Happy Spring! The weather has turned (mostly) warm and Spring-like here in the Chicago area and I hope it's warming up wherever you are! I have a few fun and interesting things for you this month.
If you haven't already thought about planning for Christmas or Spring Break 2024 (I know, I know) - now is the time to take a minute and plan. Better yet: let me do the planning! Several of the most popular and nicest family-friendly all-inclusive resorts are already filling up and some are close to selling out (especially for Spring Break). Give me a quick email at john@travelprojohn.com if you want to chat or click the button below to schedule a quick call!
Choosing An
All-Inclusive Resort
When clients call me about a beach vacation, they're usually overwhelmed by all of the options available. And honestly: it is overwhelming!
Here are some things to ask yourself before we start talking about specific resorts:
Are you a "beach lover" or "pool person"? This is important because there are some SPECTACULAR resorts that are on so "not-so-great beaches".
Do you want lots of varied activities? Are you comfortable leaving your resort?
For families: do you need a "kids club"?
Budget: this is a tricky one. What a resort charges in low-season isn't the same as a what they will charge during peak seasons.
Room Size: can your entire party fit in a standard suite? Do you prefer a bedroom with a door? Some resorts have capacity limits in rooms as well.
Do you like nighttime entertainment? Some resorts have splashy and amazing shows, others are more sleepy with little nightlife.
Room Service: not all all-inclusive resorts offer room service! This seems like a silly question: but if you have smaller kids - it's a wonderful option instead of trying to get put together when you have hangry children in tow!
Finally: BOOK EARLY! I am assisting many clients with 2024 vacations for a reason: the early bird pays less. I am able to lock in most resorts with a very small deposit and in some cases: no deposit at all!
Whether you want an adults-only getaway (and that's OK! All parents deserve some "recharge time") or a family trip - call me!
Why The Mobile Passport Control App Should Be On Your Radar
A free service with the potential to speed up entry at a number of U.S. ports and airports, the Mobile Passport Control app (MPC app) should be on your radar.
The program essentially generates the required customs form on your Apple or Android iPhone and expedites your processing time when re-entering the country. MPC streamlines the traveler’s entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time. Travelers can download the MPC app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Once you land or otherwise have internet service, you select your arrival airport or seaport (yes, it works for cruises), take a self-photo, and answer a series of questions. The app generates a QR code you can present to a Customs Border Patrol agent at the point of entry, often in a special MPC line allowing you to bypass the longer lines for inspection.
As a result, travelers may experience shorter wait times, less congestion, and efficient processing.
The system is an alternative to the Global Entry program, which has a price tag of $100 for a five year membership. For the MPC program, there is no fee, and up to 12 family members on the same flight or cruise can use it.
For more information and an extensive list of entry ports where the app can be used, visit https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control.
Mother's Day Savings
Only available until May 15 (you've got three days!) - enjoy massive savings with Royal Caribbean!
Up to $650 off on their next adventure, EXTENDED now through May 15! Sve 30% off every guest and KIDS SAIL FREE! Children get to experience the highlights of the high seas free of charge. (restrictions apply - contact me for details! CLICK HERE to get started!
Why Travel Insurance is Important
Travel insurance may not be the first thing you think of when planning your trip, but it's an important consideration. Here are just a few reasons why:
Protect your investment
When you book a trip, you're making a significant investment. Travel insurance can help protect that investment in case something unexpected happens, like a family emergency or illness that prevents you from traveling.
Covers medical emergencies
Not all medical insurance policies cover you when you travel. In case of a medical emergency, travel insurance can cover medical expenses, hospitalization costs, and emergency transport back home.
Provides peace of mind
Travel insurance can give you peace of mind when you're traveling, especially if you're visiting a foreign country where you're not familiar with the healthcare system or language. Knowing you have coverage in case of an emergency can help you enjoy your trip without worrying about what might happen.
Protects against trip cancellation
Sometimes things come up that prevent you from traveling, such as a natural disaster, illness, or family emergency. Travel insurance can refund your trip expenses and protect against losing that investment.
Helps with lost or stolen luggage
Travel insurance can also cover lost or stolen luggage during your trip, including the cost of replacing your belongings.
Overall, travel insurance is an important consideration when planning your trip. It can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in case something unexpected happens. Be sure to research your options and choose a policy that works best for you.
If you've made it this far - I hope you learned some new tidbits this month! If you are a current client: THANK YOU for trusting me with your travel plans. If you're thinking about traveling - feel free to give me a call and we can take a look at your options! Have a great May!