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Are You Planning A Summer Vacation? The Time To Start Planning Is NOW!!

Are You Planning A Summer Vacation? The Time To Start Planning Is NOW!!

Are You Planning A Summer Vacation??  The Time To Start Planning Is NOW!!

You might think it’s too early to start thinking about summer travel, but this isn’t the year to wait if you want to save. Americans are beginning to plan their summer travels now, and travel, they will. BUT…. it will also be an expensive one. Thankfully, prices aren’t as high as last year since airlines have built back capacity, but prices will remain above pre-pandemic levels because of high demand and inflation continuing to drive pricing up.

3 in 4 Americans are planning a trip this summer, according to travel experts. Inflation, higher prices, and whatever obstacles can be thrown in the way of avid travelers have not stopped them from prioritizing travel, and in some cases spending more than what they’ve previously spent.

Should You Book Summer Travel Now?

It depends. we generally recommend that people start planning international travel at least 6-9 months ahead of time (especially for travel during peak season April-August) so that you have a variety of flights and accommodation options available to you instead of dealing with limited hotel availability and flight options.

But if you are planning to travel this summer, it is best to start planning NOW. Figure out potential travel dates and destinations and use a price-tracking tool, like AirFareWatchdog that alerts you when flights are lowest.

For international trips, it’s time to get ready to book. Three to four months in advance is when there are the best prices for international flights; however, you’ll also be dealing with limited availability. Caribbean and European destinations are HOT HOT travel choices this year, and we recommend planning 6, 9 even 12 months out to have the best choices available.

Prices skyrocket as you get closer to June, when prices are up 29% for popular European destinations, like London, Paris and Italy, during the peak season of June, July and August.

When Is The Best Time To Travel During Summer?

The highest costs will be for trips during peak season; so consider traveling during Shoulder Season (the period between peak- and off-season), you could save up to 24% if they book a flight to the Caribbean and 27% to Europe. 

On the other hand, booking your European getaway for September and October is highly recommended. The end of summer is hands down THE BEST time to go to Europe. Prices drop in early June until they bottom out in September and October. However, avoid August for European Travel, as Europeans tend to take their own vacations during that month, so lots of shops and restaurants will be closed.

Here are the shoulder seasons for international destinations, when you could score lower prices.   

Caribbean:  September, October, November

Asia: Before the end of April and October.
Central America: May.
South Pacific: April to May.
North America: September to October.
Africa: September to November.
Middle East: August to September.
Northern South America: Before the end of April and September.
Southern South America: April to May and September to October.

Ready to start planning your summer and fall getaways??  Contact Your Trasformativa Travel Agent Today!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events,  Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

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

 

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Americans Want Travel and Experiences Over Physical Gifts For Holidays

Americans Want Travel and Experiences Over Physical Gifts For Holidays!!

 

 

What to get that special someone for The Holidays?? I want a 7-Night All Inclusive Caribbean Getaway!!

A new study found that 77% of Americans would rather receive experiences over physical gifts this holiday season. Experiences leave you with life long memories, while that new scarf just gets thrown in the closet and forgotten.

This is what we have chosen to do with our grandchildren at holiday time. They receive so many material gifts it is almost mindboggling, that we decided to give them experiences instead. This year it’s Great Wolf Lodge and next year we have booked a Disney Cruise. Every year they can’t wait to hear what our next travel adventure together will be. These are experiences and time spent together that all of us will remember for years to come.

According to new data from GetYourGuide, 52% of respondents are planning to travel for the holidays this year; that’s up from 48% who said they would hit the road in 2021. When it comes to experiences, 63% said they would most enjoy receiving surprise travel.

Other activities respondents preferred to receive for the holidays include tickets to a concert or show; 50%, skiing, boating or hiking; 43%, a food tour or cooking class; 36%, wine or beer tasting; 31%, and a trip to the museum: 29% Overall, 96% of Americans said they would gladly take any of these experiences.

“The most wonderful time of the year is upon us once again, when we can look forward to spending time with friends and family. Perhaps as we prepare to enjoy more time with loved ones this holiday season, the best gift to unwrap isn’t a box, but an unforgettable experience to share and create long-lasting memories.

