City Breaks in Paris – Getting There, Where to Stay, What to Do

Known as the most romantic city in the world, Paris receives over 30 million visitors each year, drawn to see the great sights and experience the unique atmosphere of the city. Whether you travel by Eurostar or plane, for a quick weekend break or a longer stay, Paris is an immensely rewarding destination to visit.

Getting There

The Eurostar now departs from King’s Cross St Pancras and arrives at Paris Gare du Nord in the centre of the city. For most incoming international flights, Charles De Gaulle (located 25km to the north of the city) is the main airport in Paris. Shuttle transfers, taxis, train or bus are your main options for getting to the city centre once you’ve arrived, with all of them taking approximately 60 minutes. If you arrive at Orly or Beauvais, the other two Paris airports, shuttles and taxis will take about 30 and 90 minutes respectively.

If you are on a weekend break, you are likely to want as little hassle and as much leisure as possible during your trip to Paris; an airport shuttle is the most convenient way of getting from the airport to your hotel in Paris, and shuttle services, unlike the bus or train, will drop you off directly at your hotel.

Where to Stay

Paris has a great range of hotels. Luxury accommodation is provided by hotels such as the Plaza Athenee, which has hosted the rich and famous for almost a century, and the Four Seasons. The city also has numerous good mid range hotels (Hotel St Jaques and the Lindburgh Hotel are especially recommended) along with cheap and friendly youth hostels, such as St Christopher Inns and Calincourt Square. Whatever your budget, you should be able to find a hotel or hostel to suit your needs. All of them have one crucial thing in common – they are extremely busy, and booking far in advance is strongly advised. During weekends and holiday periods, booking is essential!

If you want to try something a little different, the independent English language bookshop Shakespeare and Company lets visitors (or “tumbleweeds” as they are affectionately known) stay for free in return for a few hours work a day.

What to Do

Once you’ve arrived at your hotel in Paris (by shuttle, taxi, bus or train), it’s time to see the sights. The “Big Three” sights to see are the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Notre Dame Cathedral. The Eiffel Tower, built in 1889, remains the most famous sight in Paris, and a trip to the top (if you have the stomach for it!) provides unforgettable views out over the city. The Arc de Triomphe, built by Napolean, is a central landmark, and Notre Dame de Paris is a spectacular 12th century Gothic cathedral. Equally famous is the Louvre Art Gallery, home to the Mona Lisa and other masterworks by Leonardo da Vinci and numerous other artists.

Elsewhere, the handsome hilltop district of Montmatre has long been a Mecca for artists, with Picasso and Dali both living here at the start of the 20th century, and wandering the streets and cafes is a great way to pass an idle afternoon. The Left Bank around Montparnasse is another beautiful area with plenty of history; for late night drinking here, try Le Select, favoured drinking house of 1920s expats like Hemingway and F Scott Fitzgerald.

There’s plenty to see and do in Paris itself, and the surrounding area offers attractions such as the Palace at Versailles, Fontainebleu Forest and Disneyland Paris. Whatever you want from your visit to Paris, you’re sure to find something to keep yourself entertained!

Bruno Calzaverini is the Managing Director of Shuttle Direct. Providing pre-booked Paris airport shuttle services, as well as airport transfers to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don

How to Arrange a Trip to Jamaica

Are you interested in traveling to Jamaica? If this is your first time doing so, the process may seem overwhelming. The good news is that it is very easy to make your Jamaica travel plans. In fact, you can do so in 9 easy steps.

1 – Obtain a Valid Passport

If you do not have a valid passport this is the first step you will want to take. A passport is required for admittance into Jamaica from the United States. You should allow up to two months for your passport to arrive.

2 – Decide on a Destination

Although you have already selected Jamaica as your vacation destination, where on the island would you like to visit? Negril, Montego Bay, Runaway Bay, and Ocho Rios, are a few popular choices.

When deciding on a Jamaica vacation destination, look for nearby activities and attractions. Should you venture outside of your resort, have many options. Speaking of resorts, popular destinations, such as the four mentioned above, should have more resorts to choose from.

