Iobst Travel American Express

Riu Palace Riviera Maya

I recently returned from the Riviera Maya area outside of Cancun, Mexico.  The area is comprised of a long stretch of beach with all-inclusive resorts one right after the other.  It begins approximately 20 minutes from the Cancun airport and can take up to 90 minutes to get to your chosen resort.

I had the pleasure of experiencing the Riu brand of all-inclusives.  They are located in Mexico and throughout the Caribbean.  The resort was picturesque with a beautiful beach area, very large pool with swim up bar, and several restaurants and bars.  Rooms were a nice size with a balcony or patio.  Although, it smelled very musty upon arrival, it was discovered when the sliding glass doors are open or left unlocked, the air conditioning automatically shuts off.  It would have been nice to be notified of that...

The in-room safe malfunctioned on the second day...would not open.  Called the front desk to ask for assistance and was advised I must wait in the room for the attendant. Waited, waited, and waited...decided my vacation time was valuable and headed back to the pool bar.  Called that evening...waited, waited, and waited...dinner was calling my name.  On the way to dinner, we stopped by the front desk to give them a piece of our minds regarding the this issue.  We were advised there is only one man on property that has access to the safe.  Fine...should a guest have to spend their vacation waiting in their room for access to the safe???  Not to mention, our credit cards, money etc were in this said safe...prohibiting us from spending any money in the spa, gift shop, or excursions.

That evening, an apology letter was in the room along with reservations to the Japanese restaurant.  This opens yet another can of worms... RESERVATIONS at the restaurants were impossible to get!  They only accepted reservations from 12p-3p (prime pool and beach time).  Each of the times we attempted to get them...NOTHING AVAILABLE.  The real kicker...we attempted to check out the restaurants a few of the evenings, just in case, there were any no-shows or cancellations.  The Mexican restaurant had 9 empty tables...WOULD NOT LET US IN, Japanese had 6 empty tables...WOULD NOT LET US IN... Do you get my drift?  Why oh why, would they not want to try to accommodate all of the guests at the resort and insure they were able to, at least, try one of the specialty restaurants?  The buffet was good, had a nice variety of food, and diversity each night....BUT!

Getting back to the Japanese Restaurant...we thoroughly enjoyed this dining experience. Great food, service, atmosphere...too bad you have to be "susie complainer" to have the privilege.

As with many of the resorts in Mexico, language does create some issues.  The staff, while very friendly and accommodating, need English as a second language classes.  It posed a few problems, which were easy to laugh off, but could be annoying to some.

Entertainment was wonderful in the day and evening...pool aerobics, dancing contests, comedy, live music...list is endless.  You would not be bored!

Overall, I would give this resort a 3.5 stars out of five.   Adios!

Who do you trust?

The world of social media has exploded!  I admit my addiction, but the question that continues to plague me, is whose opinion do you trust?  I am only referring to the travel industry in regards to this post, such as where do you go to read your reviews?  To help make your decision on where to go, where to stay, and what to do?  The web has a plethora of niche social media outlets which provide travelers the ability to read reviews on hotels and destinations.   My amazement is peaked at how people  will value the opinion of somebody they don't know more than the brand itself. 

I read reviews on-line for most of the tangible items I am about to buy.  Although, when it comes time to make the purchase I rely heavily on the brand's reputation and reliability.  Consumer Reports and CNET are my go to trusted websites.  Do we have such a thing in the travel industry?  Travelers spend most of their time reading reviews posted by other travelers.  The issues I have with this are many.

No two travelers are alike!  I will use myself as an example... I love the Four Seasons, going to the spa, and eating in the best restaurants.  Although, I love a great camping trip, cooking over the fire and sleeping one with nature.  One extreme to the other!   The reviews posted on these well known sites do not have any requirements for posting, nor do they provide any insight into what kind of traveler you are comparing yourself to.  You are purchasing an experience, not a TV! 

I would think that would make it all the more coveted and surely you would want a trusted adviser to lead you down the right path. Travel Consultants are not a dying breed, but a new breed.  The "travel agents" of days past would simply take your order and serve you the brochure.  Today's offers you an al a carte menu, allowing you to customize your experience.  They are there to be your "trusted adviser" from beginning to end.

