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Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences Celebrates New Construction Milestones

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News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Sept. 10, 2024:  Six months after its market debut, Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences – a 280-room resort and residences that promises to redefine island living on the shores of Indigo Bay, St. Maarten—announces significant advancements in construction, with completion on target for high-season 2027/2028. These developments, coupled with the growing enthusiasm surrounding the project, reflect Vie L’Ven’s commitment to redefining St. Maarten’s hospitality landscape.

In response to strong market demand, Vie L’Ven has introduced a price increase across all remaining residences, effective today. With rising interest and decreasing availability, potential buyers and investors are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their place in this serene Caribbean paradise.

Sales, led by St. Maarten Sotheby’s International Realty, have reached a major milestone with the sellout of the Martin (M7) building. Kingfisher (M1) and Osprey (M5) buildings are also nearly sold out, and new inventory will be released soon at updated prices. Interested buyers are encouraged to secure a residence now to take advantage of expiring incentives and prices.

Vie L’Ven’s transition from concept to reality progresses with notable milestones in the construction phases. Key accomplishments include the completion of bulk excavation for foundations and a new parking facility for the on-site beach and beach bar restaurant. Groundbreaking for foundation work is set before the end of 2024, signaling significant progress toward bringing this luxury project to life.

Vie L’Ven is collaborating with world-renowned partners, such as Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, Leading Hotels of the World, Biologique Recherche, and Tides, to elevate the resident experience with gourmet dining, bespoke wellness programs, and personalized concierge services. Additional on-property amenities will consist of a beach club, private cabanas, water sports, pickleball and tennis courts, VIP transfers, a state-of-the-art gym, lobby bar, pool bar and all-day dining, children’s playroom and pet-friendly areas. Guests will also have private yacht access between St. Maarten, Anguilla and St. Barths, making it the only yacht-friendly luxury resort in the Anguilla Bank.

Curated by a team of world-renowned experts, including Studio Munge, HKS Architects, and Luxury Hotel Advisors, Vie L’Ven offers 280 residences with expansive layouts, oceanfront views, private balconies, terraces, intimate plunge pools, and high-style furnishings. With four distinct suite types ranging from 620 to over 2,000 square feet (58 to 186 square meters) and lock-off options expanding up to 6,000 square feet (557 square meters), prices start from the $900,000s.

Vie L’Ven continues to enhance access to St. Maarten through new airline partnerships, further positioning it as a premier Caribbean destination.

Don’t miss the chance to secure one of the luxury units. For sales inquiries and more information, please visit vielven.com or visit the presentation gallery on Indigo Bay Boulevard in Indigo Bay, St. Maarten.

About Altree Developments

Altree Developments is a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Under the visionary leadership of Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is redefining urban living by transforming strategic residential and commercial sites into leading destinations. With an admirable portfolio that includes ultra-luxury condominiums and expansive master-planned communities, Altree’s influence stretches across some of the most coveted addresses in Canada, America, and now, Saint Maarten. Driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation and luxury, Altree’s projects are designed to stand the test of time, offering unparalleled value, and shaping the future of urban living. For more information, visit altreedevelopments.com.

Blue Diamond Resorts Introduces Exclusive Private Island Experience at Hideaway

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News Americas, ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Sept. 05, 2024: Blue Diamond Resorts is thrilled to unveil the latest in luxury with its new Private Island Diamond Experience, now available exclusively at Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, in Jamaica. This exceptional offering elevates the Diamond Club suite category to new heights, inviting discerning guests to indulge in an exclusive, intimate escape on a secluded private islet, meticulously crafted for meaningful connections and ultimate relaxation.

Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Caribbean, the Private Island Diamond Experience offers an unparalleled adults-only retreat where privacy and personalization are at the forefront. Guests staying in select Diamond Club suite categories at Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters can book one of four luxurious beach cabanas on this pristine 111-square-foot private island, poised over the turquoise waters of Montego Bay.

Upon arrival, guests can book this exclusive service at check-in, where they will then be introduced to their private island butler, who will cater to their every desire throughout the experience. From refreshing cold towels infused with tropical aromatherapy to daily live entertainment capturing the vibrant spirit of Jamaica, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance relaxation and well-being. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments from The Royal Spa, savor gourmet meals and premium cocktails delivered directly to their cabana, or simply unwind with uninterrupted views of the azure waters.