3 – Decide on a Date of Travel

Your date of travel is important, as it will impact your travel arrangements. Most recommend visiting Jamaica for at least five to seven days. When choosing your travel dates, keep in mind Jamaica’s rainy season, between the months of May and June and September and October.

Your dates of travel can also save you money on your Jamaica vacation. Typically, it is cheaper to fly in the middle of the week, as opposed to on holidays or weekends.

4 – Make Your Airline Reservations

You should have a number of options when traveling to Jamaica. For that reason, be sure to compare them all. Look for airlines with the shortest layovers, especially if you are coming from the Northern United States. Most importantly, price compare to find the best deals.

5 – Examine and Compare Jamaica Resorts

On the island, you have multiple Jamaica resorts to choose from. Instead of opting for the first resort you come across, examine and compare your options. In terms of overnight accommodations, it shouldn’t be about getting the cheapest price, but getting the better value.

To get the most out of your vacation, examine all-inclusive Jamaica resorts. They are a great deal and convenient to book, as most of your vacation is included in their costs. This should include food, drinks, tips, and some entertainment.

It is also recommended that you examine the purpose of your vacation, as it can help you find the perfect Jamaica resort. In additional to traditional resorts, there are Jamaica family resorts, couples resorts, singles resorts, and adult only resorts.

6 – Make Jamaica Resorts Reservations

When making reservations for a Jamaica resort, use a trusted online website or go directly to the source. This is important with all-inclusive Jamaica resorts, as you don’t want any strings attached.

Make sure the dates for your resort and airline reservations match.

7 – Research Area Attractions

Having a good time is an important part of planning a trip to Jamaica. Before you leave, use the internet or request free travel guides to familiarize yourself with local attractions. Guided tours come highly rated and recommended. If concerned with safety, inquire at your resort as to which areas of Jamaica are the safest to visit.

In addition to researching area attractions, closely examine your Jamaica resort. Many have a number of amenities, services, and facilities available for you to use. Beachfront resorts should allow free access to the beach. Upscale resorts may have an onsite golf course or fitness center. Family resorts are likely to have scheduled events, a playground, and game room.

8 – Arrange Transportation

If you intend to spend most of your Jamaica vacation at your resort, transportation may not be an issue, but how will you get to the resort from the airport? Inquire about airport transfers and their costs, as it may be cheaper than taking public transportation.

9- Set Aside Spending Money

Even if you opt for a Jamaica all-inclusive travel package, where the cost of your food, drinks, tips, and entertainment is included, extra spending money is recommended. Whether you want to purchase souvenirs or visit attractions with admission fees, access to at least a hundred dollars is advised. Since many credit and bank cards are accepted, this does not all necessarily need to be in cash.

SuperClubs.com can help you plan your all-inclusive Jamaica vacation. Examine and compare their all-inclusive beach resorts to find the best value for your money.

Toronto Luxury Hotels

Toronto is a world class city offering visitors a wealth of business facilities and attractions that include the world famous CN tower with its stunning glass-floored observation deck that allows visitors to view the distant Niagara Falls. The city’s Harbourfront district is one of the continents finest urban recreational areas.

There is also fine dining at some of North America’s best eating establishments including Canoe, Far Niente, Rain and the highly regarded Chez Victor at the Hotel La Germain.

As well as shopping at the Eaton Center, which boasts hundreds of stores to tempt even the most jaded traveller. There is also a wealth of galleries and museums including the world renowned Royal Ontario Museum.

Being a world class city Toronto can also lay claim to a wealth of accommodation choices from the very basic up to the ultra-chic. Many of the world’s finest hotel chains have opened their doors in Canada’s premiere city. They now welcome visitors from Europe, America and across the globe. By offering the very finest in first class luxury lodgings to those who are used to the very best accommodation facilities.

Back in 1889 the Gladstone opened as the very first Hotel in the city, there was so little need for such establishments that it was another 14 years until the city’s second hotel the Victoria swung open its doors to welcome business Gent’s and wealthy travellers to the city.

