A trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands is the closest thing to a Caribbean sampler that we've come across, as it provides several different island experiences in one territory. For bustling beaches, nightlife and great shopping, look to St. Thomas. Its heavy development, North American atmosphere and throngs of cruise-ship visitors make it the least distinctive of the islands but also the most visited. This is high-volume tourism—among the highest in the Caribbean. If you want unspoiled scenery and quiet surroundings, hop the ferry to St. John. About half of the island is a national park, so it feels like St. Thomas' alter ego. The coral reefs, hiking trails and small resorts on St. John have been a model for other ecotourism efforts in the Caribbean. Somewhere between the extremes of St. Thomas and St. John is St. Croix, which is perhaps the most typical of other Caribbean islands. It balances a fair amount of shopping and attractions with a relaxed atmosphere and historic architecture. Water Island is the youngest and smallest of the Virgin Islands, and it gets little publicity. It's quiet and sparsely populated. Although it's possible to spend all your time on one island, we suggest you take advantage of the variety. Good ferry and plane connections make it relatively easy to hop between the islands and discover which experiences most appeal to you. The U.S. Virgin Islands sustained severe damage during Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. The extent of damage and speed of recovery varies somewhat between islands. Investigate current conditions prior to planning a visit.
Historic Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas fared relatively well and was one of the first areas to be fully restored. Other parts of the island are at varying stages of recovery, although all beaches and many tourist attractions are fully open and welcoming visitors. All of St. John was hit harder than the rest of the USVI, while one of the most challenging topographies hinders rebuilding. However, as more than half the island is undeveloped national park, nature is well on its way to being as beautiful as ever. Meanwhile, St. Croix is showing great resiliency. Most beaches, attractions, restaurants and resorts are open, many emerging from renovation projects even better than before. Do you prefer the hub bub of tourism and the busy-ness of all the sites to see and things to do or do you prefer a quiet place on a little cutout that is your very own? You can find either but you must know WHICH place is better for your liking and needs. If you're planning a jouney to the USVI or BVI, Debbie can help you get the experience you long for. She knows many of the details that will give you the edge for your own visit. Click to book your FREE Consultation and bring your dream to reality now.
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Cannibalistic tribes, pirates, fierce wars, slavery, long periods of prosperity, and lean times after sugar's demise all make up the tale of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Taino Indians originally inhabited St. Thomas and St. John, but the Igneri, Tainos and Caribs occupied St. Croix at different times in that island's history. The islands became the home of settlers from nearly every country in Western Europe, as well as slaves brought from Africa. Columbus was the first European to arrive, in 1493. He sent his men ashore on St. Croix and claimed the islands for Spain. Because of the strategic location of the islands on the eastern rim of the Caribbean, they were popular hideouts for pirates in the late 1500s. (Sir Francis Drake perched on a high hilltop on St. Thomas at what is now called Drake's Seat and peered through his spyglass at the Spanish Armada.) Permanent European settlements didn't grow until the early 1600s, when the Danes began to arrive on St. Thomas and St. John. On St. Croix, settlers flew seven different flags, including that of the Knights of Malta, until Denmark finally prevailed. In 1917, the U.S., fearful of German expansion and eager for a naval base to help protect the Panama Canal, bought the islands from Denmark for US$25 million. The territory experienced economic hardship until the early 1960s, when tourism became lucrative. Today, the islands are the easternmost possession of the U.S. in the Western Hemisphere. Facts andStats
December has been dedicated to talking about Mexico City and including some great destinations and things to do while traveling there. Here's a beautiful recap video of the pictures we shared and a reminder of the reasons you may choose to visit Mexico City when you contact Palmer Preferred Travel to plan your next vacation. Spring break is coming soon. If you haven't already booked now is definitely the time to do it--the longer you wait, the price will increase and your options become more limited. Contact us today by email or phone! Images in this video are:
Mariachi / Churros / Day of the Dead / Angel of Independence / Mole / Aztec Dancers / Frida Khalo / Pyramids / Palace of Belles Artes / Temple / Tequila / Parks and Gardens / Eating Cactus / Cosmopolitan City One of the major portions of vacation planning and budget dedication is for food.
