How To Save $36,567 On Your Next Vacation!

Everyone wants to travel, but it amazes me when I hear savvy people complain about the extras they had to pay for their travels.  Here are a few ideas to save some cashola on your next trip to help become the seed money for your next Divine Destination!

        1. Book the package deal, not a la carte and book it EARLY!

 You can save up to 30% or more simply by buying the full meal deal.  Nothing says "nickle & dimed" more than the deal you thought you got online.  How?  Upon checking in you realize you need to pay for your carry-on, yes, even your backpack!  Secondly, after arriving in the destination you realize you are on your own to hail a taxi to your resort but your (insert foreign language of choice) is less than stellar.  Once you've settled in and made friends at the swim-up bar you realize they booked six months earlier than you and saved mucho dinero.  #buzzkill  Potential savings $500

        

          2.  Pack in a carry on

      

       Better yet, love them & leave them.  Pack clothes that you would've given to the Goodwill next season, wear them one last time and leave them for the maid to re purpose as she pleases.  This will now free up your carry on to ship home souvenirs and avoid the costly luggage fees. Potential savings $75

     

             3. Travel with a empty water bottle

      

       By traveling with an empty water bottle you can fill it up AFTER you get through TSA.  This will keep you hydrated and avoid the drying effects of airplane air in addition to saving you on the venti mocha grande from the name brand coffee house. Potential savings $7

    

      

                      4. Bring snacks

      Did you know that some airlines have pulled back as far as not serving snacks or beverages complimentary?  Some are even (God forbid) toying with the idea of charging you to use the lavatory!  When you travel, especially with children, it's a good idea to pack your own snacks. Granola bars, cheese sticks, fruit leather and raisins make for healthy snacks that pack well.  Potential savings $10

       5. Buy the insurance for price protection/bag delay/stolen passports

      

       Think that travel insurance is just a ponzi scheme?  Think again. What happens when your week vacation begins with lost baggage and there you are in the Caribbean with your jeans and NHL hoodie on.  Imagine getting your passport stolen.  How will you fly home without an ID?  And finally, you took my advice and booked early but the fares dropped afterwards.  Without the right travel insurance you won't                                                             see a refund. Potential savings $500

        6.  Don’t get trapped in the Lion’s Den

           Probably the best way to save money on your vacation is to avoid the Lion's Den.  What is this?  This is the place at the airport where people pose as shuttle drivers but what they really are trying to do is deter you from your vacation in an effort to sell you a time share.  Don't think this will happen to you?  On a recent trip to the Happiest Place on Earth, yours truly got roped into this.  Six hours later, two crabby toddlers, one hungry husband and a blessed bottle of celebratory champagne, we signed on the line and found ourselves thousands of dollars in the red along with a legal                                               binding contract that darn near took an act of congress to get out                                                 of.  True story!  Potential savings $35,475.47

Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva at Divine Destinations, cuts through the clutter of online vacation planning and obscure traveler ratings by using her industry expertise, first hand knowledge of the products and relationships with the resort management.  If you want the best vacation with the greatest value: call us at 218/348-2825 or follow us on twitter @4divinedeals

We Just Got Back!

We all love to read about people's adventures while traveling and look at their pictures.  We are launching a new column called, "We Just Got Back!" where we will feature someone who just returned from their Divine Destination!  It is our goal that you will enjoy the stories and photos and even spark you curiosity to go on a Divine Destination of your own! This first edition will feature a couple from, Barnum, MN; meet Jamie & Kristi Wickstrom:

Getting away with my husband to celebrate 27 years of marriage was amazing but the island of St Lucia is more than I ever imagined!  The scenery was spectacular both above and below sea level!  We like to do a combination of relaxing and activities and St Lucia offers both. We were able to do an easy hike on Pigeon Island and learn history of St Lucia, then hiked the Gros Piton (I made it half way and Jamie went all the way!) and did a water and land tour with Exodus. This tour was a combo of snorkeling, mud bath, waterfall, food/drink and a boat ride.  

