bahamas - Furey and Associates

Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
&
W IBahamas
N T E R EBermuda
SCAPES
Caribbean, Bahamas Bermuda
&
What’s New
Bahamas
Harbour Island, a Bahamas Out
Islands, was named “Best Island in the Caribbean” by Travel & Leisure magazine. Harbour Island’s Sand Beach was
also featured in the Travel Channel’s “World’s Best Beaches.” Old Bahama Bay, Grand Bahama Island, received the
environmental Blue Flag award from the Foundation for
Environmental Education extending the Bahamas winning
streak as Conde Nast Traveler named The Bahamas “The
Hot Island” in 2004. www.bahamas.com
Puerto Rico is home to 23 golf courses
including Hilton Ponce’s recently opened Costa Caribe Golf
& Country Club. Hyatt Dorado Beach Resort & Country Club
is opening a second $6.5 million Dorado Plantation golf
clubhouse and golf pavilion shortly. The 18-hole Caguas
Real Golf Club in Caguas opened earlier this year.
www.gotopuertorico.com
Bermuda Just two hours by air from the East
Coast, vacationers can enjoy a three-night or more escape by
booking a vacation to the chic island of Bermuda and receive a
$300 air credit for their companion. This program is available
for booking now through Feb. 28, 2006 for travel from
Nov. 1, 2005 – Apr. 16, 2006. www.bermudatourism.com.
Dominican Republic
A warm greeting and a friendly face always awaits you in sunny Puerto Rico.
Why Vacation In The Caribbean?
C
Bahamas just off the east coast f irst landfall for Christopher destination for a range of
of Florida down to Aruba in the Columbus on his voyage in 1492 activity seekers. While the
southernmost Caribbean just off when he discovered America.
mountain ranges and rapid
the coast of South America, the
B e r mu d a i s o u r s e m i - waters of the north coast offer
nations of the Caribbean provide tropical sister island just 600 perfect conditions for extreme
toes!
Listen and you can almost vacationers with a
hear the calypso music and tropical paradise
rhythmic beat of the steel drums. that smells as sweet
Imagine sitting back, relaxing a s t h e f r u i t t h a t
poolside as you tap your flip- hangs plentiful from
flops to the magical beat! Relax t h e l u s h g r e e n
and you can almost smell the forests.
There are English
fresh mango and papaya.
I m a g i n e e n j oy i n g t h e s e islands — Barbados
tantalizing fruits at breakfast a n d S t . L u c i a ,
each morning as the breeze of French islands —
Martinique and
the crystal blue sea cools you.
Does this conjure up images Guadeloupe, Dutch
of what you would like to find islands — Aruba,
on your next vacation? If so, Bonaire and Curacao
t h e n yo u a r e g o i n g t o t h e and Spanish islands
— Puerto Rico and
Caribbean.
From the Islands of the t h e D o m i n i c a n
Discover your tropical paradise, the Islands of the Bahamas.
Republic.
There are
islands for nature lovers miles off the coast of North sports seekers, quieter, more laid
s u c h a s D o m i n i c a , Carolina. Its British background back areas are just right for lowMontserrat and Grenada continues to prevail in today’s key excursions. Whichever suits
and there are “hot” islands culture. Everything is pink and best, the Dominican Republic
such as Anguilla and St. pretty in Bermuda making it a p r ov i d e s a u n i q u e n a t u r a l
Barts where you will see favorite honeymoon pick. Hotels playground for all types of
stars during the day as and cottages around the island adventures, from kite boarding
well as at night.
offer discounted specials for and cascading to horseback
W h y v i s i t t h e couples seeking to have the riding and whale watching.
Caribbean on you next perfect honeymoon. The weather
Jamaica is home to Reggae
vacation? Here’s a small in winter is perfect for golf, music and jerk chicken. The
sample of the islands and tennis and other active sports. beaches of Negril are neverwhat you will find.
Visit www.bermudatourism.org. e n d i n g a n d t h e r ive r s a n d
In the Islands of the
The Cayman Islands are waterfalls that dot the island
Bahamas you will find a back and beautiful following its provide a cooling contrast.
diverse number of islands makeover after being hit by a Climbing Dunns River Falls near
including sophisticated hur ricane in 2004. Unique Ocho Rios remains one of any
Nassau, vibrant Grand attractions such as the turtle visitor’s highlight in Jamaica.
Bahama Island and the farm and Stingray City provide
Jamaica is a Caribbean
many remote Out Islands opportunities for visitors to get vacation paradise for both the
s u c h a s E l e u t h e r a , up close and very personal with adventuresome traveler seeking
E x u m a , C a t I s l a n d, sea life.
the many unique outdoor
Bimini, Harbour Island
The Dominican Republic activities, which the island offers
and others including San provides one of the most diverse in abundance, as well as for
ecological environments in the
Fabulous Punta Cana golf course Salvador, the island that is
in the Dominican Republic.
most recognized as the Caribbean making it an ideal
Continued on page 2
lose your eyes and you
can almost see the soft,
white sand. Imagine it
running through your
The Dominican
Republic has celebrated the opening of various hotels this
past year including: Casa Colonial, Puerto Plata; Hilton Santo
Domingo, Santo Domingo; Paradisus Palma Real, Punta
Cana; Altabella Samana, Samana; Sun Village Juan Dolio,
Juan Dolio; Roco Ki Resort by Westin, and Atlantica,
Luperon. www.dominicanrepublic.com
Cayman Islands
and BET Jazz will be
hosting its second annual International Jazz Fest Dec. 1-3
with jazz legends George Duke, Al Jarreau, Yolanda Adams,
Earl Klugh, and Ravi Coltrane. The format includes an intimate evening with the artists, one large outdoor event and
one afternoon event appropriate for the entire family.
www.caymanislands.ky
Aruba
For the first time ever, travelers can book
online on Aruba’s Web site, www.Aruba.com where
vacationers can customize an Aruba-escape with options
that include: activities; air-only; Aruba Experts; vehicle
rentals; hotels; package; preferred partners; and restaurants
like the new LG. Smith’s at the Renaissance Aruba hotel.
