EZTravelpad

One for the Ladies - Sexy Polynesian Men in Tahiti

A Couple of Gifts for the Ladies- Polynesian Men Dancing in Tahiti and More

 

Recently I was fortunate to be able to travel to French Polynesia (Tahiti) to take part in a travel agent conference and tour of French Polynesia. We visited Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Raiatea & Huahine, and took in 3 Polynesian shows in all.

I can tell you that there are some very sexy Tahitian men running around! how do i know this? The ladies on the trip made it PERFECTLY clear that these men were Hot! Guys like this....

 

well, he's ok I guess....if you like your men fit and tan.

 

Here's a little clip from one of the Polynesian shows - one that I'm sure the ladies will love!

   

So short and sweet, that's just a little taste of what is in store for you if you make your way to Tahiti, which is just one of the Society Islands- The Society islands are one of 5 island chains that make up French Polynesia- known the world over for their incredible natural beauty and unbelievably friendly people.

Much more later on Tahiti, The Society island & French Polynesia- from EZTravelpad "Your firiends....in the travel business"

What Travel and Tourism Will Be Like in 2050

What WILL Travel and Tourism Be in 2050?

I just read an interesting article by Bruce Hodge of Goway Travel about some predictions for what travel and tourism will be like 40 years from now- quite different, no doubt. Think back 40 years ago- no Disney World....Cruise ships were rare, and strictly for the well-heeled - as was going on Safari. Flying overseas was also for the wealthy. All-inclusive resorts were very, very rare. Touring meant spending endless hours on buses with rigid schedules and limited photo opps. Sailing to Antarctica was strictly for the most adventurous scientist - now it is widely available for the leisure traveler!

So what predictions were made? here are a few beauties which may, or may not become a reality

• High-Tech Ceramic Fuselage on planes could make plane transparent for better passenger viewing
• Space Tourism offering both orbital and sub-orbital flights
• High Speed Rail (I think this guy isn't from the U.S.) becomes mainstream
• Airship Hotels will become the new cruise ship offering flights low and slow with breathtaking views
• Space Hotels (ok, thinking probably not the Super 8 chain)
• Beaches and Resorts you know today may need to relocate to higher ground due to rising sea levels
• China will be #1 destination & there will be more Chinese tourists worldwide than any other nationality
• Book Years in Advance for Top Tourism Sites and Monuments (due to increased population growth - very likely)
• Wilderness and Wildlife areas of today largely gone - several huge managed areas available to get back to nature
• Small Ship and Boutique Cruises to Exotic locations much more common
• Virtual Tourism has arrived and you can simulate most any experience

Do I believe that all of these predictions will materialize? Probably not, but many most likely will due to factors such as global climate change and global population growth. Many are inevitable, and as the global economy expands, once poor and remote countries will no longer remain so. Spreading Democracy will mean fewer wars and fewer countries that are inaccessible. Could you have imagined vacationing in Russia or China or Vietnam in 1970? Oh, you will be vacationing in Cuba and Iraq in 2050 - most likely LONG before that!

What does this mean to you? Hang on for the ride! If you want to see The Great Migration in East Africa

 

or experience certain glaciers you better plan to go soon because 40 years from now they may be a fading memory...

Oh, and the last prediction was for travel agents. They WILL still be around, but may be referred to as "Lifestyle Managers" - I like that.... see you in 2050, when EZTravelpad will still be "Your friends....in the travel business"

Checking in from Paradise aka French Polynesia- specifically.... Tahiti

Visiting French Polynesia to help YOU on your next trip

In looking back I have been really quiet recently and have not posted much. There's good reason though- I was getting ready to go - then in - then recovering from (translation- catching up on work) a recent trip to French Polynesia (Tahiti).

 

 

I went to French Polynesia as part of a travel agent study group- experts on the destination met to learn more. Certainly there were agents more experienced than I (having never been to Tahiti before), but it doesn't take long to get a feel for a destination, and 9 days on the ground makes a HUGE difference- particularly since we crammed about 3 weeks worth of work into 9 days- the pace was fast!

What did I learn? I learned why French Polynesia is the most romantic destination on the planet. I learned what makes each island unique. I learned the subtle differences between islands, and between various resorts on the same island - and I learned that this is NOT an inexpensive destination - but, as in most things in this life- you get what you pay for.

Check out the video attached and stay tuned to EZTravelpad over the course of the next several weeks for more videos, tons of photos, reviews, suggestions & ideas to help make your dream trip to the South Pacific the best trip ever.

Space Tourism- The Final Frontier.....is HERE

Space Tourism is Here, and "Affordable" with Rocketship Tours

A decade ago I never would have considered that I would be writing a blog post that would feed my Facebook page and also my Twitter stream, and I certainly never thought that the post would be about the affordability of space travel. Seriously.