All the food was wonderful.  We like having so many choices - the fresh seafood was amazing!  I had a delicious local version of lemonade and of course, several rum drinks. I love that the restaurants serve small portions so you can try other foods or order a double of something.  At the French Restaurant we had 4 of the 5 appetizers along with multiple entrees.  It's fun to try new foods yet have the favorites available too.  If I could change anything, I'd stay longer!  Since this was our second Sandals vacation we were more prepared.  We planned our week for relaxing and activities, got our reservations in early, and took advantage of the concierge and more of the included amenities. St Lucia is called the Honeymoon Capital of the World; definitely geared for couples from Honeymooners to Seniors. 

 

What we appreciate most is the ease of working with Jennifer. The travel went smoothly; our helicopter transfer and both tours were well put together.  This was a wonderful and memorable vacation!

These Are a Few Of Our Favorite Things

I've compiled a list of travel must haves.  I hope this will inspire you to travel better, lighter and even more fun by incorporating some of my tried and true must haves.  These also make great gifts for that favorite vagabond on your list - just click the links to learn more!

1. Samsonite Hard Side 21" Spinner

Bigger is NOT always better; in luggage especially.  With the weight restrictions these days, the overage charges are another way to make your cheap ticket not such a great deal.  This little guy packs a lot of punch in style, versatility and durability.  Bonus: you can easily stow this puppy in the overhead compartment.

2. Crossbody Urban Bag by eBags

I travel alone many times a year and personal safety is a priority.  A friend showed me once what easy targets women are: we are preoccupied with fumbling around for things in our purse like keys and phones and often times we become the victim.  This bag allows for me to have both hands free in the event I need them to fend off bad guys or simply cradle that coveted Skinny Mocha Grande No Whip from Starbucks at 00 dark thirty.  Bonus: the three compartments hold everything from an iPad, keys, money and cell phones without the bulk or mess of a purse.

3. Personal Humidifier

No one likes the way you feel after waking up in a hotel especially after you erronously set the thermostat before hitting the hay.  Cough cough, ugh, I think I feel a cold coming on just thinking of that.  Enough said.  Bonus: these little gems travel well and are easy to use since all they run on is bottled water found in your hotel refridgerator

4. Power Pack

There is nothing worse than running low on juice especially in airports without the luxury of multiple power stations. Luckily, you can tote some extra juice of your own these days.  I prefer the block which will charge all devices.  Bonus: these are small in size and price but mighty in performance!

                                        5. Travel Pillow

 Some people can get amazing amounts of work done on the flight.  I seem to  turn narcoleptic unless I have a chatty neighbor or am sitting in Economy  Comfort.  One too many times of waking up on the shoulder of the guy      next to me (akward) has made this on my list of must haves. Bonus: you can    inflate & deflate quickly making this one less accessory to deal with while boarding the plane.

6. Poopouri My Mom bought this for me as a stocking stuffer one year.  Like many of her other quirky gifts, it sat in the gift graveyard; I didn't understand its value.  She asked me one day if I took it on my recent trip.  She expanded to tell me it is the best at covering up the smell after I go poo.  Bonus: You have to watch the video to truly understand - click the link! 

                  7. Wisps

After countless coffees and perhaps a celebratory Bloody Mary my breath is well, you get the picture.  Without water, I can quickly wisp away the stains, furry feeling and smells of bad breath before landing.  Bonus: readily available and travel well in purse or outside carry on pocket 

8. Pashina/Wrap

Gone are the days of a blanket on every seat of the airplane.  A Pashina or convertible wrap keeps you cozy on the flight and in the boardroom you may be traveling to which you know is almost making snow the A/C is set so low!  Bonus: these are way more practical than bringing along a stadium blanket; save that for the game.

9. Leggings

Not a staple in my everyday wardrobe, however, if it's winter, you'll find these under my maxidress.  These hideous leg coverings (sorry I hate leggings) keep me warm between wicked midwest winter weather and the ocean breezes of Paradise.  Bonus: these are easily slipped off in the bathroom and stowed in your carryon.  Yes, bathroom.  Please do your neighbor a favor and do this in private.

