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Lost Passport While Traveling? Don’t Worry…. It Doesn’t Have to Ruin Your Vacation

You’ve Lost Your Passport While Traveling? It Doesn’t Have to Ruin Your Vacation

A stolen or lost passport while traveling shouldn’t ruin a vacation.  There are a variety of ways that you can protect yourself and obtain emergency replacements.

Still, sometimes things can go sideways if you don’t have back-up plans in place.  Always make sure to make a copy or two of your passport and government issued ID, and keep it separate from your original documents.  Additionally, take a picture with your phone.  Another recommendation is to give a copy of these documents to a friend or family member who is not traveling with you, who can provide copies to the authorities should you not be able to.  At Trasformativa, we keep our clients’ passport information and copies on file for situations like this.

If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the police and then head to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate with your travel document copies. At the Embassy or Consulate, you will need to fill out some forms and pay the fees, which is normally what you would pay at home for an emergency passport ($145-$200).  However, once home you are able to exchange your temporary passport for a fully valid one without any additional fees.

When our clients are traveling internationally, we remind them to do these three things:

1. Keep your passport on your person at all times, in a cross-body bag that has a safety pin closing the compartment the passport is in, as well as on the top zipper of the bag.

2. Never take that bag off your person while exploring, even when eating at a cafe or other restaurant. Pickpockets live for travelers putting their bags down for “just a second.”

3. Keep copies of your passport in your luggage, with a contact back at home, and in your email account, so they can be accessed easily anywhere, at any time, to speed up the replacement process overseas.

 

There are a multitude of things that can go wrong while you are traveling; however, while losing your passport entails some bureaucratic obstacles, it’s not a devastating travesty.   Don’t let a passport setback ruin the rest of your trip.

 

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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A CEO who gives his employees $2,000 to go on vacation!! WHAT!!!

Why Would A CEO Give His Employees $2,000 To Go On Vacation??

More than half of American workers don’t use all of their paid vacation days, according to an annual report from the U.S. Travel Association.

Employees said that worries about work were the biggest factor holding them back from taking time off. Even when they do take time off, many find it hard to disconnect from their responsibilities in the office, continuing to check emails or take calls.

Want to know how to make your employees happier and more productive??

The CEO of SteelHouse, a marketing and advertising company in California, gives his employees $2,000 a year to go on vacation, and his employees are more productive than ever!!

And…. this particular CEO doesn’t give his workers a choice when it comes to taking a vacation, they must go!! They can either take one long vacation in the year, or they can opt to break it into shorter ones. Either way, they have to get some quality rest and “me time”.

Studies show that many workers can’t bring themselves to take vacations, and most companies don’t issue vacation bonuses.  For companies that do give vacation bonuses in the form of cash, many people are usually tempted to forgo vacation and put that money into something else, like bills. At SteelHouse, when team members refuse to go on vacation and request cash instead, this CEO says, “I actually want you to go somewhere and enjoy yourself.”

People are happier when they are treated like executives in their workplaces. A good employer must have the best interest of his employees at heart. While vacations are not only necessary to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul, it also allows a person to discover a higher sense of passion and drive for increased productivity.

In their second year of business, the CEO of SteelHouse decided to really up the ante and make things easier for employees. He gives every employee a $2,000 bonus every year that can ONLY be spent on vacation trips. They can go wherever in the world they they want to relax and recuperate.  It’s one thing to say ‘You have three weeks’ vacation,” as most companies do, but it’s another to to say “You have cash, and if you don’t go on vacation and spend this money, the money literally goes to waste.’

Value Your Employees!!

The CEO of SteelHouse encourages other companies to hold tight and value their employees with initiatives such as theirs. Not only will they be in for the long haul with the company, but they’ll be more efficient and productive, giving their jobs and duties the best performance and attention they can.

In 2013 and 2016, out of 250 employees, the SteelHouse lost only three, and of  those who left, it was due to reasons not related to the job.  They have virtually zero turnover.