But over the last one hundred and twenty years a huge amount of change has taken place and the once sleepy Toronto has now matured into a fully fledged and vibrant international hub city welcoming business people and tourists from every corner of the globe.

Those household international luxury hotel chains have certainly seen the city’s potential. And in the twenty first century just about every luxury hotel brand is offering accommodations in the metropolis.

Those household luxury brand names include the Fairmont Royal York very near to the eye-catching CN Tower. The Four Seasons have set up camp in the classy Yorkville area of the city. The some-what over the top named Le Royal Meridien King Edward Hotel offers first class accommodations in the old and historic distillery district. If you want to help keep Paris in the style to which she is very much accustomed there is the Hilton in the downtown area.

In the main entertainment district there is the SoHo Metropolitan, a smaller but well appointed higher end establishment of around 100 rooms. Also near the CN tower you will find the InterContinental Toronto Centre hotel with access to the convention center.

If you search you will find just about any hotel chain listed for the city of Toronto. One area that is sadly lacking in representation is the Boutique style hotel. The city’s entrepreneurs seem to have overlooked this very important and mushrooming niche hotel market.

One excellent exception would be the recently opened Le Germain, a Lemay-Michaud designed concept boutique hotel well positioned in the very heart of the entertainment district. The choice of quality accommodations in the city is overwhelming, but this is also a highly popular city crowded with visiting business people during the week and bustling with Canadian and international tourists at the weekend. So booking ahead of time is highly recommended to make the best of what the spectacular city has to offer.

Tim Hardaway regularly publishes articles about Toronto luxury hotels as well as Toronto meeting facilities.

A Beachfront Vacation in an Anegada Inn on the BVI

Escape the world to Anegada, and check out a wonderful guesthouse cum inn called Neptune’s Treasure

A beachfront vacation in the British Virgin Islands is many people’s idea of paradise. To be more specific a beachfront guesthouse on Anegada called Neptune’s Treasure could be the answer to your prayers when it comes to choosing a BVI Vacation that isn’t going to be too expensive.

Neptune’s Treasure Guesthouse is beachfront on the south west of Anegada, and is family owned. It has a restaurant and bar and only nine rooms so it is small and intimate. The rooms are best described as basic but very clean, in fact spotless would be a better description, simply furnished, and best of all no in room television, which means when you come to Neptune’s Treasure you can escape from everything that’s happening in the world outside. There is no air conditioning, but it really isn’t necessary because of the cooling breezes. There’s a valid point of view that says living in air conditioning is sterile, and you get far closer to the local feel with a ceiling fan.

One of the best reasons for choosing Neptune’s Treasure is the restaurant which serves the best food on Anegada. In fact you won’t want to eat anywhere else after just one meal here, and if you like seafood then you will love the menus. Value for money is an often used description of Neptune’s Treasure, and restaurant is very much part of that with lobster dishes described by some as the best lobster in the Caribbean.

In terms of getting to Anegada and Neptune’s Treasure, there is a ferry running from Roadtown Tortola on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays leaving at 7.30 am, stopping at Virgin Gorda and arriving at 8.30am, with the return trip at 4.30pm. The only other alternative is to charter a small plane, but why miss out on one of the great ferry trips anywhere, with a totally laid back Caribbean feel to it. You will realise very quickly why Anegada is still so natural and laid back because it requires that little bit of effort which most folk won’t make.

What you do with your time at Neptune’s Treasure is totally up to you. The owners will make you feel very much like one of the family, so can immediately relax into a hammock with a supply of good books, and admire the view from your porch towards Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Being beachfront you can remove your shoes and walk barefoot on the best beaches in the British Virgin Islands if not all of the Caribbean. You will find all the local people you meet are friendly and very happy to stop and chat. As a point of interest, the BVI is probably the safest place in the Caribbean with very little crime.

Of course you won’t just walk the beaches, but swim, and even snorkel in the crystal clear warm sea, but the hammock option remains high on the list of non activities!!

