Articles by Ilizabeth Sutera on ArticleSnatch.com

"The Amazing Race" with a Twist of Reality

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Like the popular show, the Amazing Race, COMPETITOURS designed a travel experience where two people per team are sent on a secret trip to Europe to earn points by accomplishing a series of fun, quirky and interactive challenges, documented via their own video cam for the COMPETITOURS judges to score. The companyâ€™s judges will pick the winners based on the task recordings And after a fun, fulfilling vacation, you may also win the prize? A worldwide travel spree grand prize of future airline tickets and hotel nights, which are valued at up to $16,000., featuring up to 40 nights at over 115 Starwood hotels spanning 51 exotic countries, plus airfare and spending money, makes the trip just THAT much more fun. Creator Steve Belkin, notes this Amazing Race for regular peopleâ€ takes its participants throughout Europe lasting 8-14 days. Armed with a Eurail pass, a video camera and their own sense of creativity, these competitors compete in five offbeat challenges a day. Each team can determine their own mix of mainstream vs. niche daily itineraries. Some teams might be cynical about the Eiffel Tower while others consider it must-see. **End Summary** Topics: game]]> competition]]> amazing]]> race]]> travel]]> europe]]> reality]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> To view all details for COMPETITOURS, click here

Travel Deals: "It's a Garage Sale Out There!" Part II

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Just when I thought we had hit bottom (travel deals, I mean), the rates are getting lower! I have outlined the best deals I have seen through out the Caribbean, airfare sale and a special Tahiti deal that will blow your mind! This is a MUST READ if you are thinking of taking the family on vacation between now and next Fall. There are more kids stay free deals than ever seen before. I also notice the additional costs for upgrading to suites or having connecting rooms are being cut up to 60%! Another change I notice is the increase in resort and cruise credits. Cruise ships always made their real profit by what they sell on the ship such as alcohol, clothes, tours, etc. Now more than ever before, the cruise lines are offering up to $300 on board ship credit. The trend for resorts to also offer credits is growing tremendously. Resort credit used to be something I saw in the low season or an infrequent special. Resort credit can go towards spa, tours, golf, drinks and food if it is not an all inclusive, or simply fun nick knacks. **End Summary** Topics: travel]]> deals]]> vacation]]> travel]]> airfare]]> hotel]]> kids]]> free]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> You can view all of these deals by clicking here If you have any questions regarding travel, email me

Family Travel DealsÃ¢â¬Â¦Ã¢â¬Âit's a garage sale out there!Ã¢â¬Â

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0400

A friend, who invests in real estate, said itâ€™s a garage sale out there!â€ and in the travel industry, this is very much a reality. Luxury resorts and cruise lines on sale, deep discounts during peak season are all reasons to lift an eye brow and thinkâ€¦OK, everyone needs help. The stress is high, money is low but quick getaways, inexpensive vacations could be mentally and physically healthy for a worried nation. In a nutshell, if you used to afford moderate hotels, you can probably now afford deluxe, if you usually go deluxe, you can probably afford luxury, and on and on. Families looking to get away, here is what is out there right now! There is a major 50-70% off resorts in the Caribbean right now. I checked it out, it is not 70% off some made up number, it is 70% off! Examples of packages: The NH Real Arena (the name of the resort), a new all inclusive resort, is located on Bavaro beach in Punta Cana. Surrounded by miles of white sand and turquoise waters, they are offering $67 per person, per night (check dates). **End Summary** Topics: family]]> article]]> vacation]]> travel]]> Caribbean]]> Alaska]]> cruise]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Read the complete article with all the deals here