Take a moment to think about how you make or base your travel buying decisions.  Hopefully, I provided you with some food for thought. 

We are back!

I have no excuses!  It has been awhile since we have updated, and I have to admit I have been sidetracked by my addiction to social media.  Iobst Travel is on Twitter and Facebook!  Follow and become a fan, as we love to interact with our clients.  Now on to the important stuff...

The economy has brought about unbelievable travel deals, as well as a paradigm shift in how the industry is doing business.  The airlines are scrambling to add even more revenue streams.  From baggage, blankets & pillows, food and now seats!  Here is the most amazing one for me to grasp...'stand up seats'!  What? How?  A couple of international carriers are considering the option of selling tickets for you to STAND on the way to your next destination.  The fares will be lower than if you actually purchase a seat, but have they thought about the liability?  When is the last time you were on a plane without your seatbelt on and walking around that a stewardess didn't say something?  If they happen to hit unexpected turbulence, are we willing to arrive in paradise or at our next business meeting with a concussion or worse?   Some might view it as another roller coaster ride but there are those of us who prefer to catch a little cat nap.  Nonetheless, the world of travel or should I say logistics might be giving us more choices but at what price?

Haven’t been cruising for awhile?

Neither was I – having cruised only on the Disney Wonder and Holland America Statendam in 28 years!  New to Iobst Travel American Express I needed a cruise – "research" I called it.  I chose a 5 day/4 night Royal Caribbean cruise out of Tampa, Florida.  My ports of call were Key West and Cozumel.  Armed with seasickness prevention meds, clothes for all occasions and more shoes than I really needed, I flew to Florida and was joined by my son Pete for this fabulous cruise.  Well cruising has changed quite a bit!!!!  The cabin we shared was the perfect  size for 2 people (not the bunk bed & toilet/shower configuration of 28 years ago!)  The ballast has improved too, only one period of time required my Sea Bands and that was with 48 knot winds, gone are the days of rolling and trying to regain your balance with each step.  Shore excursions of parasailing in Key West and a snorkeling/Mayan ruin/eco-park/lighthouse tour in Cozumel along with time on our own, gave us the real flavor of Key West and Cozumel.  What an incredible feeling to be flying high while parasailing – a surprisingly calm flight the most incredible view.  Pete and I went tandem and were able to talk and share this experience together – everyone should experience parasailing.   And I like fish – little ones – but I found snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea off the Cozumel coast to be exciting.  I felt as if I were in the huge fish tank at the national aquarium.  Beer, our drink of choice – remember don't drink the water in Mexico (ice cubes too) - was complimentary after the snorkeling and someone else was driving the tour bus!  The food aboard was abundant and delicious and there were so many activities and shows but you could also pull up a lounge chair and just relax.  A children's program gave families options for their cruising experience too.  I'm sure all the children enjoyed their programs, they even sang for us during our second seating dining.  Try it – you will love it – there is something for everyone!!!!!

Barb Lienhard

Hawaii, Caribbean or Mexico . . .the choice is yours!

We work with several terrific travel partners and can recommend resort properties at each of these destinations to match your family's interests and budget. From deluxe all-inclusive resorts with every amenity imaginable included, to accommodations that include kitchenettes and a variety of children's activities and programs. We will also arrange your air fare and rental car and whatever else you might want or need to make sure your vacation is the best ever. We've highlighted for you a few popular "sand, sea and family fun" destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico and Hawaii and showcased some of the many attractions, activities and sites that your family might enjoy. Please give us a call or stop by and let us help you plan your family's upcoming summer vacation. As always, wherever you want to go . . . we can get you there!

Caribbean
. . . Cayman Islands. The people of the Cayman Islands have long had a history tied to the turtle. In the 1600s and 1700s, the Cayman Islands became a provisioning stop for vessels sailing the Caribbean because of an abundance of green sea turtles. In addition to turtles, sand and sun, this destination offers a lot of history, including the Pedro St. James National Historic Site, a historically accurate reconstruction of the original 1780 Great House and one of the country's genuine treasures. Of course, you won't want to miss the Turtle Farm, home to more than 12,000 turtles – ranging from hatchlings to 600-pound-plus adults. It has become the islands' largest tourist attraction.