10. Kindle App

Why use two (or ten) when one will suffice?  I recently traveled with a friend who carried her phone, laptop, tablet, kindle, files, notebooks, books and full size calculator.  She probably had more in that ginormous bag, but I stopped at calculator because I was in disbelief.  It was a teachable moment (between outbursts of laughter) to show her that "there's an app for that".  Download the app and ditch the rest for traveling.  Find books and audio books to download and bring with you. Bonus: if you want to save a few bucks and borrow vs buy, the library (yes they still exist) carries many free downloadable books.  Check out the Overdrive for 14 day lending options.

Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva at Divine Destinations, cuts through the clutter of online vacation planning and obscure traveler ratings by using her industry expertise, first hand knowledge of the products and relationships with the resort management.  If you want the best vacation with the greatest value: call us at 218/348-2825 or follow us on twitter @4divinedeals

5 Reasons to Call a Travel Agent For Your Next Vacation

So many times I'm asked, "Do people still use a travel agent?" with a tone in their voice like we're talking about a rotary phone or an 8 track player.  No, travel agents aren't dead, however, like everything, some are better than others.  In addition, some people still like to DIY, however, this short list will help you decide if working with a travel agent is for you.

1. Saves Time 

Did you know that the average person who books online has spent about 5 hours in research alone?  Why waste five hours researching only to end up full of self doubt wondering if you really got the best vacation you were looking for?  We all have busy lives and most of us would agree we don't have enough hours in a day already.  Do what you do best and hire the rest! 

2. Expertise

I understand it's fun to look at all the options at first, however, anyone can make a picture look good.  Have you actually been there to know if that resort is really beach front, or has the photo been edited and truly, the resort is across the street from a heavily populated public beach?  I have personally traveled to over 14 countries in the past three years.  Chances are, I've been there, seen that, ate that, touched that, experienced that.  14 stamps can't be wrong.

3. Real Person

This is my favorite.  Although the dot com travel agencies have a call center, it's likely "Irene from Detroit with the heavy Indian accent" is not really in Detroit, nor is her name Irene, in fact, she's probably never been to the any of the destinations you are calling about nor can she understand you any better than you can understand her.  My clients have access to me 24/7 while traveling in addition to another 800# in case I'm not available.  Never will they be stranded, even in the brutal Midwest winters, Volcanic Ash clouds or aboard a defective cruise ship.  

4. They think of the whole package

A great travel agent will encompass much more than just the plane tickets; they will design your entire experience.  This doesn't mean you have to book all of these experiences, but how would you know the difference, if they never offered it.  You don't fly to Jamaica and stand in line with the hundreds of other people who don't know any better.  Instead, you arrive like the VIP you are!

5. Saves You Money

Did you know that travel agents still have the best deals?  It's true.  We also know the ins and outs that will save you money.  Some agents charge a fee for their Time, Expertise, Human Factor and Total Package.  And why not?  If at the end of the day they save you time, money and hassle of trying to DIY, they should!   Did you know that at Divine Destinations we will gladly price match ANY package you find online and give you a $50 credit towards your next vacation?  It's true!  

Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva at Divine Destinations, cuts through the clutter of online vacation planning and obscure traveler ratings by using her industry expertise, first hand knowledge of the products and relationships with the resort management.  If you want the best vacation with the greatest value: call us at 218/348-2825 or follow us on twitter @4divinedeals

4 Ways to Get to Your Resort in St Lucia

How do you get to your resort in St Lucia? Let me count the ways:

One can get to their resort about as many different ways as there is to serve Piton beer, but there are more common ways than others. 

First of all, if you want to be like everyone else, then take the shuttle service to your resort.  Most higher end resorts offer this as part of the package for no additional fee. This is a great economical way to see the island en route to your destination while also meeting some of the people you will also most likely see at dinner and around the pool.  Be nice.  You most likely will be here at least seven days. 