Romance: Live it up in Luxury, Paying for Moderate Travel

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0500

I have always called Valentines Day a "Hallmark Holiday". But as I get older, I soften and realize it is a day to take the time to think about your loved ones. In these times, it is important to think about what we appreciate in life, whether it be a partner, spouse, child, family or friend. Speaking as a woman who loves spas, I thought about listing a few luxurious romantic trips someone could purchase for someone elseâ€¦or something to think about for the next couple's only vacation. OK, I lied - there are a few romantic suggestions that let you take the kids along too. I have to begin with a personal favorite, as there is nothing better for me than daily spa treatments, luxurious setting, not having to look at a check after an expensive meal, then taking that spontaneous walk on the beach before retreating back to a luxurious room. The resort is Grand Lido Negril. Negril is also one of my favorite beaches in the Caribbean. The deal right now is up to $250 spa credit - that will get you a few free treatments on top of the complimentary manicures and pedicures. **End Summary** Topics: romance]]> travel]]> deal]]> valentine]]> day]]> holiday]]> getaway]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> To view these deals, visit DunhillVacations

Spring Break for Families, All Inclusives & Cruises at a Steal!

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0500

As the editor of a travel newsletter going to almost 2 million subscribers, every deal published needs to be great value for the money whether it is moderate, deluxe or luxury. Our team makes sure: 1) no one else can offer a better deal 2) if we are not personally familiar with the destination, property or cruise (which does not happen that often since our team has over 100 years of combined experience in this business), we research it for consumer comments and articles 3) whether it is a moderate cruise ship or a luxury hotel, we make sure there is Value in the deal. Since Spring break is on every one's mind, I thought I would offer some of the latest: Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace: 6 nights with airfare starting at $599 - this package was $1499 when the economy was strong!. This may be more depending on where you are flying from. Travel Valid: February 5 - December 17, 2009, 60% Savings! ~ All Inclusive Book by Feb 08, 2009 This is a three star resort, it has everything you need; **End Summary** Topics: cruise]]> all]]> inclusive]]> spring]]> break]]> vacation]]> family]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Viva Wyndham Majestic Elegance Royal Caribbean International

Cruise Deals to Europe and the Mediterranean

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The sinking economy has a large impact on anyone (Americans) thinking about going to Europe on vacation. Thankfully the Cruise lines are well aware of what is going on with our economy and are offering significant savings and value for cruises ranging from the Mediterranean to Scandinavia. Regular cruisers already understand the savings involved and may want to move on to the bottom of the article where the top deals to Europe are listed. If you are new to cruising, it is important to remember that the price includes all of your meals, your cabin, activities on the ship and in many instances, onboard credit. These cruises are appropriate for everyone - families, friends and couples. Of course the larger cruise lines will have the largest variety of folks, the smaller and sometimes, more expensive cruises tend to be geared for adults. Cruise itineraries through Europe, Destination information and Current Deals: Beginning from the North moving South: If you want to see spectacular scenery, majestic Fjords and old European towns, then Scandinavian Cruises are the way to go. **End Summary** Topics: cruise]]> mediterranean]]> deals]]> vacation]]> sailing]]> ships]]> turk]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> To view these European cruise deals, click here There are updated European cruise deals updated daily by clicking here.

Finding the Perfect Family Vacation at the Perfect Price

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500

I have been in the travel business for 15yrs, and I am often asked the best times to travel to the Caribbean. My personal opinion is between the end of Thanksgiving thru December 19. The weather is great, the prices (especially this year) are low and the resorts are not crowded. If you are parents of kids under 6, this could be perfect. However, for those of us who can not take our children out of school, we will have to deal with the extra expense of holiday travel, the long lines and crowded pools. Or do we? As all of the deals pass my desk, I look for value and pick the best ones to share with my readers. I have NEVER seen prices this low for holidays and winter travel. Holiday travel usually is 3-4 times the regular rates, this year, it is the same or lower. If you still have your travel budget put aside - use it now, take advantage of these deals - because I have never seen rates like these before. In thinking of family vacations, the first one that comes to mind is Club Med. **End Summary** Topics: vacation]]> travel]]> club med]]> family]]> kids]]> holiday]]> sale]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Click here to view these Club Med Vacations

