Posts

Caribbean Travel News & Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. August 11, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Two Caribbean nationals made history on August 10th as the first female astronauts in space via Virgin Galactic. Keisha Schahaff, a 46-year-old health and wellness coach hailing from the islands of Antigua and Barbuda and her 18-year-old daughter, Anastatia Mayers, a student of physics and philosophy at Aberdeen University, are also the first mother-daughter duo to go to space; the most women who have ever gone to space as well as the sixth and seventh Black women to go to space. Mayers is also the youngest person to ever go to space.

American national Alix Dorsainvil and her young child have been freed and are safe after being kidnapped in Haiti roughly two weeks ago, according to a statement from El Roi Haiti, the nonprofit where she worked. Dorsainvil and her young daughter were taken from the El Roi compound outside of Port-au-Prince on July 27 and had been held until her release.

Come September 1st, travelers to Jamaica will have to fill out a digital form prior to entering. The introduction of this new digital entry platform has two objectives. The first is to increase security at the borders of the tropical island nation. The second is to automate identity checks and assist Jamaica’s PICA with immigration control to significantly speed up border inspections. Once the online system is up and running, travelers will be prompted to upload all immigration, customs and health documents required for entry.

Delta is set to boost Saturday frequencies to the following cities from January From Atlanta:

Three times to St. Thomas
Twice to St. Maarten

Six times to San Juan

Delta is set to boost Saturday frequencies to the following cities from January From Detroit:

Twice to Punta Cana

Twice to Montego Bay

Twice to San Juan

Turkey now requires e-visas from nationals of The Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Grenada, the Dominican Republic, and Antigua Barbuda who intend to visit or intransit.

New research from ForwardKeys reveals that international arrivals to the Caribbean for the first two months in 2023 are behind by only 1 percent when compared to the same period in 2019. In contrast, Europe is registering a 25 percent lag.

It’s deals time again this week. Check out all the deals in The Bahamas now at https://www.bahamas.com/deals-packages

Tourist Allure: The Intersection of Casino Resorts And Tourism In The Caribbean

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Aug. 8, 2023: When you think of the Caribbean, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant culture are likely to come to mind. However, over the years, a new player has emerged on the scene, enhancing the tourism experience and attracting travelers from around the world: casino resorts. 

The intersection of casino entertainment and tourism in the Caribbean has transformed the region into a haven for beach lovers and those seeking thrilling gaming experiences that you can enjoy online with betway casino. In this article, you’ll explore how casino resorts have become an integral part of the Caribbean’s tourism allure.

The Allure of Casino Resorts

Casino resorts in the Caribbean offer a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, drawing in travelers with diverse interests. These resorts provide a one-stop destination where visitors can enjoy luxurious accommodations, fine dining, entertainment shows, and of course, the thrill of casino gaming. Whether it’s blackjack, roulette, or slot machines, these casinos offer a range of options to cater to different preferences.

Boosting Local Economies

One of the most significant impacts of casino resorts on the Caribbean is the economic boost they bring to local communities. These resorts create job opportunities across various sectors, from hospitality to entertainment. Additionally, the influx of tourists stimulates the local economy by increasing demand for goods, services and transportation. Taxes and revenues generated from the casinos contribute to infrastructure development and social programs, thus benefiting the region.

Enhancing Tourism Appeal

The presence of casino resorts has expanded the appeal of the Caribbean beyond its natural beauty. Travelers now have an additional incentive to visit, especially those who enjoy both leisure and gaming activities. This diversification of offerings ensures that the Caribbean remains an attractive destination for many tourists, from honeymooners to solo adventurers.

Entertainment Beyond Gaming

Modern casino resorts offer far more than just gambling. From spa treatments and wellness programs to themed parties and live entertainment, these resorts curate an immersive experience for their guests. This creates a well-rounded getaway where visitors can unwind by the pool, indulge in culinary delights, and enjoy vibrant nightlife, all under one roof.

