Category Archives: Customer Service

Money saving tips for booking your winter vacation

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Here are some of our favorite travel tips for keeping you and your family traveling this winter while still keeping your budget intact.

  1. Look for a vacation package – Often times, you’ll get a better deal when you buy a package that includes your airfare, hotel and transfers, and you’ll save your own time by not piecing your vacation together from several different travel sites. Apple Vacations packages can include round-trip air, hotel accommodations, hotel transfers, all meals and drinks and taxes and fees. You’ll know the entire cost of your vacation up front.
  2. Make sure you’re comparing Apples to Apples – most online travel companies do not include hotel transfers, which could add another $100 each way. With Apple Vacations, hotel transfers are always included in international destinations.
  3. All-inclusives are the way to go – today’s all-inclusives have great dining options. A la carte restaurants, room service and your beverages are all included. There won’t be any unexpected bills at check out.
  4. If you know the dates you want to travel or have a particular hotel in mind, buy your vacation as soon as possible. This winter, we are seeing the best dates and hotels selling out already. So while you may have gotten a great last minute deal in year’s past, this winter you may not get your first or second choices unless you book early. Apple Vacations AVOK vacation protection offers a cash-back feature, where if the price of your vacation goes down after purchase, we will refund the difference so you know you’re always getting the best price.
  5. Your time is valuable too – Spend more time on the beach and not in the airport with Apple Vacations’ nonstop vacation flights. This winter, Apple Vacations will have 130 nonstop vacation flights to sunny destinations.
  6. Shop the sales like Apple Vacations SuperSale – Each November, Apple Vacations holds its biggest sale of the year, discounting brand name resorts like Iberostar, Riu, Secrets and Dreams for winter travel dates. SuperSale ends Nov. 22nd.

 

Apple Vacations SuperSale from an Agent’s Perspective

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As 2012 comes to an end, the travel agent community would like to say “Thank You, Apple!” for your continued support of our businesses. Not only have we learned to work together in making every vacation dream come true, but along the way have formed great friendships!

Some agencies really dislike this time of year, but we thrive on it. Generally, October – January is a slow time for our agency, since most people have already booked their winter vacations and at least deposited their spring break trips you can find many agents looking for new ways to promote themselves and their skills.

 WE LOVE Apple Vacations SuperSale. We use this opportunity to advertise for those procrastinators that haven’t purchased a holiday gift for that “hard to buy for” family member or friend. Usually the first week of November, we hit the social media outlet pretty hard with our sales and before you know it, our agents are booking away.  We have trained ourselves to notice the good deals during high season (high season is an agent / not consumer term maybe say winter?)  People shouldn’t expect the $699 for 7 night deals during the high travel season. Keep in mind that when it’s cold here, it’s warm weather destinations such as Mexico & The Caribbean! 

Kimberly’s Travel Discounts – Kim Pack & Sherry Bailey

Kimberly’s Travel Discounts number one best seller during November: GIFT CERTIFICATES  with Apple Vacations! You cannot go wrong with this type of gift. You can use it for virtually anything Apple has and there isn’t anything better than the gift of travel.

Have your agent keep you in the loop about any upcoming sales. Sometimes we know ahead of time which resort chains will go on sale, not always but sometimes we get a “sneak preview”. One week it could be the RIU Resorts, the next week could be the Iberostar Resorts. Stay in contact with your agent, they are there for you; you just have to give them the chance!

I think it’s very important for each client to be up-front about what they expect out of their vacation. If someone tells me “I just want a good deal” that doesn’t give us a lot to go on. I can put you anywhere, but would prefer to put you somewhere that you’ll enjoy.  Anyone can book a “good deal” but it takes an outstanding agent to book a “great vacation”.

A large majority of the public think we charge fees for our service, my agency has never ever charged a fee and 9 times out of 10 we are going to find you a better deal than what you can find on your own. Granted, there are some agencies out there that charge for airline tickets or long detailed itineraries and that’s fine, but we prefer not to.

As a longtime advocate for the travel agent community, I always advise to book your trip with a qualified travel consultantespecially during Apple Vacations SuperSale!

 

 

Are You Ready for Some Football?

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Don’t worry about trying to schedule your vacation around your favorite NFL team or a big game, instead take an Apple Vacation and Tailgate on the Beach!

