Hello Anne,

I’ve been giving it some thought since we’ve been back from Jamaica about the entire experience and I have to say that the resort, Couples Sans Souci, was completely beyond expectations.  Overall we enjoyed every aspect of the resort that was offered, from the room service, daily stocked mini bar, cuisine, Dunn’s river, water sports, weather, everything.  The non-alcoholic smoothie station they have next to the mineral pool and workout room is out of this world.  The mango and strawberry-banana shake are so tongue tantalizing I sometimes forgot about the rest of the resort and even made special trips from my room just for the shakes. 

We had spent the first day getting a feel for the resort and planning our stay and roughly came up with a game plan of what we’d like to do the rest of the stay.  We were trying to get out as much of the Jamaican vibe as we could, trying to experience what Jamaica had to offer.  One particular day we were going to learn the soca dance and when we had shown up nobody was to be found, we waited a few minutes, then left.  We were next to the beach so it wasn’t that big of a deal. Other days there were activities that we had also wanted to participate in but had a conflict with other activities, then one thing led to another and we missed out on those.  So we didn’t get to do as much activities as we’d hoped.  So I guess in a nutshell for first time travelers traveling anywhere for the first time, it may be difficult to take in everything in that a place has to offer and the sooner you realize you can’t do everything, the more fun you’ll have doing whatever you’ve done.  You just have to plan to make another trip.     

One critique, if you can call it that, was an activity we did sign-up for giving them our room number.  We signed up three days in advance to go scuba diving.  Scuba was at 11 am but you had to go through a small course before at 845ish am.  We had fun the night before dancing and stayed up late.  We needed breakfast and time for it to digest so we order breakfast in bed early at 6 am.  December is one of the rainy months in Jamaica and sometimes makes for rougher seas.  So we go down to the water activities station only to find that the water activities for the day have been canceled.  Now the thing is, is that when it comes to scuba diving, is that you can predict the under water conditions from the weather the night before and the morning of.  And with their experience and expertise (resort scuba instructors)they knew before hand the scuba was going to be out of the question.  So making my point, with them having this knowledge and this being an activity that guests actually sign up for with a room number it would’ve been nice to been given a heads up instead of going through all the effort of waking up early, getting ready, and marching down there to find out its canceled.  They could’ve called and notified us since they had our information on hand.  That was a little irritating personally, maybe its just me.  So another activity we missed out on.  I know above I wrote we enjoyed the water sports and then you read this, but the following day the weather was perfect and we took full advantage, going sailing, snorkeling, and glass bottom boat ride.  So in the end the water activities were very eventful and worth it.  Surprisingly I didn’t expect the water to be as salty as it was.

There really is just so much that I could jot down about our experience but It’d just be easier for me to tell you verbally so if you have any questions at all I’d be happy to share more of our experience with you or other people thinking of couples or couples sans souci in particular.  Again, I’d definitely recommend Couples.  We spoke with a number of other guests from all over the country staying there and they say that the extra amenities that Couples offers, you’d have to pay extra at other resorts, yet the price for couples was comparable if not better.  And comparing Sans Souci to the other Couples, many said that the geographical location of Sans Souci compared to the others was the best and there favorite.

It was pretty easy to have the airlines change Ann’s name on the reservations.  I wonder if we could’ve booked the flight and all reservations with her married name even though the flight was booked before the wedding and we didn’t fly till after the wedding, to avoid any future delays.

It would’ve been best if we’d reconfirmed the swim with the dolphins before we left for Jamaica because there was a little difficulty in finding the reservations on their part and also once we arrived at Dolphin Cove at the front desk they could’nt find our rsvp for about 15 minutes.  Even though we had the confirmation papers from GoGo with the Swim with the Dolphins information.  That by the way was an awesome and forever memorable experience which we are completely happy with.  Also how often are you going to get the chance to partake in an event like that so we had to purchase the CD and DVD combo to share our experience.  That by the way was $110, fyi.  It was an unexpected purchase and took most of our souvenir money.

