Science has shown that one’s environment has a direct impact on well-being, a fact that anyone who’s spent significant time in the mountains or by the sea can attest to. There’s just something about being by the ocean, hearing the crashing waves and feeling the sea breeze against your face; or being in the desert, hearing nothing but the chirp of an odd bird and seeing nothing but an endless landscape of majestic rock that makes you leave all your worries at home and let yourself breathe. The following locations will make even the most stressed-out individuals find their bliss.

Caribbean Island
A big part of resetting your mind is learning how to slow down, and the laid-back vibe of the Caribbean may be just the place for those needing a break from the fast-paced frenzy of their lives. Once you step off the plane and breathe in the ocean air, look out at the turquoise sea and walk barefoot through the smooth white sand with a cool daiquiri in hand, the bothers of daily life are all but forgotten. Choose from a multitude of swimming pools to wade in or sit under palm trees with a book in hand and ocean in view. Play a few rounds at a pro-level golf course, and wander to a conch shack for fresh delicacies prepared on the spot. And if shopping relieves stress for you, pop into the high-end boutiques for a little retail therapy.

Coastal Town
It’s no surprise that some of the wealthiest people in the world, who could live anywhere they want, choose to settle down in towns like Santa Monica, California, or Palm Beach, Florida. These locales provide easy access to major cities in the U.S., so traveling to and from is not an issue. And once you’re there, the towns are bursting with modern luxuries and convenience, while remaining pristine in appearance. Manicured lawns rest in front of mammoth mansions, and five-star resorts with seaside spas and fine cuisine are plentiful. Walk straight from your oceanfront hotel to a secluded beach below for sunrise yoga, experience in-suite spa treatments, indulge in healthy Michelin-star meals and cycle to town on complimentary bicycles at the impressive resorts that make up America’s chic coastal getaways.

Desert Oasis
The beauty of the desert is endless, creating the perfect setting for days of quiet contemplation. What better way to treat yourself in this day and age of constant noise and endless obligation? In the desert, nobody cares if your inbox is packed with unopened emails. And in the desert, the mountains call for you to climb them, bringing an organic opportunity to focus on physical as well as mental health. Take a hike and feel the full-body relaxation and restful sleep that follows a day of exercise. Soothe your muscles in a private outdoor soaking tub at a desert resort, align your body at a top-ranked spa and dine on fresh seasonal cuisine while sitting on an outdoor dining deck facing the expansive mountains.

Tropical Getaway
Spirituality seekers have been known to visit Hawaii for the healing properties that only a tropical paradise can bring. Whether or not you believe that the islands’ volcanic energies are operating at higher chakra frequencies, it can’t be denied that the unique beauty of its verdant jungles and rolling hills existing in the same space as the bluest ocean waters and clear skies possess a special soul-soothing quality. Make time to try a Lomi Lomi massage, take sail on the waters of the Pacific, enter an infinity pool that looks out on the ocean and commune with nature in a protected wildlife reserve, and you’ll return home invigorated.

All Inclusive vacations enhance your experience further, by allowing you to not have to think about or plan a thing!

A Caribbean vacation isn’t complete without visiting the island’s most magnificent gems. Waterfalls in the Caribbean are typically found nestled in the hills and surrounded by lush greenery filled with exotic fauna. The crystal clear and refreshing rapids are awe-inspiring. With all the beauty in the islands it’s difficult to know which attraction to see first, but no worries, we have narrowed it down for you. Check out the 8 must-see Caribbean waterfalls.

Jamaica, Dunn’s River Falls
Probably one of the most famous in the Caribbean, these magnificent falls are 60 feet high and empty directly into the sea!  A series of pools and rocks that have become smooth from the pressure of the falls, make it a perfect natural playground! Make sure you visit the beach and test out the natural slides!

Jamaica, YS Falls
Found deep in the heart of Jamaica’s South Coast, YS Falls is a place of unique beauty and a must-see whilst on the island.  With seven waterfalls and a series of naturally formed freshwater pools, it’s a natural wonder hidden in the southern parish of St. Elizabeth. Make sure you climb the nature trails to the top of the falls, grab a rope swing and jump in! Swim in its natural pools. They also have the opportunity to zip-line through the rain-forest canopy from the top of the falls to its base below.