Challenges and Considerations

While casino resorts bring numerous benefits, they also present challenges, such as responsible gambling concerns and potential societal impacts. Local regulations and collaboration with responsible gambling organizations are essential to ensure that gaming remains a form of entertainment without detrimental consequences.

As these resorts continue to flourish, finding a harmonious balance between entertainment and responsible gambling practices remains crucial to sustain the positive impact on local communities and maintaining the allure of the Caribbean as a multifaceted travel destination.

Caribbean Travel News And Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. August 4, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

The Canadian government is warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to and in Trinidad and Tobago due to violent crime there. Violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults and sexual assault, occurs frequently on the island of Trinidad, especially in the capital, Port of Spain, the Canadian government said.

Avelo Airlines this week announced nonstop service between Southern Connecticut’s most convenient airport – Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) – and Puerto Rico’s San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) beginning on November 15, 2023. Introductory one-way fares between HVN and SJU start at $99. Customers can make reservations at AveloAir.com.

United Airlines is increasing flights from Newark to Aruba. Starting December 1st, the airline will connect Newark with Aruba twice daily. Flight times vary throughout the week, but all depart within a window from 14:50 to 18:00.

Jalousie Beach or Sugar Beach in St. Lucia has taken the number 3 spot globally for 50 best beaches in the world for 2023 according to Big 7 Travel. It is the only Caribbean beach in the Top 3.

Barbados celebrates with Grand Kadooment on August 7th from 7:30 am to 9 p.m. in St. Michael. The event marks the celebration of the end of Crop Over.

The BVI’s Emancipation Festival or “August Festival” continues. Tomorrow night, August 5th, is International Soca Night followed on Sunday by the Sunday Morning Well/Musical Mix Night. Celebrations wrap up on August 11th with the Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta.

When flying from Orlando to North Eleuthera in the Bahamas on Silver Airways, travellers can unlock exclusive 15% savings at Pink Sands Resorts that can be applied to stays of two nights or longer with promotion code “Silver.” One-way flights begin as low as $99. Book at pinksandsresort.com/exclusive-offers/

And The Cove at Eleuthera in The Bahamas is offering a special “Tranquility Under the Stars” package that includes a minimum two-night stay in an oceanfront room, a personal telescope with constellation maps, and a private night-time yoga session for two. The travel window is now through August 21st. Book at https://thecoveeleuthera.com/offers/bahamas-vacation-packages-tranquility-under-the-stars/

Caribbean Travel News And Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. July 27, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Canada is again warning nationals to “exercise a high degree of caution” if travelling to Jamaica or in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime there. This included armed robbery and murder in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity, officials said.

An American Airlines flight bound for Georgetown, Guyana, had to return to New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport after a disagreement arose between passenger Joel Ghansham and a flight attendant. The incident​occurred during meal service when a passenger asked for help stowing his bag, but the flight attendant refused, leading to an exchange of words.

Sunwing is getting ready for the winter vacation season. CEO Mark Galvin says the airline is once again offering direct flights to Varadero, Cuba this winter. Galvin says the flight to Varadero starts on November 16th and will be offered four days a week.

La Compagnie, which operates 100 percent business-class flights from New York to France and Italy, is planning what amounts to a test-run in the Caribbean. The company has partnered with travel agency E. Clarke Travel to launch a new Caribbean vacation program that includes all-business-class flights to St Maarten. The flights will operate once weekly on Sundays, with service set to begin on Nov. 26 and run through April 14, 2024 from Newark Liberty International Airport to St Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport and back.

​Barbados is counting down to the end of Crop Over with Grand Kadooment 2023 returning to its traditional stomping ground with the parade along​the old route from Warrens to the Mighty Grynner Highway on August 7th. It’s unclear if Rihanna will be part of the celebration this year.