I don’t know exactly how to put it, but these are some things that I’d recommend or would find useful in future traveling by plane and visits to Jamaica.  I did my best to think about what we’d need along our travels but didn’t think of everything, I didn’t know what to expect.  I’d suggest even if you don’t use it, to have on hand: ear plugs – lets be honest, the screaming kid on even a two hour flight would get on just about anybodies nerves, or better yet an iPod or mp3 player if you have one.  It may not block out all the noise but it helps muffle at least.  Also an eye face mask to block out any light especially if you have to sleep in the airport entrance to catch the morning flight or while on the plane, some times the lights can be bright.  Snacks, snacks, snacks!  Who in there right mind will willingly pay $8 for a sandwhich that you make at home for $2 tops.  Wow, are those airport prices enormously expensive.  There are so many snacks you can bring from home that will save you a bundle.  Also we’ll definitely invest in that neck pillow, for some reason the plane ride can be pretty tiring and it would’ve been nice to have one.  Games, we brought regular cards and uno cards that kept us pretty entertained both on the plane and waiting for the next flight so time went by a little quicker.  Bring water shoes or aqua socks especially for Dunn’s River excursion.  You can rent them but who knows who’s feet have been in them and you only get one use out of them so its a waste of money.  Closed toes are the best, I had sandals, open toed, and continually had rocks in my sandal for the excursion.  Swim goggles are small and easy to carry and would’ve been nice to look under water while swimming around at the beach to see whats underwater.  Didn’t have any need for it but people recommended bug spray so we had some just in case.  If you don’t have one purchase your underwater camera here locally, rite aid has it for $9.  It cost $20 at the gift shop.  When traveling abroad or just in general have a pen to fill out the custom forms, otherwise you’ll be waiting to borrow one since the flight attendants don’t carry any.

Cash, i’d say a few hundred worth or depends on what you plan on doing.  I’d bring at least $20 in ones, $20 in fives, $40 in tens, and the rest in $20′s.  I was a little caught off guard with the tipping ettique and I’m not a big tipper anyway.  Though we didn’t have to worry about tipping at the resort, any excursions to and from, its customary to tip your driver or tour guide.  Just remember you worked hard for that money so don’t feel bad if you don’t tip big. 

There are so many vendors trying to sell you the same thing as the next vendor.  Everything is negotiable it seemed, so don’t be afraid to barter the price with them, your biggest weapon is walking away because the next vendor down probably has the same stuff and they want your money.  These Jamaican’s have been doing this a while and are good with working with your emotions and psychy making it hard to walk away sometimes, but you have to stand strong.  You can find great deals by bartering and shopping around, not hastly buying the first one you see.  Also with the smaller bills you have more le-way* when bartering.  Unlike here, the sale of liquor isn’t regulated by the government.  We purchased a few bottles marked at $28 each for $15 each.   A side note on the liquour too is that you can bring back 2 liters per person, which is equivalent to 3 fiths, to the states but keep in mind that you’ll have to check it at the airport, depending on the airport will cost you an additional $25 that wasn’t on your mind at the time.  Especially if you brought carry-ons to avoid those extra charges. Also, beware that some places charge tax between 8.5% to 18.5% so if you have cash you may avoid tax, depends on the place.  Using a credit card may also cost you an additional percentage by the credit card company for foreign transaction fees and by the shop for them processing it.  Cash is the best option in my opinion, don’t be flashy and use some common sense and have fun with it.  Also cash gives you a budget on how much your going to spend and once you’ve reached that limit then you know it.

Alright, I hope you find some useful information in what I’ve written.  If you have any other questions I’ll do my best to answer them.  I brought back a few brochures about activities if you’d like them for your collection too.  Well that’s enough for now so I hope you enjoyed the pictures and we’ll talk with you later.

Thanks,

Brent and Ann

P.S. The layover wasn’t that bad in North Carolina.  Ann brought a blanket and kept warm. Used sweatshirts as pillows.  For me the eye face mask would’ve been helpful though.  They kicked us out of the terminal so we had to sleep inside at the entrance of the airport. It was cozy though.  Would do it again to save money and add to the experience.

(Note from Anne: They elected to take a flight that gave them an overnight in North Carolina but did not get a hotel.)

Hello Wanderer,

Today, I am posting my visit several weeks ago to the Sandals Royal Bahamian in the Bahamas on the island of Grand Bahama, near the town of Nassau.  This is a perfect location for couples, brides and honeymooners who would like a smaller, more intimate resorts.  It has a charming British ambiance, with tea served in the afternoon everyday.  Come with me on a tour of the Sandals Royal Bahamian.

Dreaming of a wedding, wouldn’t it be just perfect in this garden gazebo. 