Saint Lucia, Errard Falls
If you’re looking for an adventure that’s off the beaten path and you’re up for a bit of a trek, this one’s for you!  After a bike ride through the forest it’s time to talk a walk through the jungle, across river (and over a few rocks!) to reach the foot of this incredible waterfall! It’s a beautiful clear pool surrounded by deep rain-forest. Make sure you observe the incredible biodiversity of the area, like the super cool land crabs that you’ll find hiding under the rocks.

Grenada, Concord Falls
If you like to hike, this is the one for you; a series of three waterfalls located on the edge of a reserve on the western side of the island, the water is crystal clear and ice cold! Make sure you take a camera!

Barbados, Harrisons Cave
Forget the beaches, discover the hidden waterfalls beneath the surface of this Caribbean paradise in a massive stream cave system that is at least 2.3 kilometres long! Visit Harrison’s Cave Barbados to see the stalactites, stalagmites, glass-like pools and hidden waterfalls! Make sure you carry water and a camera with flash and don't miss the cave and critters!

For the best experience book in advance through your travel agent, or the resort and trusted tour company onsite to visit these must-see sites!

Contact ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com to help you plan your Caribbean vacation! She is an all inclusive specialist and her personal professional planning services bring you added value from research through return at no extra cost.

Swimming Pigs Adventure - Enjoy a fun filled, action packed excursion aboard a 35 foot custom designed Power Cat while you  swim with the pigs, snorkel, beach comb and experience all the beauty of the Exumas in one tour. Your captain and first mate will entertain you with excellent knowledge and first class service as you cruise in and out of over 75 magnificent, little known cays with several stops along the way. Take incredible photos atop an island with 360-degree views of the Exuma cays. Visit the endangered Bahamian rock Iguana at an island, which the original natives of the Bahamas once called home. Circle past the million dollar privately owned islands of celebrities, and speed across waters only inches deep as Stingrays race across the bottom. No journey into the cays is complete without feeding the always hilarious Swimming Pigs. Afterwards snorkel and swim along a lively reef with magnificent colors while a nearby virgin sandbar awaits your exploration

​Dolphin Encounter - Enter the world of these gentle bottlenose beauties with a special kiss and caress while you get a chance to make friends, touch and have an up-close experience with the dolphins.  Also, learn some interesting facts about these wonderful creatures from a knee deep water platform. You can also view the exciting Shark Show, performed by our very own pirates of “Little Port Royal.” Interact with the colorful birds, exotic snakes and iguanas on the nature trail. Enjoy unlimited mini-boat rides, a 40ft. water slide and interactions with the gentle stingrays (with barbs clipped).

MINI-Routes To Negril - Buckle up and take the wheel of your own MINI Cooper during this first-of-its-kind journey along Jamaica’s beautiful north-west coast to the ‘capital of casual’, Negril! This exciting new experience puts you in the driver’s seat as you follow behind an expert island guide to local spots and famous landmarks. Your journey begins with a short stop at a local coconut vendor. Then hop back in your MINI and drive through the historic town of Lucea. Once you arrive in Negril it’s time for some delicious food and a relaxing break on the Seven Mile Beach. In the afternoon drive to the iconic Negril Lighthouse at the westernmost point of the island where you can see the lighthouse and take in the gorgeous view. Next, visit the legendary Ricks Café where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the daring cliff-divers, snap a few pictures and enjoy the stunning views.  On your way back to Montego Bay you’ll make a final stop at an authentic jerk shack for a quick cooking demonstration. It’s time to take your island experience into your own hands on this fully-loaded adventure, but get ready because there’s nothing ‘mini’ about it! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to benefit the local communities that we call home.

Luminous Lagoon Experience - Join in at sunset for a trip to Jamaica's famed Luminous Lagoon on a night cruise like no other! With a complimentary rum or fruit punch in hand, hop aboard to head out to the magical glistening waters. Surrounded by mangroves, at night the waters of the lagoon are home to microscopic organisms that emit a phosphorescent blue light when disturbed. Once you’ve cruised to the middle of the lagoon, you can jump in and really experience the true beauty of this unusual natural wonder. Luminous Lagoon is one of the few places in the world to have such a high concentration of these harmless organisms, this is truly something not to be missed!

Moriah Sea Park Adventure - ​Head over to the Exuma’s famous Moriah Harbor Cay National Park and become one with Mother Nature! Spanning across 10-miles of diverse land and sea, this park is home to reef fish, stingrays, turtles, dolphins and more! Basque in the Bahamian sun while keeping your eyes on the water, for you never know which ocean animal will swim by to say hello! Then, come face-to-face with these exotic sea-creatures as you cool off in the aquamarine sea and snorkel to your hearts content!