And Grenada is also counting down to its carnival this year. This year’s Spice Island mas kicks off August 5th with Children’s Carnival Frolic; and ends the weekend of August 14/15th with J’ouvert/Pageant/Monday Night Mas and Parade of Bands/Last Lap.

If you are looking for a quick getaway, consider sailing on Allure of the Seas. She begins making 3- and 4-night voyages out of Port Canaveral on October 30 to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

And get 65 percent off room rates now if you book a Sandal’s Vacation. This includes $186 per night at Sandals Ochi. Check all options at sandals.com/specials/

Caribbean Travel News And Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. July 21, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Major alert from Both the US and Canada this week. Both are warning nationals to reconsider travel or Exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Trinidad and Tobago, due to violent crime on the twin island Republic including terrorism and kidnapping.

The UK government is set to suspend the visa-free waiver agreement with Dominica this month. Following this, the UK plans to annul the visa-free agreement with St Lucia in August and Grenada in September. Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St Kitts and Nevis will face the same action in October, November, and December, respectively.

USVI born, WNBA All-Star Aliyah Boston, is set to serve as tourism ambassador for her native land. The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has announced a multi-year partnership with the basketball star.

US travellers will soon be able to fly directly to Montego Bay, Jamaica from Denver International Airport (DEN). United Airlines will start operating the direct flights on November 4th and will continue once weekly – on Saturdays.

Delta Air Lines is making its way back to Curacao after more than​13 years. The carrier will depart from Atlanta to the Dutch Caribbean island starting on December 16th.

Meanwhile, American Airlines will being operating a direct flight from Miami International Airport to Governor’s Harbour, Bahamas (GHB) for the first time as of Feb. 3, 2024.

Start making plans for this October’s Barbados Food and Rum Festival. The event is set for October 19-22 in Bridgetown and will include a performance this year from Afrobeats superstar, Ayra Starr.

The Goombay Summer Festival returns to Nassau, Bahamas following a hiatus of over a decade. It take​place on Bay Street between Rawson Square and Charlotte Street on July 28th, and continue for the two subsequent Fridays.

And this week, you can book a Labor Day weekend trip in the Bahamas for two for just $1,323.88. Fly American Airlines from Miami International airport and stay from Sept. 1-4th at Margaritaville Beach Resort – Nassau. Book now on Kayak HERE

Blue Diamond Resorts’ Innovative Digital Strategy Propels Remarkable Milestone

News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Tues. July 18, 2023: In a momentous digital milestone, Blue Diamond Resorts has achieved an extraordinary feat, reaching an audience of over 1.5 million across its diverse social media channels. This outstanding accomplishment highlights the dedication, creativity, and strategic approach of the company’s team, who have played a pivotal role in engaging the audience.

With a strong presence on popular platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn, Blue Diamond Resorts has successfully connected with travelers, partners, and travel professionals worldwide. Through captivating and inspirational content, the company showcases the beauty and luxury of its renowned brands, including Royalton Luxury Resorts, Royalton CHIC Resorts, Hideaway at Royalton Resorts, Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts, Mystique by Royalton, Grand Lido Resorts, Starfish Resorts, and Memories Resorts & Spa.

Notably, the hotel management company has embraced the latest digital marketing trends, expanding its reach on innovative platforms like TikTok (@RoyaltonResorts and @Planethollywoodresorts), where its videos have garnered up to an impressive 2 million views, capturing the attention of a global audience. By employing an innovative and authentic approach, the brand not only presents the extraordinary experiences that discerning travelers can anticipate in its sought-after destinations but also highlights the exceptional service and genuine atmosphere fostered by its dedicated staff. This distinguished approach has had a profound impact, engaging and inspiring the audience on a deeper level beyond numerical metrics.

These accomplishments follow one of the company’s most recent announcement about how they are upgrading the experience in their Diamond Club and Star Class rooms categories, where guests’ feedback was the main driver to enhance and revamp the experience.