To complete the English ambiance, a guard in the “tropical whites” iconic to the Bahamas, stands at attention.  Think the British have it hard, these guys are standing motionless in 80 something degree weather.

The Wine Bar has tasting lessons for those of us who enjoy a fine glass of wine.  Then we can amble on into one of the fine dining establishments to sup.

     A night cap in the pub and a bit of English style pool will do.

After and evening of fine food and drink, a good night’s sleep in Sandals premium beds, the butler will make our coffee and bring us breakfast.  Then imaging you and your honey wandering down to the pool for a quick dip, then off to the private island to laze away the day.

    Here I am with my travel agent friends partying on the island.  Take me back…

Cheers from Anne!

Last week I visited four Sandals resorts in the Caribbean with 160 other travel agents.  Four resorts on three different islands in four days.  Whew!  They treated us royally, fed us superbly and walked us until our feet ached.  I took lots of pictures so that you can get a view of these four resorts from an ordinary point of view (not a professional photographer).  Come stroll with me through the grounds of the first resort, Sandals Emerald Bay.

In case you have never been, let me acquaint you with Sandals.  These are couples only, luxury included resorts, which means all food, wine and licquor is included.  Sandals is the most well know, upscale resort in the Caribbean.  Butch Stewart, the owner of all Sandals resorts likes to say, “More inclusions than any resort on the planet.”  Each resort has its own personality and style.  I hope my notes will help you decide which Sandals of the four I visited suits your vacation dreams.

First stop, Sandals Emerald Bay, Great Exuma, Bahamas

Personality: Quiet, Serene, Pristine Beauty, Isolated, A Place to soak in the sun, play in the silky sand, or just relax away from crowds and cities.

We were welcomed by a Junkanoo band, native to the Bahamas.  Cold fragrant towels and a bottle of water.

Then we wandered through the villas and bungalows, gazed at the blue sky and perfect white beaches.  The sand was so soft, white and wonderful, I brought a cup of it home with me.  It sits in a dish with shells so I can dabble my fingers in it and dream of the Caribbean.

   Doesn’t this look like a fun water toy…just ride it into the water.

Here is a view of a room decorated with a honeymoon welcome and a bungalow with an ocean front view.  Sandals offers butlers with some suites, complete with cell phones to call him/her at your whim.  “James, a fresh towel and a tequila sunrise by the pool, please.”

    This is the view out the bungalow window.

  Every Sandals resort comes with a Red Lane Spa.  Treatments are an extra cost, yet how wonderful to rejuvenate with a spa treatments.  Every detail is attended to.

For weddings, Sandals offers Martha Stewart packages.  Set up here is the “Natural” package.  Couples can be married in the gazebo or on the beach as well.

If total rest and relaxation in a serene location is calling you, grab your honey and fly to Sandals Emerald Bay.

Next stop, Antigua,

Anne

If you were to buy paint from your local harware store the conversation might go something like this:
Customer:  “Hi, how much is your paint?”
Clerk: “We have regular quality for $23 a gallon and premium for $32.  How many gallons would you like?”
Customer: “Five gallons of regular quality, please.”
Clerk: “Great!  That will be $115 plus tax.”

However, if airlines were in the business of selling paint the conversation would go like this:
Customer: “Hi, how much is your paint?”
Clerk: “Well, sir, that all depends.”
Customer: “Depends on what?”
Clerk: “Actually, a lot of things.”
Customer: “How about giving me an average price?”
Clerk: “Wow, that’s too hard a question.  The lowest price is $9 a gallon and we have 150 different prices up to $200 a gallon.”
Customer: “What’s the difference in the paint?”
Clerk: “Oh, there isn’t any difference, it’s all the same paint.”
Customer: “Well, then, I’d like some of that $9 paint.”
Clerk: “Well, first I need to ask you a few
questions.  When do you intend to use it?”
Customer: “I want to paint tomorrow, on my day off.”
Clerk: “Sir, the paint for tomorrow is the $200 paint.”
Customer: “What?  When would I have to paint in order to get $9 paint?”
Clerk:  “That would be in three weeks, but you will also have to agree to start painting before Friday of that week and continue painting until at least Sunday.”
Customer: “You’ve got to be kidding!”
Clerk: “Sir, we don’t kid around here.  Of course, I’ll have to check to see if you are elegible to buy paint.”
Customer: “What, all I want to do is buy some paint!”
Clerk: “Sir, there is no point in getting upset; that is just the way it is. By the way the price just went up to $12.
Customer: “This is crazy!  I will just go somewhere else to buy paint.”
Clerk: “That won’t do you any good, sir.  The other paint stores have the same policies.  You might as well just buy it here while the price is $17.50.