Reggae Catamaran Cruise - ​Sway to the sounds of reggae on one of the Caribbean’s most wet ’n’ wild adventures! Indulge in delectable appetizers and unlimited exotic cocktails while enjoying the best panoramic views you’ll ever set your eyes on. There’s nothing quite like this ‘club on water’ to feel the pulse of the island and see the wonders of the Caribbean. Snorkeling is included.

Contact ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com today to plan your customized all inclusive trip to the Caribbean! Chris is an all inclusive expert, as well as Antigua, Jamaica, St Lucia and Honeymoon specialist!! You can count on her for professional reliable recommendations. 

They say what goes around, comes around. As proof, once a favorite for stars and socialites, the beautiful  Caribbean Island of Jamaica appears to be a hot spot once again! It  continues to post impressive visitor growth with overnight, land-based visitor arrivals to Jamaica increasing 5.9 percent in the first six months of 2018.
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Jamaica hosted 1.25 million overnight visitor arrivals in the first half of 2018. Jamaica is one of only six countries tracked by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) to exceed one million annual land-based visitors.
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​The increases came despite a January declaration of a state of emergency by Andrew Holness, Jamaica’s prime minister. The declaration authorized “increased security measures” to curb “crime and violence” in St. James Parish, which includes the key Montego Bay tourist district. In a statement, Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) officials attributed the increases to quick, decisive and sustained initiatives led by Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s tourism minister, and Donovan White, the director of tourism, which successfully mitigated the possible negative outcomes from enhanced security measures implemented in the parish of St. James in January. “While the implementation of enhanced security measures did stir a whirlwind of concerns locally and internationally, several overseas partners welcomed the initiative as a necessary step,” said Bartlett. “[We] continue to support our nation’s security apparatus in their efforts to make Jamaica a safe place for all,” said Bartlett.

Jamaica has also benefited from strong hotel and resort development and investment, as major hospitality suppliers have targeted the island for future visitor growth despite the expressed security concerns. Several of Jamaica’s classic luxury resorts are slated for significant renovations this year, while both major and regional airlines have added new flights to the destination, facilitating the growing visitor totals.

Like many other destinations in the Caribbean, the Turks and Caicos suffered its share of bumps and bruises as a result of last year’s hurricanes.  An archipelago of 40 low-lying coral islands southeast of the Bahamas, the British Overseas Territory sustained the most damage from Hurricane Irma, though it was also impacted by Hurricane Maria. Many Turks and Caicos hotels, as well as the airport, experienced water damage and the port of Turks and Caicos witnessed even heavier destruction. However, before year’s end in 2017, most of the island’s restaurants, bars, hotels and tourist attractions had reopened.

Longtime Turks and Caicos Developer Mark Durliat, owner of Grace Bay Resorts, recently spoke with us about the destination, where it’s been and where it’s headed. Over the past two decades of working in the Turks and Caicos, Durliat has led the creation of 10 new resorts, condominiums and single-family residential projects. He has spearheaded more than 300,0000 square feet of new construction and directly sold $145 million of real estate.  His initial project, Grace Bay Club, was the first luxury, all-oceanfront-suite resort in the country. More recently, Durliat’s energies have been focused on his new Rock House Resort, a 14-acre residential enclave that has a target sell out of $55 million. It will offer 41 cottages and four hillside homes.

I went down to Turks & Caicos this past Spring to check out the recovery and see what's new. 

Not only did Turks and Caicos recover remarkably quickly from the 2017 hurricane season that devastated much of the Caribbean, it is experiencing a variety of important developments and is thriving as a destination on many levels.  The transition has been helped along in large part by more direct flights to the Turks and Caicos in recent years.   A list of cities that now offer direct flights to the Turks and Caicos at dizzying speed – New York, Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami, Boston, Washington D.C., Chicago and more.  

There are a variety of new luxe properties that have opened in recent years or that are slated to open in the near future. The Ritz-Carlton, a legend in luxury has announced plans for Turks and Caicos. The project will be located in the Grace Bay.  My favorite spot!  In addition, Durliat’s own company, Grace Bay Resorts, recently acquired a new property, Point Grace. The luxury boutique resort, which came under Grace Bay Resorts ownership in April, offers a world-class location on Grace Bay Beach and 35 luxe suites.  And, last December 2016 the much buzzed about Shore Club opened. It's a $100 million property located on a three-mile stretch of beach featuring opulent villas and lavish suites. There are three pools, poolside cabanas, a yoga pavilion and a 12,000-square-foot spa, as well as three dining venues too.