Travel and Experiences Over Physical Gifts For Holidays; Start A New Family Tradition!!  So this holiday season, Give The Gift Of Travel!! Happy Holidays!!

Contact Your Trusted Trasformativa Travel Agent Today And Let Us Help You Plan Those Memory Making Travel Adventures!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events,  Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

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

 

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Why Do Travelers Need to Think About Summer 2023 Flights NOW!!

Why Do Travelers Need To Think About Summer 2023 Flights NOW!!

 

Why Do Travelers Need To Think About Summer 2023 Flights NOW!! Some people have this down to a science, they know exactly the right day and the exact time when to purchase a flight in advance, especially for the holidays.

They call it the ‘Goldilocks Window’ – like the fictional storybook character, you want to book when it’s just the right time. For you.

Normally, it’s more of a time frame rather than a specific time. For domestic flights, the time when cheap flights are most likely to pop up is about 1-3 months before a trip. For international flights, it’s 2-8 months out. That might sound like a considerable time frame, but in reality, it isn’t, especially for an international trip.

But summer is different. For peak times, including summer, we recommend you start keeping an eye on prices even earlier, around the 10-month mark. For peak times, we also see the Goldilocks Window end a bit further out from the trip. Deals start decreasing at about 4 months out and get a lot more rare as you get closer to the summer. These ranges don’t have sharp cliffs, but the odds trail off substantially outside those ranges.

Remember, too, that spring and summer of this year could be an indication of things to come. More demand from the flying public, but fewer planes and fewer pilots, all adding up to the chaotic situation that developed this year.

That means the Goldilocks Window for cheap international flights for July and August 2023 is just around the corner, and for May and June flights, it’s already begun. To track your flight routes and be alerted when they drop, sign up for AirFareWatchDog.

So Why Do Travelers Need To Think About Summer 2023 Flights NOW??  If you know you are going to travel this spring or summer, you may want to think about planning and booking, sooner than later. And for those of you already booked for vacations with us, we are watching airfare pricing for you.

Also of note, we are already seeing limited availability for hotel and resorts stays for this coming spring and summer, so again, planning sooner than later is highly recommended.

Contact Your Trusted Trasformativa Travel Agent Today!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events,  Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

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

 

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Time To Prepare For Holiday Travel

Time To Prepare For Holiday Travel

 

So we’ve made it through the crazy summer travel season, and now it’s time to start seriously planning your end-of-year travels because this holiday season is expected to be both busy and expensive.

According to travel experts who just released their 2022 Holiday Travel Outlook report, which indicates that this year’s holiday airfare prices will be the steepest we’ve seen in five years. Nevertheless, more than half of Americans are planning to travel for one or both of the November or December holidays, most of whom are going to visit family and friends.

Factors influencing the cost of airfare this year include high fuel prices, fewer available flights and pent-up travel demand which was triggered by two years of potentially missed holidays due to not traveling. At least 30 percent of travelers are planning on flying this holiday season, however, about two-thirds of them point to pricing as a primary consideration as they plan their holiday trips.

To help you navigate your holiday travels, we’ve put together some tips on how to find the best deals on flights for the holidays this year:

Book by Mid-October – If you are planning to fly this holiday season, we are advising travelers to book both your Thanksgiving and Christmas flights no later than the week of October 10. If you see a good deal on flights, GRAB IT, because prices are expected to rise and the limited number of available flights may sell out quickly this year.

Start Planning NOW – It’s best to get a jump on things now and be sure to book no later than mid-October. Historically, travelers who get an early start on planning their holiday trips have saved as much as 18% off domestic flights and 15% off international airfare.

Use a Price-Tracking Tool – Prices, especially for travel during the Christmas period, are predicted to fluctuate somewhat unpredictably over the coming weeks. Good deals on fares may spring up and be gone just as quickly, so we recommend using a price-tracking tool such as AirfareWatchdog  which will notify you as soon as prices drop for your pre-chosen destinations.

Keep Your Dates Flexible – Travelers can save as much as $300 by flying at non-peak times (i.e., before or after the actual holiday week). For Thanksgiving travel, look to depart on the Monday of Thanksgiving week and return any weekday of week after the holiday to get the best airfare pricing.  As well as for the Christmas weekend, try to depart the Monday or Tuesday prior to the holiday and return on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday of the week after Christmas to find the best deals on flights.