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, guests staying seven nights in the exclusive Diamond Club Chairman Beach Walk Out Swim Out Suite receive full-day access to the private island, ensuring a completely secluded retreat. This all-encompassing experience is meticulously planned, offering personalized touches such as a custom music and a specially stocked cooler filled with premium beverages, all designed to create an unforgettable stay.

To further elevate their stay, guests can explore a range of enticing add-ons at an additional cost, including curated cabana packages featuring authentic Jamaican cuisine, premium spirits, and personalized touches that make each moment unique.

The Private Island Diamond Experience reflects Blue Diamond Resorts’ commitment to crafting unique, all-inclusive experiences that reflect the distinct personality of its resorts. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a special celebration, or simply a tranquil escape, this exclusive offering promises total customization in an idyllic setting, making it the perfect canvas for unforgettable memories.

Reserve your Private Island Diamond Experience today by booking any participating Diamond Club suite category here. For more information, visit 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.

Must-Know Bahamas Deals

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News Americas, New York, NY, September 4, 2024: Residents of the U.S., Canada, and Europe planning to visit The Bahamas in the coming year can now take advantage of an exciting Island-Hopping offer departing from Nassau. This exclusive deal offers travelers the opportunity to explore multiple islands with an air and ferry-inclusive vacation package.

The Island-Hopping package includes 4 to 6 consecutive nights at a participating Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board hotel, available for either single or double occupancy. In addition to accommodations, travelers will enjoy generous credits on their inter-island flights, including a $75 credit for the Nassau to Out Island flight, a $75 credit for flights between Out Islands, and a $75 credit for the return flight from an Out Island to Nassau. These credits apply to any type of flight, whether scheduled, private charter, or a seat on a private charter.

To take advantage of this special offer, travelers must book by June 30, 2025, and complete their travel by October 31, 2025. This pre-booked package allows for a seamless and affordable exploration of The Bahamas’ diverse islands and unique experiences.

Check out these other deals:

Breezes Resort Bahamas – 3 Days/2 Nights All-Inclusive Package with Airfare Escape to the stunning Breezes Resort Bahamas with a 3-day, 2-night all-inclusive package. Prices start at just $659.00 per person, based on double occupancy, and include airfare. Enjoy the ultimate tropical vacation at an unbeatable value.

Book now: Breezes Resort Bahamas Offers

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort – 4th Night Free & Private Airport Transfers Experience luxury at The Ocean Club with a complimentary fourth night and private airport transfers. Relax in this secluded paradise, available for booking through December 31, 2024.

Travel window: 7/9/2023 – 12/31/2024

Book now: Ocean Club Offers

Riu Palace – 3 Days/2 Nights All-Inclusive Package with Airfare Enjoy a tropical escape at the Riu Palace Paradise Island with a 3-day, 2-night all-inclusive package, including airfare. Immerse yourself in luxury and relaxation.

Travel window: 8/20/2024

Book now: Riu Palace Offers

Peace and Plenty Resort – 3 Days/2 Nights Hotel Package with Airfare Discover serenity at Peace and Plenty Resort with a 3-day, 2-night hotel package, including airfare. Unwind in a peaceful island setting and soak up the tranquility.

Travel window: 8/20/2024

Book now: Peace and Plenty Resort Offers

These exclusive deals provide the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of The Bahamas, whether you’re seeking all-inclusive luxury or a serene island retreat.

This Luxury Retreat Will Be Coming To The Bahamas

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News Americas, New York, NY, Thursday, August 22, 2024: Exuma, the pristine Bahamian archipelago of 365 islands, is set to welcome a new level of luxury as Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® partners with Yntegra Group to launch the Rosewood Exuma retreat. This exclusive island getaway, developed on East Sampson Cay, is designed to merge high-end luxury with the natural beauty of the Exumas, providing an unforgettable experience for elite travelers and ocean enthusiasts.

Rosewood Exuma retreat. is coming to the Bahamas.

The Rosewood Exuma resort, nestled within 124 acres of untouched paradise, will feature 33 elegantly designed suites with breathtaking views of the island’s famous pink and white sands and crystal-clear waters. Many suites will be located right on the shoreline, offering guests an immersive experience of the Exumas’ serene environment. Through Rosewood’s A Sense of Place® philosophy, the resort will reflect the local culture and ambiance, ensuring an authentic Bahamian experience for visitors.