 

Former Philadelphia Eagle and FOX broadcaster Hugh Douglas, hosting a tailgate on the beach at Dreams Cancun.

 

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Many resorts recognize the passion of sports fans so they plan special events and

meals around the games. I’ve watched Eagles games from Now Jade, Dreams Tulum and Dreams Cancun and all were a GREAT time!

 

 

Stadium seating for the Big Game!

They set up lounge chairs on or by the beach as your “stadium seating“, a huge movie theatre screen to watch the game, and they serve traditional tailgate snacks and beverages while you watch the game!

 

 

 

It’s a unique experience not to be missed by sports fans! So when booking your next vacation “in season”, make sure to start the search with Now Resorts and Spas and Dreams Resorts and Spas so you can catch the game. Check out the photos of some of the tailgate parties!

 

Are You Ready for Some Football?

 

Tailgating in resort

 

Beach bar ready to go at Now Jade

 

Tailgating in resort

 

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Secrets The Vine Cancun

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Secrets The Vine Cancun, Beach Front Hotel Zone Cancun Mexico


Recently, I was able to visit the brand new Secrets The Vine Cancun.  And all I can say is WOW!!!!  They were putting the final touches on the resort when I was there, but I have a few “sneak peak” pictures that I took to share with you of the rooms.

Modern, chic with a South Beach feel.

Overall, I would say my impression of the resort is that it is very modern and elegant and just truly magnificent. It has almost a minimalist feel with every light fixture, sculpture, pillow, towel, desk and chair impeccably placed.

Some of my favorite parts of the hotel to note are the stone fireplace (yes, a fireplace in Cancun) which is a focal point of the main lobby. It’s gorgeous. There is also a boardwalk that guides you through the resort to the most picturesque view from the resort.  It will be “the” place to take your wedding shot, group pic, or romantic photo from this resort. I predict we start seeing pictures from this exact spot popping up on social media as soon as the resort opens. I also LOVED the suites.  I can’t do them justice in writing, but if you don’t feel like leaving the suite, or even getting out of bed, you don’t have to as you can enjoy the stunning views right from bed, the bathtub or the shower.

 

Found on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Secrets The Vine Cancun is located on one of the world's most picturesque beaches, the enticing white sand beaches of the Caribbean Sea. This resort presents 495 graciously appointed guest rooms with private balconies revealing awe-inspiring views of the Caribbean Sea and Laguna Nichupte.

 

 

 

Have a FITcation!

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April Wickey has been working for Apple Vacations for, going on twelve years.  She noticed changes to her body from the sedentary work life and was motivated by a friend to hit the gym.  Finding the motivation, April went forth-to the gym-and began the routine of treadmills and weight machines. Feeling the boredom and lack of inspiration in her routine, she noticed the group exercise classes always had participants, and they were working hard.  On a particular evening of fitness class exploration, April and her friend tried the Zumba class, not knowing what to expect.  She says, “I can be a very clumsy person.”   April fell in love with Zumba that night, as she stuttered over her feet while dancing and exercising with strength, laughter and fun.  Right after the first class, she was addicted and began taking many Zumba classes at her gym and watched her body change into feeling more energized, more balanced, and toned through the popular Latin dance sensation.

 

Have a FITcation! You heard it here first, folks! We’ll continue to combine luxury resort travel with your favorite fitness and wellness lifestyles.

Combining April’s admiration for travel and Zumba, she felt others have the same interests.  She thought, “How great would it be to have a Zumba party at a resort!”  April, being the event planner she is, came up with FITcation branding idea after reading Fit Chicks Rule blog, “Take a Fitness STAYcation this summer!”  April knew FITcation was the perfect word for combining fun vacation with fitness formats people love. She introduced the FITcation idea to her managers at Apple Vacations, with plans for the first FITcation to be all about Zumba!  Naturally, the idea was very popular and Apple Vacations launched FITcations.

 

Apple Vacations and Fit Bodies, Inc. visited the new Now Amber Puerto Vallarta and found the facility, staff, accommodations and activities perfect for the event.