To summarise, for value for money you won’t get a better beachfront vacation in the BVI than Neptune’s Treasure. It’s an inn or a good old fashioned owner managed guesthouse with a quite superb restaurant, and far from the madding crowd. For more information on Neptune’s Treasure go to http://www.bvi-vacationspots.com/pages/Site-Map.html

Karl Roos owns and writes for British Virgin Islands Vacation Spots as well as authoring several articles about Worldwide Vacation Spots and he recommends Caribbean Vacation Spots but recommends the British Virgin Islands

San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge of Sonoma County

It is true that San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge does not limit its boundaries to Sonoma County alone, but it would be gravely negligent of me to remain silent about its majestic existence along the north shore of San Pablo Bay just because it is shared with two other neighboring counties in northern California; Solano and Napa.

In the not-so-distant past, less than 150 years ago, San Pablo Bay was enveloped by extensive and intricate marshlands perpetually permeated by surging and ebbing tidal waves of the Pacific Ocean and was regarded as one of the largest systems on the western coast of North America. These rich and sprawling swamps provided an ideal environment for aquatic plants which in turn offered safe havens and wealthy feeding grounds for migratory wintering waterfowl such as canvasback ducks, native shore and water birds as well as an abounding assortment of other land and water species.

Spanning over approximately twenty thousand acres, San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge is just one of sixty-seven wildlife refuges in the San Francisco Bay area, that was established in 1974 to restore the delicate equilibrium of the wetlands, to secure threatened wildlife habitats and to protect millions of vulnerable and endangered indigenous species of flora and fauna as well as the countless migratory birds. To accomplish this gargantuan task by attempting to reverse the damage inflicted to the local tidal marshes by expending agricultural, commercial and industrial activities such as hydraulic gold mining in the 1850s at the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, salt harvesting, rerouting and bleeding its waters and constructing dams, the management of the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge had formed a partnership with the Department of the Interior, the United .States Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Sadly, only fifteen percent of this natural treasure remains unblemished but there is great hope for the future. Presently, San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a protected sanctuary for a thriving year-round local population of the California Clapper and Black Rails, the Salt Marsh Harvest Mice, the Song Sparrows of San Pablo and the Suisun Shrews. Furthermore, San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a welcoming winter resort for various species of birds especially the diving ducks, as well as eleven kinds of fish that annually cross the San Pablo Bay to their fresh water spawning grounds.

Now that we have seen what San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge does for wildlife, let us examine what it can do for you and me and I am please to inform you that it can do plenty with a capital “P.” Being open to the public every day of the year from sun up to sun down it offers: hands-on educational programs for elementary school classes; off-water fishing in the open bay and sloughs accessible by boats; hunting grounds which are subject to State and Federal regulations and seasonal restriction; hiking and walking trails; and wildlife viewing and capturing on film.

And if you wish to turn your visit to San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge into a true vacation, you will find plenty of charming, rustic and beautifully maintained local accommodations such as B&Bs and inns.

Learn more about Sonoma County Real Estate and homes for sale in Sonoma County by visiting us today.

Sonoma County is a True Geographic and Topographic Delight

If the age-old saying is correct about variety being the spice of life then Sonoma County of Northern California is, in fact, “sugar and spice and everything nice.” In other words, Sonoma County is a true delight in every sense of the word. Within its total area of roughly 1,800 square miles, eleven percent of which is covered by water, it is well endowed with extensive variety of nature’s gifts. Sonoma County has dry land formation such as mountain ranges and flat lands; a wide assortment of bodies of water that include rivers, streams, creeks, lakes, marshlands, bays and an ocean; a generous selection of wooded lands that consist of an oak woodland, a redwood forest, northern coastal scrub, grasslands, an oak savanna, a riparian woodland and vineyards. It has lots and lots of vineyards.

Sonoma County, the land of nature’s delights, can be found in northern California which also happens to be northwestern part of the United States and it is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on its west with 76 miles of coastline beaches and hydrographic formations such as Bodega Bay as well as the mouths of the Russian and the Gualala Rivers, and with Marin County on its south, Mendocino County on its north, Napa County on its east, Lake County on its northeast, Solano and Contra Costa Counties on its southeast.