Guests will enjoy six distinctive dining options at Rosewood Exuma, with a focus on local flavors and produce from the resort’s own organic garden. The resort will also feature Rosewood’s signature wellness concept, Asaya®, within a 20,000-square-foot sanctuary offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Bahamian practices. The wellness center will include six treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy facility, an outdoor pool, and a fully equipped fitness center.

For those seeking adventure, the resort will offer an outdoor sports center with tennis, padel, and pickleball courts, as well as watersports equipment. Families can enjoy two pools, including a family-friendly option, and children will be engaged through the Rosewood Explorers club, which fosters curiosity and creativity with activities promoting environmental awareness.

A luxurious beach club will serve as a central hub for relaxation, featuring a grill restaurant, beach and pool bars, and a private dining room. The development will also include two marinas capable of docking yachts up to 150 feet, catering to sailing enthusiasts exploring the surrounding archipelago.

Sustainability is a key focus of the Rosewood Exuma project, with only 25% of the island undergoing development to minimize environmental impact. The resort will incorporate eco-friendly construction practices, including the use of solar energy, to preserve the natural beauty of the Exumas and create a sustainable legacy for future generations.

Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We have conceived Rosewood Exuma to offer a next-generation luxury experience – one that honors the quintessential character of this pristine archipelago and invites guests on a journey of discovery and adventure.”

Felipe MacLean, CEO of Yntegra Group, emphasized the shared vision between the two companies, adding, “This partnership represents our commitment to creating exceptional experiences while being responsible community partners in Exuma.”

Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism for the Bahamas, welcomed the development, noting, “The introduction of Rosewood Exuma represents an exciting milestone for our tourism industry, highlighting the unmatched luxury and adventure that Exuma offers while emphasizing our commitment to sustainable and balanced growth.”

The Rosewood Exuma retreat promises to be a transformative addition to the Caribbean luxury landscape, combining elegance with environmental responsibility in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. No date was given for the completion or opening so far.

Simone Biles’ Mom’s Belize Connection

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 5, 2024: Simone Biles’ adopted mother, Nellie Cayetano Biles, was in the stands at the 2024 Paris Olympics, alongside her father Ronald Biles and Simone’s husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, as the gymnast, 27, walked away with four medals.

Family members of Simone Biles of Team United States, (L-R) her husband Jonathan Owens and parents Nellie and Ronald Biles look on prior to the Artistic Gymnastics Women’s Team Final on day four of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on July 30, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Nellie Biles was born Nellie Cayetano in Belize City, Belize. She is the daughter of former Belize Senator and well-known businessman Silas Cayetano and Evarista Cayetano, a teacher and grocery store owner. At 18, in 1973, Nellie left Belize to attend nursing school at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio. Until then, she had never seen a television in person, used a phone, or flown on a plane.

In 1976, she met Ron, who was stationed at Randolph Air Force Base outside San Antonio. They married in January 1977. At the time, Ronald was serving in the Air Force, and Nellie was in nursing school. She became a nurse and co-owned multiple nursing homes in Texas, while Ron became an air traffic controller.

Nellie Biles is technically Simone Biles’ biological grandmother, but she and her husband adopted Simone at age six after she and her siblings were placed in foster care by Ronald Biles’ daughter, Shannon, who is Simone’s biological mother. Shannon had four children, including Simone, but struggled with addiction. The siblings were placed in foster care when Simone was about three years old. She and her sister Adria were eventually adopted by their grandparents, while her two other siblings, Tevin and Ashley, were adopted by their great aunt and raised in Cleveland, Ohio.

In “Simone vs. Herself,” Nellie shared how she prayed for bonding after bringing the girls into her home. “You wake up one day, and you realize that you would do anything for these children and that you would die for these children,” said Nellie. “And when that feeling comes, that’s when you know you are truly a mother.”

Ron and Nellie raised Simone and Adria as their own and enrolled Simone in gymnastics at age six upon her request. A daycare trip to a gymnasium revealed Simone’s talent, and coaches encouraged her parents to get her lessons. Nellie noted in a 2016 interview that Simone “never missed a practice,” even when sick.

The parents haven’t missed any of Simone’s competitions, except for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to COVID-19 restrictions, and continued to support her after she withdrew from the games to focus on her mental health.

