.

 631-780-6195

Is Mexico safe for traveling?

Mexico has been getting a bad rap lately. The media seems to be scaring the American public rather than educating them with their coverage of recent events in Mexico. I traveled alone to Cancun, Mexico last year and felt completely safe. I strongly suggest you always take precautions no matter where you travel, whether its New York City, Paris-France or Cancun- Mexico.  Many people have traveled to Mexico and have enjoyed their vacations without encountering any problems. Just be careful and have a wonderful time.
The Mexican Government makes great efforts to protect visitors to the major tourist areas such as Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel and Los Cabos. These areas have not seen the drug related violence and crime reported in the Northern border regions. The distance from the Cancun area to these areas of violence is approximately the distance from New York City to Chicago.
The people of Mexico are so lovely and the cultural sights and beauty of over 6000 miles of coastline should not be missed. Be informed but do not miss this destination! Next blog I will offer some basic tips for safe travel.

Until next time....


Jessica Dempsey
JD Travel Planning

http://www.jdtravelplanning.com/

Riu Palace Paradise Island Review

I wanted to share a  Riu Palace Paradise Island Review, this was submitted by a client of mine. This is a beautiful newly renovated all-inclusive resort just 2 1/2 hrs from New York City. The Riu Palace Paradise Island is right next door to the Atlantis Resort, you can visit the Atlantis and use their facilities(additional fee).

Riu Palace Paradise Island Review


I Soooooo want to go again and that's when it occurred to me that I never sent you a review.

Rooms in pristine condition- brand new, no signs of wear, spacious (we had a two room suite).

We had one bigger bedroom- with a fairly large common space in between- connecting to the smaller bedroom. Both rooms had a very large closet, and a huge dresser with more than enough space to fit all our clothes.

The hotel was small enough so that you could walk out of the elevator, cross the lobby and step right into the pool area- if you forgot something in your room it was very quick to run in and get it (which I loved!) without it feeling overly crowded.

The food was fine- although after about 18 meals you do start to get tired of all that eating LOL! We were in and out the buffet all day- for cookies, fries, jello or just to cool off for a few minutes. The only complaint about the place would be the one night we went to sit down dinner and the food was just horrible and cold and took FOREVER to come out. but no big deal, we just went to the other restaurant and had buffet :) AGAIN.

They would stock the fridge with water and soda whenever requested. And room service too!

They had a fairly big sports bar- with a nice bar, pool table, and this is where they had three or four computers that I never waited on to get access to. In this area they also had a fridge with sandwiches, salads and fruit. Oh, and a neat little nacho and cheese station- which was all available 24/7.

The entertainment at their club was fantastic every night- we saw all the shows. All but one was kid friendly.

The beach was beautiful and we did the banana boat ride only. Well, me and my sister did sneak down for an early morning massage on the beach one day too!

The pool was clean and every day there were activities run by the hotel- bingo, dance lessons. The staff there was great- one young guy was ALWAYS around and mingling with the guests- he was a doll and a gentleman. He would jump in the pool and play with the kids if you asked him to (which we did).

BTW!!!!! The weather was absolutely perfect!!!!!!! Thank you again for all your help and patience, especially while we were in the Bahamas!

Thanks to my client for sharing this amazing Riu Palace Paradise Island Review.

Until next time....
Jessica Dempsey
JD Travel Planning
http://www.jdtravelplanning.com/

Going Green

Going Green!


I know many people are very aware of how we need to respect our earth and are taking different initiatives to go green. I get many requests from clients for hotels that are going green and practicing sustainable tourism. There are many resorts now going green but I decided I would focus on one brand today as I just visited these resorts and really got a feel for their going green initiatives. The El Dorado Spa Resorts and Hotels by Karisma are GOING GREEN!

Some examples of ways they are green:

• A 70,000 square foot Greenhouse at El Dorado Royale produces all vegetables, herbs and flowers grown in tropical climates. The produce services all El Dorado and Azul Hotels, so you know those sweet delicious Cherry Tomatoes in your salad are right from the greenhouse.


• Water saving devices in all suites and public areas

• Hydro jets installed in all toilets to reduce amount of water used

• Water treatment process to reuse water for gardens

• Solar panels heating 40 - 100% of the water at each resort

• Ozone laundry system, eliminating harmful chemicals

• LED light bulbs used throughout the property

• El Dorado Spa Resorts and Hotels have taken extensive measures to ensure that all garbage is separated and recycled properly including dangerous waste, organic items, glass and paper

• All chemicals used are biodegradable

• All air conditioners use Ecofreeze which saves approximately 30% electricity

• Staff education on the importance of recycling, how to do it and encouragement of staff to bring their household recyclable items to the hotels to be properly recycled

If you are looking to book your next vacation and experience a beautiful luxury all inclusive resort that is practicing sustainable tourism, look no further. As a Karisma Resorts specialist I can help you plan the vacation experience of a lifetime!

