Caribbean Travel News & Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 3, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

The Canadian government is again warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime there. Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, the advisory says.

Virgin Atlantic is gearing up to enhance its flight services to Barbados this winter. A milestone will be reached with the introduction of double daily flights from London Heathrow to Barbados. This new schedule, set to commence on January 8, 2024, will bolster connectivity and offer travelers more flexible options.

Space-lovers and fans of history, Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a new exhibit at the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, that celebrates the historic visit to space by Antigua and Barbuda’s Keisha Schahaff and Anastasia Mayers on August 10, 2023.

The “Antigua and Barbuda Goes to Space” exhibit, is a collaboration between the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda.   As of November 2, 2023, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda’s opening hours will be Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. To learn more about the museum of Antigua and Barbuda go to: antiguamuseums.net.

Now you can fly non-stop from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) in Missouri to Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ) on Southwest Airlines. Flights began on October 7 and is scheduled to operate weekly on Saturdays.

Get ready for an early Black Friday deal this week. Guests booking their stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau in The Bahamas can now enjoy a 30% discount on room rates – valid for stays between December 1, 2023, and December 21, 2024. Book from November 24 through November 30 by visiting the Margaritaville Booking Page or calling +1 855-410-2331.

Blue Diamond Resorts Takes Its Second Hotel Into the Metaverse

News Americas, MIAMI, FL, Thurs., Nov. 02, 2023: Blue Diamond Resorts proudly announces its latest innovation in the virtual reality universe with the introduction of immersive 3D scenarios for their newest property, Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort. This pioneering technology marks the second property of the hotel management company to be completely mapped, offering 360º virtual tours with an easy-to-use interface.

The introduction of this cutting-edge functionality invites both travelers and professionals involved in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) to delve into the resort’s detailed features. It offers an insider’s perspective on every nook and cranny, showcasing all the services tailored to meet the diverse needs of their guests. This immersive tool goes beyond enhancing the experience for travelers; it becomes an invaluable resource for MICE planners, providing a comprehensive view of all the venues ideally suited for events. Whether vacationers are planning a leisure trip or a business gathering, this experience empowers them to make informed decisions by immersing themselves in the resort’s ambiance before confirming their reservations.

“With the rising popularity of virtual experiences, we’re always finding new and refreshing ways to help travelers explore our properties and get a better idea of what they look like,” said Alejandro Rodriguez del Peon, Director of Marketing & PR for Blue Diamond Resorts. “Last year, we introduced this virtual tourism tool at our Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts in Cancun, which was the first in our portfolio to offer this experience. It proved irresistible to travelers and solidified our position as a pioneer in the all-inclusive segment.”

The resort’s website now features a captivating Virtual Tour option seamlessly integrated into the “Our Resort” section. This tour covers the entire property, from the expansive lobby and the exclusive Diamond Club lounge to the inviting pools, lazy rivers, and water park. Travelers can also virtually enter the resort to explore its modern rooms in various categories, restaurants, the GameUp Entertainment Center, Royalton FIT and spa facilities, as well as the convention center and its unique spaces for group events and luxury weddings.

3D renderings of Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun provide vacationers with an authentic feel for each vacation venue. The interactive features allow guests to experience their vacation before they even arrive. Whether travelers are seeking a family, romantic, or friends getaway, they will have access to all the amenities that await them at the resort, from relaxing in The Royal Spa to savoring delicious meals at the à la carte restaurants. For business travelers, there is a comprehensive walkthrough of the Meeting & Event spaces, featuring 25,000 square feet, including a ballroom and 12 breakout rooms that can be customized according to customer needs.

Blue Diamond Resorts continues to push the boundaries of technology, going beyond the traditional to showcase their modern and unique venues. The all-inclusive metaverse is now accessible at royaltonresorts.com

About Blue Diamond Resorts  

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 60 properties, exceeding 18,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee.  To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene  where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.  

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com   

Nature Adventure: Must-Visit U.S. National Parks

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Oct. 1, 2023: The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes on the planet, and there’s no better way to experience the country’s natural beauty than by exploring its national parks.