Statistics have shown that employees would rather be rewarded with a “vacation” rather then a cash bonus that they would most likely be spent on bills! Contact us to learn how a sales or production travel incentive program can create happier and more productive employees.

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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The Benefits Of Going On Vacation With Your Girlfriends

So…. What are The Benefits Of Going On Vacation With Your Girlfriends??

We recently just returned from our TrasformaDiva Girls Getaway 2019 at the beautiful Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall in Montego Bay Jamaica, and did we have a BLAST.  We were a groups of friends, acquaintances and strangers; however, when we left Jamaica, we were a family, and ready to do it again in 2020.

The TrasformaDiva Girls Getaway is an annual girl’s getaway sponsored by our company; we invite those women who deserve a break. Grab your mother, sister,daughter or friends and travel with us to fabulous destinations. This is the break every woman needs!! Our TrasformaDiva participants are of all ages, so everyone is welcome; however, over 18 is required. We are a diverse group of ladies that love the sun, shop, swim, surf, serenity or simply some well-needed rest. Once you attend, you will put it on your calendar every year.

The tricky part about a trip with the girls is working around everyone’s schedules. When you’ve successfully planned it all out, it’ll feel like a dream come true.  We announce our upcoming trip 9-12 months out so that our ladies can plan ahead, so they can be sure to attend.

Whether you’re camping in the mountains, taking a road trip, or splurging on a luxury tropical vacation, being with your best friends makes any experience even more special.  I was lucky enough this year to have my two lifelong best friends join me on this years trip and we hope to do it every year going forward.

Even though private romantic getaways with our significant others are just as heavenly as they sound, it’s seriously hard to beat a trip with your girl squad.

Here are just a couple of reasons why trips with your girl squad will always be more fun than a getaway with your significant other.

You’ll Make Inside Jokes Galore

One of the perks of traveling with your close friends is that you’ve already got a stash of inside jokes ready to reference when the time is right. It’s a sure fire way to lighten the mood and send everyone into fits of laughter, and boy DID WE LAUGH!! By the end of your trip, you’ll have even more inside jokes to laugh about with your besties.

You’re With A Solid Team Of Photographers

You can’t beat the photos you get from your girl squad as they help you take the perfect photo for Facebook or Instagram.  Check out our TrasformaDiva 2019 photo album.

You’ll Have Prime Girl Talk Time

As much as you love the men in your life, nothing beats the kind of bond you get from girl talk. There’s something so comforting about commiserating over your man problems or any other drama you’re experiencing; your girl squad is always there to listen and offer advice.

It’s More Affordable

The larger the group, the less cash each individual has to dish out. You can squeeze most, if not all, of your squad into a hotel room.  We didn’t squeeze this year, though, we upgraded to a one bedroom ocean front suite and it was FABULOUS!! The universe wants you to travel with your friends.  Sharing is caring, after all.

The Buddy System Keeps You Safe

The unfortunate truth is that the world isn’t nearly as safe for women as it is for men. Luckily, being in groups can eliminate a lot of the risk that comes with traveling. Even if your group decides to split up, no one will be alone. You can all work to keep each other safe so you can have the best trip possible. We always make sure that we use our trusted in-country guides when we are traveling to an unfamiliar city or country, just to ensure our safety. Our guide Kevin from Island Dream Tour took us on a great tour through Montego Bay where we got to learn about and see first hand what it is like to live in Montego Bay.  We also got to have some yummy treats along the way to include a Jamaican Chicken Patty from Juicie Patty and some authentic Jerk Chicken at the famous Scotchies.

A girl’s getaway is a bond forming experience where we girls form another dimension to our friendships and use this experience to create unforgettable memories; I know we did on this trip, we nurtured old friendships and formed some new, and look forward to the next time we are together.