If you take just one tip for booking holiday travel, it should be this: the earlier, the better. You’ll find cheaper rates and more availability. Plus, looser cancellation policies mean you can make adjustments later.

Happy Holiday Travels!!

Need Help Planning Your Holiday Getaways?  Contact Your Trasformativa Travel Specialist TODAY!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events,  Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

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

 

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ALL All-Inclusive Resorts Are Not Created Equal

The Transformation Of The All-Inclusive Resort

 

Over the past several decades the all-inclusive resort market has undergone an evolution that has been nothing short of transformative.  With new and innovative amenities and experiences designed to satisfy the vacation expectations of a wide variety of clients.  In this blog, I’m going to tell you why ALL All Inclusive Resorts ARE NOT Created Equal!!

It is truly amazing how the all-inclusive market has grown and changed in the last 30 years, since my first stay at an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica. Today, the options are endless, which helps travelers see the value of  working with a travel professional who can differentiate between the different resort/hotel brands, destinations, room categories, etc.; as this makes the decision harder when you have so many options.  It’s like me sending my granddaughter into Toys R Us and telling her to pick out anything she wants.  With so many choices, the decision making process can be overwhelming.  BUT… I believe that makes a travel advisor’s job easier because we are experts in our field where we can give our clients options and explain the differences  based on their travel wants and needs.

Today, the growing number of resort/hotel options and experiences are introducing all-inclusive resorts to an expanded audience. With more upscale brands entering the all-inclusive market, it’s giving us a lot more to choose from. Resorts and Hotels have gone from three buffets a day to a lot of really good specialty dining choices where you get a lot of variety.  The All-Inclusive Resorts have evolved to meet the tastes of the most discerning travelers.  All-inclusive now means multiple a la carte dining options, room service experiences that exceeds expectations and custom private dining experiences.  Foodwise, even long-existing resort brands are updating their ideas of all-inclusive experience with updated menus and a variety of cuisines.  As more people learn about their own tastes and tolerances, it is important for all-inclusive chefs to develop expanded menus for vegan, gluten, and other diets.

The biggest change we are seeing in the travel industry is that all-inclusive resorts seem to be making the guests experience more experiential. whether that is offering more unique experiences on property or nearby specialty eco-parks, these resorts are modernizing the all-inclusive concept.  Some clear examples of this concept include Hotel Xcaret and Unico 20°87°, both of which are in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico. Both models are a little bit different, as Hotel Xcaret combines the all-inclusive amenities with off-property included fun at their eco-park, and Unico 20°87° which has specialty tours and excursions that aren’t easily replicated, or mass produce.  Newer all-inclusive resorts are also incorporating these aesthetic in a more natural and region-specific way, like Hotel Xcaret, whose landscape is designed with rivers winding through the property, caverns to explore and beautiful rockwork. 

In the end, the growth of the all-inclusive market is a win-win for travel advisors and their clients. When a destination like Cancun/Riviera Maya has hundreds of all-inclusive resorts to choose from, I feel like a kid in a candy store and I get soooo excited to share these with my clients. This is the number one reason why Mexico is so affordable compared to places like Aruba or The Bahamas. When all-inclusive resorts continue to try and outdo each other, it’s the guest who always wins, and your travel advisor wins because we’ve helped you plan and book an incredible all-inclusive travel adventure.

Are you ready to experience The NEW and IMPROVED All-Inclusive Travel Experience??  Contact Your Trasformativa Travel Specialist TODAY!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events,  Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

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

 

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Unforgettable Family Vacations

Unforgettable Family Vacations

READY. SET. VACATION!

If the last couple years have taught us anything, it’s that sharing quality time with loved ones is the most important thing in our lives. Material objects aren’t as important as they once were, nor the nose-to-the-grindstone, 9-to5 to acquire them. Today, it’s about better time management, richer life experiences, and keeping our loved ones close by our sides. It’s also about getting back to what’s most meaningful in our lives – and for many of us that includes gathering the gang together for another unforgettable family vacation, but with a twist.