Now that we have had a chance to glance at Sonoma County as a complete package or, better yet, as a broad picture, let us focus in on some of the details:

Dry Land …

1. The Mayacamas Mountains are part of the California Coast Ranges and their highest peak is Cobb Mountain at 4,724 feet above sea level. The Mayacamas Mountains also include Mount Saint Helena and Hood Mountain.

2. The Sonoma Mountain provides a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean on the West and the entire Sonoma Valley on the east from its moderate height of 2,287 feet above sea level. Sonoma Mountain’s most southern crest is well known as Sear Point and projects into the San Pablo Bay.

3. Sonoma Valley is also known as the Valley of the Moon and it is the flat basin of Sonoma County and the place of birth of California’s viticulture.

Wooded Lands …

1. Oak woodland is a portion of land in Sonoma County that is overgrown with oak trees that form only limited shading which then promote undergrowth of shrubs, herbs and grasses.

2. Redwood forest is populated by redwoods which are also known as Sequoias. Reaching heights of up to 380 feet, these giants are known as the world’s tallest trees and at up to 26 feet in diameter, they are not skinny either.

Bodies of Water …

1. The Russian River runs southward from Lake Mendocino and is Sonoma County’s largest river. The Russian River’s largest offshoot is Laguna de Santa Rosa and is purported to be the home of the most abundant and varied wildlife in Sonoma County. The largest tributary of Laguna de Santa Rosa is Santa Rosa Creek which, in turn, has Brush, Mark West, Mantanzas, Spring and Piner Creeks as its key tributaries.

2. Sonoma County’s additional bodies of water are the Petaluma River; San Antonio, Americano and Sonoma Creeks; San Pablo and San Francisco Bays; Sonoma, Tolay Ilsanjo, Ralphine and Fountaingrove Lakes; and last but certainly not least, the Pacific Ocean.

As I have said in my opening statement, Sonoma County is a true geographic and topographic delight.

Learn more about Sonoma County Real Estate and homes for sale in Sonoma County by visiting us today.

A Cyprus Country Map is Very Helpful

Cyprus is located on the crossroads of three continents, Europe, Asia and Africa in the north-eastern region of the Mediterranean Sea. It covers a total of 9.251 square kilometres, with the longest length being 225 kilometres and longest width 97 kilometres. A Cyprus country map shows that the natural wealth of the island is the result of the changes of nature through time.

The variety of landscapes, such as mountains, plains, valleys, cliffs, gorges, caves and steep cliffs as seen on a Cyprus country map makes Cyprus property for sale popular as it available in so many diverse locations. Buying a villa holiday home in Cyprus in easy and many of the procedures are similar to those in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Cypriot legal system and Land Registry are based on the British equivalent and have many safeguards that are not available in other countries, even within the European Union.

The Cyprus country map shows that the island is small, but has many different vistas and landscapes and Cyprus property for sale can range from a small studio apartment to a bespoke luxury villa. These can be used for holiday homes, to be rented out when not in use by their owners and friends. There are also many people who are choosing to relocate to Cyprus, especially since joining the European Union as the restrictions on living here have all but gone for EU citizens.

Cyprus is considered a low taxation, low benefit country which offers many financial advantages to those looking to work or start up their own companies. The islands strategic location for companies operating within Europe and the Middle East, its excellent climate, the well developed infrastructure and the plentiful supply of highly qualified and skilled work force are some of the pluses that have placed Cyprus on the map as a successful business centre. Also its public administration system and defined legal framework have contributed in developing high standard professional services in all areas of business activity – especially the accounting, banking, legal, and tourism sectors.

As the island is so compact it is possible to enjoy all it has to offer and with such a historic and legendary background it is hardly surprising that Cyprus has developed a character which is quite unique. It is blessed with natural beauty that ranges from golden beaches and rugged coastlines to rolling hills and forest clad mountains, dotted with picturesque villages and a Cyprus country map shows the locations where buying a villa holiday home in Cyprus are most popular.