Do you need a Getaway With The Girls???  Well, we have the answer for you!!  Join us on our annual TrasformaDiva Girls Getaway.  We’ll be announcing dates and destination for our 2020 trip next week.

 

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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The New Trend In Travel – “Bleisure Travel”

What The Heck Is “Bleisure Travel”??

“Bleisure” is on the rise and it’s one of the biggest trends in business travel.

Blending work travel with leisure travel is one of the best perks of traveling for work. It helps save on vacation costs and creates a better work-life balance for travelers, and the concept is growing by leaps and bounds.

“Bleisure” is when an employee tacks on days to a business trip and turns it into a vacation. The rise of “bleisure” – where travelers mix their business trips with leisure time – is allowing workers to save money and transform what can be an inconvenient trip away into a pleasurable stay.

New research shows that workers in general, and millennials in particular, are increasingly blending business travel with leisure activities, with nearly one third citing their desire to explore new destinations as the number one reason to do so. And…. business travelers of all ages clearly believe that bleisure travel helps them maintain a healthier work-life balance.

For business travelers, the benefit of bleisure travel is on of the biggest perks and helps establish and maintain a better work-life balance. Those who engage in bleisure travel are significantly more likely to be satisfied with their quality of life (93% vs. 75%) as well as their work/life balance (87% vs. 64%) while on the road than non-bleisure travelers.

Bleisure travelers are also more likely to prioritize self-care on the road, including following a healthy diet and exercising while away on business.

There seems, however, to be only one disadvantage to this trend. Many bleisure travelers have said they avoid telling others about taking time for fun while traveling for business. But, this stigma may be changing, as many bleisure travel enthusiasts take on managerial and director roles, they are encouraging their staff to enjoy and combine leisure time with business travel. According to a national survey, 76% of bleisure-traveling bosses and supervisors report encouraging their teams to take time for themselves while on business trips.

While bleisure travel is the best and trendiest perk to encourage a healthy work-life balance for leisure travel, making things simple on the road is another major benefit.

The overall benefit is two fold, if you have a happy employee, they will perform better in the workplace and better performance is good for the company. Consider making your next business trip a Bleisure Trip!!

 

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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The Secret to Truly Authentic Travel

The Secret to Truly Authentic Travel

Born out of the knowledge that destinations can only truly be brought to life through authentic local connections, Trasformativa makes sure that you are not only getting an amazing vacation, but a life changing travel experience.

Put simply, nothing connects you to the soul of a destination like being invited into the home of a local. Whether it’s exploring a 1,000-year-old castle with an Italian aristocrat before enjoying some of his organic wine and a farm-to-table meal, or tasting balsamic vinegar with a local Parma family; connecting with locals is at the heart of real travel experiences.

We are always looking for new ways to foster real, powerful connections for clients that enable them to capture the true essence of their destination. Image traveling to Italy, one of our most popular destinations for our clients, and visiting a Sorrento lemon farm owned by the Esposito sisters.  Over a home-cooked meal and some limoncello, with the scent of lemons in the air, it will quickly become apparent that the sisters’ farm was just the kind of powerful, sensory travel experience you are after.

While visiting Italy we went to the Medici Vineyard to sample some of their delicious balsamic vinegar.  During that visit I struck up a conversation with the hostess of the vineyard and over some of their famous Lambrusco (it is to die for!!) we formed a friendship that has lasted over many years.  These are the experiences that you will remember for a lifetime.

Looking for a Caribbean Experience??

Jamaica is one of our favorite destinations, not only because of the beautiful beaches, but because of the beautiful people.  The Jamaican people are truly  welcoming people who want to share their country and culture with you.  Travelers who are curious to explore the culture of this vibrant Caribbean island, can be taken beyond the traditional resort and beach setting into the colourful realm of Jamaica’s lifestyle, tradition and customs.  With our many visits to Jamaica we have met many wonderful people who we are proud to call Our Friends.  When we send clients, friends or family to Jamaica, we put them in touch with one of our local connections, such as our friend, Neville, who will take you on a guided tour of Montego Bay where you will learn all about what it is like to be a local.  And don’t be surprised…. he might just take you by his mother’s home for a little something to eat.