Greenhouse

Cherry Tomatoes

Awesome staff giving us the tour

Mint leaves for your MOJITO

Brides Dress Rehearsal

BRIDE'S DRESS REHEARSAL

Spend 3 Nights and 4 Days - This is a fantastic way to view the resorts, and yes there are 7 of them, check out the wedding locations, taste the food and experience the warm welcome from the people of the Mexican Riviera.

Contact Jessica Dempsey - GIVC,  a Karisma Resorts specialist to book this amazing offer! Call today 631-780-6195

Details:

For only $399 per couple, brides and grooms who have not yet booked their destination wedding can stay for 3 nights at their hotel of choice and have the opportunity to taste different cake options, sample menu items and even view the various locations and setups for their ceremony and private events.

This promotion is good for any El Dorado Spa Resort or Azul Hotel by Karisma, and is offered once a month for the rest of 2011.

Azul Beach Resort

Here are the dates:                                                                    
August 25

September 22

October 20

November 17


Azul Beach Sky Wedding

December 15

And here are the highlights of this promotion:                        

Upgrade to best available room upon arrival

Complimentary honeymoon & anniversary package during stay

Cake tasting, food samples & private event setup

$500 food & beverage credit after 10 rooms or more are booked

Meet executives and hotel staff

Romantically decorated suite

And more!


Terms & Conditions

This promotion is combinable with the Bride & Groom stay free promotion. No coupons may be used on these bookings. Transfers included between resorts only, airfare and airport transfers are not included. GIVC points cannot be used to pay for this package. GIVC will not receive points for this booking. Not valid if wedding date is held or deposited. Travel agents are not permitted to attend. $500 credit will not apply to groups with less than 10 rooms. All couples will be required to sign a disclaimer at check-in stating that they will attend a site inspection of the host hotel as well as a presentation at El Dorado Royale on Saturday. *Clients who want to travel outside of selected dates will be required to pay the current hotel rate at the time and will not receive the $500 towards the food & beverage portion of any private event they book. Booking must be made 30 days in advance; space is limited.

Traveling solo

Traveling along with Me, myself and I

Traveling solo is an awesome way to see the world, meet new people and spend some time with yourself! Sometimes we need to do this to recover from a life event or sometimes “I just want to go someplace where I can just marvel at something” as said so perfectly by Ms. Julia Roberts.

In the past, the thought of being a solo traveler on a cruise ship meant taking out a loan just to pay for the cabin. Thank goodness for NCL who introduced “Epic Studios” last year when the awesome Norwegian Epic debuted. Talk about marvel! The studios are designed specifically for the solo traveler but more importantly so is the pricing. No more double occupancy requirements and single supplements that can double the cost that is typically 200% of the cruise fare because you must pay for the absent “roommate”. The concept was such a hit that they’ll be more to come when Norwegian introduces more new ships in the coming years. Royal Caribbean followed when it unveiled cabins for solo travelers with the revamped Radiance of the Seas this past June.

But it doesn’t stop there. Several cruise lines are catching on. While they may not have specific designed cabins for a single passenger, they are offering reduced single supplements or waiving it altogether. Avalon Waterways is celebrating the new movement by offering river cruises for the solo traveler on select itineraries in October. Ah, a cruise experience through the Danube River with me, myself and I! Now that has my name written all over it.

Why the sudden change in cruising? Some of us just enjoy traveling alone. What do you want to marvel at? Let us know.

Until next time,



Jessica Dempsey
JD Travel Planning

Creating memorable vacations everyday, let yours be next.....

Oceania Marina Review

I had the opportunity to tour the beautiful Oceania Marina today in NYC, what an amazing ship! Fine cuisine at sea with 6 restaurant choices including Jacques, the first restaurant at sea for Jacques Pepin, Canyon Ranch Spa Club, Bon Appetit Culinary Center(a hands-on gourmet culinary program), and the Artist Loft.  Staterooms and suites are nice in size and are beautifully decorated with hardwoods, rich fabrics and designed for comfort. The feel onboard is country club elegance with a guest to crew ratio of 1.57 to 1.  Canyon Ranch Spa Club is new to the Oceania Marina and in addition to massages and other treatments they offer lectures and cooking demonstrations and Canyon Ranch cuisine options in the Grand Dining Room. There is a large fitness center with optional classes as well to help you stay in shape.  Oceania is the destination specialist with many overnight visits and extended port stays.  If you appreciate fine cuisine and gracious service along with amazing destinations the Oceania Marina is for you.

 To see all of my photos from the Oceania Marina click here

Jessica Dempsey

Cruise Planners

http://www.jdtravelplanning.com/