Holidays & Winter Deals

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400

So, the only time to take the kids is Thanksgiving/Christmas break/Winter break? You know it is crowded, usually three to four times the usual rates for vacations, but that's usually the best time to take the kids on vacation. Probably one of the only positive viewpoints about our economy right now is the hotels and cruise lines want your business and they are slashing their prices to get it. I have researched and found the following deals; I also will give my two cents on it. For the Caribbean & Mexico, in all my years, I have never seen it this low: Funjet Vacations is having a HUGE sale, with airfare from $199 round trip to Mexico or the Caribbean during the upcoming holidays! You can fly roundtrip to Mexico or the Caribbean for as low as $199 when you book a hotel + flight vacation with Funjet Vacations. I have used them, they are fine - just like any travel during busy seasons, call ahead to make sure the flight is on time, get there early and research the hotel. On top of this amazing airfare, save an extra $200 instantly on air/hotel packages when you travel between Dec. **End Summary** Topics: Caribbean]]> Vacation]]> Kids]]> Free]]> Family]]> Travel]]> Airfare]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Visit Funjet Vacations to find out about travelling to Caribbean & Mexico. Visit Apple Vacations to learn more about a kids free vacation. Visit BookIt to view a few great deals to the Caribbean

Mexico & The Caribbean All-Inclusive Vacations

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400

The all inclusives are mainly located in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico and a few in the Bahamas. I can give you many amazing deals, but there are a few questions to keep in mind for choosing the right resort. 1) Do you want to explore and get away from the resort daily? If so, all inclusives may not be for you. 2) Are you looking for a beach get away where you are being catered to in every way? If yes, all inclusives are perfect. 3) Do you like buffets or a choice of a number of restaurants, some upscale? If you donâ€'t really care about the food, you can look at the less expensive all inclusives, if you want fine dining and diverse menu choices look closely at the resort description, you will probably want a 4 or 5 star all inclusive. 4)Is this a close family vacation or one of those everybody does what they want vacation? All inclusives vary on kids programs, some have kid activities others have full blown programs for the entire day. **End Summary** Topics: all]]> inclusive]]> deals]]> vacation]]> travel]]> family]]> kids]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Apple Vacations all-Inclusive deals Bookit.com all-inclusive deals Air Jamaica all-inclusive deals

Top Deals & Destinations of the Week!

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400

I would usually put this one last - but it is so good, I have to make sure all eyes see it. If anyone has tried to travel over the holidays, you know the prices can double/triple during our days off! However, Funjet is offering flights from $199, yes $199 roundtrip to the Caribbean during the Holiday season - and that is just the beginning of these amazing deals. Yes, I'm a total Caribbean bum. The warm salty air, the miles and miles of sand that give way to some of the most gorgeous turquoise water anywhere is enough motivation than I need. That image coupled with the fact that its now cheaper then ever before to go, makes the Caribbean the bonus destination this week! Fly into the Caribbean and stay for 3 nights during this Holiday Sale for $429 and you save $570 per person! You say you want added value? Alright, how about bring the kiddies along and they will stay, play and eat free! You have to love the Holidays! Now that I got the holiday excitement out of the way, here are the best deals and destinations of the week! Hawaii. **End Summary** Topics: Destinations]]> Travel]]> Vacation]]> Australia]]> Hawaii]]> Fiji]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> You can view all of these offers by click here

One Hurricane After Another

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400

I thought I would put together some facts about the realities of hurricane season, where to go, what to avoid, how to still travel, etc… Official Hurricane Season: June 1 - November 30 is the official hurricane season for the Atlantic region. This would affect the entire east coast of the United States, Bermuda, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Eastern Mexico and all states bordering the Gulf of Mexico. As we know, hurricanes can turn into major flooding, tornadoes, etc…once it begins to travel on land. The Northeast Pacific basin has a broader peak with activity beginning in late May or early June and going until late October or early November with a peak in storminess in late August/early September. Translating into travel, this means the Pacific Coast from Canada down to the West Coast of Mexico. Typically, the worst of the storms for the Atlantic are between mid August thru the end of October. Guess when some of the best travel deals to the Caribbean and Mexico are? You got it, hurricane season. Hurricane season is a gamble, there are years these islands and areas are not hit, but there is no guarantee. **End Summary** Topics: cruise]]> hurricane]]> vacation]]> travel]]> caribbean]]> tropical]]> deals]]> Mexico]]> Pacific]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> If you have travel questions, contact me. Or if you would like to view continually updated travel deals, posted for its value to the consumer, go to dunhillvacations.com

Top Five Destinations, Value for Your Money!