Hilton Hotels Hilton Caribbean and
Coral by Hilton have come up with the perfect wedding
packages for couples dreaming of a fairytale beginning.
Rates start at $305-$600 per couple and are applied
as a supplement to any room rate booked. The package
includes the planning services of a professional
wedding coordinator and many amenities.
www.hiltoncaribbean.com or www.coralbyhilton.com
Sandals
Sandals’ Beaches Resorts has fall
savings of up to 50 percent of rack rates for travel now
through Dec. 24, 2005. Ultra all-inclusive rates begin at
$159 per adult, per night and $51 per child (two to 15
years of age). Families can also buy exclusive breakfasts
with Sesame Street characters and Red Lane spa
certificates. www.www.beaches.com.
Our Lucaya
The Westin and Sheraton at
Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort on Grand Bahama Island
has a three-night Procreation Vacation package to help
couples make babies. It includes sea moss elixir for
the future dad (the Caribbean’s answer to Viagra) and
pumpkin soup for the would-be Mom plus one 50-minute
couples massage. www.weston.com/ourlucaya.com
or www.sheraton.com/ourlucaya
Cable Beach Resorts
The
Crystal Palace Casino at the Cable Beach Resorts, Nassau,
Bahamas, is introducing daily live poker plays seven days a
week. The company is also preparing to host major tournaments to attract many of the world’s top players. The casino
already boasts a state-of-the-art Race and Sports Book, providing a total gaming and entertainment showcase.
www.CableBeachResorts.com
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
2
Why Vacation In The Caribbean?
Continued from page 1
those wanting to be pampered at
the island’s many luxury resort
spas, or lavished upon at one of
the all-inclusive Caribbean
resorts which line the legendary
Northern Gold Coast. If you
want to experience the culture
and the people f irst-hand,
n o t h i n g b e a t s a va c a t i o n
package to Jamaica. Jamaica
also runs a very successful and
popular “Meet the People”
p r og r a m t h a t m a t c h e s u p
families of similar interests.
Puerto Rico has become the
hub of the Caribbean with airline
connections to and from the U.S.
and many of the other islands,
making it easy to visit even if you
are on your way to another
destination in the region.
Puerto Rico pulsates to the
Latin beat. And yet, it is very
much Americanized with most
people speaking English. The
hotels, restaurants and attractions
m a ke t h i s a ve r y p o p u l a r
destination. Old San Juan, at
more than 500 years old, is one of
the real treasures in the region.
Visitors from around the
world come to experience that
special magic that is known as
Caribbean time – a time to rest,
a time to vacate the strains that
wrap our normally complex
daily lives. This is truly a place
to vacation.
And for those that want more
than just eating, sleeping and
drinking in the culture, there is
sightseeing at historic locations
where Columbus f irst landed
and wars were fought.
There is shopping in dutyfree markets where treasures can
be found. And there are sports
that will tire even the most
active vacationer including
scuba diving, mountain
climbing, tennis, golf and
c r i c ke t f o r t h o s e t h a t a r e
really in the know.
Wi t h t h e e n d o f 2 0 0 5
p a r a d i s e , i s marketplace, boasting worldhome to 23 golf class dining and shopping
c o u r s e s , venues, including a Starbucks
i n c l u d i n g 1 7 and a Jamba Juice.
championshipN ew d i n i n g o p t i o n s a t
l eve l c o u r s e s Marina Village include Chef
with more on the Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s
way including:
Café Martinique, Carmine’s
The Hilton Italian restaurant and Johnny
Ponce Golf & Rockets, an all-American 1950s
Casino Resort style diner. Atlantis will also
recently open- become home to Bahamian
ed the much- outposts of world-renowned
a n t i c i p a t e d restaurants Nobu and Bobby
C o s t a C a r i b e Flay’s Mesa Grill in late 2005.
Golf & Country Visit www.atlantis.com.
Club. The golf
Tr ave l e r s l o o k i n g f o r a
a n d c o u n t r y pleasant golf and spa retreat
club, adjacent during the upcoming winter
t o t h e h o t e l , season should look at Bermuda
f e a t u r e s a with spring-like temperatures
27-hole Par-72 ranging from 70°F to 74°F and
PGA Champion- more golf courses per square
Enjoy the tranquility of the Caribbean at Our Lucaya, The Bahamas.
s h i p c o u r s e mile than anywhere else in the
d e s i g n e d b y world. Bermuda’s Pink Beach
rapidly approaching and 2006 f o l l o w i n g n e w h o t e l s ,
B
r
u
c
e
P
e
s
s
e
J r. , a n d
just around the cor ner the r e s t a u r a n t s , s h o p s a n d
features
Puerto
Rico’s
C a r i b b e a n h a s s o m e n ew amenities may just what you
f
irst
island
green.
The
things in store for visitors n e e d t o m a k e y o u r
club
also
has
a
32,000
this coming year. While you n e x t C a r i b b e a n v a c a t i o n
sq. ft. beachfront
can always count on perfect complete.
s a n d, s u n a n d s u r f , t h e
Puerto Rico, t h e g o l f e r ’s clubhouse offering private
lounges, saunas, massage
rooms, swimming pool
and dining.