By experiencing a destination with a local, you will find that it’s best not to stick to the road more often traveled.  Instead, hit the road and experience a unique adventure: the authenticity of your experience will be something that shapes who you are now and who you will be for the rest of your life.

 

 

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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Taking a Trip With Your Girlfriends Is Good For Your Health, According to Science

Taking a Trip With Your Girlfriends Is Good For Your Health, According to Science

Clear your schedule and pack your bags, because you are going on a girls’ trip!!! Even if your boss balks, or your family whines, or your dog gives you sad little puppy eyes, tell them that you’re doing it for your health, and it won’t even be a lie. Science says an occasional mini getaway with your friends is good for you.

While we all love our families, it has been proven that friendship can extend life expectancy, lower chances of heart disease, and even help us better tolerate pain. Really! Psychologists were able to link the size of someone’s social network based on how much pain they were able to tolerate. Friendships also make us feel good. In 2016, researchers found evidence that spending time out with friends can increase production of oxytocin, the feel good cuddle hormone that our bodies make when we’re happy. Studies have shown that oxytocin can make people more trusting, more generous, and friendlier, all the things you look for in friends.

Having friends is scientifically good for your health, but it can be hard to maintain those friendships. People move, jobs change, kids grow up, and maintaining friendships can be difficult and the annual Christmas letter or occasional Facebook update doesn’t always do it.

So clear your schedule and start planning your girls getaway—for your health!!

 

Do you need a Getaway With The Girls???  Well, we have the answer for you!!  Join us on our annual TrasformaDiva Girls Getaway, October 24-28, 2019.  Check out our website for full details and to register.  $100

 

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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Jamaica – A Foodies Delight!!

Not Just another beautiful Caribbean Island, Jamaica has become a Foodies Delight!!

Now everyone knows that one of my FAVORITE places in the world to visit time and time is again.  I’ve bragged about the wonderful people, the beautiful beaches and have gone on and on about one of my favorite foods in Jamaica, Jerk Chicken.  Well…. with an array of new Farm-to-Table restaurants, celebrity chefs, and the freshly formed Jamaican Gastronomy Network, the island has become a Foodie’s Delight!!  Are you ready to dig in??  Let’s go!!

The rebirth of Jamaican food culture has occurred over the last five years and has risen to an organized prominence with the formation of the Jamaican Gastronomy Network in September of 2016.    The Gastronomy  Network links together a network consisting of  chefs, local members of the media, business executives, ,and academics who are charged with boosting the profile of Jamaican cuisine domestically and abroad.

Of course, delicious and flavorful Jamaican food is typically seen as jerk chicken,  beef patties, and Jamaican Escovitch Red Snapper topped with spicy Scotch bonnets.  Now… quite sensibility that this isn’t quite fine dining; however, at a time where veganism and all natural ingredients are trending, Jamaica has leaned into its Rasta roots that promotes clean eating and embraced the country’s natural influences of Chinese, Indian, Arab, Portuguese, Spanish, and British food. That range within the country’s culinary offerings based on its history creates a built-in fusion both in the food and tourism industry which have been identified as a strength which should be emphasize. And, the results have manifested into a fancy haute cuisine.

There is definitely a major Jamaican gastronomy movement going on, with more farm-to-table experiences, new themed restaurants, an explosion of local talent making cuisine their career, the formation of culinary trails, an increased number of food festivals, and a deepening of food offerings. The Gastronomy Network is creating a consumer-facing brand called “Taste Jamaica” that includes a website and sleek app to chronicle various available gastronomic experiences on the island and help people make dining and tourism decisions.