Vacation or not, you are going to need three meals a day and it is something that needs to be partially planned out. There will be times when you can eat on the go or hit up the hotel breakfast, but there are other times when you want to enjoy a special meal. Here are 4 qualities to look for when you want to have a special meal in Mexico City.
Don't Wait! Contact us today at Palmer Preferred Travel to start planning your next dream vacation. We have so many ideas to help you! Festivals are a great way to spend your summer. They are a way to get outside and they will have something to offer everyone in the family. They are full of fun, great food, and music. Many don’t realize that festivals are a great way to spend your international vacation as well. In planning your Mexico City vacation, here are 5 great festivals that can really enhance your experience.
Don't Wait! Contact us today at Palmer Preferred Travel to start planning your next dream vacation. We can't wait to help you! A visit to Costa Rica would simply be incomplete without taking the time to appreciate its thriving and unique cultural scene. Artists have long been inspired by Costa Rica’s beauty and vibrant culture, using its natural resources for inspiration and, occasionally, instrument. If you like both art and adventure, check out the list below. Some places are off the beaten path and some are right in the heart of the city, but all of them are unforgettable.
The Museum of Stone Spheres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Diquís Delta, is home to more than 300 stone sculptures. Colloquially known as “Las Bolas”, these spheres – much like Stonehenge – are of nebulous origin and purpose, though archaeologists have dated them back to about the year 600. Their mysterious nature and historical significance have even inspired modern art.
The town of Sarchí is world-renowned for its woodwork, leather shops, and ceramics. Located at the base of the Central Valley Mountain Range, Sarchí is also famous for its oxcarts – brightly-painted, beautifully decorated symbols of Costa Rican tradition. The oxcarts line the shop-lined streets, where you can purchase and admire any manner of artisanal crafts and furniture.
This downtown San José gallery specializes in fair trade and indigenous art of Central America. It features hundreds of unique and exceptional pieces, from tribal masks to pottery. Namu prides itself on its mission statement – “to respect and celebrate the permanence and legacy of the first people” of Central America – and its commitment to paying artists quickly and fairly. They also have an online shop with both original and replicate items.
The Monte Azul Boutique Hotel preserve sits at the base of Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest mountain, and is surrounded by 125 acres of lush rainforest. Its living spaces are expertly and beautifully curated by the hotel’s artist-in-residence. Between the stunning natural environment and the luxurious and expansive accommodations, Monte Azul is truly an inspired experience.
An old airport in San José’s La Sabana Park is now the Costa Rican Art Museum, which features sculptures, paintings, photographs, and more. The museum hosts the works of Costa Rica’s most famous artist, Francisco Amighetti, a surrealist who specialized in showing the daily life of Costa Ricans. Be sure you plan before you go: the museum offers complimentary admission on Sundays and is closed on Mondays.