Second is the private car transfer.  This is my favorite because the driver is so chatty.  He will tell you the history of the island, the culture, the resort and even his family if you ask.  They are the most friendly people and the safest island in the Caribbean. With a private car transfer you can stop for photo opportunities and even grab a local beer, Piton, or a road side stand for Roti, cassava cake or even homemade bread. 

The most adventurous way would be to rent a car.   This is not for the timid as they drive on the opposite side of the road with their steering wheels on the opposite side as well.  Oh yeah, and I never saw a street light or even a stop sign while I was there either.  Imagine the confusion an American would have; especially an American who refuses to ask directions.  Enough said.

Lastly, and the most coveted way to get to your resort, would be through the private helicopter transfer.  I love booking these as surprise add ons for Honeymoon clients!  Generally one spouse books it as a surprise for the other, but this is a super way to see the island both interior and aerial in about 15 minutes vs 90+ minutes.  Once your helicopter lands at the airport near the northern side of the island, you will be met by a private driver who will take you the rest of the way. Remember, if you choose this mode of transportation, your luggage will follow you about three hours later by car.  This is the ultimate way to begin your vacation, Honeymoon or special escape whatever the occasion.  

When booking your trip St Lucia, be sure to book with the expert, or Destination Diva, Jennifer at Divine Destinations!  

Jennifer specializes in romance travel and everything Caribbean.  Next time you need to escape, remember, we know because we've been there and done that.  Let us guide you to the right destinations through our passion for the destination and our expertise. www.4divinedeals.com 

Cancun Airport

I recently visited Cancun this past month and found a few improvements.  Cancun airport welcomed over 20 million visitors in 2011 and forecasts show that number continues to grow annually.  For welcoming this many visitors, I was a little surprised to see how small the airport truly was.  However, there is a little bit of comfort in small.  Small means choosing carousel 1-6 to retrieve your bag. Small means a short walk to el bano after clearing customs. Small also means, "Let's get in and get out and on to our vacation! VAMANOS!"

After clearing customs and immigrations, you will exit through a long corridor I've lovingly nicknamed, "The Lion's Den".  Here you will be barraged by "well meaning" people who will try to offer you a shuttle transfer when in disguise they will rob you of your precious vacation hours by detouring you through one of their time share presentations.  Here is when your Kindergarten teacher's wisdom and voice should ring loud and clear, "Don't talk to strangers".  I'd take it one step further, don't even LOOK at strangers.  I know this goes against the Minnesota Nice culture, but your vacation is waiting for you....OUTSIDE the airport doors.  

Your travel documents should have listed who will be picking you up OUTSIDE the airport.  Generally, the fine amigos from Lomas are our in destination go to gurus.  You can find them wearing white pants and beautiful Caribbean Sea azul shirts. Their warm and welcoming smile (and perhaps a personalized sign with your name on it) should put you at ease instantly knowing they will take care of your coming and going. If you upgraded to a private transfer, expect to be whisked away in a luxurious Lincoln Navigator.  Prefer to socialize and see the other resorts en route to your own?  Then a shared shuttle will be your best mode of transportation.  

Upon the conclusion of your vacation, the fine gentlemen of Lomas will pick you up and bring you back to the airport.  It doesn't stop there though.  Too much tequila or an early flight leave you a little foggy?  Don't worry, Lomas will all but hold your hand through the process of checking your bags, printing your boarding passes and getting you to your security checkpoint.  From there you are on your own to enjoy one last cerveza, burrito or even purchase duty free items.  But before you say, "Adios", please be sure to tip the men for their services.  An average tip is $3-5/bag and for the private transfers, you may find it more valuable to get to your resort faster, therefore, tip accordingly.  I have yet to see an American work as hard as they do in Mexico; don't take it for granted or expect it.  Instead, reward their efforts and in doing so, know you are making a difference in their lives and families as well.

Economy Comfort; Row 11C

So what does a $49 upgrade get you these days?  Aboard my four hour flight from Atlanta to St Lucia I was able to answer that question.  