If you are a foodie, GET OFF THE RESORT PROPERTY and check out the CULINARY TRAILS, FESTIVALS, AND BEYOND!!  In addition to some of the long-existing tours, like the Appleton Rum Tour and Craighton Coffee Plantation Tour, Jamaica is doubling down on its food offerings with organized festivals. Among some of the most popular events that showcase the island’s wealth of culinary options are The Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival (March), Jamaica Rum Festival (March), the Little Ochie Seafood Festival (July), the Jamaica Food & Drink Festival (October), and Restaurant Week (November).

The recently launched Blue Mountain Culinary Trail puts emphasis on Jamaica’s organic food offerings in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. It includes visits to Holywell Recreational Park within the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, Old Tavern Coffee Estate, Blue Ridge Restaurant and Cottages, and Mavis Bank Coffee Factory.

A top-notch food experience can add something unique to a traveler’s experience on an island like Jamaica by helping you move beyond the generic experience into something deeper.  Sun, sand, and sea will always be a draw , as that is what draws us to the Caribbean, but you still have to eat!!  Having a great meal outside of the all-inclusive resort and participating in a local food festival, experiencing a farm-to-table or attending a cooking class all provide options to engage in a more authentic way.

Is your mouth watering??  Are you ready to see what Jamaica has to offer us foodies??? I sure am!!  If you can’t get to Jamaica right now, but craving delicious, authentic Jamaican Food….. Check Out Virgil’s Jamaica Food Truck. 

 

Remember, Trasformativa is your Jamaica Travel Specialist!!

 

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel,

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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Los Cabos – The Ultimate Winter Getaway

Why Los Cabos Is the Ultimate Winter Getaway

So every year at this time my husband and I jet off to some beautiful beach destination, and this year we’ve again chosen INCREDIBLE Los Cabos Mexico, located at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California Sur.  We have had a busy start to the year, and it’s only going to get busier, so we need this vacation

The well-known Mexican escape has it all: new hotels, an exciting locavore food scene, and plenty of adventures on the water..

Located at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California Sur, Los Cabos has long been a popular beach getaway, with most visitors flocking to either Cabo San Lucas, the southernmost destination known for its high-energy party vibe and beautiful beaches, or the more laid-back San José del Cabo, whose charming historic center is about 30 minutes north. But thanks to a spate of new high-end hotels, many located along the coastal corridor that runs between the two popular cities, and a crop of elegant farm-to-table restaurants, Los Cabos is shrugging off its spring-break image and becoming a MUST DO destination.

STAY – Numerous new luxury resorts and hotels give you plenty of options for your Cabo getaway.  While there, I’ll be visiting several of these new resorts that have now opened, since my last trip there 2 yrs ago.  Watch our Facebook Page for new pictures and videos, and check out our photo albums with pictures of our last trip.

EAT – Throughout Los Cabos, the food scene is also having a moment, one that celebrates local ingredients above all else.  We ate our way through Cabo on our last visit, eating amazing seafood at Office at the Beach, where you are literally eating on the beach under a big tent watching all the activity on the water in the Marina district.  We celebrated our anniversary at Sunset Mona Lisa for cliff side dining while watching an amazing sunset.  And of course, no visit to Cabo is complete without sipping margaritas at Cabo Wabo.

And, we are such huge foodies, that no trip anywhere in the world is complete unless we visit a local grocery store.  Cabo has the MEGA which is an amazing place for foodies.  Visit there on Saturday mornings and someone will be making fresh tortillas that are still warm in the package.  And their mole bar….. oh…. don’t get me started…. a half dozen or more varieties to choose form.  And did I mention the bakery???? To die for.  Okay, I need to stop…. I’m drooling already.

DO – As tempted as you may be to just linger by the pool or on the beach, there are plenty of ways to get out on the water, and some of the most iconic activities are available in and around Cabo San Lucas. From December to April, you can witness humpback and gray whales during their annual migration; and these boats bring visitors closer than your average boat.  We normally can see the whales in the distance from our balcony; however, on this trip, we’re going to get up close and personal with them.  Watch for Facebook live posts and videos from that adventure.  Other adventures such as snorkeling, world champion fishing, parasailing, food & wine tours, cooking classes, art experiences, camel rides (YES… camel rides), The choices are endless in this diverse destination.