Monteverde to Playa Grande Although the journey from Monteverde to Playa Grande is bumpy and steep, with roads being riddled with potholes, gorgeous beaches and visits from the majestic sea turtles are a nice treat to many. Playa Grande is home of the Leatherback Sea Turtles. They lay eggs and build nests between October and March and between April and September, the eggs hatch and thousands of baby turtles hobble their way into the ocean. To witness this beautiful scene and get up close and personal with these sea creatures, arrange a tour at Las Balulas National Park. Stay at the charming Hotel Las Tortugas where you can take in views of the sunset from your room. Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
While the drive from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa is not the smoothest, you are rewarded with breathtaking landscapes. Take a break from sightseeing and stop at one of the sopas (small restaurants) and indulge in authentic Costa Rican cuisine, from empanadas to patacones (deep fried, flattened plantains). Additionally, Santa Teresa is the perfect destination for both relaxation and leisure. It’s idyllic white sand beaches are great for laying down a mat doing yoga or grabbing a surfboard and catching a wave. Continue your relaxation at the laid-back Hotel Tropico Latino where you can enjoy a full-service spa. If you’re ready to experience these unique road trips for yourself, contact Palmer Preferred Travel today so we can get your travel experience started. Click the link to email or click here to call (612) 221-7245 Happy Road Tripping! When the seasons change and you begin to feel the chill stay in the air, there is often a nostalgia that comes along with it. Perhaps you are a PSL lover…or maybe not. In any case, there is a brief period that the change of seasons brings us to a place of new, fresh, refreshing change in our own lives. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long before many of those who live in the Northern and Eastern parts of the United States quickly tire of the whole “Pumpkin Spice” and “Crisp Fall” smells and feel and, snow is falling (or perhaps blowing wildly) and the uninvited, bitter cold North winds move in and take over, inevitably sending a chill through your bones that makes you run for cover of a big, warm, soft blanket—or a fireplace— and a cup of cocoa with melting marshmallows to escape and warm yourself. Or, perhaps you are running to grab your computer, tablet or phone to search and dream of all the warm and tropical places you could go and visit to escape this dreaded white and bitter cold that is fast surrounding you. Sand, sun, surf, culture and great food. Let’s talk about the beautiful southern escape known as Cancun. HELLOOO SUNSHINE and sandy beaches! Mexico has a lot to offer for visitors. Culture, music, celebrations, food and many fun excursions and adventures whether you’re an introvert who prefers to sit in the warm sun with a good book, or take a nap by the pool, or maybe you prefer the outdoors and love exploring the Mayan Ruins. Or taking a ride across the gulf to spend a day on Isla Mujeres, just 13 kilometers off the coast from Cancún to enjoy some more of the local cuisine, tropical flora and crystal blues and turquoise waters that take your breath away as you ponder if it’s really real! The weather in Cancun is tropical “wet and dry” and maintains its heat and temps around 80°F year-round. If you like the heat, you’ll enjoy your surroundings here. Restaurants to celebrate! When we traveled here for our anniversary, we were surprised and delighted when the wait staff brought a special treat to our table to recognize our special event (see below). THIS restaurant was one that even served champagne in the women's bathroom!!! I know, not sure how to look at that but I must say, it WAS impressive and took me quite by surprise when I walked in! Pull up a chair and lounge on the beach or take a romantic stroll with someone you love on the water’s edge as you feel the warm sands squish between your toes. Perhaps you will even discover some great souvenir that will fit in your pocket to take home. Or, build a sand castle or sculpture to watch as the tide comes in and gently smooths it away. If you’ve had enough sun, you will find there are local markets with beautiful and vibrant colors surrounding you as you explore. When you are ready, you can pause for a nice lunch or early dinner and “people watch” as you listen to the local chatter and music. Perhaps even polish up on your own Spanish as you visit with the locals! Then resume your walk, take selfies to post and look for hidden treasures that you can bring back home to make your friends wish they had gone on vacation with you! If you prefer, you can visit the El Rey archaeological site right near the hotel zone, or travel to the mainland nearing the city limits and see El Meco. Whatever your interest, you’re sure to find something wonderful to keep you smiling for the duration of your stay. Okay, now it’s time. Time to wake from the dream or take action—this is the PERFECT time to plan your winter getaway. Spring Break is not far off…or maybe you NEED to prepare for