Thank you for flying – I mean painting – with our airline!

Imagine you and your sweetheart holding hands while you affirm your love for one another aboard the original “Love Boat”.  Yes, Princess was the cruise line upon which the “Love Boat” TV series was filmed inspiring “Tie the Knot Wedding at Sea by Princess”.  Traditionally, ship captains were able to marry couples when in international waters.  Yet for more than 100 years, getting married upon the high seas had ceased to exist.  In 1998 Princess Cruise Line introduced their Weddings at Sea.  The very first year, 58 couples were married by Princess captains.  Since then more than 4000 couples have chosen this romantic option.

Three soul-uniting choices are available while cruising aboard Princess.

1) At Sea – Invite your guests to sail with you to extend the fun, then get married At Sea, in the chapel or on the deck.  The captain will marry you once you are in international waters.  82% of couples choose this option.

2) Harborside - Your friends and family may join you aboard ship the morning before you set sail for a Harborside Wedding or Vow Renewal by a local clergy, then you sail away blissfully alone for your honeymoon.  10% of couples choose this option.

3)  Ashore – Sail away to your dream destination, then get married ashore by a local clergy. Choose from ports of call in the USA, Canada, Mexico or Caribbean. All the arrangements for the shore wedding are handled by a wedding planner.  8% of couples choose this option.

Everything is provided for Weddings at Sea including music, bouquet, cake, photos, champagne and a wedding coordinator for only $2250.  A vow renewal ceremony is only $285.  What an incredible deal!  This basic package, of course, may be upgraded to suit your every wish and dream.  Since your honeymoon is the cruise itself, the whole affair is less than a wedding at home!  (Cruise cost is extra.)

Wedding Packages by Princess

TIE THE KNOT AT SEA

• Wedding Chapel or ideal onboard location
• Candlelit ceremony
• Captain to perform ceremony
• Special vows at sea
• Wedding coordinator onboard*
• Ceremony music (pre-recorded)
• Two fresh floral arrangements to adorn the ceremony location
• Rose bouquet (one dozen)
• Boutonniere
• Photographer**
• Videographer***
• One 16×20 canvas wall portrait (unframed)***
• 9″ Wedding cake
• Bottle of champagne
• Two Princess keepsake champagne flutes
• Keepsake wedding certificate

Tie The Knot At Sea Prices

Package Price:          $1,800

License Fees:             $455

(witness fee may apply)

TOTAL:      $2,255

*Available on “sea” days only.  Details, special requirements and upgrades may add onto the basic price quoted.

TIE THE KNOT HARBORSIDE

• Priority check-in and boarding for couple and guests
• Wedding Chapel or onboard location
• Non-denominational officiant
• Wedding coordinator onboard
• Ceremony music (pre-recorded)
• Romantic vows
• Two silk floral arrangements atop two pillars
• Rose bouquet (one half dozen)
• Boutonniere
• Photographer
• Videographer
• 9″ wedding cake
• Bottle of champagne
• Keepsake wedding certificate

TIE THE KNOT ASHORE

• Beautiful beach or garden ceremony location
• Non-denominational officiant
• Wedding coordinator
• Exotic island vows
• Bridal bouquet
• Boutonniere
• Photographer
• Transportation for bridal couple
• Specialty cake for two
• Bottle of champagne
• Keepsake wedding certificate
• Additional roundtrip transportation service for guests from $20 per person
• Cake and champagne service for guests from $15 per guest

Prices for Tie the Know Harborside and Ashore vary by destination.  For price information, work with your travel agent or wedding coordinator.

EXQUISITE TOUCHES TO FULFILL YOUR DREAM

Many additional features are available.  If you can dream it, Princess will be happy to make it come true.

-Fresh custom flowers                       -Conch shell                   -Custom cakes                       -Dining receptions                      -Hor d’oeuvres bar                        – Ice sculpture                  -Wine packages                      -Champagne waterfall                     -Live musician                   -Spa and Salon services                         -Tuxedo rental                 -Bridal party dinner                      -Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

What do you think?  A Cruise Ship Wedding is a wonderful possibility.  If this fulfills your dream, I would be delighted to assist you.  Just give me a call or email me at (208) 964-3578 or 4anne@dreamalongtravel.com.  Princess pays me, so I cost you nothing at all.