Simone holds Belizean citizenship through her adoptive mother and considers Belize her second home.

ABOUT BELIZE

Belize, located on the eastern coast of Central America, boasts stunning Caribbean Sea shorelines to the east and dense jungles to the west. Offshore lies the expansive Belize Barrier Reef, dotted with hundreds of low-lying islands called cayes, teeming with rich marine life. Belize’s jungles are home to remarkable Mayan ruins, such as Caracol with its towering pyramid, the lagoon-side Lamanai, and Altun Ha, just outside Belize City. Belize is part of the Caribbean Community, CARICOM.

Approximately 16% of Belizeans live abroad, while immigrants make up about 15% of Belize’s population. Many Belizeans seek job and educational opportunities in the United States rather than in former colonizer Great Britain due to the U.S.’s closer proximity and stronger trade ties with Belize. Belizeans also emigrate to Canada, Mexico, and English-speaking Caribbean countries.

Canada is urging nationals to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Belize. The government specifically advises avoiding non-essential travel to Southside Belize City, south of the Haulover Creek River, due to gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings.

U.S. and Dominican Republic Sign Landmark Open Skies Agreement

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 2, 2024: Today, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and Dominican Republic Minister of Tourism David Collado signed an Open Skies Agreement at the National Palace in Santo Domingo to enhance bilateral aviation cooperation.

Airplane on tarmac being unloaded after landing at Punta Cana Airport, Dominican Republic

The agreement, set to take effect after completing necessary internal procedures, will elevate civil aviation standards between the United States and the Dominican Republic to modern levels.

“This Agreement with the Dominican Republic will expand our strong economic and commercial partnership, promote people-to-people ties, and create new opportunities for airlines, travel companies, and customers. Air carriers will be able to provide more affordable, convenient, and efficient air services to travelers and shippers, promoting tourism and commerce. The Agreement will also commit both governments to high standards of aviation safety and security,” the U.S. stated.

Building on a framework of U.S. Open Skies agreements with over 135 other partners, this new Agreement allows U.S. air carriers to operate and expand flight networks beyond America’s borders, connecting the U.S. economy to growing markets.

The completion of this agreement follows two years of negotiations, during which U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) played a leading role, advocating for its finalization. Rep. Espaillat led multiple congressional letters, published op-eds, and held numerous meetings with high-level officials to secure the deal for Dominican American families, visitors, and American tourists.

“Today’s Open Skies Agreement between the United States and Dominican Republic is an incredible win for Americans and Dominicans alike,” said Rep. Espaillat. “This pro-consumer agreement will provide more flight options between the U.S. and D.R., lower airline fares, increase travel, and spur economic growth in both of our great nations. Most importantly, it will allow more Dominican American families, visitors, and American tourists affordable travel options to visit the country and their loved ones. Today’s agreement sends a clear message that the relationship between the United States and the Dominican Republic is stronger than ever, and we will continue to further this alliance for years to come.”

For years, Dominican American families have faced limited flight routes and high fares to and from the Dominican Republic, particularly during peak travel seasons. With today’s completion of a modern Open Skies Agreement, consumers and tourists will benefit from lower flight prices, a wider variety of flight options, and expanded airline services. This historic agreement will support the tourism economy and spur job growth in both the United States and the Dominican Republic.

New Caribbean Flights Coming

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. July 22, 2024: The Caribbean is set to see a significant increase in flights, providing more options for travelers and boosting tourism across several islands.

American Airlines Expands Chicago-Nassau Route

The Royal Atlantis Hotel in Nassau, Bahamas.

American Airlines is making a notable expansion of its Chicago O’Hare-Nassau route. Starting December 5, 2024, the airline will offer daily nonstop flights on Boeing 737 aircraft, just in time for the peak winter season. This decision comes as Nassau Paradise Island reports impressive tourism numbers, with around 2 million air and cruise visitors so far in 2024, according to the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board.

Grand Bahama Island to Receive Enhanced Airlift

New airlift is coming to Grand Bahama island.

Grand Bahama Island is preparing for a substantial boost in airlift this fall, continuing its tourism growth trend. Following a record-breaking 2023 with a 33% increase in foreign air arrivals, the island will see new services from Westernair and Bahamasair. Westernair will launch flights between Fort Lauderdale and Freeport in late August, while Bahamasair will enhance its Fort Lauderdale-Freeport route from September 6 to October 3, 2024.