Yet, here I am- at 5:30AM no less, writing about the affordability of space travel, writing about the possibility of YOU taking a rocket ride into space - NOW. Check it out here

Admittedly, it's not a budget trip. $95,000 is a healthy sum for an hour's trip up- but when you put it into context, if you are a successful physician or Wall Street broker or small business person with a half dozen McDonalds restaurants then that amount is about equivalent to a few days at Disney for a typical factory worker (as a percentage of income) - so yes, Space Travel is HERE.

So who do you call? Why, you call your space travel agent of course....

Ferrari Factory Tour & Driving a Ferrari on vacation- Y not?

Ferrari Driving Experience in San Marino

What European vacation would be complete without touring the Ferrari museum in San Marino or a factory and having a room overlooking the Ferrari factory in Maranello?

A room overlooking the Ferrari Factory....ok, thinking that the wife might have a problem with that part of it :)

 

Highlights of the Ferrari Vacation:
Test drive a Ferrari with the exclusive "Prova Ferrari" A guided visit to the Ferrari Gallery in the Maranello Ferrari Factory A guided visit to the Maranello Rosso Museum in San Marino featuring 25 of the most renowned Ferrari models followed by champagne refreshments One week car rental with unlimited mileage and all insurance and taxes	3 nights at the Grand Hotel di San Marino in a luxurious deluxe room 2 nights at the Planet Hotel in Maranello in a Junior Suite overlooking the Fiorano Race Track or Ferrari Factory One welcome dinner at the Grand Hotel Daily buffet breakfast and complimentary access to the Grand Hotel's wellness center 20% discount at Messegue Beauty Spa and on any a-la-carte menu at the Grand Hotel

 

Here's another experience that is available- and this would be Sooooo cool- driving a Ferrari around Monaco - on the F-1 circuit through the streets of Monte Carlo - HOW COOL is THAT? We can actually set that up while you are in port on your Mediterranean cruise this summer....

These are some of the experiences that your travel agent can help you put together.

OR

You can do it yourself - for the same money - and stay on hold internationally - and get cut off while holding - and misunderstand the res agent - and be on your own in case anything goes wrong.....

Ultimately- the choice is yours. Might want to check out EZTravelpad when you start making your plans to enjoy what this Big Old Word has to offer.....

 

Honeymoon and Destination Wedding Options

Specializing in Honeymoons and Destination Wedding Travel Arrangements

Just because I am a travel agent (or a travel adviser/consultant as I see it) does not mean that I know everything there is to know about every destination that people consider for their Honeymoon. The world is just too big - there are too many options and possibilities. That's why it is so important to choose a travel consultant who has a vast network of contacts that can help.

At EZTravelpad we network widely with the vast community of travel agents worldwide. One way is by constantly reading other agents' blogs - below you will see some ideas of Honeymoon options, and a link to a blog by another agent that specializes in that field - or niche. Obviously this is only a few of the most popular -

Making Memories to Last a Lifetime

When thinking about your Honeymoon, you may be thinking that you want to go somewhere to celebrate, yet save some money for new things to start your marriage. Sometimes it's not about what you have, but about the memories that you make, and a Honeymoon is all about creating memories that will last a lifetime- so don't cut yourself short. Do something fantastic with the budget you have available.

There are so many options-

Carolina Beaches

Perhaps you would prefer somewhere in the continental U.S. - like maybe Myrtle Beach for your Honeymoon might be a good choice. The Grand Strand is affordable, offers great beaches, plenty of entertainment options, shows, so much to enjoy. If you want to be in the heart of the action - or away from it all, there are choices accommodating everyone.

Disney

More people than you might think choose Disney for their Honeymoon. It really surprises me, yet at the same time it doesn't. A Honeymoon is all about selecting a quality product in a destination that is comfortable and interesting - plus entertaining, and these days a Disney vacation doesn't have to mean going to Florida or California, there are parks across the globe and also Disney Adventures can literally take you to Grand Canyon, Alaska, Egypt, Europe, Africa - it's amazing!

Mexico

Some people think that Mexico is unsafe, but so often the news reports we see and read more here are describing violence between rival gangs - violence that is occurring in ganglands and near the U.S. border - far away from the pristine beaches of the tourist areas of Riviera Maya or Los Cabos. For the couple that wants to Honeymoon in a tropical destination that offers affordable luxury Mexico may very well be the answer!

St Lucia

St Lucia offers perhaps the best and most romantic view in the world according to Oprah Winfrey. Now I may not be the world's biggest Oprah fan, but I know enough to know that if she says that something is the best, there's a pretty good chance that it is. For many couples a St Lucia Honeymoon or Destination wedding is the ultimate - and with good reason!