Enjoy Dreaming,

He was turning two, so we wanted to celebrate by going camping with our grandson and daughter somewhere near Seattle.  I googled “great camping with a toddler near Seattle”.  Deception Pass State Park came up the winner due to the beaches and toddler friendly trails.  We headed out with our 1965 Chevy wagon and 1965 tent trailer (we are into vintage).  The park was two hours north of Seattle on Hwy I5 then west on Hwy 20 to Whidby Island.  Our first glimpse of Deception Pass came when we crossed the bridge high above the water spanning the cliffs.  It was spectacular with fall color just beginning to burst forth.  The recommendations suggested not walking across the bridge with a toddler but in the future we will definitely want to catch that vista on foot.

The campsites are a walk from the beach but most everyone is excellent (I did a lot of walking about the campground with a stroller.) My favorite was #170 which was up a little hill and no RV connections but felt as if you were in hobbit land.  From the campground you can walk to Cranberry Lake on one side of the inlet, then walk a dozen yards to the beach on the bay.  Two parks in one!  Cranberry Lake has a protected sandy beach open in the summer with life guards and a snack shack.

Liam, being just two, enjoys throwing things so “No, don’t throw,” is a frequently heard phrase.  Deception Pass was the perfect place for him as he found throwing rocks into the water was a grandparent approved activity.  Plenty of rocks and hours to do it until a worn little boy was ready for nap. (Scroll over the pictures to see the narrative.)

On Sunday, we took a ride to the little artist town of LaConner on the mainland a few minutes south of Hwy 20.  We visited two delightful art galleries.  “Cattails and Dragonflies” run by Gil and “The Artist Remarque” run by Gil’s wife, Rebecca.  They are both warm and friendly folks with many works of art to feast your eyes on.  If you get to LaConner, stop in for a chat.  After a wine tasting and a snack, we headed back to camp for Liam’s first campfire.

  We decided to return to Tacoma by driving south through Whidby Island and take the Port Townsen Ferry.  I would not recommend this with a toddler.  Though the scenery was pleasant rural hills and small towns, the traffic was stop and go.  The ferry ride was short and cost us $46.  The price is determined by measuring the length of the car plus tent trailer.  Liam did not want to return to his car seat after the ferry boat ride and was cranky the rest of the way.  Instead of the two and a half hour trip we had coming in, going back to Tacoma took us five hours.

As many of you know, I specialize in water, sun and sand to Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Costa Rica.  Deception Pass has now made my list of exceptional water, sun and sand places to go.  Yes, I know, it was September and rain was predicted yet we had many glorious moments of brilliant sunshine.  When not traveling to hot sunny sandy places or on cruise ship, you just can’t beat camping along the entire west coast, my home.

See you on the beach,

Anne

]]> http://dreamalongtravel.wordpress.com/2011/09/29/deception-pass-state-park-washington/feed/ 0 dreamalongtravel Deception Pass Beach G Happy Birthday Studying Technique OK, I'll give it a try. You give it a try, Grandma. Granpapa, let's see how you do it. Watch me! cattails and dragonflies Liam's first campfire Port Townsen Ferry http://dreamalongtravel.wordpress.com/2011/08/25/robin-to-barbados/ http://dreamalongtravel.wordpress.com/2011/08/25/robin-to-barbados/#comments Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:33:03 +0000 Dream Along Travel http://dreamalongtravel.wordpress.com/?p=205 ]]> Several  months ago, I introduced you to my associate, Robin Hawkey.  Boy has she been traveling lately…Jamaica, Barbados, Riviera Maya all this summer.  Between the two of us, we check out many resorts every year just so we can make good recommendations to our valued travelers.  We like to wine and dine, lay on the beach and tour the local sites.  That way we are confident your vacation will be one of relaxed luxury.

Robin loved Barbados!  She enthused over the tropical landscape, monkeys, and turtles.  “This is definitely an island for my clients,” exclaimed Robin when she got home. This island is safe. The locals are friendly and glad to have you there.  It is a clean and well-cared for British island, very beautiful.   Here are a few of the many pictures she took so you can get a feel of Barbados.

.    