April was put into touch with Suzelle Snowden at Fit Bodies, Inc. who specializes in placing fitness professionals at all-inclusive resorts. Suzelle jumped on board to partner with Apple Vacations and provide FITcation events with top-notch fitness and yoga instructors.

 

The next step for April and Apple Vacations was deciding which resort to host the premiere FITcation.  A family resort worthy of showing off was a must!  Staff members of both Apple Vacations and Fit Bodies, Inc. had visited the new Now Amber Puerto Vallarta and found the facility, staff, accommodations and activities perfect for the event. Now Amber is pleasant to work with and a wonderful rate was established with flight from Chicago. 

 

Fit Bodies, Inc. established the teaching team from Suzelle Snowden herself offering yoga and bootcamp classes, Lisa Snowden teaching yoga, Jodi Dody teaching yoga and Zumba plus Barbara Klontz, the ZES (Zumba Education Specialist) with Zumba who conducted the Zumba B1 teacher training on day 3 of the 7 day event. Plans were made for Puerto Vallarta days to be filled with Zumba, yoga, aqua fitness, excursions and great times!  Even secret plans were made for a romantic wedding vow renewal on the beach! 

 

Even secret plans were made for a romantic wedding vow renewal on the beach!

 

Everyone seemed to have a good time taking part in as much vacation time and fitness time as each individual wanted.  Do not miss the sunset from the resort’s lobby. Gorgeous! Popular excursions were the Canopy Tours, Rhythms of the Night, and Dolphin Encounter.  The resort is only a twenty-minute walk to the Puerto Vallarta boardwalk to soak in the culture rich town.  The potential for where FITcation goes next is unlimited!   

Have a FITcation! You heard it here first, folks! We’ll continue to combine luxury resort travel with your favorite fitness and wellness lifestyles.

 

 

Happy 4th of July! Find an Apple Vacation Made in the U.S.A.

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I was in Macy’s this winter and a man came up to me and said “point me to the direction of clothes only made in the U.S.A,” that’s all he wanted to buy. The same applies to vacations. Some people want to keep their spending within the U.S. Others simply don’t have the funds for a vacation AND a passport.

I love traveling all over the globe, but for those who want to focus on travel within our beautiful country, this blog is for you. There are a variety of destinations Apple Vacations offers that are within the U.S. that I want to highlight. Imagine the fireworks, cook out’s and celebrations these destinations have to offer!

First up, is one of our most popular destinations and our 50th state – Hawaii. In Hawaii you can relax on just one island, or take a multi-island vacation and discover the unique characteristics of each. There is a perfect Apple Vacation for singles, couples, families, spa vacations, golf vacations and even girls getaways. Apple Vacations offers over 150 of the best hotels and condos on six islands to suit every preference and budget. Look to our Hawaii micro site to find the resort for you.

Hawaii is on my travel list! I can’t wait to go. I keep a book of the articles I read on Hawaii with the places I want to visit, hotels I want to stay at, islands I want to explore, food I want to try, and excursions I want to do. When I am ready to book, I’ll have it all ready.

Puerto Rico is another great choice. Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, citizens of the U.S. are not required to carry a passport to enter Puerto Rico. When I was young, I remember my dad taking off each winter for a golf vacation to San Juan with his friends. It always sounded so amazing and exotic. After all, the island is known as “the island of enchantment”. Puerto Rico features world class resorts, championship golf, 300 miles of shoreline, fabulous shops, exciting nightclubs and casinos. The Latin flare in Puerto Rico inspires amazing cuisine as well.

“No Passport Required” is the slogan for the U.S. Virgin Islands. Apple Vacations offers Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas. The U.S. Virgin Islands offer pristine beaches, warm weather, and crystal-clear waters. They are also culturally diverse as residents are literally from everywhere including Africa, England, Holland, Denmark, Spain, France, India and the United States. Visit St. Thomas’ Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S.Virgin Islands and home to one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. The most visited port in the Caribbean, Charlotte Amalie is known as the shopping mecca of the Caribbean with its winding streets of world-class duty free shops. St. Croix Turtle Beach on Buck’s west end has been voted one of the world’s most beautiful beaches by National Geographic. For a more laid-back vacation, bask in the mesmerizing natural beauty of St. John, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and a short ferry ride from St. Thomas. Two thirds of St. John is designated as a National Park, featuring spectacular trails, secluded coves and dazzling white beaches.