Today, family vacations aren’t just about grabbing your spouse or partner and any kids you may have, and heading off to seek new adventures. It’s about bringing along grandma and grandpa, and maybe Aunt Sue and Uncle Ernie. Family and multigenerational travel is exploding and it makes sense as it offers the perfect way to share time together away from demands of everyday life.

Keep in mind that planning ahead is of the utmost importance. You’ll want to choose a family-friendly vacation that offers plenty of options for everyone. Cruises and all-inclusive resorts are two of the best ways to maximize fun and everyone’s vacation dollars. A large number of family-centric Caribbean cruises, as well as family resorts in Mexico and Jamaica, cater to every age group, fit most budgets, and are easy to get to for most everyone. Europe and the Mediterranean are also ideal for families and have plenty to see and do. Ireland, Italy, Spain and Greece are especially perfect for families.

While planning a getaway that everyone in your brood will love may seem like a tall order, a little help from your Trasformativa Travel Specialist can make it a piece of cake – so Ready Set Vacation and have a blast!

See you at the airport soon!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, Incentive Travel Reward Programs, Destination Training Events,  Autism Travel, Girls Getaway

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

 

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Travel, The Ultimate Transformational Experience

Travel, The Ultimate Transformational Experience

In my opinion, Travel is most definitely The Ultimate Transformational Experience you can have.  Traveling to a far away destination, immersing yourself in the culture of that destination changes you; it excites the mind and feeds the soul.  It’s an experience you will come back to time and time again in your mind and just sigh.

Trasformativa is all about the Transformational Experience – That is the translation of our business name (Trasformativa – Italian for Transformative) and the model behind our tag line – Travel In Color – Not Black and White.  We ensure that all our clients with have a truly Transformational Travel Experience.

It’s all about the Cultural Immersion, and that’s what we do.  We make sure you have an authentic experience.

Eat The Food

When I traveled last year I took a day trip to Port Royal in Southeastern Jamaica and dined at Gloria’s Seafood Restaurant, which is infamous in Jamaica for it’s open air dining room overlooking the ocean and amazing fresh Jamaican seafood dishes.  Port Royal was once the largest city in the Caribbean, functioning as the centre of shipping and commerce in the Caribbean Sea and was destroyed by an earthquake and accompanying tsunami on June 7, 1692, and sunk the majority of the city.  Some of the ruins of the old city are still there which I toured on my visit.

See The Sites

And not just the touristy ones, but off the beaten path) – While in Jamaica, I might set you up with my friend, Neville, who will take you on a locals tour of Montego Bay. Or, if you are in Italy, I’ll set you up with my friends at Parmagolosa to take you on your privately guided culinary tour of Parma where you will go to a working family farm and see how Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is made by hand everyday; and to see my dear friend Allessandra at Medici Ermete Vineyard to taste balsamic vinegar and their beautiful wines.

Talk To The People

There is no better way to immerse yourself into the culture of your destination than talking with the locals.  While on a recent trip to Jamaica, my husband and I took a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken.  YUM!!!  After the class we started talking to the chef’s assistant, Bo Bo. When asked if Bo Bo was his real name, he proceeded to tell us that ALL Jamaicans have a nickname, and that most people will call you by your nickname rather than your given name.  So….. when there is an important event like a wedding, and they put the announcement out in the paper or send out invitations for the wedding, they need to include both the person’s nickname and given name, because some people may only know them by their nickname, like Bo Bo.  You would never know this bit of information if you didn’t talk to a local.

So don’t just show up, be present when you travel and immerse yourself in the culture of your destination and you will be glad you did.

 

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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Five Reasons to Spend Your Tax Refund on Travel

Five Reasons to Spend Your Tax Refund on Travel

It’s that time of year again & I say it’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year because you now have that tax return in hand and can now take that AMAZING trip you’ve been dreaming about all year!!

Yeah! Your taxes are done! (Or in my case, they’re almost done!) According to the IRS, the average taxpayer receives a tax refund of $3,000, which is just the right amount of money for an awesome overseas trip, flights included!