No matter what you are into, there is something for everybody in Cabo.

This year, Cabo won several awards at the annual Travvy Awards, which is the Oscars of the travel industry.  Winners are chosen based on a rigorous judging process that ensures the best and brightest in the travel industry are acknowledged for their achievements.

We are happy to announce that Los Cabos has been recognized with 5 awards due to the state-of-the-art infrastructure, world- class accommodations, top-tier architecture and lavish culinary scene.

BEST LUXURY DESTINATION – MEXICO
BEST CULINARY DESTINATION – MEXICO
BEST SPA & WELLNESS AND BEST HONEY MOON HOTEL/RESORT – MEXICO
WINNER: LE BLANC SPA RESORT LOS CABOS (which I will be touring)
BEST DESTINATION WEDDING HOTEL/RESORT – MEXICO
WINNER: GRAND FIESTA AMERICANA LOS CABOS ALL INCLUSIVE GOLF & SPA

So, join us next week for your virtual trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; I’m sure it will make you want to book your trip right away!!

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel,

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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Purposeful Travel – Traveling The Trasformativa Way

What Is Purposeful Travel?

As a travel agent, I spend a lot of my time traveling, not only to gain knowledge and information for my clients, but to have my own personal and transformational travel experiences to create my own lifelong memories.  I always make sure my travels are Purpose. As our tagline states – Travel In Color – Not Black and White, and we embrace that concept .  We not only help our clients plan and book trips or vacations, but rather travel experiences that are going to excite the mind and feed the soul.

So, you are asking, Hey, Alison….. How can we made our travel experiences more purposeful??   Well, I’ll tell you.

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

It’s a New Year, and with that brings new opportunities for new Travel Adventures!!

Even before the new year arrived, my personal travel calendar was already filling up with both leisure and business travel events, and as the year goes on, I’m sure more will be added, and each journey will have a purpose.

Where Will 2019 Be Taking Me??

Right now my year starts with our annual anniversary trip with my husband in February; and this year we’ll be returning to Cabo San Lucas for a much needed relaxing week by the sea!!  March takes me to Hilton Head SC with one of my corporate clients for their annual sales retreat.  May will take me back to my favorite island in the world, Jamaica, for my annual Jamaica Tourist Board familiarization trip.  On this trip we will be visiting Kingston (Jamaica’s Capital) and Port Antonio (Jamaica’s northeast coast).  I’ve never been to Port Antonio, so I’m really excited!!  In October we are back to Jamaica for our annual Trasformadiva Girls Getaway.  And then in November I’ll be a guest of Karisma brand resorts in Riviera Maya region of Mexico, where we’ll be touring all of their properties in Cancun & the Riviera Maya.  Make sure you follow us on social media to check out pictures and videos from these awesome locations.

I always travel with a purpose and immerse myself in the culture of the destination I am visiting.  During my leisure travel I reconnect with myself and my loved ones.  When I travel for business I connect with my destination and fully embrace it.

I live in a rural lakeside town and I frequently have many of my acquaintances and neighbors ask me, “why do you travel so much?”  And my answer is simple, because I LOVE IT!!!  They just don’t get it, but they are missing out on one of life’s great adventures.

Where will your 2019 Travel Adventures take you???

Traveling is representative of life. If you listen to your inner voice and follow your heart, you will find the places that speak out to you, that reach out and touch you, and which make you feel like you’re home.