Sun, sand, sea, good food and relaxation - not hustle and bustle - is what you will find in Turks & Caicos!

To start planning your trip and get help picking the perfect spot contact ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com. She is an experienced expert who will make it easy for you to research, customize and go!

Read anything about the island, and you’re bound to learn that Antigua has exactly 365 beaches – one for each day of the year. You’ll also read about the island’s endless days of sun and stunningly gorgeous azure water. And while these things are true, they don’t capture the heart of this friendly little island, a former English colony where cricket games are an afternoon tradition and colorful roadside restaurants beckon with cornmeal and okra dumplings and cold bottles of Wadadli, the local lager.

Barely a hundred square miles, Antigua is particularly accessible, and exploring by car is a fun and rewarding experience – just stay alert for the bearded goats who sometimes wander into the road! Here are our personal recommendations for exploring the island:
 
1. Take the Dip in Half Moon Bay
No trip to Antigua is complete without a visit to Half Moon Bay. This family friendly beach is a national park that attracts visitors and locals alike for its stunning pink sand beach and quality snorkeling. Local vendors often sell food here, such as salt fish sandwiches topped with the local hot sauce, making it the perfect spot for a snack and swim.

 2. Explore English Harbour
One of the most popular spots in Antigua, beautifully restored English Harbour has enough attractions to last an entire day. From pristine beaches and panoramic trails to restaurants, art galleries and historical monuments (this is where you’ll find Nelson’s Dockyards, the world’s only surviving Georgian dockyard), English Harbour is a must see.

3. Watch a Cricket Game
Cricket is serious business in Antigua, a passion considered more of a religion than a sport. From schoolyards to beaches, games are never hard to find, but for a truly fantastic experience, head to the impressive Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, built for the 2017 Cricket Cup, where you can join the cheering crowds for an afternoon of fun.

4. Hike Mount Obama
After Barack Obama won the presidential election in 2009, Antigua’s prime minister renamed the island’s highest peak after the U.S. president. Mount Obama, as it is now known, is an easy stroll along a lush jungle trail and offers spectacular views of the neighboring islands of Monserrat and Guadeloupe.

5. Dance the Night Away
Rum punch and live music fuel Antigua’s famous dance parties, where tourists and locals alike shake and shimmy to the rhythms of the West Indies. From rustic beach bars like Beach Limerz to the ever-popular Shirley Heights Lookout sited high above English Harbour, there is no better way to experience Antigua’s hospitality than on the dance floor.

6. Sail into the Sunset
Antigua has long been a favorite destination among the international sailing set. Join them by chartering your own classic wooden sailboat for the day or watching the sunset from the deck of a catamaran. Whichever way you chose, this is the quintessential Caribbean experience you’ll never forget.

Looking for the perfect resort recommendation? Contact ChrisRakes

After all the hard work and emotions that go into planning a wedding, you are ready for that glass of champagne at the reception -- and a fabulous dose of R&R when it’s all over!  Whether you’re hitting the beach in the Caribbean, hiking a volcano in Costa Rica, or feasting your way through Italy, it’s time to unwind with your spouse and let the reality sink in: You’re married! Like all things “wedding,” your honeymoon comes with its share of questions.

When should we go on our honeymoon?
Traditionally, the newlyweds would depart on their honeymoon right away – the bride often changing into one of her trousseau outfits and heading to the airport straight from the reception, suitcases in tow. However, today’s couples know that having a wedding is exhausting. I recommend delaying departure 1-3 days so that you have a little time to wind down, get things organized and time to pack.

Who plans it?
The honeymoon used to be planned entirely by the groom and kept a secret from the bride until she arrived. But it’s stressful packing for a mystery trip, only to arrive and realize once at destination, there’s an outfit or two you really wish you’d brought! With today’s couples, more often than not the groom still takes the lead, but the bride is kept in the loop.  Smart grooms pull in a honeymoon specialist to help them decipher best options for their interests. It’s a collaboration with the travel pro doing the majority of the work related to the research and booking in general.  She'll also make sure their itinerary includes a little something for each of them.  Hoping to keep that surprise alive? That’s still an options but much safer bet when working with an experienced honeymoon specialist.  