You’ve worked hard all year, and probably haven’t used much of your work leave (approximately 41% of American workers do not take planned time off from work), and you’ve got a sweet tax refund coming. Here are 5 reasons why you should spend your tax refund on travel:

You Can Afford It: There are many all-inclusive itineraries (includes airfare, airport/hotel transfers and an all-inclusive resort stay) that you can choose from for as little as $3,000! Thanks to your refund,  you can afford that vacation you have been dreaming about.

More Bang For Your Buck: Flights to Europe from major U.S. cities are WAY down.  This is due to the introduction of several transatlantic low cost carriers reintroducing actual competition into the market. As for many destinations, the U.S. dollar goes a long way. The U.S. dollar is also running strong against the Euro, so it’s a great time to visit Europe.

Experiences, like travel, make you happier than just “stuff.”:  Experiences make you happier than stuff: Studies have shown that the happiness that comes from purchasing stuff like clothes or TVs fades pretty quickly, but travel creates special experience that provides you with lifelong lasting memories. So, take that tax refund and go experience a new destination that you have been dying to explore! Just remember to actually experience the destination directly and immerse yourself in the culture.

Save for that BIG trip: You’ve been fantasizing about going to Australia or Asia, but you really need at least 2 weeks to really enjoy it and experience it the way it is meant to be experienced.  There’s no way you’re sitting in coach, and $3,000 just isn’t going to cut it for that BIG trip. So….Who says you have to spend your tax refund right away?  Why not create a travel savings account and start saving! You can even book your trip now with a small deposit and utilize a payment plan system.

You have a travel agent to help you: If you have no idea where to start in planning your tax refund-fueled escape, or you are overwhelmed by all the options you see on line, no need to worry, Trasformativa Travel is here to help you plan and book your Dream Travel Experience!!  We do all the research, planning and booking and we find you the best value for your budget. Send us a request for a complimentary planning session and we’ll get started right away.

Here’s hoping you get a great big tax refund this year!

Happy traveling!!

 

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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U.S. Department of State Launches New Travel Advisory System for International Travelers

New US Department of State Travel Advisory System for International Travelers

Every time the US Department of State Issues a Travel Advisory, travel lovers everywhere go NUTS. Finally, the government has come up with a new and more simplified alert system. While the Department of State is only trying to keep us in the know and make sure we travel safe, I always tell my clients, no matter where you are traveling, practice the same (if not just a little more) safety measure that you would at home in an area you know potentially might put you at risk (ie; a dark parking lot outside a store, a shady looking character hanging around); just be alert. In addition, I would never suggest to my clients that they travel anywhere that was unsafe, or that I myself would not travel to at any given time.

So, with that, here’s what the Department of State has done….

On January 10, 2018, the United States Department of State introduced a new travel advisory system for sharing information with U.S. travelers.

Instead of travel warnings and travel alerts, every country will have an overall Travel Advisory level, with levels of advice ranging from 1 to 4.

A U.S. Department of State press release offers the following descriptions for each level of advice:

Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.

Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.

Level 4: Do Not Travel

This is the highest level, due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.

A Level 4 travel advisory is not a ban on travel, but advice. North Korea is currently the only country under a geographical travel restriction.

While an overall travel advisory level will be issued for every country, levels of advice may vary for specific locations or areas within a country. For instance, the Department of State may advise U.S. travelers to “exercise increased caution” in a country, but to “reconsider travel” to a particular area within the country.

The travel advisories will also provide clear reasons for the level assigned, and will be updated based on changes to security and safety information. Risks, conditions and circumstances will be indicated with icons:

C: Crime
T: Terrorism
U: Civil Unrest
H: Health Issues
N: Natural Disasters
E: Time-limited Events
O: Other

Additionally, U.S. embassies and consulates will now issue alerts to replace the current emergency messages and security messages. The alerts will inform travelers of specific safety and concerns in a country, such as weather events.

The State Department has come to recognize that sometimes their various documents were not readily understood and needed to make it more accessible and understandable to people.

So…… If you are in the process of thinking about your upcoming travel plans for 2018 and have questions about the destinations you are considering, please contact me, I would be happy to share all the information I have from my in country partners, as well as from the Dept. of State.