American Airlines will resume daily flights to Freeport on October 3, increasing to twice-daily service from Miami in November and adding a new Saturday service from Charlotte. Bahamasair will also introduce a new route between West Palm Beach and Freeport on November 17, 2024, complementing existing services from Orlando.

This year has already seen the return of flights from Montreal, Milan, and Orlando, with new interline agreements signed with Virgin Atlantic and Alaska Airlines. An upcoming agreement with Turkish Airlines in September will further expand travel options.

New Service to South Caicos

New flights are coming to the TCI.

And American Airlines will begin non-stop service to South Caicos, Turks & Caicos from Miami starting February 15, 2025. The twice-weekly flights will operate on Embraer 175 aircraft, offering 76 seats, including 12 first-class. This service will coincide with the opening of Salterra, A Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, adding to the island’s appeal alongside Sail Rock Resort.

Minister of Tourism, Josephine Connolly, highlighted that this new service aligns with the policy to diversify tourism offerings and promote economic development in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Alvin Hegner, Chairman of Experience Turks and Caicos, expressed excitement about enhancing South Caicos’ tourism product in anticipation of the influx of visitors.

The flights from Miami to South Caicos will depart at 10:05 AM, arriving at 12:27 PM, and will return at 1:44 PM, arriving in Miami at 3:55 PM.

This increase in flights across the Caribbean promises to enhance connectivity, support local economies, and provide travelers with more options to explore these amazing destinations.

This Caribbean Island Is Getting More Airlift

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News Americas, New York, NY, July 17, 2024: Grand Bahama Island is preparing for a significant boost in airlift this fall, continuing the upward trend in tourism that has marked 2024 as a year of growth. This expansion follows a record-breaking 2023, where the island saw a 33% increase in foreign air arrivals, the highest growth among all Bahamian islands.

New airlift is coming to Grand Bahama island.

Starting in late August, Westernair will launch new service between Fort Lauderdale and Freeport, addressing the increasing travel demand from South Florida. Bahamasair will also enhance its Fort Lauderdale to Freeport route from September 6 to October 3, 2024, ensuring continued airlift during American Airlines’ temporary suspension of its Miami-Freeport service due to peak hurricane season.

American Airlines will resume daily flights to Freeport on October 3, ramping up to twice-daily service from Miami in November, alongside a new Saturday service from Charlotte.

Further bolstering airlift, Bahamasair will inaugurate a new route between West Palm Beach and Freeport on November 17, 2024, just in time for Thanksgiving. This service complements the existing twice-weekly nonstop flights between Orlando and Freeport, launched on June 17 and continuing through September 3, 2024.

For the first five months of 2024, foreign air arrivals to Grand Bahama outpaced the same period in 2023 by 8%, setting the stage for a strong year surpassing pre-Hurricane Dorian figures.

“Our focus on increasing airlift into Grand Bahama underscores our commitment to the community and our partners,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, I. Chester Cooper. “We are positioning the island to benefit from significant investments and growing tourism demand. We are continuously exploring new markets and restoring services from both local and international airlines.”

This June saw the return of Sunwing Airlines’ nonstop service from Montreal, Neos/Alpitour Airlines from Milan, and Bahamasair’s Freeport-Orlando service. Additionally, interline agreements were signed between Bahamasair and Virgin Atlantic, as well as Alaska Airlines, facilitating seamless travel for visitors from the UK and the West Coast via Nassau. An upcoming agreement with Turkish Airlines in September will further expand travel options to Grand Bahama.

“As foreign airlift arrivals and seat capacity continue to grow, we are committed to attracting visitors from new markets and enhancing existing routes,” Deputy Prime Minister Cooper added. “This includes key connections from Charlotte, Durham, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Milan, Montreal, and Toronto.”

Grand Bahama’s expanding airlift signifies a robust recovery and growth trajectory for the island’s tourism sector, promising increased connectivity and economic benefits for the local community.