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel,

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

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How to Give a Surprise Vacation Trip For The Holidays

Giving A Surprise Vacation Trip

I really love giving fun or slightly over-the-top gifts from time to time, and this year two of those gifts I am going to give at Christmas are surprise trips!  I’m sure now my friends and family members who are reading this are wondering if they are the recipient of one of those gifts.  Guess they’ll just have to wait and see.  There’s plenty of research out there that an experience, such as travel, is more meaningful and remembered long after the excitement of a material possession wears off. There’s also no question that many of us have more than enough “stuff” in our houses, so giving a great gift without adding to the “stuff pile” is a definite win. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s also super fun to put together a travel surprise that someone might not do for themselves, and then go on the trip with them!

What You Need To Know When Giving A Surprise Vacation Trip

Giving a trip as a surprise can be a bit complicated, so that’s when you call your trusted travel adviser, Trasformativa Travel to help you plan your Surprise Vacation Trip.

1.  Be 100% Certain They Will Love It

I would argue that if you can’t be 100% sure of whether or not recipient of the Surprise Vacation Trip will like the destination and be free to go, that you should probably not book the trip before telling them about it, as it just isn’t worth the risk and stress. You can still surprise them with the idea of the trip, but I would not make the actual bookings (or at least not any non-refundable portions) if you don’t know the recipient and their availability well enough to be pretty certain that they will be both jazzed and available to actually take their Surprise Vacation Trip.

2.  Don’t Put Frequent Flyer Numbers in the Booking

The easiest way to have your secret plan spoiled is to have the trip specifics show up in the recipient’s email or frequent flyer account. This will almost always happen if you put their frequent flyer number in the reservation. This sounds like an easy step to skip, but be aware it can happen without you even intending for it to if you have booked a trip for them before and they are already a traveler in your airline account.

3.  Don’t Use Their Points

This one should be a no brainer, but don’t use someones miles or points to book their surprise trip for various reasons, including they are likely to see the activity in their account or email inbox, same as using frequent flyer miles.

4.  Consider Gift Certificates if You Aren’t 100%

One thing we have done for some extended family members in the past is give gift cards or gift certificates if we know they like to travel, but we aren’t in a position to know exactly when and where they want to head. We have found that this is an especially good gift for grandparents who have grandchildren spread across  the country.

5.  Wrap it Up in a Creative Way

The gift of travel is good enough that it doesn’t have to be dressed up in fancy wrapping paper and bows in order for it to be AWESOME, but if you are like me, it is fun to come up with a unique way for the recipient to find out about the gift. For example, give a trip to Italy in a box of cannolis, or a trip to Jamaica in a box of Jamaican chicken patties, or in our case a ……  Can’t give the surprise away just yet.  You can check our Trasformativa Facebook Page to find out what Suprise Vacation Trip I gave this year.

It isn’t totally necessary, but it sure builds up the fun and excitement for everyone in the room as you will see by our trip reveal to my husband on Christmas morning!

TRAVEL IN COLOR – NOT BLACK AND WHITE

ABOUT TRASFORMATIVA TRAVEL

Trasformativa is a US based travel company with offices located in Durham, NC and Clarksville, VA.  We are  focused exclusively on transformational travel. Our experienced and qualified travel agents offer many different types of transformational travel opportunities. We work with individuals and groups of many sizes to help them find a true difference. Most of the people who contact us are luxury travelers and leaders of groups who are traveling together. This includes, yoga or fitness instructors, health and wellness professionals, human resource directors, sales managers, CEO’s, church group leaders, corporate trainers, personal chefs, wedding planners, brides, corporate travel professionals, and also individuals looking to plan an exciting and out-of-the-way trip for a group of their friends.

Our transformational opportunities include Exotic Group Travel, Jamaica Travel, Caribbean Travel, Europe Travel, Retreat Group Travel, Culinary & Vineyard Group Travel, Wellness Travel Retreats, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events, Corporate Wellness Retreats, Team Building Retreats, Fitness Retreats, Yoga & Meditation Retreats, Juice & Cleanse Retreats, Spirituality Retreats, and Autism Travel,

To learn more, visit our website or call us at (919) 616-3780.

 

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