From the rugged mountains of the Rocky Mountains to the pristine beaches of the Florida Everglades, the U.S. National Park System offers a wide range of outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts.

So once your EVUS visa enrollment is done, you can start planning your US National Park Road trip! Here is a look at six must-visit national parks that showcase the incredible diversity of the American wilderness.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in Wyoming but extending into Montana and Idaho, is often referred to as the crown jewel of the national park system. Established in 1872, it was the first national park in the world, and for good reason. Yellowstone boasts a stunning array of geothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful geyser, which shoots water into the air with remarkable regularity.

But Yellowstone is much more than geysers. It’s a vast wilderness that encompasses pristine lakes, roaring waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves are just a few of the animals you might encounter while exploring the park’s numerous trails. For a truly unique experience, consider hiking to Yellowstone’s backcountry and camping under the star-studded skies.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon, located in northern Arizona, is an iconic American landmark that leaves visitors in awe of its sheer size and dramatic beauty. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, this immense canyon stretches for 277 miles and reaches depths of over a mile in some places. Standing on the rim and gazing into the canyon is an unforgettable experience.

While most visitors enjoy the breathtaking vistas from the rim, the more adventurous can venture into the canyon itself. Hiking and backpacking trails like the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail lead intrepid explorers into the depths of the Grand Canyon, providing an opportunity to experience the unique ecosystems and geology up close.

Acadia National Park

Located on Mount Desert Island off the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s diverse landscape includes rugged coastlines, lush forests, pristine lakes, and towering mountains. Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast, offers stunning sunrise views.

Acadia is a paradise for hikers and rock climbers, with miles of trails and iconic rock formations like Jordan Pond and the Precipice Trail. The park also boasts picturesque carriage roads perfect for cycling. For water lovers, kayaking along the park’s rocky shoreline or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Jordan Pond is a must.

Zion National Park

Utah’s Zion National Park is a red-rock wonderland that beckons adventurers with its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and the winding Virgin River. The park’s most famous hike, the Narrows, involves hiking through the river itself, surrounded by sheer rock walls that rise hundreds of feet above you.

Zion also offers a range of other hiking options, from the challenging Angels Landing trail to the family-friendly Riverside Walk. For an adrenaline rush, try canyoneering, which involves rappelling down slot canyons and exploring hidden passages. Zion’s unique geology and stunning vistas make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its mist-shrouded peaks, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. It’s the most visited national park in the United States, and once you set foot in its enchanting landscape, it’s easy to understand why.

The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry adventures. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point, provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to spot black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species.

Glacier National Park

Nestled in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park is a pristine wilderness known for its stunning alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, and dwindling glaciers. This park shares its northern border with Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, forming the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The centerpiece of Glacier National Park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a breathtaking scenic drive that winds its way through the heart of the park. Along this route, you’ll encounter sweeping vistas, dense forests, and the chance to spot diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Hiking is a popular activity in Glacier, with trails catering to all skill levels. One of the most famous hikes is the Highline Trail, which offers jaw-dropping views of the park’s rugged terrain. Glacier National Park is a testament to the fragile beauty of our planet’s icy landscapes. However, due to climate change, many of its glaciers are rapidly disappearing, making it even more crucial to visit and appreciate this natural wonder while it lasts.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Cuba

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 2, 2023: Do you consider yourself an avid tourist? Every self-respecting traveler should visit Cuba at least once in their life. It is a unique place with lively streets, architectural buildings, and white sandy beaches. The rich culture and fascinating history of the country attract tourists from all corners of the planet. They can visit museums, art galleries, and historical sites. In addition, it is worth noting the hearty hospitality and delicious cuisine the locals offer.

In the conditions of modern realities, it is recommended to calculate possible variants of consequences when going even on a short trip. Before traveling to a foreign country, you should consider the following:

study the political and economic situation in the country, possible consequences;

gather documents;

pack your things;

there may be Internet restrictions.