Nurtured by the warm Mediterranean sun, Cyprus fruit and vegetables are so tasty that all visitors comment on them and they are ripe, juicy, tasty and very inexpensive. There are markets and many roadside stalls are a feast of colour, with fruit and vegetables of every variety, size and hue.

All the above are just some of the reasons to consider joining many others in grabbing a Cyprus country map and looking for Cyprus property for sale, whether part-time or permanent location you will love all the island has to offer.

Kate Deas-Smith is in the Cyprus property for sale market. Kate outlines the many benefits of buying a villa holiday home in Cyprus.

Visit The Festivals Of Alicante By Hire Car

Festivals in Spain play a huge role in people’s social calendars they are a celebration of life and culture, bright vibrant and lively they’re a perfect excuse to dress up, eat well and enjoy your time in Spain with a huge smile. If you’re on holiday at the right time in Spain be sure to make a festival part of your vacation.

All large cities in Spain host several festivals all year round celebrating one thing or another Alicante is certainly no exception. Here are a few ideas for excursions to visit the festivals in Alicante in your hire car. This is a list of the biggest and best but be sure to check with local tourist offices to get exact dates and information on any other festivals taking place.

As most of you will undoubtedly be visiting in the summer months Alicante’s summer festival is a good place to start.

Held in the area known as Paseo del Puerto the Summer Festival (Festival de Verano de Alicante) is one of the greatest held annually. It’s a celebration of music, theatre and dance hosted in a perfect setting near to the port you’ll be sure to have a great day out. With the acts aimed at the whole family this is a festival that the children and parents alike will enjoy. This event is not based around religion or processions through the streets like many that take place in Spain; it’s an occasion to bring together entertaining acts in one location, tickets can be purchased in advance for some of the bigger acts from street stalls or online.

Along side all of the performances make sure you sample some of the local foods on offer. As Alicante has a very busy fishing port bringing in the freshest sea food the Mediterranean has to offer it’s a great place to get really good paella. ‘The Darsena’ restaurant close to the marina has 150 different varieties of rice on offer and is popular with both tourists and locals. If you’re not a sea food person don’t fear the area also has a great selection of game and roasted meats, arroz con magro y verduras is a local creation of succulent slow roasted pork and locally grown vegetables.

If anyone has a sweet tooth try an almond and honey flavored ice cream, helado de turr

Tips For Enjoying the Great Down Under in Australia

As with many people, you have probably dreamed of traveling to the beautiful land of Australia. In Australia there are wonderful beaches perfect for scuba diving or snorkeling, incredibly polite and welcoming locals, and the land is also a safe and wonderful place to visit.

Appeal of the Land

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world, making it twice the size of Europe, except not nearly as crowded. That means you have plenty of activities without being the intense tourist magnet that Europe experiences.

There are over 7000 beaches to play around on and the most amazing fauna you could ever see in your life. Australia’s culture has so much to offer as well.

Getting to Know the “Language”

English is spoken in Australia but with a little twist. People there often insert words that are only known to the natives, so it may be a bit difficult to understand everything they are saying.

For example, instead of calling someone “buddy,” they refer to that person as a cobber; and rather than suggesting that a person dress warmly, they tell you to “rag up.”

So, the English language it is, but you still may need to consider studying up on their native slang. In fact, taking a little time before your trip to learn common phrases in the destination is a simple means of showing respect to those whom you meet.

Reverse Climate Change

The climate is opposite the United States. It is the months of December to February that are the warmest, as those are their summer months. So if you are traveling there during those months it is best to dress lightly. And of course conversely, the temperatures will become fairly cold during the normally hot and humid months found in the U.S. Either way, plan you packing accordingly.

The air is very humid as well - plan to bring a little bug repellant and some sunscreen. The nights tend to get chilly, though. Bringing a light jacket will help with the cool air, especially if you are traveling to the Southern region. There is no question that if you are headed for the bushes, you will need a comfortable and durable pair of boots for the hikes.

Customs to Consider

Other tips that are important include knowing drivers travel on the left side of the road, so take note before you hop in your vehicle, and pay attention once you do. Finally, Australians are the opposite of Americans when it comes to tipping as well. They tend to consider it bad taste unless a special occasion.