Adventure

Maybe you are thinking about a true adventure to somewhere that most people only ever dream about - say maybe an adventure like an African Safari? There once was a time when this type of adventure was ONLY for the wealthy, but not anymore. African travel is going mainstream and there are more options that are more affordable than ever. Your biggest investment will be the time, but isn't that what a Honeymoon is all about - spending quality TIME together sharing an experience that neither of you will ever forget?

The Final Frontier

We are probably still several years away from the average couple being able to Honeymoon by traveling to a space station but there are still many adventures that await here on this planet and EZTravelpad is here to help you discover the best Honeymoon for you and your fiance - a Honeymoon that will include memories to last a lifetime!

Adventures by Disney- Outside the Theme Parks and into National Parks & More

Adventures by Disney Offers Highest Quality Tours

• Not interested in a "tour", but want to take the kids to see the Western US?
• Thought of taking the family on a European vacation but afraid the kids would be bored?
• Interested in the highest quality family trip available right now?

Think Adventures by Disney - here, take a peek...

 

 

 

Adventures by Disney marries the Disney level of exceptional quality with destination tours across the globe - a great Marriage!

Adventures await from close to home-

• Washington, DC
• Grand Canyon
• Yellowstone
• Alaska

to far, far away places such as-

• Italy
• Ireland
• China
• Costa Rica
• South Africa
• Egypt
• Galapagos Islands

A sample itinerary to the Western US looks like this (just the highlights- the whole itinerary looks really amazing!)

Trip Highlights

• Monument Valley Off-Road Excursion

  Climb aboard a 4x4 jeep for your very own Navajo-guided, off-road excursion to the beautiful buttes and magical mesas of Monument Valley. See the secret corners of the Valley and marvel at the geological wonders!

• Grand Canyon Hike

  Discover one of the seven wonders of the natural world as a naturalist guide takes you off the beaten path for a stunning Grand Canyon hike and drive along the South Rim.

• Colorado River Rafting

  Soak up the sights of the spectacular landscape on an exciting yet leisurely Colorado River rafting (Class I-II) adventure for the whole family.

• Cowboy Cookout and Entertainment

  Kick up your heels at a fun-filled cookout on the banks of the Colorado River! Meet a real cowboy and chow down on some down-home cookin'!

• Arches National Park

  Step into a surreal landscape dotted with sky-scraping sandstone land arches and hike to its crown jewel, the Delicate Arch. Learn the living geological history of a million years and marvel at mother nature's wild side.

 

Interested in what you can do? Where you can go? How many memories you can make?

EZTravelpad is a great place to start- you are guaranteed the best pricing and help all along the way! After all, you can trust "Your friends....in the travel business"

Sandals Resort in Negril Jamiaca receives PADI Award

SANDALS NEGRIL GARNERS 2010 PADI AMERICAS MEMBER AWARD

Editor's sidenote*** Everybody has a bucket list, as do I. At the top of that list is becoing certified to scuba dive. I have put it off far too long - 2011 has to be the year for me to go explore an entirly new world - the one below the surface!

Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa was announced as a Regional Winner of the 2010 PADI Americas Member Awards and received the “Divers Acquisition Award” for its continued contributions to the diving community. The award recognizes resorts that have been instrumental in advancing PADI entry level certifications, follow PADI’s philosophy and high standards, and create innovative ideas in attracting new divers.

So if you have experienced scuba diving, but have not experienced the Sandals and Beaches Resorts level of quality- you owe it to yourself to try it. Like so many things in life, once you go, you'll want to go back. Plus, diving at Sandals and Beaches resorts is included!! And divers know how much value that really is - 2 tank dives for 5 day - it adds up!

If you are not sure of the best way to book you Sandlas vacation then you need to talk to "Your friends....in the travel businss" EZTravelpad Save vs. doing it yourself online or even going direct!

Ocho Rios, Jamaica during a Carnival cruise - climbing Dunn's River Falls & more

Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica is Top Tourist Destination

Chances are, if you have done anything in Ocho Rios Jamaica then you have climbed Dunn's River Falls. That is, at least you tried....

 

Dunn's River Falls is not for wimps. The beautiful scenery masks the difficulty of the climb. It's not like you need any special skills, but I would suggest getting up early and getting a light workout with a really good stretch before you go - getting limber will make the climb so much easier...

There is a short walk from the entrance down to the beach - take your time, it's a beautiful walk!

FYI- the cost to enter the park is $15 per person. Bring your own water shoes or be prepared to pay another $7 pp to rent water shoes (you'll want them unless your feet are made of leather!)

Starting out where the river meets the sea you embark on a 600+ foot climb up the falls by forming a human chain, hand in hand everyone helping everyone...