The tropical climate is characteristic of Cuba. Moderate temperatures and frequent rainy days persist throughout the year. Despite this, summer weather can be pleasant for beach vacations. Dry, sunny weather is observed from November to April – it is the best time to go here on an excursion or just relax, plunging into the atmosphere of the Caribbean islands. 

Useful Information For Traveling

Modern travelers are used to having their funds at their disposal. However, there are sometimes unforeseen expenses (an inflamed tooth, sudden repairs, a tire change, a hot trip, and so on) that require additional funds to cover.

If you don’t have enough money in your account, a small loan can help you out. Today, financial groups offer various loan options. One of the most popular is a payday loan ($100-$400). You can get it by applying to online lenders. The procedure is done online and allows you to get the necessary amount sometimes within a few minutes. Before doing this, it is recommended to check the reputation of the financial company and carefully familiarize yourself with the terms of the contract. An applicant who has reached the age of majority with a constant source of income and a valid bank account can apply.
Varadero is considered to be the most popular destination in Cuba. You will find a large number of hotels here. The islands of Cayo Largo and Cayo Coco are known worldwide for their gorgeous snow-white beaches. If you are interested in an excursion program, it is recommended to go to Santiago de Cuba with many sights. When choosing a hotel, it will be helpful to read real reviews.

Taking Out A Loan: Something To Think About

If you do not have a small amount of money for your cherished trip, the easiest option is to apply for a 100 dollar cash loan. It quickly helps to solve the problem of lack of money and will allow you to fully enjoy all the sights in Cuba, visit famous places, or participate in a festive celebration. However, before applying, you should weigh up:

ability to repay the total amount by a set date (it is usually the first day of the paycheck);

terms and fees, including hidden charges, potential penalties for early repayment, etc.;

your financial stability;

responsible loan: you should not take several loans at the same time; arrange the amount only when it is necessary;

the alternatives (borrow from friends or relatives).

Exciting festivals and carnival shows are organized for tourists. If you want to attend such an event, you should visit the country from mid-July to early August. Then, you can plunge into an unforgettable atmosphere of celebration.

Cuba received the unspoken name “Island of Freedom” for the opportunity to get rid of moping and problems. Moving to the rousing rhythms of Cuban dances, you will feel completely free and rid of everyday issues.

Invest Caribbean Shepherds 8 Developers To Pitch At CIF 2023 In The Bahamas

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Nov. 1, 2023: Team Invest Caribbean, in collaboration with the Caribbean Export Development Agency, recently guided a carefully selected group of eight Caribbean developers through the process of presenting their projects to investors at the Caribbean Investment Forum, CIF 2023, held at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in The Bahamas. These projects ranged in scale from USD 500,000 to USD 15 million.

As the global private sector investment agency for the Caribbean, the ICN team spent the last six weeks working closely with developers hailing from CARICOM nations of The Bahamas, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, and Barbados. The ICN team provided support in crafting investor pitch decks, preparing investor financial projections, and conducting training sessions to equip these developers with the skills to effectively present and pitch their projects to a panel of investors at CIF 2023.

This forum was presented by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, with the collaboration of the Government of the Bahamas, the European Union, the Caribbean Development Bank, and CARICOM, and it took place from October 23rd to 25th in Nassau.

The projects featured were in the sectors of agri-tech, ICT, and renewable energy. They were as follows:

Doctor on Call – An ICT startup project based in Jamaica.

Xhuma – An existing ICT project in Trinidad & Tobago.

Prosperina – A startup agri-tech project originating in The Bahamas.

Ecoaid – A startup agri-tech and renewable energy project from Jamaica.

Grenada Grows – A startup agri-tech and renewable energy project based in Grenada.

Chick Inn – A startup agriculture project situated in Grenada.

Eco Energy – A startup renewable energy project in The Bahamas.

Portland/Pavana Energy – A renewable energy project located in Barbados.

Felicia J. Persaud, CEO of ICN, expressed the agency’s enthusiasm at being part of the team of CIF 2023 and in helping to fulfil its commitment to contributing to the vision of a “Bold New Caribbean” by showcasing the diverse investment opportunities available across the region. She also expressed delight in the interest received by several of the developers from investors at CIF 2023.