the dreaded resurgence of winter that comes every year in February and March (and even April for some!) that brings you to your knees begging for nature to have mercy and for the sun to appear to warm the earth around. You know the saying goes, “..plans fail for lack of planning..” SO, avoid this epic FAIL this year—give us a call at Palmer Preferred Travel and let’s get you set up—your dream doesn’t have to end, it can just be getting started! Then YOU will be the one to escape the long, cold winter months as you await the spring’s arrival. See you on the hot sands of Cancun! This Central Pacific archipelago includes hundreds of islands and a diverse range of activities to partake in. With huge waves, volcanoes and an interesting culture, Hawaii will keep you busy and entertained. These are eight top things to enjoy while visiting the beautiful atoll. Whale Watching – The ‘Big Island’ is the most popular destination for whale watching in Hawaii. The peak season to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales is from January to March. You have the option to view via a cruise or private boat tour. Luaus – These traditional ceremonies are a major source of entertainment on all islands within Hawaii. Take the opportunity to enjoy live dancing, learn about Hawaiian as well as Polynesian culture and enjoy a delectable cuisine. See a Lava Show – Hop aboard a World class catamaran to get up and close to the volcano fingers as they enter the sea. You will have thoroughly trained staff aboard and safety is paramount. You can select from a tour in the morning, sunset, day or twilight tour. Helicopter Tours – There are various tour lines that offer unique aerial journeys that allow you to view the breathtaking Hawaiian scenery. From volcanoes and waterfalls to hidden valleys and majestic coastlines. A helicopter tour is truly an ideal way to sightsee. SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding) – This activity originated in Hawaii and is a derivative from surfing. SUP is soothing and allows you to explore the waterways on your own terms. A great paddle path to take is from the Lanakai Beach to the Mokulua islands. Horseback Riding Tours – Explore the coastline or venture to hidden trails on an exploratory horseback tour. Most companies offer private as well as group tours. There are countless ranches and stables that accommodate tourists. Paniolo Adventures is one of the largest, with an 11,000-acre cattle ranch located in Waimea. Mauna Kea – This dormant volcano is a unique wonder to explore and erupted over 4,000 years ago. You can hike the summit but be sure to stop by the VIS (Visitor Information Station) to check for weather and safety tips. Kona Coffee Farm Tour – Kona coffee is some of the best gourmet coffee that you can find and is world-renowned. Kailua Kona, which is located on the ‘Big Island’, is the heart of Kona coffee. When taking a tour, you will get to see processing facilities as well as the coffee fields. Don’t forget to take some time to indulge in the popular beverage. Okay, C'MON and grab your gear and take charge of your getaway with these great suggestions that will be sure to make your experience fascinating. Contact us at Palmer Preferred Travel and let us get you going. Before you know it you will be touring the tropics! Paris is sweet on the eye, sweet on the romance and sweet on the palette. It is a sugar lovers dream and the only problem you’ll have when it comes the delectible French deserts is which one to choose. To help you navigate that yummy last course we’ve broken down the top 10 must try deserts for your visit to France. And if you have to eat more than one a day just to get through them? Well, c’est la vie! 1. The Tartes Aux Fruits – The tartes aux fruits are prepared with fresh fruit inside a buttery pastry. The fruit sit atop a heavenly Chantilly cream. You can enjoy these tartes in both miniature and pie sizes. 2. The Éclair – The éclair is a popular dessert in Paris. The long French choux pastry can be filled with either a rich custard or pastry cream, and topped with a sweet fondant. By definition, the term éclair means lightning in French. Go figure! 3. The Paris Brest – This pastry was created to celebrate the Paris to Brest bicycle ride in 1891. Naturally, its circular and contains praline flavored crème and choux pastry. 4. Macaron – Macarons are undeniably delectable. There are so many flavors to choose from. The base ingredients include an airy meringue and almonds. Be sure to not confuse with coconut macaroons, in which the English added the -oon to the word in the 16th century. 5. The Tarte Au Citron – Tarte Au Citron also known as the lemon tart are also very popular. Donning a pastry crust and delicious lemon filling. The filling, however, is not made with fruit. The cream is a mixture containing lemon juice, lemon zest and of course, eggs and sugar 6. The Mille Feuille – This fluffy treat comes in a vanilla or custard slice and is comprised of several layers of puff pastry. Between the puff pastry lies an additional two layers of pastry crème. Another name for the Mille Feuill is the Napoleon.
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