. . . Dominican Republic. Looking for family-friendly activities and attractions? Then look no further than the Dominican Republic – considered a great place for families and children, regardless of age. For example, guided tours are available at many of their national parks – either through independent tour operators and guide services or by hiring a park ranger. Guides can make sure that the activities are age-appropriate and that you see the most important natural and historic sites. Next, museums. With so much history and so many cultural traditions, it's no surprise that the DR has a variety of museums where families can not only learn about the destination of the Dominican Republic, but also have a good time doing it!

Bavaro and Punta Cana constitute the granddaddys of all beach resort areas in the Dominican Republic, if not the entire Caribbean Basin. This is where the Atlantic and Caribbean meet in a wide-open expanse of emerald seas sprinkled with a million shades of cobalt, turquoise and sapphire blues.

Today, Bavaro and Punta Cana are the island's new tourism frontier, and its fastest growing region by far. All in all, besides incredibly beautiful beaches, the Dominican Republic offers diversity: Tropical forests, arid semi-deserts and four mountain ranges. In addition, the DR boasts the oldest colonial city in the New World, is one of the largest breeding grounds known to man for the elusive humpback whale and showcases the Caribbean's highest mountains as well as the longest rivers.

Mexico
With more than 6,000 miles of beaches, Mexico has a beach to fit just about any family's profile. Some of the most popular Mexican destinations include Cancun, Cozumel, Los Cabos, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. Vacation activities can include water sports such as snorkeling and diving, or sightseeing Mayan ruins. You can look forward to kayaking off the "Costa Maya," mountain biking in Oaxaca, river rafting in Vera Cruz, shopping and sightseeing, or simply relaxing on a sunny beach. Resorts run the gamut from ultra-deluxe, all-inclusive to family-friendly properties that feature a multitude of supervised, age-appropriate children's activities and programs. We have all the details and can help you make your plans.

. . . Los Cabos. This paradise on the tip of the Baja California peninsula always seems to have something new for us to enjoy – including some of the finest golf course, superb fishing, fun marine excursions and fabulous hotels. Here, you and your family can experience an interesting variety of excursions – ranging from whale watching in Pacific lagoons to viewing ancient cave paintings. We think you will agree: Almost everything in Los Cabos involves "natural beauty," such as isolated beaches, desert landscapes, unique rock formations and scenic bluffs. Shopping is also popular in local boutiques, galleries and shops.

. . . Mazatlán. Located at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Mazatlán is situated on Mexico's northern Pacific coast. Here, you will appreciate the chance to experience a flourishing seaport, as well as authentic Mexican culture, as the locals love to share their heritage, traditions and pride in their jewel on the Mexican Gold Coast. There is a wide range of activities to enjoy – in addition to beautiful sunny beaches. Take a stroll around Old Mazatlán (Centro) with its colorful colonial-style architecture restored to pristine condition. Because of this impressive revitalization program, Old Mazatlán's streets are among Mexico's tourist hot spots. Once a commercial hub, this charming historic district now offers delightful shops, museums, alfresco dining, contemporary dance, jazz clubs and concerts, as well as its unique neoclassical architecture. Mazatlán is an ideal, affordable family vacation choice with endless possibilities: Aquatic sports, kid activities, fishing, bird-watching, golf, tennis, horseback riding, fine dining, shopping and nightlife.

. . . Puerto Vallarta. Few destinations can combine both sophistication and charm as successfully as Puerto Vallarta does. The city center is lined with art galleries, elegant restaurants and historic architecture. The area's hotels both in town and just outside (e.g. Marina Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta), offer an impressive array of amenities. As well, there is an exceptional variety of activities to enjoy – ranging from golf, tennis and water sports to nature excursions and day trips to the villages in the hills. Snorkeling is popular at Los Arcos – a set of large rocks known for the caves formed under them that showcase a variety of brilliantly colored tropical fish. City tours are a great way for everyone to get acquainted with the area. Puerto Vallarta is also considered one of the best places to purchase fine works of art and exquisite folk art.

. . . Riviera Maya. This stunning stretch of coastline just south of Cancun has quickly built a reputation for outstanding accommodations and beautiful scenery, and it is also near many of Mexico's most famous Mayan ruins. Among the area's top attractions are its ecoparks, including Kantun Chi Park, Xel-Ha park and Xcaret – home to archeological monuments and ecological and cultural attractions. Here you can swim with dolphins, snorkel through underwater tunnels, admire animals in their natural habitats and enjoy traditional dance and music performances.