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400

. My focus is always value, not the lowest price. As we all have different budgets, I like to choose from a range of budget accommodations to deluxe. I sifted through everything from little known destinations for a quiet romantic getaway to all-inclusive resorts for the whole family to cruising. The destinations and properties or cruise make my list when I see true value in the "deal". For example, if someone says the sale price is $100 per night at 50% off, and I do my homework and realize that the property is always $100 and not really worth it - there is no value. It is when I see they are truly offering a deal that is rare, either a great price that is actually less than you would expect for the level of service and accommodations or if I see tons of added value, I want to recommend it to everyone! My top destinations and the best deals that go with them: 1) Mexico: All-inclusive resorts continue to be a great value - you just have to be careful that it offers everything it says it does. **End Summary** Topics: cruise]]> mexico]]> europe]]> california]]> nappa valley]]> colorado]]> gunnison crested butte]]> travel]]> vacation]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> While we all have tightened our budgets, it doesnât mean that travelling is completely out of the question. Remember to travel more and spend less when planning your next vacation retreat.

All-Inclusive Vacations, One Size Does Not Fit All!

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0400

The old adage; “one size fits all” has never applied to traveling. Open up the travel section of the newspaper or plug in your favorite travel website and you are bombarded with a plethora of ideas on where to go. From family getaways, to a weekend romp the simplicity of planning a vacation seems more complicated as the web gives you more and more choices. Add to the state of our economy, making sure you pick the right vacation is just as important as picking up the best bargain. All inclusive resorts have made a surge to the top of this vacationer’s list in recent years due to their convenience and pricing. A beachfront paradise retreat nestled on long strips of sand and the bluest water is enough for any beachcomber style. Most beach lovers will go along merrily to a tropical spot on the map, but throw in the fact that your meals and that fruity drink with an umbrella in it is included and it might even tempt the semi-beach lover. My “one size does not fit all” analogy applies perfectly to All-Inclusive travel. The mere mention of “All-Inclusive” may not include alcoholic drinks or dining in restaurants. **End Summary** Topics: All Inclusive]]> Caribbean]]> Vacations]]> Family Vacations]]> Travel]]> Deals]]> Mexico]]> Golf]]> Vacation Deals]]> ]]> About the Author: ]]> You can find all of the best travel deals conveniently located in one place; DunhillVacations.com

Grand Tripping And Kid Caravaning

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400

As more and more baby boomers retire, and seek to spend their golden years in the warm, but often distant, company of children and grandchildren that live many miles away, boomers and GenXers are taking their family reunions on the road as a way to unite the family while enjoying a relaxing vacation at the same time. But, anyone who's traveled with multiple generations of family members knows that the ideal dream getaway meant to bring the family closer together can quickly turn into a nightmare replete with whining, bored and cranky kin if everyone’s interests, privacy, appetites, budgets and timetables are not taken into consideration. Knowing that a multi-gen vacation can turn quickly from a blessing to a curse, family vacation options by Shell Family Resorts offers properties, amenities, packages and programs perfectly suited for vacations that include the kids, grandparents, and extended family, too! Resorts are always an option appealing to all age groups; which is critical when choosing the right resort property for a multi-gen vacation. **End Summary** Topics: Family Vacation]]> Vaction Rentals]]> Family Trips]]> Destination]]> Travel Deals]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> For more great travel deals and ideas, visit DunhillVacation.com