I am out of vacation time, what should I do?
Take a mini-moon! And, delay your big trip until you’ve got more time off.  If you have to wait for the big honeymoon, take a long weekend immediately after your wedding to unwind from the excitement. Go somewhere completely relaxing for a night or two. Sleep in, get massages, and scroll through your hashtags to relive all those fun memories. Taking that big trip several weeks or months after the big day, will give you something exciting to look forward to once your wedding has come and gone!

What if I have a food allergy or dietary restrictions?
Even if you are going on a cruise or to an all inclusive resort, this doesn’t have to be a problem.  Your honeymoon specialist can connect you to the resorts and cruise lines that do best in accommodating your need.  Once at destination you will be connected with the head chef or dining department to discuss your  restrictions and lay out a plan to accommodate it in the most satisfying manner.  The best properties will easily be able to work with your needs, as well as recommend menu items you will truly enjoy. For a honeymoon in a major city, read restaurants’ menus and reviews, and google search, for example “gluten free in Paris.”  If traveling to a destination where they don’t speak English, be prepared to explain your restrictions in the local language.  Write it down in advance, if that helps. Wherever you go and whatever kind of cuisine you are looking for, don’t forget to ask the locals’ for some suggestions. No one knows the local cuisine and what’s best better than them!

If we can’t afford an extravagant trip, should we still go?
Of course! There are many affordable ways to totally relax and enjoy your honeymoon. All-inclusive resorts and cruises are a great place to start and offer the best value since there are few expenses beyond what you pay to book the trip. You know upfront the cost of the trip before you get there. If you are looking for culture and art, and more exploration on foot, there are options for guided tours that offer exceptional value, over do it yourself options.  Don’t forget honeymoon funds are also available and no different than a gift registry.  Already have a coffee pot? Ask for an excursion instead!  The honeymoon is a trip of a lifetime and the thing you will remember most from this time in your life – don’t skimp or forgo it.

For the best value and experience work with a travel professional and honeymoon specialist. It's the same price as you doing all the work yourself and it will give you better peace of mind and experience overall. ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com

There are all inclusive cruises, tours, and resorts. Today, I’m going to talk to you about resorts!  All-inclusive resorts are designed for relaxation. From the moment you step off the plane, everything is managed for you. Need a drink? You got it. Want to play a round of golf? The staff will arrange it. Just want to enjoy the beach or pool? They’ll guide you to cozy cabanas complete with drink, towel, and snack service. While all-inclusives may sound like a dream vacation, this type of vacation isn’t for everyone. Consider the following and contact your travel pro before booking.

Pros

• You’re busy, and you want to relax, NOT spend time shopping around or planning activities. All-inclusive resorts take the stress out of vacation. Everything is decided before you arrive. Contact your travel pro to help narrow down options and coordinate the details. Once you are on the resort, they will handle the rest.
• Your flights, activities, meals, entertainment and even your alcohol are included – making your time from arrival to departure as stress-free as possible.
• Since you’ve paid up front, you’re less likely to fret on destination. Everything has already been paid for. You simply have to decide whether you are going to relax on the beach with a nice cold drink or participate in one of the countless activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga, snorkeling, scuba and MORE! Your most difficult decision will be whether you want to eat Seafood, Indian, Sushi or Italian that night! You can leave your wallet in the safe while you simply enjoy yourself.
• Forget about cooking, grocery shopping, or figuring out where to eat; all your meals and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your cost. The better resorts offer different cuisines and ala carte options. A good travel pro can also make recommendations related to dining.
• All-inclusive vacations are great for groups and couples alike. With adult-only and family-friendly options, you can choose as much alone or together time with your companions as you desire. Plus, many family-friendly resorts have special clubs to keep kids occupied. Ask your travel pro which has the best programs for your child.  Resorts such as Beaches and Club Med have specially trained staff to handle most any child, including those with special needs.  Have a future golf or tennis pro or junior chef on your hands? There are kids programs for those too!

Cons

• When you book an all-inclusive vacation, you’re most likely to stay on resort the majority of the time. This is undesirable for some travelers and awesome for others. Regardless, be aware that the Caribbean Islands and Mexico both have some incredibly fun light adventure off-site excursions you can partake in. A qualified travel pro can help here, too.
• If you pick the wrong one, it might be a mistake. The range in size, aesthetics, ambiance, service & quality levels, etc. is great! Therefore, it is important that you’ve identified the one best for your travel style.​

Whether you're an all-inclusive traveler or are looking to blaze your own trail, the vacation you want is waiting for you. Contact Chris Rakes, certified all inclusive expert to book your next trip.