Hawaii
With summer just around the corner, now is the time to plan your family's getaway to Hawaii – the Pacific playground where ideal weather and breathtaking surroundings will have you enjoying endless outdoor activities, fun festivals and so much more – morning, noon and night! Just think . . . you and your family can swim with dolphins, kayak where green sea turtles play and snorkel amid brilliantly colored tropical fish. You can surf or tee off on championship courses. You can witness the sun rise atop a volcano, explore secluded beaches, hike, bike and horseback ride. Learn to hula and build a canoe. In other words . . . spend your summer in paradise . . . Hawaiian style! We've highlighted just a sample of what to look forward to on three of the islands.

. . . Oahu. On this island, you can play the emerald greens of championship courses, cycle through beautiful valleys, visit sacred Hawaiian sites, attend festivals and stroll through markets selling handcrafted arts and crafts. Attractions include the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park, Sea Life Park Hawaii and the Honolulu Zoo.

. . . Hawaii – The Big Island. Regardless of whether you choose to fly over an active volcano, dive in crystal clear waters or experience the excitement of an Hawaiian rodeo – The Big Island never fails to deliver outstanding adventures, fun festivals and breathtaking sights. Be sure and make time for the Kilauea Volcano Adventure at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here an interpretive naturalist will guide you and your family through a native rain forest, a lava tube and remarkable volcanic formations while explaining the geological and historic significance of each location.

. . . Maui. Here you can watch the sun rise over a volcano, discover the secrets of the rain forest, hike along a soaring sea cliff and watch master craftsmen build canoes using age-old traditions. The Haleakala National Park at sunrise remains one of Maui's most awe-inspiring attractions. You and your family will arrive at the 10,023-foot summit an hour before sunrise. Watch the first rays of sun streak across the sky and then peer down into the 3,000-foot deep crater. After a van tour of the park, you will head downhill by bike – dropping 3,000 feet in 10 miles and 29 switch-backs. Be sure and stop often to take photos of the incredible ocean and island views.

Cruising . . .
Family cruises, anniversary, milestone birthday celebration cruises, and family reunion cruises are special and often once-in-a-lifetime events for entire families to have fun together and to nurture that family bond and unity. Family cruises are available for numerous destinations. Depending on where you want to go, you can explore the islands of the Caribbean, coastlines of Mexico, Alaska, Europe, the exotic and enticing South Pacific or South America. Not only can we match you and your family with the right ship at the right time, with the right itinerary and at the right price, but we will work with you to make air arrangements for your group and to be sure that any special needs are handled.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS. Together with one of our special travel partners, Smithsonian Journeys, we are featuring an incredible 10-day family expedition cruise along the Amazon River, with an optional extension to the awe-inspiring destination of Machu Picchu, Peru. Set for December 26, 2008 – January 4, 2009, the Family Amazon Voyage aboard the La Amatista is expressly designed to introduce, educate and inspire youngsters (ages 8-14) as well as their parents, grandparents and friends about the world's largest and most diverse wilderness: The amazing Amazon River and Rainforest. This Smithsonian Journeys' Voyage includes: An expert Smithsonian study leader, a youth activities director and a tour manager throughout; a 7-night cruise, hotel accommodations in Lima both before and after the cruise, special "Welcome" and "Farewell" dinners, roundtrip
intra-country air from Lima/Iquitos, tours of both cities, airport transfers, port charges and all gratuities for guides and drivers.

A multi-generational vacation opportunity, this Family Amazon Voyage will cruise the upper Amazon River in a classically styled riverboat and will include daily excursions into the rainforest to look for wildlife. You can expect to see over 100 varieties of birds, monkeys putting on shows from treetops, and possibly even catch a glimpse of a family of endangered giant river otters who live deep in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve (the largest wetland reserve in the world!). You will learn how to fish for piranhas and feast on your catch. You will get to go canoeing with pink river dolphins. And, you and your children will visit with local youngsters from river villages (Riberenos) and visit their school.