Slated to open in the
fall at the Hyatt Dorado
Beach Resort &
Country Club is a second
United Airlines is concentrating its efforts from the Washington$6.5 million Dorado
Dulles gateway with service to Nassau, Bahamas, Punta Cana, DominiPlantation golf clubhouse,
can Republic, St. Maarten, as well as five times weekly service to Mongolf pavilion, as well as a
tego Bay, Jamaica. United will increase service to Aruba and St.
complete renovation of
Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Visit www.United.com for more details.
New intra-Caribbean routes to come include American Eagle
two of the resort’s four
between San Juan and Fort-de-France, Martinique and daily service
signature Robert Trent
between San Juan and Vieques, Puerto Rico. Visit www.aa.com
Jones Sr. courses.
or call 800-433-7300.
The 18-hole Caguas
Bahamasair expands its direct service to Marsh Harbour, Abaco,
Real Golf Club in
Out Islands, Bahamas, with a new flight from Ft. Lauderdale. Visit
Caguas opened earlier this
www.bahamasair.com or call 800-222-4262.
in the falls at Radisson Cable
year, offering s c e n i c Fun
Caribbean Sun launches air service to St. Eustatius from San
Beach & Resort, The Bahamas.
v i ew s o f t h e C e n t r a l
Juan, Puerto Rico. Air service also links St. Eustatius with nearby St.
Mountain region of Puerto Rico. Club & Cottages, in Tucker’s
Kitts and Dominica. Caribbean Sun is introducing new non-stop
The Islands of the Bahamas Town, promises a refreshing and
daily service from Dominica to San Juan. Visit www.flycsa.com or
call 866-864-6272.
have quite a few new and rejuvenating vacation getaway at
Starting this month, Cayman Airways reintroduces non-stop service
exciting things happening in the a savings of more than 25 percent
to Grand Cayman from Chicago and Boston. Visit www.caymanairupcoming season. In August, off the resort’s standard, high
ways.com or call 800-GCayman.
Kerzner Inter national Ltd. season rates. From Nov. 1, 2005
For more information about Caribbean vacations, visit
u nve i l e d t h e n ew M a r i n a through Mar. 12, 2006, rates at
www.doitcaribbean.com.
Village at Atlantis, Paradise
Continued on page 4
Island, a 65,000 square-foot
More Flights Makeit Easier to Gettothe Caribbean
The Caribbean remains a popular vacation destination choice
among U.S. travelers and the airlines are starting to take
notice to meet the demand by adding flights and gateways.
Here’s a look at some of the new service.
Spirit Airlines announces plans to serve 11 Caribbean destinations
within the year becoming the low fare airline of the Caribbean. Spirit
added new Orlando and Tampa, FL service to San Juan. Ft. Lauderdale
to St. Thomas and Grand Cayman to come in 2006. Visit www.spiritairlines.com or call 800-772-7117.
Continental Airlines launched service to five Caribbean destinations
and increased frequency on some routes starting with Ponce, Puerto
Rico, on Nov. 17, 2005 from Newark. Increased December service links
Newark Liberty International, New Jersey, to Curacao and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. LaGuardia, New York gets service to Aruba. For
more information visit www.continental.com or call 800-231-0856.
Delta Airlines’ new Atlanta service to Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic starts November 19. Other Atlanta added or
expanded service includes Barbados, Antigua, St. Maarten, and St.
Lucia. Visit www.delta.com or call 800-241-4141.
Jet Blue launched non-stop service from Newark to San Juan with one
daily roundtrip flight on November 17, 2005 and introduces Boston to Nassau,
Bahamas on February 2, 2006. Visit www.jetblue.com or call 800-JET-BLUE.
The weather is here. The price is beautiful.
Enjoy a 5th night
free this winter
$
859* 5 NIGHTS
from Miami/Ft Lauderdale
Sample prices for other US Cities
(per person)
Orlando
$
899
Boston
Washington DC
Baltimore
$
979
New York
Philadelphia
$
925
Atlanta
$
989
1 800 to aruba ~ aruba.com
For reservations and
information, call Liberty
Travel at 800-447-7012
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy at The Mill based on Studio accommodations and are valid for midweek travel on American Airlines booked in “S” class for
travel 1/4-2/17/06, supplements apply for other US cities. Prices reflect savings per couple based on 5-night stay. Restrictions and blackouts apply. Upgraded categories and extra
nights are available. All rates subject to change without previous notification. US Government taxes, PFC’s, September 11th Security Fee of up to $10 is additional and Foreign
Departure Taxes are all additional and may total up to $95 per person. Airfare corrected at time of pricing. Liberty Travel is not responsible for errors or omissions within the content
of this advertisement.
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
3
©2005 The Islands Of The Bahamas
The official birthplace of your screensaver.
The Islands Of The Bahamas. Over 700 unique islands
with one stunning thing in common. They’re the real deal.
And a lot closer than you think.
bahamas.com 1.800.BAHAMAS
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
4
Why Vacation In The Caribbean?
Continued from page 2
Pink Beach Club & Cottages start
at $320 per room, per night,
based on double occupancy, and
i n c l u d e a d a i ly M o d i f i e d
American Plan (MAP) with full
English breakfast, traditional tea
and five-course dinner daily.
Call (800) 355-6161 or v i s i t
www.pinkbeach.com.
The Comfort Suites Seven
Mile Beach, Grand Cayman is
offering a great hotel accommodations and dive package. The
p a c k a g e i n c l u d e s : d e l u xe
continental breakfast, daily two
tank dive, Don Fosters Dive Tshirt, tanks, and weight belt.