Last but not least, if the beach is not for you, head for the mountains. Apple Vacations offers ski & mountain vacations in 7 regions in 2 countries. Find the perfect one for you here.

Happy 4th of July to everyone!

 

Sharing my favorite Secrets

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Some years ago I stopped being wowed and impressed by resort hotels.  Not because they aren’t wow-able or impressive, just simply because I’ve seen (and enjoyed) my share.  From the ordinary, to the extraordinary.  From the “I think I’ve been here before”, to the “I have GOT to stay here”, I’ve seen my share.  I’ve learned to keep an open mind, an objective opinion, and a sort of blasé attitude.  But then again, I’m the one that walked into St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and exclaimed “nice church”.   So, no one was more surprised than me at my jaw dropping reaction when I arrived at Secrets Marquis Los Cabos.

 

This seaside escape is an all-suite, all ocean view resort featuring unique, one-bedroom casitas each with their own private pool.

 

From the exceptional view of the Sea of Cortez upon arrival, to the understated elegance of the lobby, to the world-class art and statuary throughout, I immediately knew that this property was special.   Everything about this resort exudes class:  the food, the service, the amenities, the amazing views and vistas everywhere you turn.   Although just over 230 rooms, it has an intimate feel.  Think Zoetry at a Secrets price.  The staff takes pride in their jobs and their commitment to service and it shows, in the most unassuming ways.  For instance, I tore my “Do Not Disturb” sign and, although still usable, it was replaced.

Secrets Marquis Los Cabos, a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, offers adults Unlimited-Luxury® for the first time on Mexico's Baja Peninsula.

The rooms are quite well appointed and a good size.  If you go, and you must go, be sure to book a beach view or beach front Casita, 1670 sq. ft. of pure luxury.  If the room size isn’t enough, the roof top lounge & plunge pool, with sea view, will blow you away.   If that isn’t enough, the fresh coffee, fruit plate, and pastries delivered to your room each morning, along with the nightly turndown service, are sure to fulfill your “vacation like a celebrity” fantasies.  Speaking of celebrities, it was rumored that George Clooney, as well as Cindy Crawford, have homes within view of the resort.

 

Property features and extensive art collection of specially commissioned works by leading Latin American artists.

 

While vacationing on the same beach as George may sound glamorous, this portion of Cabo’s “corridor” section does not have a swimmable beach.  No worries though, the seemingly endless infinity pool more than adequately makes up for it.  Complete waiter, concierge and food service is provided pool side.  And it’s not unusual to see the Food & Beverage Manager passing out skewers of fresh fruit and bottled water throughout the day.   Towels are plentiful, require no towel card, and are laid out on what seems like 1000 chaise lounges.   As daytime descends, and the pastel sunset takes over the skies, the evening begins.  Whether you opt for a romantic pool side dinner by lantern light, or at the elegant French gourmet restaurant, your palate will be pleased by the excellent assortment of culinary delights.  Evening entertainment is low key and includes live music or a movie under the stars.  Often during the week you can jump on a van into downtown Cabo San Lucas where you’ll get a taste of the nightlife that Cabo is known for.  If you’re lucky, you might spot Sammy Hagar or Jack Nicholson who have homes nearby.

 

First Secrets Resorts & Spa located in Los Cabos. Member of Leading Hotels of the World. World-class Marquis Spa named as one of the Top Spas in Mexico spanning over 15,000 square feet & showcasing spectacular Sea of Cortez views

 

As the sunrise creeps into your ocean view room, you truly feel energized and refreshed when you awake.  Aside from the descriptions of food and rooms and pools and art, there is a “genuine feel” to this hotel.  An energy all it’s own.  “Magical” is the closet adjective that I can find.  Whether you are planning a day by the pool, a treatment in the world class spa by Pevonia, a quick jaunt into the colonial town of San Jose del Cabo or a tour of the marina at Puerto los Cabos, Secrets Marquis Los Cabos is the perfect spot to call home in Los Cabos.  And since it’s just 20 minutes from the airport, you’ll feel like you are worlds away, but in the middle of it all.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been wowed and impressed by a resort hotel.

Well played Secrets Marquis Los Cabos.  Well played.