Early boarding privileges in Zone 1; had I not been coming in from Timbuktu, I would have made it instead of getting in line with general boarding.  This early boarding should also afford the coveted overhead bin for my carry on, however, see the previous statement.  Once seated, I'm close enough to First Class to see them being offered drinks in glass glasses and taking their made to order food order for later.  Economy Comfort gets a bird's eye view of what we want but weren't willing to pay for.  As my kids would say, seated directly behind First Class makes us First Losers.  

Onto beverage service.  Complimentary spirits for everyone seated in Economy Comfort....well kind of.  IF the seat belt sign isn't illuminated that is.  Sorry, all this traveling and blogging makes me thirsty.  About an hour after take off, the service begins.  Thankfully, the call button isn't too far out of my reach, I'll be calling her by name before we land.  

The biggest reason most people want Economy Comfort is for the 50% more leg room.  To be honest, at my towering height of 60" (hey, it sounds taller than 5') the more legroom is more of a nuisance because I can't reach anything comfortably.  As I type, I have a pillow shoved behind me so I can reach the tray table and I feel like I'm fishing for my bag each time I reach for it.  Unlike First Class, my feet at least reach the floor since the seats are the same size as coach, just a little wider rows.  I was happy to find a fuzzy red blanket waiting for me along with the pillow.  

Also, by being in the front of the plane I am in a better spot in the event we experience turbulence.  Remember how much fun it was riding the back of the school bus as children?  Well, those rules don't apply while flying unless you have a cast iron stomach and fetish for theme park rides; up front is much smoother.  

And my favorite reason for upgrading?  First on means first off and I get to begin my vacation faster than the unlucky ones in row 47F.   Grandma Effie always said Hawaii was Paradise but she never got to experience St Lucia.  I disagree; St Lucia is the Hawaii of the Caribbean, so off to Paradise I go!  

Do you upgrade your coach seats?  If so, what has been your experience?  Do you feel it's worth the extra cost or just another airline scheme to make a few more bucks? 

Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva at Divine Destinations is a St Lucia Specialist and is in the business of making your next vacation a Divine Destination! Contact her for more information direct at jennifer@4divinedeals.com or tweet her @4divinedeals 

A Divine Destination Wedding...

If you are going to challenge a travel agent, you do that by booking an 80-person destination wedding with people coming in from multiple destinations around the country. If you need a travel agent to book this for you, you should definitely reach out to Jennifer Maki at Divine Destinations. We had our wedding at the Excellence Riviera Cancun in Mexico in May 2014 and Jennifer made sure that it was a seamless process. Most destination trips involve everyone coming in from one place for a certain amount of time, but almost all our guests were coming for different ranges of dates and from different airports. She made sure that everything was organized with the resort, from airport transfers to room locations and other bonuses. If you are ever doing a destination trip, whether it's a wedding or company retreat, then we highly recommend Jennifer.

From Marc & Melissa Schapiro - May 2014

Radisson Blu downtown MSP

On a recent midsummer evening, before taking in one of the all American past times, a Twins baseball game, I had the pleasure of checking in to the brand new Radisson Blu in downtown Minneapolis. What a beauty she is! The warm smiles and welcoming attitudes of the front desk staff quickly softened the modern and cool edges of the contemporary lobby. As I made my way to my room I was in awe of the attention to details. It was suspenseful riding in the elevator as I anticipated what my room would look like. Upon entering my room I immediately let out an "OMG!" this place is amazing!

The bathroom was larger than one needed, but as a woman, I appreciated the extra space and even the cute little stool in the shower for shaving. 

The bedroom was secluded by a wall giving privacy yet still being somewhat open and airy; almost a loft living experience.

 

The bed was amazing with the variety of pillows, high quality linens and the cool color scheme made it easy to melt away to dreamland.

The separate living room was nice too as there was plenty of seating for pre game libations or if you had a few emails to catch up on, you could at the desk via the hotel's complimentary wi-fi. Looking out the window, I was a mere two blocks away from Target field making this location a must for games, concerts or other festivities happening in the area. Because I drove in from northern Minnesota, I was happy to drop my car with the valet. It was fast, professional and uber convienent.