Rates start at $172 per night,
single occupancy, three-night
minimum, and are valid now
through Dec. 20, 2005.
Additional diver rate is $53 per
night and additional non-diver
is $15 per night. Visit www.
choicehotels.com/hotel/ci004.
The Intimate Hotels of
Barbados are a group of over
40 hotels, including apartment
hotels, guesthouses and villas
located along the north, south,
west and east coasts of the island
that have been combined on a
web site to help vacationers
book Barbados.
“Barbados is one of the most
beautiful and luxurious islands in
the Caribbean,” say the founders
of this web site, adding: “our
island has been the second home
for those who want to get away
from the everyday – including
B r i t i s h R oy a l t y a n d t h e
Hollywood elite.”
The Intimate Hotels of
Barbados makes Barbados
accessible to vacationers and
offers great accommodation at
the best prices on the island, with
secure bookings through its
website. Intimate Hotels of
Barbados brings vacationers
the best possible prices for its
member hotels.
So if you are dreaming of that
of that perfect getaway, stop!
Make it a reality by logging on to
a piece of paradise at www.
intimatehotelsbarbados.com
and book your dream holiday at
one of the Intimate Hotels o f
Barbados.
Hilton Caribbean hotels and
resorts are now offering the
Diving Paradise package,
through Dec. 31, 2005. The
D iv i n g Pa r a d i s e p a c k a g e ,
featured at three Hilton
Caribbean hotels and resorts,
includes accommodations, daily
breakfast for two, two dives per
stay including equipment rental,
non-motorized water sports, and
transfers to and from dive
facility when needed.
Participating hotels offering the
D iv i n g Pa r a d i s e p a c k a g e
include: British Colonial Hilton
Nassau at $360; Hilton Curaçao
at $166; and Hilton Tobago Golf
& Spa Resort at $220. Call
1-877-GO-HILTON or visit
www.hiltoncaribbean.com/scuba
— request plan code 4Q.
Pa l m S h o re s Vi l l a o n
Anguilla, located on one half
acre, offers stunning views of St.
Martin and St. Barts and best of
all – it truly offers a private,
uninterrupted getaway. The twoand one-bedroom units are
directly on a sand beach with a
fresh water swimming pool.
Pa l m S h o r e s Vi l l a h a s
broadband cable modem, fully
equipped, all electric kitchen,
full living room and dining
r o o m , c a b l e T V, a n d
telephone. BBQ grills,
coolers, beach chairs, beach
umbrellas, and beach towels
are provided.
Rates start at $233 per
day/$1,631per week for the one
bedroom unit and $295 per
day/$2,065 per week for the
two-bedroom valid now through
Dec. 18, 2005. Both units can
be rented for the rate of $365
p e r d ay / $ 2 , 5 5 5 p e r we e k .
Call (800) 258-9283 or visit
www.anguillavilla.com.
0
1
P
O
T
N
A
E
B
CARIB ES
H
C
A
E
B
T
none of
Antigua’s individual beaches made
the top 10, every
one mentioned
the islands’ 365
beaches (one for
each day of the
The beaches of Aruba are among the widest and longest in the Caribbean.
year) providing a
never-ending variety of secluded escapes to discover.
Beach, Negril, Jamaica, both most widely publicized nude
#10. Maundays Bay at Cap offer a great stretch of beach with beach in the Caribbean. Once
Juluca on Anguilla is a an accompaniment of many just an empty stretch of beach
horseshoe shaped beach on hotels for accommodations.
for naturalists, today its got all
which you may even spot an
#7. Le Diamant, Mar- the creature comforts except
international star entertainer…or tinique, is a six mile-long beach the need for clothing.
two.
with a very French atmosphere.
#2. The Baths, British Vir#9. Rincon Beach, Puerto This is where both locals and gin Gorda, is a unique rock forRico and Bathsheba on Barba- vacationers get their perfect tan mation along the shoreline
dos are two of the best surfing and a cooling swim.
where visitors can enjoy calm
beaches in the Caribbean. They
#6. Trunk Bay, St. John, U. waters that make this cave-like
may be the closest you get to S. Virgin Islands, is a picture- structure one of the leading
Maui on this side of the Pacific.
perfect beach, often used in pho- attractions in the islands.
#8. Seven Mile Beach, tos promoting the idyllic tranAnd the number one beach in
Grand Cayman and Negril quility of the islands, and a great the Caribbean is:
spot for snorkeling.
#1. Eagle Beach, Aruba —
Sun, shade and a hammock on a peaceful Puerto Rican beach.
#5. Bermuda’s unique pink one of the widest and longest
sand beaches where you can find beaches in the Caribbean where
a secluded cove or grotto at any visitors can stroll along and find
number of spots along the wind- their own private stretch of sand
ing roads of the island.
and sea, escaping the rest of the
#4. Grand Anse Beach, vacationers who station themGrenada, has long been consid- selves in front of their hotels. It’s
ered one of the most romantic here where you can mimic Bert
and picturesque beaches in the Lancaster and Deborah Kerr
Caribbean with its soft sloping from that now famous movie
sands and picturesque views of scene in “From Here to Eternity,”
St. George’s Harbour across the as they rolled in the sand with the
bay.
water washing over them. Eagle
#3. Orient Bay, on the Beach has also been used for the
F r e n c h s i d e o f S t . International Windsurfing ChamMaarten/St. Martin is the pionships.
ravel
writers, travel
agents and frequent
travelers all participate in a
regular ongoing debate as to
which is the best beach in the
Caribbean. Those really “in the
know” will tell you that it all
depends.
It depends on what you want
to do on that beach. If you just
want the soft white sand and
nothing more, there are many
beaches that will suffice.