Your guide will help you navigate the best way up, but be prepared to step into a little drop-off, or stumble on a big rock hidden below the frothing current

 

 
The views are spectacular as you slowly wind your way up the falls, and the guides wil make it more fun than you imagined by engaging everyone in chants and songs. Sure, you can go it alone, but why would you when you're bound to have more fun in a group!

 

 

Now, no trip to anywhere in Jamaica is complete without spending a little time with people trying to sell you something- and Dunn's River Falls is no exception.

I did not find the vendors to be overly aggressive, but they are certainly much more aggressive than a cosmetics counter at Nordstroms...... if you are offended by someone trying to sell you something just politely say no and move along swiftly - OR - enjoy the culture, interact, and buy a couple of things, or get your hair braided - Why not? The people are lovely - and friendly - and just trying to help you remember your trip to Jamaica..... and make a living

 

 

So there are 10 tips that you need to know before you go-

1. Be perpared for a $20 taxi or set your tour ahead of time (preferred)
2. Be prepared for $15 entrance fee
3. Be prepared to buy some souvenirs
4. Be prepared for $7 water shoe rental
5. Be prepared to tip your guide a few dollars
6. Be prepared to buy the video when you're done with the climb (approx $40)
7. DO NOT attempt to carry anything with you - get a locker to put your belongings in
8. If you take a camera, make sure it's a water camera
9. Be prepared to get wet - VERY wet - wear a swimming suit and nothing else
10. Be prepared to....Have fun!

You can set your Dunn's River Falls tour up ahead of time by booking on the cruise ship- or if you want to save a few dollars get with EZTravelpad for a Dunn's River Falls Combo (some time at the beach, rafting, touring Ocho Rios highlights and more...) You'll be in good hands when you book with "Your friends....in the travel business"

In any case, be prepared to have a great time and make a memory that will last a lifetime!

Grand Cayman and Stingray City - a MUST see at some point

A stop at Stingray City in Grand Cayman is a stop you will NEVER forget

Vacations are all about making memories, and a memory that is sure to last a lifetime is a stop at Stingray City in Grand Cayman. My memory might not be the best, but I am pretty confident that I will never forget swimming with Stingrays, feeding Stingrays, Kissing a Stingray, and having Stingrays rub up against me like a kitty cat does when she wants fed - pretty amazing!

There are many vendors, but the original - Captain Marvin's is certainly one of, if not the best trip you will take to Stingray City. There is so much to be said for going with a small group. While we were there I noticed that while our boat carried 12 passengers, most others carried 30-50, a pretty big difference!

What does that mean for you? More chances to feed the stingrays, more chances to have interaction with the stingrays, and more personal attention from the crew.

Stingray City might have been the most memorable stop, but it wasn;t the only one - there are also chances to snorkel reefs while you are out.

Cayman Turtle Farm and Hell

Feeding and interacting with the stingrays is a stop you will not soon forget, but neither is a stop at the Cayman Turtle Farm - a large facility dedicated to raising endangered Sea Turtles

Learn about different varieties of Sea Turtles, learn about the lives of Sea Turtles, and interact with them at various stages of their lives-

When is the last time you had the opportunity to hold a baby Sea Turtle, not yet 3 weeks old?

Of course, no trip to Grand Cayman is complete with a trip to Hell

A trip to Hell is a popular stop while in Grand Cayman- famous for their postcards, and for their unique rock formation just behind the Hell post office

So how can you go to Hell while you are in Grand Cayman? It's easy- get with EZTravelpad.

OK, that didn't really sound right - what I mean is that you can book your excursions while you are on board, and a trip to Hell, Cayman Turtle Farm & Stingray City are things that you can arrange, but why not get with EZTravelpad BEFORE you embark on your cruise - plan ahead so that while you are on-board you can enjoy every minute knowing that your vacation is already arranged, plus you will likely save a few dollars vs. booking on the cruise ship!

Other Things to do in Grand Cayman

Of course, you can enjoy yourself on Grand Cayman without going to one of the aforementioned attractions (although I HIGHLY recommend Stingray City) - for many a trip to an island would not be complete without a trip to Margaritaville, and Grand Cayman is no exception.

No self-respecting Parrothead would pass up a chance to hang at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, even if just for an hour or so....

waterslide into the pool after a few margaritas!

Or just shop, eat, or take a taxi to hang out at the world famous 7 Mile Beach - beautiful!

Lastly, you can dive. Grand Cayman is one of the best spots for scuba diving in the Caribbean. Basically Grand Cayman is a flat topped mountain poking just several feet above the Caribbean - just a short trip into the surf takes you to "The Wall" - a straight drop of a couple thousand feet, so the diving is both varied and amazing!

So one more time, you can do it yourself, or you can enlist the help (FREE help) of a travel professional at EZTravelpad - there is a reason that we are "Your friends....in the travel business"