Your flight to Lima, Peru, begins the journey, followed by a flight the next day over the Andes Mountains to Iquitos, where, time permitting, you will enjoy a brief city tour prior to boarding the riverboat. This cruise will also debark at Iquitos. Your expedition continues with a flight back to Lima, a city tour, then the afternoon free prior to transferring that evening for a flight back to the U.S. An optional tour of Machu Picchu can be easily arranged and we have all the details. We think you will agree: Smithsonian Journeys offers the "Best in Educational Travel." Please call us for details and to make your reservations for "the greatest voyage in natural history"!

CRYSTAL CRUISES. Ready to enjoy and experience a bit of Mediterranean Magic? We have two incredible cruises to share with you that offer exclusive amenities to you, our valued American Express Travel client. First is Crystal's annual President's Cruise that departs August 24, 2008. On this 12-day "Isles of Antiquity" voyage aboard the stunning, award-winning Crystal Symphony, you will cruise from Athens to Rome and visit such exciting ports as Kusadasi, Rhodes, Santorini, Agios Nikolaos, Corfu and Taormina, and conclude with an overnight stay in Sorrento before docking in Civitavecchia (Rome.) Onboard during this special President's Cruise, you can look forward to meeting (or visiting with again) Crystal Cruises' president, Gregg Michel and his wife, Adriana. Special onboard amenities will include a Gala Welcome Aboard Party, commemorative gift to celebrate the special voyage and the opportunity for all guests to take part in the president's shore excursion. One of the special lecturers, as part of the Crystal Visions® Enrichment Program, will be Tom Lippman, a former Middle East Bureau Chief of The Washington Post and frequent television and radio commentator. In addition, Mr. Michel will offer his popular Q&A session for all guests. If you prefer to sail the Med during the lovely fall months, the Crystal Serenity's 12-day "Mediterranean Majesty" voyage departs October 18, 2008 and sails from Rome to Barcelona. Ports of call will include Naples, Catania, Gibraltar, Malaga, Cartagena, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona. An overnight stay in Barcelona is included. The American Express exclusive value-added amenity offered for these two sailings may include a $250 per person (up to $500 per stateroom) shipboard credit. Please ask us for details to see if you qualify. It is also important to note that your cruise (including shore excursions) is to be paid in U.S. dollars – thus avoiding any further fluctuation in the value of the dollar to the Euro. We hope you will agree: Crystal Cruises offers exceptional value in luxury cruising. Come onboard . . . you'll see the difference is Crystal Clear.

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE. It's almost summer! Have you planned your family vacation? Options abound, including the opportunity to make history by sailing onboard the new ms Eurodam during her inaugural season this year. Aboard the Eurodam, you and your family can look forward to spacious accommodations, an incredible variety of fine and casual dining venues, the largest gymnasium and sports area ever built for Holland America Line and superb entertainment options. If you have children, they will look forward to the programs offered through Club HAL® – Holland America's dedicated youth supervised facilities, programs and activities for youngsters ages 3-12. (All activities are offered in age appropriate groups.) Additionally, your teens (ages 13-17) can look forward to spending time at The Loft – an area designed exclusively for teenagers to have fun, socialize, and just hang out with their new friends. (And new for this year is a video editing facility now a part of The Loft.) With Holland America, you will pay for your cruise with U.S. dollars, so you will know before you depart what is included and what your costs should be. All in all in 2008, this 135-year-old cruise line – considered "the most experienced cruise line in Europe" – will showcase the Continent aboard six distinctive ships, will visit nine maiden ports and will offer more overnight stays and late departures in such prime ports as Venice, Barcelona and Istanbul. Please call us now for specific details about each of Holland America Line's ships sailing in Europe and what will be best for your family.

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Holland America Line's ms Prinsendam
If you have been considering a world cruise or a cruise to exotic, far-reaching destinations and want to experience such a journey on an intimate, mid-sized ship, then look no further than Holland America's ms Prinsendam. Now freshly enhanced and "more elegant than ever," this delightfully intimate 793-guest vessel will provide you with the feel of a classic yacht combined with the spaciousness of a cruise ship. Indeed, the ms Prinsendam – or "the Elegant Explorer" – is truly a vessel worthy of her name. Many of you will remember the Prinsendam as the Royal Viking Sun. Now completely refurbished, this is one magnificent vessel! Please call us for all the details.