If the waves crashing against
the shore are your dream, then
you too have your choices. If a
shady area is essential so you can
escape the sun for a while, then
you have other options.
Here then is a look at our
compilation of the “Top 10”
beaches chosen by a collective
group of travel writers. It is also
interesting to note that while
R e l a x
fall savings
from
$139
per night*
BOOK NOW AND RECEIVE
$300*
COMPANION AIR CREDIT
Get relaxed.
And now, get here for less.
Looking for a quick getaway?
How about an island that’s only
two hours from the East Cost?
Discover Bermuda. The island
of ultimate relaxation. Unwind
with a round of golf, complete
with an ocean view. Indulge in
a hot-stone massage at one of
our luxurious spas. And you can
breathe easy, because if you
book a trip for you and your
companion, we’ll take 300 dollars off the fare. So book now.
800.bermuda x 803
www.bermudatourism.com
escape to
grand bahama island
Autumn is here and The Westin Grand Bahama Resort at Our Lucaya invites
you to bask in the sun and enjoy our crystal-clear waters. The resort offers
two championship golf courses, a full-service spa, casino, multiple pools,
tennis and a myriad of eateries from which to choose. Now, with rates
as low as $139, you can afford to do as much as you like...or nothing at all.
Book online at www.westin.com/gbi or call 866-716-8108
and mention rate plan SUNNY
Royal Palms Hotel
*The $300 companion airline credit is based on the purchase of a minimum 3 nights' hotel accommodations at participating properties and are based on midweek travel. Select hotels have
added a fifth night free with the purchase of a 4 night package. Rates are per person and based on double occupancy. Packages include 3 nights at participating hotel, roundtrip economy
airfare from Selected Gateway Cities, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers in Bermuda, and a US $300.00 air companion credit per booking per stay when booking a Compliments of Bermuda
vacation package. Single and triple rates, if available, are available on request. Compliments of Bermuda vacation packages must be booked by February 28, 2006, and travel is valid from
November 1, 2005 through April 16, 2006. Actual effective dates may vary by hotel. Rates do not include per person charges of US and international Government taxes, fees and surcharges of up
to $70.20, PFCs of up to $18, or September 11th Security Fee of up to $10. Rates may vary according to date of departure, room type, and availability of airfare. Rates and promotion may change
without notice and are subject to availability. Seasonal surcharges, blackout dates, and other restrictions may apply. Offer cannot be combined with other offers and is for new bookings.
*Offer valid through December 18, 2005. Basic room rates do not include additional per room/per night charges that may be imposed or taxes. Rates are per room,
per night, based on single/double occupancy in a traditional island-view room and based on availability. A limited number of rooms may be available at these rates and
additional restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Offer not applicable to groups. Advance reservations required. Not to be combined with other offers or promotions.
© 2005 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
5
Cruising The Caribbean: Not All Ships Are The Same
W
International’s ships or
on Carnival Cruise
Lines’ enormous fleet of
ships or many of the
other lines that cater to a
wide audience.
They will often be
going to the same ports
of call and their staffs
have been trained to
pamper you to the point
that you will not want to
go home without them.
Royal Caribbean
Cruise Lines and Carnival Cruises, both cater to
a younger guest and
first-time cruisers, but
you will not find the
same amenities and dining on their ships.
Dining on board
some cruise lines has
become legendary. Many
people worry that they
will eat too much. You
probably will. Diet later.
Some ships now have
flexible dining programs
allowing passengers to
eat at different times and
in different restaurants
outside of the regular
and regimented
mass dining that
Cruising the Caribbean will create memories that will last a lifetime.
is normally done
in two seatings
each evening.
We don’t find this
free-style dining to work
well at all. First it
detracts from what we
have found to be one of
the greatest pleasures of
cruising – the dining
experience where your
d e d i c a t e d w a i t s t a ff
serves you each day and
by day two they know all
your preferences and can
pamper you even more
than expected. They get
ant to combine two
g reat experiences?
Want to travel to the
Caribbean and, at the
same time, take a cruise vacation?
Want to sample a number of
islands and not have to pack and
repack your suitcases? Take a
cruise in the Caribbean.
So how do you choose a
cruise from the many options
that exist in the Caribbean market?
This is not a simple decision.
Choosing the right cruise for
you is layered with options
based on ships, itineraries,
amenities, timing and costs.
And, there is a difference in
both the cruise lines and the
individual ships that can impact
your experience and satisfaction
level. Not all cruise lines are
alike and not all ships are the
same.
If you have never sailed
before, you can choose to sail
on almost any line and be pleasantly pleased and satisfied with
a wonderful cruise vacation.
You will be pampered and you
will dine on an assortment of
food that will astound you and
you will enjoy both the onboard experience and the ports
of call.
However, once you sail on
cruise lines such as Celebrity
Cruises, Holland America, Silversea, Princess or Radisson
Seven Seas, for example you
will notice a difference that is
unmistakably better than the
rest.
You will pay slightly more
for this experience and it will be
worth it. You will notice it in the
dining experience and in the onboard activities and amenities.
You may even find that the
cost difference is not that great
when you begin shopping
around.
We find Celebrity Cruises to
be among the best in onboard
services and food. The average
cost of a cabin is often only
about $100 per person more
than the lesser quality lines –
and well worth the small extra
cost.
But don’t be put off if you
can’t afford one of these more
luxurious cruise lines because
you can’t go wrong by sailing
on one of Royal Caribbean
Experience cruising with the finest food, service and amenities possible in Bermuda.
to know you and you get to
know them, creating a warm
and friendly ambiance at dinnertime.