Australia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and with its immense diversity. There is something to see for everyone. People frequently ask to see some of the more popular animals of this land, such as kangaroos and koala bears. Just be aware that though they appear cute and cuddly on TV, they are still wild animals and should not be approached if seen.

From the bush area to the Great Barrier Reef and everything in between, Australia is simply a vacation of a lifetime.

For practical recommendations to super travel locations such as to Costa Rica, Europe, Bahamas and many more, please visit www.travel-vacation-spots.com, a popular site providing great insights concerning vacation travel opportunities!

How to Prepare For Your Caribbean Honeymoon

While your honeymoon will be an exciting experience, preparing for your trip can often bring as much stress as planning the wedding. The potential destination is often the first thing couples consider and millions of newlyweds have found the perfect combination of luxury, relaxation, activities and impeccable weather in the Caribbean. If you are in search of an exotic honeymoon destination like so many couples are, look no further than the accessible and affordable Caribbean. As you begin making preparations for your Caribbean honeymoon, follow the timeline presented here as you organize for your once-in-a-lifetime voyage.

At Least Six Months Before Your Caribbean Honeymoon

* Establish the budget for your Caribbean vacation.

* Begin researching Caribbean destinations by talking to family and friends, searching the internet, reading travel literature or consulting a travel agent.

* After deciding on your destination, start booking your flight and reserving accommodations.

* If you are also planning a destination wedding in the Caribbean, check the marriage requirements of your destination. In the earlier stages of planning, you can also begin necessary paperwork or contact a wedding planner at your Caribbean resort.

* If necessary, prepare all of the rentals for your honeymoon. This may include a car, off-road equipment, water sports toys or scuba and snorkeling gear.

Three Months Before Your Caribbean Honeymoon

* Secure your visas or passports, if necessary for travel to your Caribbean destination.

* If you are visiting the Caribbean during peak travel season (November-April), begin making reservations for popular restaurants, shows and recreation tours.

* If you anticipate needing several reservations or additional assistance for your Caribbean honeymoon, contact the concierge at your resort and explain your desired itinerary. Don’t forget to tip your concierge when you arrive.

* Consider pursuing a scuba certification at home and potentially practicing the sport before visiting the Caribbean. By gaining some experience, you will be able to participate in more challenging, which often means more captivating, dives.

One Month before Your Caribbean Honeymoon

* Develop a packing list, accounting for all the unique items you might need in the Caribbean.

* If you are planning a bridal shower, fill your want list with items you can use for your Caribbean honeymoon.

* Create a shopping list for the items you don’t already have and don’t anticipate receiving as gifts.

* Confirm that all of your reservations are correct by checking with your resort, airline and any tour operators or rental companies.

One Week before Your Caribbean Honeymoon

* Print your airline tickets or pick them up from your travel agent. Keep the tickets and your travel information in a safe, but easily accessible location until travel day.

* If you plan on using travelers’ checks in the Caribbean, purchase some through your bank. You may also want to consider exchanging a small amount of cash for your destination’s currency to help cover immediate expenses upon arrival.

* Rather than packing your bulky guidebooks, copy the pages you need and organize a folder to match your itinerary.

* If you have prescriptions, make sure you have enough for your honeymoon.

* Make copies of your passports, credit cards and insurance information. In the event that your wallet or purse is lost, the copies saved in your luggage or with a friend or relative could alleviate plenty of headaches.

Three Days before Your Caribbean Honeymoon

* Begin preparing your bags and shop for the items on your list.

* Make arrangements for airport transportation, both at home and at your honeymoon destination.

* Talk to your concierge about any needs you might have for your hotel room, such as champagne or other romantic touches.

* Check the weather forecast for your Caribbean destination and pack your bags accordingly.

One Day before Your Caribbean Honeymoon

* Check for updated information regarding your flight.

* Label your bags and ensure that you have everything you need.

* Lastly, and most importantly, relax and prepare yourself for the trip of a lifetime.

Justin Birch writes about travel in the Caribbean for Marriott Resorts.

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