As the company celebrates this significant milestone, Blue Diamond Resorts invites everyone to join them on this incredible journey, as they continue to connect with individuals across the globe. By being part of the vibrant community, followers can anticipate access to the latest updates, mesmerizing visuals, and captivating stories that showcase the company’s dedication to luxury and excellence.

For more information visit www.bluediamondresorts.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.

Caribbean Travel News And Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. July 14, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Health officials in Trinidad and Tobago reported the first confirmed monkey pox on the island on July 11. The patient is a middle-aged man. Mpox is caused by a virus that belongs to the same family as the virus that causes smallpox.

Get ready to pay less in airport service charges if travelling to Barbados. The government has lowered the rate from US $35 to US $20. But it will only be in place until December 14th.

Delta Airlines will soon offer a new route between New York’s LGA Airport and Nassau, Bahamas. The flight will start on December 16th and depart LGA at 10:45 a.m. and arrive in Nassau at 2 p.m.

Dominica – not to be confused with the Dominican Republic – has been voted the number one Caribbean destination for the second year by readers of Travel + Leisure.

Caribbean Airlines is set to begin flights to St. Kitts from Trinidad & Tobago this July 29th. The airline will fly to Antigua and then to St. Kitts. An inaugural flight is set for July 24th.

Colombian low-cost carrier Wingo has launched a new nonstop route between Cali, Colombia and Aruba. The new flight kicked off last week and will continue through December 2023 and January 2024.

Get ready for Anguilla’s Summer Festival – a kaleidoscope of colour, festivities and boat racing events from July 23 – August 13, 2023. To get more details on joining the excitement, visit IvisitAnguilla.com

This week we found an all-inclusive deal from Dallas, Texas to Montego Bay, Jamaica. Book now on Southwest Jamaica and get a trip for two plus an all inclusive stay at Riu Palace Tropical Bay from Sunday, September 17, 2023 – Friday, September 22, 2023 for a total of $2,316. Book on Southwestvacations.com.

Altree Developments’ Vie L’Ven Resort joins the Leading Hotels of the World collection

News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Mon. July 10, 2023: Altree Developments proudly announces that Vie L’Ven Luxury Hotel and Residences has officially joined the distinguished group of Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), alongside renowned establishments such as Portugal’s Savoy Palace, Paris’ Fauchon L’Palace, and Sweden’s Grand Hotel Stockholm.

Comprised of more than 400 hotels in over 80 countries, LHW curates the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts for travelers looking for their next discovery. Vie L’Ven’s luxurious and exquisite five-star hotel makes the list by offering an ultimate lavish experience with unparalleled amenities such as world-class restaurants, beach bar, private villas, and spa and fitness facilities.

“We are excited to be included among the esteemed Leading Hotels in the World, alongside the most exquisite and opulent properties globally,” says Zev Mandelbaum, Altree Developments’ Founder and CEO. “Vie L’Ven represents more than just a premier condominium hotel resort in the Caribbean; it will elevate the Sint Maarten tourism scene and offers travelers a distinctive experience in the coveted Cay Bay.”

Drawing from the cultural heritage of the island, this hotel seamlessly blends the French and Dutch influences. Vie L’Ven offers guests and residents 253 fully furnished suites, available in a range of layouts, including one, two, and three-bedroom homes ranging from 600 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft.

Representing the pinnacle of an oceanfront luxury experience, Vie L’Ven thoughtfully designed in collaboration with internationally celebrated award-winning designer Studio Munge, includes a renowned five-star hotel featuring four high-end restaurants catering to the desires of all guests and residents. The exquisite resort, which will boast one of the Caribbean’s largest spas, is complete with a thermal aquatic experience, fitness center, and round-the-clock concierge services, ensuring the utmost luxury experience in Sint Maarten’s Cay Bay.