Two Caribbean Destinations Named Among Top 10 Family Beach Vacation Ideas

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. July 16, 2024: San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Turks & Caicos have secured spots in the latest TripAdvisor Top 10 beach vacation ideas for families. San Juan claimed the number 2 position, while Turks & Caicos landed in 7th place. Leading the list is Hilton Head, South Carolina, USA. Crete, Greece, ranked third, with O’ahu, Hawaii, in fourth place. Zanzibar, Tanzania, took fifth, and San Diego, CA, came in sixth. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, secured 8th place, Cancun, Mexico, 9th, and Pensacola, Florida, rounded out the list in 10th place.

Here’s what you need to know about choosing either Puerto Rico or Turks & Caicos for your next family vacation:

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Beautiful beach views of Puerto Rico’s pristine turquoise waters.

Who should go: Families seeking a tropical vacation with a rich cultural experience.

The beach scene: Condado and Isla Verde beaches offer calm, clear waters and bustling stretches of sand, each with a unique vibe. Condado, located in the city center, is surrounded by high-rise hotels and trendy restaurants, with colorful loungers and umbrellas for rent. Isla Verde Beach, near the airport, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with large palm trees providing ample shade.

Don’t miss: Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro, where kids under 15 enter free. This ancient fortress is steeped in history, best explored with a ranger-led tour.

Restaurant report: Enjoy street food at the kiosks at Piñones, a scenic boardwalk and bike trail near Playa Torrecillas. Try the alcapurrias at Kiosko El Boricua, and savor mofongo at Pannes. For seafood lovers, El Nuevo Acuario is a must-visit.

Where to stay: Stay at the 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique in Old San Juan for a mix of beach time and city sights. For a blend of pool and beach time, La Concha Renaissance Resort offers three pools and access to Condado Beach.

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands

Who should go: Those seeking relaxed tropical beaches and abundant snorkeling opportunities.

The beach scene: Grace Bay Beach, with its 12 miles of calm waves and sugar-white sand, frequently tops “best beaches” lists. Families also enjoy other island beaches like Little Water Cay (Iguana Island), Pine Cay, Parrot Cay, and West Caicos, known for their low tides.

Don’t miss: Strong swimmers should snorkel through Bight Reef to see turtles, rays, and coral. Alternatively, take a catamaran tour to explore more remote reefs.

Restaurant report: Enjoy fried conch at Da Conch Shack, where you can pick your own conch from the nearby sandbar. For a Caribbean-Italian dining experience, visit Vita Restaurant, perched atop jagged rocks with ocean views.

Where to stay: Windsong on The Reef offers complimentary water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. Alternatively, the all-inclusive Beaches Turks and Caicos features an on-site waterpark and bunk rooms for kids, plus 19 restaurants for parents to enjoy without added costs.

Plan your next family vacation to these Caribbean paradises for an unforgettable beach experience.

US Warns About Travel To This Caribbean Island

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News Americas, New York, NY, July 11, 2024: The United States has issued a Level Three travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, urging nationals to reconsider travel to the twin-island nation due to escalating crime rates.

The US is warning nationals to reconsider travel to T&T.

The advisory, released by the U.S. Department of State, highlights the need for increased caution due to terrorism and kidnapping risks. Specific areas identified as high-risk include Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah in Port of Spain. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to these areas. Additionally, travel to downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all beaches is restricted for U.S. personnel after dark.

The advisory warns of frequent violence and shootings in certain parts of Port of Spain, describing violent crimes such as murder, robbery, assault, sexual assault, home invasion, and kidnapping as common occurrences. It also notes significant gang-related activity, particularly narcotics trafficking, contributing to the high levels of violence.

“A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related,” states the advisory. “Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”

For those who choose to travel to Trinidad and Tobago despite the advisory, the U.S. Department of State provides several recommendations:

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Review the Country Security Report for Trinidad and Tobago.

Use caution when walking or driving at night.

Be wary of meeting individuals met through social media or dating apps.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Do not display overt signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.

Be extra vigilant when visiting ATMs.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

Follow the instructions of local authorities.

The advisory emphasizes the importance of being cautious and aware of one’s surroundings, especially in high-risk areas. Travelers are advised to avoid displaying wealth and to take extra precautions when using ATMs or meeting new acquaintances through social media or dating apps.

This heightened alert comes in response to a notable increase in violent crimes and potential terrorist activities in Trinidad and Tobago. The U.S. Department of State aims to ensure the safety of its nationals by providing these guidelines and urging them to reconsider non-essential travel to the region.