Robin and her good friend Gail at the Almond Resorts

Adventuring about the island on a tour was a great way to experience all Barbados has to offer!

And then there was snorkeling off the catamaran, shopping and street parties. Even the bathrooms were cute!

If tropical water, sun and sand is your dream vacation, honeymoon or destination wedding, Barbados is worth checking out!

     On our last trip to Cabo San Lucas, my husband, Gene and I just hung out at the harbor and cantina.    We were in the mood to just relax and stroll.  For those bursting with energy, stop into one of the tourist shops along the walk into town to arrange an ATV trek or check out www.bajaoutback.com .  World class sport fishing awaits those with the lure of the sea.  My Dad, years ago, had the fishing trip of his lifetime here when a great upwelling of fish occured just as he and Uncle Owen set their poles.  Try www.picesssportfishing.com or www.pincantesportfishing.com to charter a boat. 

   Here kitty, kitty, give me a kiss.  A highlight for Gene and I was having our pictures taken with these lion cubs.  The local animal preserve uses this photo opportunity as a fund raiser.  These cuties were about 2 months old and obviously very accustomed to being handled.  The jaguar was not so friendly and gave Gene a nasty nip.

Love being seranaded by the Mariochis! Great fresh seafood for lunch!

   Remember the Eagles’ song, “Hotel California”?  Take a tour or rent a car for a 45 minute jaunt to the quaint town of Todos Santas.  This is the location of the namesake of the song.   Or better yet, rent a utility vehicle such as a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport for a back -country trip down the old road to La Paz.  You may be greeted by burros, cows, pigs, Mexican hawks along the dirt roads.  Stop in the tiny village of La Calenderia to visit the historic church and pause under the plumeria trees. 

     Into the party scene, Cabo is ready for you.  Clubs to visit starting about 11:00 pm include Cabo Wabo and Mandala.  For daytime party fun, try the Passion Club at the ME Cabo hotel on Medano Beach.

     Don’t forget to take a water taxi to get a close up view of the famous rock formations of Cabo. 

    As long as we are relaxing, the ultimate is worth investing in so stay at the  4 1/2 star Zoetry Casa Del Mar Los Cabos.     www.zoetryresorts.com   For romance, attention to your every need, stunning vistas, superb spa and a quiet setting, Zoetry Casa Del Mar is unsurpassed.  Better yet, plan to hold your wedding at Zoetry for exquisite beauty and grace. 

    Dreams Los Cabos Suites is another favorite of mine. www.dreamsresorts.com  Such a beautiful place to plan your wedding or honeymoon.  With their branded “Unlimited Luxury” you will be well pampered.  Just look at the honeymoon package they offer: 

This package is complimentary when booking a Honeymoon Suiteor higher for a minimum of 7 nights.

• Champagne on arrival
• Fresh flowers and exotic fruit platter in room upon arrival
• Champagne breakfast in bed the first morning after arrival
• Tension Release Massage for two in our couples massage suite (25 minutes)
• Choice of either a European Facial or a Salt Glow Scrub body treatment for two (25 minutes)
• Private beachfront dinner one evening- upon return from dinner you will find a romantic candlelit rose petal bath (includes bottle of wine)
• Private petit fours each evening at turn down service
• Earn Free Nights towards a first anniversary return stay

Both of these resorts are all-inclusive so every bit of food, drink and activities are INCLUDED!  You may find that you never want to venture away from the resort, there is so much to do and we mustn’t forget lying on the beach with a good book.

Next winter, when snow is on the ground, you will love being in Cabo San Lucas where near perfect weather is an everyday occurance.  For a getaway, honeymoon, destination wedding or romance rekindling…how about Cabo?

Smiles,

Anne

     From Petaluma, take Bodega Ave (get yourself a map) to Valley Ford Road, destination the village of Freestone. You will wind through gently rolling hills and emerald meadows reminecent of the English countryside resplendent with flocks of sheep and spring lambs.  Stop for a few few minutes in Freestone a blink-and-you-missed it rustic little town.  Save some tummy room for a sticky bun at the Wild Flour Bakery.  Spa enthusiasts must not miss an osmosis enzyme bath at the Osmosis world class spa hidden away in this tiny town. 