 

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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Changes in Travel for 2018 and Why You Should Use a Travel Agent Instead Of Booking Online

Changes in Travel for 2018

 

Changes in Travel for 2018 and Why You Should Use a Travel Agent Instead Of Booking Online

Changes In ID Requirements For Air Travel

Changes for travel in 2018 are important to pay attention to, and by using a travel professional to help you plan and book your next travel experience will ensure that you are informed about the proper requirements for travel and ensure that you have a great travel experience from beginning to end.

Changes For ID Compliance For Air Travel will become effective January 22, 2018.  Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies, like TSA, from accepting licenses and identification cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.  (Read my full Blog Post to make sure your ID will be compliant in 2018).

 

And for 2018 – Here’s Why You Should Use A Travel Agent Instead Of Booking Online

Travel agents make travel less stressful

When booking a vacation, destination wedding or honeymoon, the last thing a traveler should have to do is worry. Your Special Event should leave you with lifelong pleasant memories. A travel agent is vital in planning these special events as we take the worry off of you so you can focus solely on your big day to come and what you shall pack and just show up.  We do all the planning for you.

We save you money…

As a travel professional, I have access to special discounts, upgrades and promotions not available on line that I pass on to you. These perks can often save you an additional amount or provide you with a dining or spa credit that wouldn’t be available by booking on line.

We save you time…

A survey in 2016 of more than 1,200 consumers, showed that nearly one-third spent in excess of four hours, over multiple days, planning their own vacations. As a travel advisor I create custom itineraries, pulling together flights, transfers, accommodations, tours, meals and exclusive excursions based on your preferences — so you can spend your time on other things.

We don’t charge hidden fees….

A new client of mine told me about a previous experience using an on-line hotel app for a stay in New York City, and told me that the prices that were listed did not include taxes and fees.  This client was  charged an additional $121 in fees for the weekend upon check in, an expense she wasn’t expecting, that put her well over her budget for the trip.

Many agents don’t charge fees at all, and those who do are up-front about the cost.

We advocate on your behalf…

There have been many stories on the internet about travelers booking with a well known on-line booking agent, where traveler’s vacations were cancelled due to overbooking.  Customers were spending  hours on the phone with their customer service department and walked away with only vouchers for the booking agent and reservations in a lower category hotel, which did not even equal the total value of their cancelled vacation.

I feel for this family because they suffered such a horrendous experience. Not only were they left with no refund but also a cancelled trip. That would never have happened if they used a travel agent. Using an on-line booking agent is putting you at risk and can be a setup for a disaster. During peak seasons to find out your trip is cancelled and have no refund is the worst news, but on top of that, trying to scramble to plan something at the last minute is even worse.

We provide personalized attention…

On-line booking agents provide a one-size-fits-all service, not taking into account all the moving parts and variables that are in play.  As a professional travel advisor, I tailor these services to my clients’ individual needs. If you have concerns, I’ll talk you through them and put your mind at ease. Need a hotel that can cater to your allergies or a special dietary need? A professional advisor I have personal relationships with the resort and hotel brands I sell and can speak to hotel managers to make sure it’s taken care of.

Despite all the on-line booking agents, travelers are desperate for a real human voice on the phone. Travelers want travel advisors who are truly dedicated to their needs and will receive genuine customer service and someone willing and eager to sell them what they want.

We offer insurance…

From guaranteeing your hotel is available to knowing if the excursion company is legitimate, booking through a professional travel agent ensures travelers will not get duped. And we provide insurance for medical emergencies and trip cancellations to protect your investment.

We’re here for you 24/7…

As a travel professional, I am on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week for my clients. I’m right there with you throughout the booking process, during your travel and follow up afterward. If you were to book on line and had to contact the booking agent’s customer service department, you likely will be wading through a chain of people to hopefully get to the one who can help you. One such customer, said she spent six and a half hours over three days speaking with Expedia’s customer service department.

We are specialists…

As a travel professional, I have a personal understanding of your interests and insight into specific destinations and segments of travel, such as Transformative Travel Experiences and Group Travel Events to destinations such as Jamaica, Mexico and Europe.  I spend time getting to know my clients so I can make recommendations tailored to what you want to do and to ensure that they have a great experience and an amazing trip that will send them away with lifelong memories.

 

So, when you are ready to plan those 2018 travel adventures, contact me, I would love to create an unforgettable travel experience for you.

 

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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