Although my morning began quite early I wasn't able to take advantage of the Fire Lake restaurant, but from what I saw, this place would be a great location for a small group to hang out before an event or even grab a cozy corner table with someone to just hang out and take in the ambiance.

They've knocked it out of the park with this renovation! Overall, I give this hotel a 10:10 for location, service, amenities and comfort. Don't even bother with the others. When you want new, think Blu; Radisson Blu.

Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva at Divine Destinations, cuts through the clutter of online vacation planning and obscure traveler ratings by using her industry expertise, first hand knowledge of the products and relationships with the resort management.  If you want the best vacation with the greatest value: call us at 218/348-2825 or follow us on twitter @4divinedeals

Every Traveler Has a Story....

As I travel from Duluth to Chicago and eventually to the home of Vanilla Ice's, A-1-A Beachfront Ave, I am thoroughly enjoying people watching.  Everyone has a story that I wish I could hear about, but not everyone takes kindly to "Minnesota Nice". The middle aged woman sporting her STAR WARS T-shirt for example.  ?? Is she going to a Star Wars reunion or simply following common midwest dress code of graphic tees?  Just look at the man wearing the ginormous straw hat in the O'Hare airport; where could he be going or coming from to need that accessory?  Everyone wears earbuds as a bold yet quiet statement that gently reminds me, "I don't want to talk to you". 

My seat mate sported his "Lake Superior Skydivers" sweatshirt but there was no chance of small talk with this guy as he quickly told me, "don't bug me, I'm going to try to get some sleep"... HA! A little birdie must've told him I was a Chatty Cathy!  So I complied but fell asleep....(gasp) on his arm!  Oopsie....

There is a saying that goes something like, "be nice to everyone you meet as you don't know the battle they are going through." What a powerful reminder.  Especially when the guy ahead of you in line at Starbucks drops his briefcase and the contents spill like a box of Legos or the woman who can't get her mobile boarding pass to work and slows the boarding process and don't forget the passenger who insists on saving $25 on checked bag fees and wrestles their bag into the overhead compartment like shoving a marshmallow in a piggy bank!

Are you a people watcher too?  If so, I hope this is a gentle reminder to you that we are all on a journey to somewhere and as you pack your bags, don't forget your compassion and a sense of humor; trust me, you're going to need it!  Wheels up - here we go! 

Store Your Treasures in Your Heart, Not Your Home

Today is Monday.  Garbage Day in my neighborhood.  As I look outside at all the boxes, cans, bags and canister full of garbage, I'm reminded of how many "things" I've purchased and consumed this past year.  How many of these things are still making memories?  Taking up space? Still being paid for on the MasterCard? I'd venture to say many of you can relate.  I see empty cans from staining the deck. Cans of unused sidewalk salt turned into salt licks with all the humidity. I see boxes from the latest snow  boots, ski boots and even hip waders.  Inside the canister is a story all of it's own.  I won't go there.

Now I'm all about recycling, repurposing and reusing, but there comes a time when enough is enough and we realize it's not about things but memories, experiences.  I can remember my kids watching Veggie Tales, Madame Blueberry...going to the StuffMart.  She gathered stuff because she could, she felt better, I don't know.  Imagine if your daily latte was eliminated or you ate out one time less each week or even brown bagged it for lunch (gasp!) This example alone shaved $5500 off my expenses and could easily fund one grand vacation or several smaller ones. Need to run to StuffMart (again?!) My all time favorite is going to the store for XYZ and coming out with the entire alphabet!  How'd that happen????  My point is, if we were more intentional about what we bought we would have more to spend on memories like traveling. 

I met a gal the other day who told me of her family's travels once a quarter.  They'd seen more of the world than National Geographic, I'm sure of it.  She told me how people assume she's so rich, after all, who can afford to travel to all ends of the earth so often?  Then she reminded them it's all about priorities.  They don't spend thousands of dollars on camping equipment, they backpack through Europe.  Nor do they have the latest and greatest skis or snowshoes; they safari in Africa.  No cabin in the woods for this family; they prefer to spend time in Paris.  This may seem drastic to you, for me, it sounds amazing!  