About Altree Developments:

Altree Developments stems from a long lineage of multi-generational experience in the development field. Led by Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is a leading development company focused on acquiring and developing strategic residential and hospitality properties in North America and the Caribbean. With a diverse portfolio of mixed-use projects ranging from ultra-luxury condominiums to master-planned communities. Our vision is to deliver prime residential locations with long-term value and growth potential. For more information, visit www.altreedevelopments.com

Caribbean Travel News And Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. July 6, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

As the US Secretary of State Visited Guyana on Thursday, Canada retained its “Exercise a high degree of caution” travel advisory on the South American CARICOM Nation.

Canada is Also Warning Nationals to Exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Cuba due to shortages of basic necessities including food, medicine and fuel

Meanwhile, Belize, The Dominican Republic and The Bahamas have also been slapped with an updated Canadian travel advisory warning due to crime in those countries.

Barbados will soon have a new airline service to connect with the USA and the Northern Caribbean.

Starting as a charter service from July 18th 2023 through August 16th 2023, Bahamas Air will commence flights from Nassau, The Bahamas to Bridgetown, Barbados, via Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Canadian carrier WestJet has announced plans to launch its first-ever nonstop flights to Bonaire.​
WestJet will be kicking off nonstop
flights between Toronto Pearson International Airport and Bonaire’s Flamingo International Airport beginning Dec. 12, 2023.

And Tampa International Airport is seeing record levels of nonstop Caribbean service. Airlines are now offering scheduled nonstop service to 10 Caribbean destinations (including Cancun).

Save 50% in Honour of The Bahamas’ 50th Anniversary at the Cay House — The Cay House at Mangrove Cay, Andros, is offering visitors a “Celebrate The Bahamas’ 50th Anniversary – Save 50%” promotion. Guests who pre-book a minimum of three nights will save 50% on the room rate. The booking window is now through 28 Aug. 2023 for travel until 31 Aug. 2023.

​Celebrate Independence Bahamian Style at Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan Resort — Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan Resort, a stunning all-inclusive resort for​families, is offering guests a “Road to 50th Independence Anniversary” package. Visitors who book a two-night stay – including Friday and Saturday – will receive a complimentary third night on Sunday. The booking window is now through ​July 15th for travel through July 15.

Caribbean Travel News And Deals

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 30, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

A British tourist to Jamaica died after trying to complete a challenge to drink all 21 cocktails on a bar menu, an inquest found. Timothy Alan Southern, a 53-year-old from Staffordshire, England, was on a family vacation when he undertook the challenge, ITV News reported. The coroner’s report said Southern died of “acute gastritis with associated alcohol intoxication,” the report said, adding that he had been “drinking heavily during the day.”

Canada is warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to Guyana due to high crime rates in the oil​rich CARICOM South american nation.

Police in Jamaica are investigating the death of a 24-year-old American woman who died while on vacation. Police found Quintairia Roker inside her hotel room in Montego Bay on June 21. A male friend found her unresponsive. She was rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Condor Airlines is set to make a return to Barbados this winter season, offering a twice weekly direct service between Barbados and Germany.

And United Airlines will start a new service from Washington, D.C.’s Dulles International Airport (IAD) and New Jersey’s Newark Liberty Airport (EWR) to Barbados. The service from EWR begins on Sept. 30 and will operate on Saturdays.

Caribbean travel company Island Routes is launching a new travel style for clients looking to explore the islands privately or in a one-of-a-kind, customizable way. The all-new Private & Bespoke Collections offers experiences, many with the option to be fully customized to create a personalized itinerary.

Alaska Airlines will begin flying nonstop to Nassau, Bahamas this December from Las Vegas. For a limited time, introductory fares for flights between start at $169 one-way.

Travelers choosing The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort, St. Croix for a vacation, can now get a free night’s stay with every five-night stay for travel through September 30th. To take advantage of the deal, guests must secure their bookings directly with The Buccaneer via thebuccaneer.com – using the promotion code VIBE2023 before September 1st.