     Having totally indulged yourself, drift north again through wooded lanes to the quaint welcoming town of Occidental.  Lost in time with no expansion for decades, I always envision ladies of the 1920′s coming by train from San Francisco with broods of kids for their summer lodgings.  My mother, in fact was one of those children who learned to swim on the Russian River during summers in a cabin named “Don’t Worry”.  Her Dad came up for weekends while Grandma and six little ones played away the summer at Camp Meeker just down the road from Occidental. 

   Enjoy an Italian meal family style at Negris.   Walk around the town visiting the little shops for folk art.  Rest for the night in Occidental at The Inn At Occidental.  This is an exquisite bed and breakfast with all the romance , ambiance and delight to the eyes of a country home.  I personally recommend selecting The Inn at Occidental if you are celebrating a special occasion.  

     Next, we meandered up the redwood line roads towards Camp Meeker.  Just beyond we swerved left into the Alliance Redwoods.  My children went to school in the lodge here for three years long ago.  Now it is a bussling center for nature study classes and retreats.  More exciting, today though is the “Canopy Tours!  ZIP THE REDWOODS!!  7 adrenaline-pumping zip lines-one over 800′ long.”  My cousins purchased a gift certificate for their son’s anniversary package.   www.sonomacanopytours.com

     Still having a grand time, we continued past Alliance Redwoods to Monte Rio and Guerneville to Armstrong Redwoods.  I always feel as if hobbits are watching me from under dewy ferns in this enchanted forest of giant redwoods.  Cool and peaceful for an afternoon walk, my heart is filled with joy at the beauty of God’s creation.    Another way to tour Armstrong Redwoods is on a segway.  To set that up contact http://segwayofhealdsburg.com/.  Ask for my son, Michael Del Vecchio, to be your guide!

     Do you like champagne?  We are in the wine country so you must visit the Korbel Champagne Cellars.  Tasting and tours are free.  My favorite is the “Natural”.  Here is our darling wine server and my grinning husband.  The tour includes a facinating story about the Korbell family history so be sure to catch it. 

   Of course, a stop in Sebastopol at the Fosters Freeze for a soft-serve icecream is a must.  This was my husband’s restaurant for 22 years and boy do I miss my daily dipped cone.  Thanks for coming along on my favorite Sonoma County tour.  We didn’t visit many wineries or take a side trip to the coast but you can on your trip. 

Have fun travel dreaming,

Anne

Couples Resort Jamaica, May 2011

Couples Swept Away

     Robin Hawkey and I have been in the travel business together from the outset.  She is the owner of Bridal Honeymoons, HoneymoonsbyRobin.com, Wine Country Connections, and Personal Wine Tours.  She is one fantastic travel agent knowlegable in all the exotic sand and sun locations.  As a life long resident in the California wine country, her expertise is invaluable for those wanting a destination wedding in Sonoma or Napa County.

Now that I have introduced Robin, let’s go to Jamaica!  Robin just spent eight days with her husband Randy at the Couples Resort in Jamaica and boy did she have fun!  Couples is for….well who do you think?….COUPLES.  No kids allowed.  So if you and your honeybunch want a trip just for two this is a place we highly recommend. They have several locations and one of them is just right for you.   Three of my brides are headed to luxury, pampering and PARTY at Couples this summer and I don’t know how many Robin is sending also.  Couples is big on sales so we can grab you a great price PLUS EVERYTHING, I MEAN EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED!  Robin told me she was planning on taking some tours but there was so much to do at the resort along with just laying on the beach, she just never had time to leave.  Oh my, what a problem…anyone want to go there soon?

Check it out!

                                                  Good Morning from Jamaica!         

We chose a garden view room, which was quite nice as we could still see the ocean.    At Couples the water sports are included free.

We just loved this Jamaican man singing on the beach!

Can’t wait to get into the pool.  Randy, the catamaran cruise is a must do!  Hey, do you want to make a hat?

There are so  many fun things to do.  Not only did we learn about Jamaican cooking we enjoyed it.  The food was fabulous!

We took the Couples transport to a sister resort Couples Negril.  This is the famous massage tree house at Couples Negril. The Rock House of Negril is just the place for Pirates of the Caribbean….Whooo.

A couple was getting married while we were there and even though it rained shortly before the wedding, it was so beautiful.  Later the bride trashed the dress in the surf.  (Robin caught it on video and promised to send it to me for this blog.)

     That’s it for today.  Would love to do a blog about your travels.  Just email me at 4anne@dreamalongtravel.com your pictures and your story.  Happy Dreaming,  Anne Marie