Second, these same wait
staff can often be wonderful
assistants in offering tips for
your in-port experiences
because they stop there week
after week and learn all the ins
and outs of each destination.
In addition, the “free-style
dining” often comes with surcharges in the alternative dining
rooms which is not cost effective since you have already paid
for all your meals in the upfront
cost of the cruise.
Whatever you do, be sure to
take the time to see the ports
that the cruise ships visit, meet
the local residents, and bring
back memories of the
Caribbean. They will last a lifetime and you will find that these
memories will draw you back to
the Caribbean for more extensive visits on land and sea.
Choosing to take a cruise
vacation in the Caribbean can
be a daunting task. We always
suggest using a travel agent to
help you choose the right ship
and get the best deal, which in
the case of cruising is not often
found online. Travel agents are
often informed of special deals
via faxes or e-mails from the
cruise lines, including lastminute availability that may still
exist when you are ready to
book.
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
6
Bailey who,
together with the
resort company,
has created Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons™ at Sandals and Beaches
Resorts.
The program
features four
exciting collections designed
by Bailey which
brides can choose
as an enhancement to the standard WeddingMoon™ package.
Sandals is also
making available
to guests elegant
and personalized
wedding accessories by the noted
Beverly Clark,
original wedding
cakes designed
by the renowned
The Caribbean — the world’s leading honeymoon destination, such as The Cayman Islands, provide the joy that lasts forever.
Sylvia Weinstock,
an exclusive line
of Sandals destination wedding
gowns by Dessy
Creations and special gifts by Wedgwood china and
Waterford crystal.
More than a
decade ago, Sandals developed the
he Caribbean has long religion. Scenes like that can visitors to its shores for weddings take care of all the necessary
concept
of
a
WeddingMoon™,
been synonymous with bring two strangers together. Just and honeymoons for years. Even arrangements including wedding
which
is
the
union
of wedding
romantic settings, such imagine what it can do for lovers. islands like Aruba, in the South- ceremonies and receptions.
and
honeymoon
in
one
Sandals
Today more couples are get- ern Caribbean, are now seeking
as warm sunsets on the
Sandals Resorts
location.
beach where a couple walks ting engaged, married and hon- t o g e t o n t h e d e s t i n a t i o n
Sandals Resorts has assemCurrently, WeddingMoon™
barefoot along the water’s edge, eymooning in the world’s lead- weddings bandwagon and have
bled
the
top
names
in
the
wedguests
receive their wedding cerholding hands as toes sink slow- ing honeymoon destination – relaxed local restrictions to
ding
industry
to
offer
its
guests
emony
compliments of the
accommodate couples from the
ly into the soft sand. They pause the Caribbean.
options
for
their
destination
wedresort.
A
standard WeddingU.S. to get married on their
to watch the elusive green flash
Destination Weddings
ding
at
the
company’s
sixteen
Moon™
includes
a professional
shores.
as the sun dips beneath the
Sandals
and
Beaches
Caribbean
wedding
coordinator
who will
Destinations such as Bermuda,
Over the last few years, destiCaribbean horizon signaling the
resorts.
attend
to
paperwork
and
logisthe Islands of the Bahamas, Puer- nation weddings have been
end of another day.
Sandals
recently
announced
tics,
as
well
as
special
dining
for
There is nothing more roman- to Rico, Jamaica and the U.S. steadily growing in popularity,
its
partnership
with
the
internathe
couple,
personalized
gifts,
tic, no matter what age, race or Virgin Islands have been luring and the Caribbean, due to its
romantic atmosphere and consis- tionally celebrated event design- and of course a romantic cereBermuda ... a great place to take “the plunge.”
tently warm weather, sees a larger er and wedding planner Preston mony setting.
share of U.S. marriages than any
other region.
It is now legal to marry in virtually every Caribbean nation.
Some couples choose to wed in
smaller, less traveled destinations
such a Turks and Caicos, Guadeloupe or St. Vincent & the
Grenadines for a more secluded
romantic atmosphere.
Romance In The
Caribbean
T
Wedding Planning
Services
An added benefit of getting
married in the Caribbean – and
possibly the deciding factor for
many couples – is the ease in
planning a Caribbean wedding.
All the headaches and hassles
involved in planning a traditional
wedding are avoided, as many
resorts offer wedding planning
services and take care of everything from the flowers to the
minister.
All Caribbean destinations
have hotels and companies that
TRAVEL TO THE CARIBBEAN
flight + hotel 4 nights
Start your honeymoon with a romantic sunset sail or
a secluded dinner for two at Bolongo Bay Beach Club.
Book flights, hotels, rental cars and activities.
One place. One price.
W
hile the Caribbean
offers a broad
range of vacations
from active adventure travel to diving to sports
and fishing, honeymoons are
strictly about relaxation and
pampering and that is what
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* Additional rates apply based on destinations and departure city . Above prices are based on 4 night stays, when traveling from New York to San Juan for travel until
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displaying alternative offers, visit hiltonescapes.com for updates. The Hilton name and logo are trademarks owned by Hilton © 2 005 Hilton Hospitality Inc.
Hassel Free Weddings
Many resorts in Aruba work
with companies such as Aruba
Weddings For You, which customizes wedding packages for
each couple to create the bride
and groom’s dream wedding.
Aruba Weddings For You will
take care of every last detail for
you – from document handling
to champagne – doing everything to your exact specification.
Many couples marrying in
Aruba choose to wed on the
beach, though guests at La
Cabana All Suite Beach Resort
& Casino can take advantage of
staying at the only resort on the
island with a wedding chapel onproperty. Another option is Ventanas del Mar, Tierra del Sol’s
elegant open-air restaurant overlooking the California Lighthouse – arguably one of the
finest views in Aruba.
