Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Dreaming of warmer weather

I'm sure you've been waiting to hear all about my fabulous trip to the Bahamas. First, let me say that I had the best luck with travel. I had an odd situation, but it all worked out for the best. My flight was out of O'Hare at 7:30 am on Monday the 12th. I hitched a ride on the Van Galder bus from UW Memorial Union at 2:30 am to the airport. Yes, I did stay up and no, I did not get any sleep (at least anything qualifying as tangible) on the bus ride down. However, it worked out very well. Layover in Charlotte, and was on the resort grounds by 2 pm...beach by 3 pm.

Realizing I needed some sleep, lest I be a walking zombie, I took a quick nap before the welcome reception. For those of you who know me, I am NEVER able to take naps...there's always too much running through my mind. However, I was in the Bahamas, had just spent some time on the beach, so my mind was completely calm enough (and deprived enough) to get in a nap.

The team at Sandals set up some beautiful table schemes for us at the four course dinner they served. See below...





By the way, let me say a special "thank you" to the catering team at Sandals Royal Bahamian because when I indicated that I was vegetarian, they accommodated me with deliciously prepared tofu on my main course! I later found out that if you meet with your concierge upon your arrival and notify them of special allergies or dietary restrictions, they can make accommodations for your entire trip. Sure, it might take some extra planning (go to certain restaurants on certain days), but at least you still get to try their delicious food - prepared especially for you!

So, here's the gist - we learned that Sandals resorts have become more than just your average "all inclusive" resorts. To stay competitive, they have created an all new focus called "Luxury Included." This difference means:
- a wide range of land and watersports
- suite concierge service
- gourmet dining
- golf and other fitness privileges
- Essentially, it just means you get MORE! More quality, quantity, consistency, choice, luxury and pampering!

And I know this for a fact, because I experienced it. Most of the staff didn't know I wasn't there on my own dime (though I'm sure sitting with a group of ladies gave it away, rather than being with my husband).

We also learned a lot about their Weddingmoons packages. This is where you and your family would have your wedding celebration at one of their resorts, then start your honeymoon right away! Celebrity designer Preston Bailey has partnered with Sandals to create magical themes for "weddingmoon-ers" to choose from when designing the look and feel of their beach wedding. Here are some more images of this property in the Bahamas and their wedding facilities. Enjoy!










If you're stressing about your traditional, local wedding, contact me about a Sandals or Beaches Weddingmoon. I can also help you learn more about the different resorts for your honeymoon or even just a vacation. Here's to dreaming of warmer weather, Wisconsinites!

Friday, January 9, 2009

Look out Bahamas, here I come!

It's going to be the coldest it's been this season next week here in Wisconsin and I'm fed up. I'm leaving. No, don't try to convince me to stay...the Bahamas are calling my name! So, literally, I'm heading out to the Bahamas on Monday to visit the Sandals Grand Bahamanian Resort. Sandals and the Association of Bridal Consultants have a relationship and they invited 25 of us to come out and view the resort so we can tell all our beautiful wedding couples about it's glory.

Many of you may not have known of this special relationship, but you should! If you decided that a Sandals honeymoon (or heck, even just a vacation!) was for you, you can book through me and receive special perks! For example, a current special running at the Sandals Grande Ocho Rios (see inset picture) in Jamaica is a savings of 60%, one free night, and a $250 spa package to use when you get there! How awesome is that?

After I return from the Bahamas, I'll give you the low down on that fabulous resort. No matter if you're a current client, a friend, or anyone else who happened upon this blog, let me know if you're interested in a vacation or honeymoon at Sandals Resorts and I'll get you the deals that you can't get on your own.

Stay warm, Wisconsin!