So as you clean out, up or otherwise, consider tightening your budget belt on the little pleasures which add up to much bigger pleasures in the end: memories of time spent with your family.  That my friends, is priceless. 

Jen Maki of Divine Destinations delivers travel dreams on a daily basis to her clients.  She’s available to chat with you about your dreams and help you design your Divine Destination! 218/348-2825 or jennifer@4divinedeals.com

Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is the official kickoff to summer and a time to remember those who fought for our freedom. It's almost over.  As we eagerly anticipated it's arrival by planning the camping trip or opening of the cabin to the packing list and obsessing over the weekend forecast (Can it be true?? 80s all weekend without rain?!?!) It's almost over.  This got me thinking....time is fleeting.  What are you doing with your time? Are you spending it with family and friends or has the internet or XBox 1become your BFF?  If you have children, you may have realized you only have 18 summers with them before they are gone.  If you've lost a loved one you know all too well the time you had was precious, however, cut short nonetheless.  

As we fill our summer calendars with soccer practice, baseball games, summer camps and whatever else we can find to busy ourselves and children with, I propose a challenge:  Instead of forking over hundreds of dollars, if not thousands, for all these things to keep the kids busy this summer, why not plan a family vacation?  You could even make it a family affair by getting everyone in on the fun!  Decide as a family the budget, where to go and start planning! It doesn't have to be extravagant but it does need to happen.  We are only here a short time but what we do while we are here is all that matters.  Start making memories with the ones you love NOW!  If you need some inspiration, give us a call or check out our website for some fun or unexpected destinations.  Is this the year you finally take the kids to see Mount Rushmore or maybe swim with dolphins in the Caribbean? That is the question and therefore the challenge.  Are you up for it? 

Jennifer Maki, owner of Divine Destinations, is the chief memory maker and self professed Destination Diva!  Trust her to handle your most precious commodities: time and money!  She will design a fabulous vacation that you will treasure for years to come!  Are you a Veteran or Active Military?  Divine Destinations proudly offers 10% off to you and your family on many venues, be sure to ask us about it! 218/348-2825 Jennifer@4divinedeals.com 

VIP in MBJ

If you must leave Jamaica, THIS is the ONLY way to do it. 

If you've traveled internationally even once, you know what a circus it can be. Imagine crowds of people from different tongues, a sea of suitcases, sunburnt and dreading the return to home, wherever that may be. There are long lines to wait in and confusion of how to print a boarding pass, it's not a place for the timid and mind you, you haven't even began the TSA screen process!

Enter Club MoBay.  This is a little piece of heaven within one of the busiest leisure airports in the world.  Club MoBay is right before you enter the intrusive TSA lines, after you've dropped your luggage and printed your boarding passes.  The representative will ESCORT you through the lines, bypassing the crowds and saving those precious last few hours of your time in Jamaica. From here they will bring you to a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the airport's fast food eateries and shopping kiosks.  It is here you are welcomed with a warm Jamaican smile and a buffet of appetizers, open bar, wifi and of course, comfy seating areas to watch tv on the big screens. 

  

                                             

This is perfect whether traveling solo or with a group.  Want a massage? Need a shower? It's all here! For a minimal cost, you can have this experience and feel like a VIP as well.  Just announced, Diners Club, certain airline partners and more will be able to access Club MoBay as part of their membership benefits.  In Jamaica, they never say goodbye, they say, "soon come back"!  

Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva for Divine Destinations, has traveled the world extensively from Alaska to Antigua and proudly claims the title as Diva because of her expertise. Life is hard; travel shouldn't be. Call on the expert, or Diva, when you need a vacation.  Jennifer will ensure you'll have a Divine Destination! www.4divinedeals.com or Jennifer@4divinedeals.com @4divinedeals on twitter or faceboook.com/4divinedeals