Legal Requirements
Depending on the country
one chooses, wedding requirements may differ. The Caribbean
Tourism Organization provides a
chart listing the varying legal
requirements for getting married
in each of the beautiful nations in
the Caribbean region. Couples
interested in marrying in the
Caribbean are urged to contact
each country individually for
complete details or visit
www.DoItCaribbean.com.
And Then There’s
The Honeymoon
$551*
RATES FROM...
Sandals Resorts is the largest
operator of luxury, ultra-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean with
a total of 12 couples-only properties, including seven in Jamaica,
three in St. Lucia, one in Antigua
and one in Nassau, Bahamas.
Recently unveiled is the
newly refurbished Sandals
Grande Ocho Rios Beach &
Villa Resort and the brand new
Sandals Whitehouse European
Village & Spa.
For reservations, call 1-888SANDALS (1-888-726-3257) or
visit www.sandals.com.
-65 rooms right on the beach
-2 seaside restaurants & bars
-Great food ~ premium drinks
-Complimentary water sports
-Friendliest staff on island
Reservations 800-524-4746
Web: www.bolongobay.com
St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
the Caribbean does best!
Many resorts in the
Caribbean offer special honeymoon packages that provide
newlyweds ample time to spend
indulging in each other’s love.
Some even provide added-value
excursions such as a sunset
Catamaran sail or a secluded
dinner for two.
Bolongo Bay Beach Club in
St. Thomas, a popular haven for
newlyweds, offers a Deluxe Paradise Honeymoon Package fea-
"Best Value onAnguilla"
PALM SHORESVILLA
www.AnguillaVilla.com
turing a welcome bottle of
champagne with two keepsake
champagne glasses; all meals
(seven days a week of a la carte
dining for breakfast, lunch and
dinner at two of the most popular restaurants on St. Thomas);
unlimited beverages including
all premium brands; an all-day
sail and beach outing to Honeymoon Beach on St. John aboard
the resort’s 53-foot catamaran
— “Heavenly Days” — with
lunch and open bar; a romantic
sunset cocktail cruise around
Charlotte Amalie Harbor; his &
hers half-hour massages (one per
person); $50 credit at Bolongo’s
gift shop; and gratuities. Cost for
an eight-day/seven night stay is
$2,975 per couple, now through
Dec. 22, 2005 and $3,928 per
couple, from Dec. 23, 2005 –
April 16, 2006. Call 1-800-5244746 or via e-mail: info@bolongobay.com. The name of the promotion must be mentioned at
the time of booking and can’t
be combined with other promotions.
WINTER ESCAPES
Publisher: Jim Furey
Associate Publisher: Barbara Furey
Editor: Kahn Travel Communications
Design: B+W Creative Group, NYC
Advertising: Furey and Associates
Production Coordinator: Lillian Litterio
Group Sales Director: Joe D’Alto
For more information contact:
Furey and Associates at
Tel: 212-355-7034
Fax: 212-980-9244
E-mail: FureyAssoc@cs.com
111805
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY
7
Caribbean Cuisine
Highlighted By Innovative
Chefs, Cultural Fusion
W
tronomic adventure lasting all evening.
hen “Italian” is proposed as a as it is a method of providing nourishment.
Hotels in Martinique and better-known
choice of meal, the most comMangez-Français?
nightspots have menus in English, but many
mon image conjured up is that
of pasta with a red tomatoOne of the best examples of culinary other places do not, so it is wise to bring
based sauce, yet most people are unaware excellence is the French island of Mar- along a French pocket dictionary.
that the tomato was not introduced to Italy tinique where cooking is an art practiced by
Creole Creativity
until the mid-16th century.
wizardly chefs who can take something very
Many restaurants throughout the
As a result of cultural interaction, Italians ordinary and bring forth a soufflé that is
Caribbean combine
used their own cooking and
French cuisine with Crepreparation styles to create a
ole, a wondrous mix of
refreshingly new cuisine using
African, Indian, Eurothe South American vegetable –
pean and Caribbean flaone that has endured the test of
vors. To classic French
time and has become synonydishes, for example, one
mous with Italian cooking.
might add such exotic
There are many examples of
local fruits and vegetasuch phenomenon, but none
bles as guava, soursop,
can be compared to the cuisine
cassava, christophine,
created by the fusion of cultures
breadfruit, okra and
and ingredients in the
plaintain.
Caribbean.
Papiamento
Due to its rich history, the
Paradise
Caribbean is home to people
and cultures from all around the
The Dutch islands of
world. While most countries
Aruba, Bonaire and
have been heavily influenced
Curacao – commonly
by English, French, Spanish or
known as the ABC
Dutch culture, there are also
islands, are reputed to
large Indian and Asian populahave an especially strong
tions in certain Caribbean counculinary offering. Aruba
tries making the region even
in particular offers the
more of a melting pot than the
unique Papiamento cookUnited States – and let’s not
ing style in addition to
forget the indigenous people
the fusion of styles typinative to the Caribbean!
cal to the Caribbean.
The mixing of cultures can
Sample the culinary excellence that Sandals has to offer.
The cuisine level of
be seen and heard in all aspects
excellence at Aruba’s
of Caribbean art – from music and story- positively spellbinding.
Hyatt Regency has just been raised a few
telling to fashion and architecture – but
Magic aside, Martinique also happens notches with the arrival of new executive
there is no greater example of cultural to be French, and the nation displays its chef Miguel Garcia. The Hyatt Regency is
hodgepodge than the delectable culinary French heritage very noticeably through best known for its Sunday brunch, which
offerings of the Caribbean.
its love affair with the culinary arts. Many Garcia describes as “a slow and decadent
While spices and seasoning are an shops close from noon to 2:30 for the affair which combines opulence with eleimportant part of food preparation, food in sacrosanct tradition of a copious and gance.”
the Caribbean is as much an art form leisurely lunch, and dinner is often a gasAlso new to Aruba is Senor Sanchos, a
Spanish Flare
While Puerto Rican
cooking shares many
qualities with Spanish
and Mexican cuisine, it
has its own Caribbean
flare and contains hints
of African influence as
well as Taíno, Puerto
Rico’s indigenous culture.
Asopao, a traditional
Puerto Rican dish, is
a gumbo made from
either chicken or
seafood. Soups and
stews are also very popular in Puerto Rico.
Chayote and Dragonfly,
both in San Juan, come
Enjoy the mouth-watering cuisine.
highly recommended.
fusion restaurant with both
Moving over to neighboring
French and Mexican influences Dominican Republic, visitors
which opened last year on Palm will find another opportunity to
Beach Road. Of course fusion test Spanish flavors in restauin Aruba can include just about rants and hotels across a
anything as the island enjoys diverse countryside.
even more cultural diversity
And thanks to very favorthen the average Caribbean able exchange rates between
nation.
the U.S. dollar and the DominiJamasian Fusion
can peso, a gourmet meal
Another culinary hot spot is which would cost about $100
Jamaica. Famous for its jerk for two in any major U.S. city,
chicken, Jamaica continues to will cost half that in one of the
be at the forefront of culinary f i n e r e s t a u r a n t s i n S a n t o
trends in the Caribbean. One Domingo.
newly-innovated style, popuThe Spice Island
larly coined, “Jamasian,” is a
fusion of Jamaican and other
Another great place to visit
West Indian ingredients cooked for mouth-watering cuisine is
with Asian techniques and fla- Grenada. Known as the Spice
vors.
Island, Grenada has long been a
Most of the resorts in major source of nutmeg,
Jamaica feature on-property cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and
restaurants run by accom- cocoa, as well as a host of local
plished world-class chefs that spices that are hard to find elseserve everything from Jamasian where on the planet.
fusion to International fare. For
While Grenada had suffered
local cuisine, try Sweet Spice serious damage from a hurriin downtown Negril.
cane in 2004, the upside is that
For a great view along with many restaurants and hotels
dinner, be sure to check out that would not have been renoRockhouse Restaurant at Rock- vated for years to come, have
house Hotel, also in Negril. The been rebuilt, such as the gourmoniker Rockhouse, coinci- met La Belle Creole at Blue
dentally, is a fitting name as the Horizons Garden Resort. The
property is built on the side of a result is a refreshingly new
cliff overlooking the sea.
Grenada.
&
Save 25% SALE!
Nassau Beach Hotel ..................$195
Charming oceanfront hotel situated directly on
a gorgeous 3,000-square-foot white sandy beach.
Wyndham Nassau Resort ...........$309
The Wyndham Nassau Resort is located on
world-renowned Cable Beach and offers
850 guestrooms and suites featuring private
balconies and deluxe amenities.
Radisson Cable Beach & Resort ....$499
Beachfront resort with 3 free-form pools and 18-hole
golf course. All meals, snacks and drinks included.
ALL PACKAGE PRICES ARE
PER PERSON AND INCLUDE*:
3-nights hotel accommodations
Roundtrip airport/hotel transfers
Hotel tax & service
BAHAMAS
American Express Vacations Exclusive
Earn double Membership Rewards® points
on American Express Vacations bookings
when you use your eligible, enrolled
American Express® Card. †
For reservations or assistance in planning your
American Express Vacations package, contact:
American Express Travel at
888-AXP-0075
or visit
www.americanexpressvacations.com
American Express Vacations tours operated by Travel Impressions, a subsidiary of American Express. *Rate is land
only, per person, based on double occupancy in an Oceanview room at Nassau Beach Hotel, an Islandview room at the
Wyndham and a Superior Oceanview room at the Radisson and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel
accommodations and hotel tax. Blackout, weekend, holiday peak season surcharges apply. Rates valid for booking
10/30/05 - 11/28/05 for travel 12/01/05 - 2/15/06. Advertised rates based on January travel; other travel periods may
be slightly higher. Rates and promotions are accurate at time of printing and are subject to changes, exceptions,
cancellation charges and restrictions. All advertised savings are reflected in price. $25 late fee applies to all bookings
made for travel within 14 days of departure date. †To be eligible to earn points, make your booking through an
American Express Travel Services location, be enrolled in the Membership Rewards® program (“Program”) at the time
of booking and you must charge your entire American Express Vacations package on an eligible, enrolled American
Express® Card. Offer valid on new minimum 3-night bookings purchased between 10/30/05 and 11/28/05 with
completion of travel by 2/15/06. Double Membership Rewards® points are awarded on vacation package spend only.
Other purchases and arrangements made during your vacation stay, and any charges not included in the vacation
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products. For more information on the Membership Rewards® program, visit www.americanexpress.com/rewards or
call 1-800-AXP-EARN. Bonus ID-3738. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the printing of this ad. Additional
higher priced packages available. American Express acts solely as the sales agent for travel suppliers and is not liable
for the actions or inactions of such suppliers. CST# 1022318-10, Washington UBI#600 469 694, ML#1192, TA 002
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exits.
entrées
Close to home. Far from expected.
Call your travel professional or visit www.caymanislands.ky.
8
Advertising Supplement to USA TODAY