Why should Sandals St. Lucia be your next stop?

April 11, 2019 By Susan Robson

Why should Sandals Grande St. Lucia be your next vacation stop? First, consider that guests enjoy the All-Inclusive Luxury Vacation in the most gorgeous tropical & beach settings! Does that get your attention? Add to that: Best Beaches, Unique Gourmet Dining, Premium Spirits, Premium wines, Padi-certified scuba diving included, entertainment, championship golf, unmatched service, and finally, stay at 1 and play at 3 (or more) resorts!

Sandals Grande St. Lucia

St. Lucia is a magical island offering panoramic bay views and the best beaches in the Caribbean. This gives one the feeling of complete island seclusion – you are in a world by yourself. Towering Piton mountains and fern-frilled jungles bring about a complete sense of relaxation. Sandals Grande St. Lucia builds upon that feeling and gives you the ultimate vacation experience. For this reason, it is probably my favorite Sandals Resort on St. Lucia. The beach here is long, the drinks steady, entertainment entertaining, and the soft breeze amazing! The swim-out rooms and romantic Rondoval Suites make it an ideal honeymoon hot spot. The main pool area is very lively and winds around through the room buildings, like a ribbon of water.

Why should Sandals Grande St Lucia be your next vacation spot? The resort offers an endless supply of restaurants with delicious food options, recreation and amenities along with some of the BEST diving available, anywhere in the Caribbean. The best hiking is a trek up to Fort Rodney, on the peak just beyond the resort (club concierge will act as your guide on the hike). And, with the free inter-Sandals shuttle service, there are up to 27 restaurants and numerous beach options available between the three Sandals resorts in St. Lucia. Dinner reservations are required at some restaurants, so be sure to plan ahead and contact the concierge or a butler for dining options soon after arrival.

One note… because of location, getting to this resort can be a bit bumpy and the transfer time is approximately ninety minutes+. If this a concern I recommend a helicopter tour to/from the George F.L Charles Airport. This flight to the north is one that you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Sandals Halcyon up next!

Susan

10 Reasons Why St. Lucia is a Perfect Caribbean Island Destination!

December 17, 2018 By Susan Robson

**St. Lucia, a perfect Caribbean Island!**

Top 10 reasons why St. Lucia is the perfect Caribbean getaway! St. Lucia’s sandy beaches, crystalline waters, and luscious rainforests draw visitors from around the world to experience all that it has to offer. And it offers so many unique and unforgettable inspirations, that it leave visitors with memories that last a lifetime. Being a small Island in the Caribbean, unlike any of its neighbors and unique in its own way, here are several things you need to know before visiting St Lucia.

Food on the island combines Creole with French and West Indian. The restaurants and hotels/resort in the major towns serve many different types of food and international dishes. Fresh seafood is caught and brought in daily, along with locally grown vegetables and fruits. The main agriculture on the island, and exports, is cocoa and banana.

Most Saint Lucians are bilingual, speaking Kwéyo`l, a creole language that is a mixture of French and African languages. English is spoken & instructed in schools, and it’s used in business, government offices, and in most formal settings. The people are happy, friendly, and helpful. Service throughout the island is exceptional – from beachside bars, boutique restaurants, and fine dining. Everyone we met was such a joy to get to know and wanted share their island. St. Lucia is very safe compared to other Caribbean islands, and the locals told us that theft/crime is not very common. Everyone we met never displayed any kind of aggression, in fact the opposite, as they displayed a warm charm and genuine friendliness.

#10 Hike the Pitons

The Pitons are to St Lucia what the Great Wall of China is to China. One of the most photographed landmarks on St. Lucia, they rise straight out of the sea, and offer a majestic scene across the western coast. Gros Piton stands 2,619 feet above sea level, and together with Petit Piton, they present really stunning views of the island once you reach the top, or if they are viewed from below! A hike to Fort Rodney on Pigeon Island is a wonderful way to get a panoramic view of the island without being overly challenging!

#9 Pigeon Island National Park

History & a hike to Fort Rodney on Pigeon Island is a wonderful way to get a panoramic view of the island without being overly challenging, mentally or physically! Don’t let the name fool you, Pigeon Island is a quiet place to stop, swim, and take in the beautiful views. Visitors can also learn about the island’s history and explore the 18th century ruins at Fort Rodney, pictured below.

#8 Scuba or snorkel

St. Lucia offers world class diving locations with amazing experiences to offer. No matter what your level or diver or snorkeler, the island has many wonderful diving sites with spectacular coral formations, fascinating shipwrecks and reefs teeming with tropical sea life.

#7 Drive thru Volcano at Sulfur Springs Park & Botanical Garden

A must see is the world’s only Sulfur Springs drive-through volcano in the Caribbean! The 30-minute guided tour will take you to the top of the volcano, and the sulfur mineral bath afterwards will feel like a spa treatment. This location can get crowed! Plan on going early in the day to enjoy it the most.

#6 Fly through the rainforest canopy

For those who want more than a tan from their holiday, St Lucia couldn’t be better. Approximately 77 % is covered in forest. So this is good reason to escape the beach and start exploring. Visit the Rainforest Adventure, about a 20-minute drive from the capital, Castries. A gondola, series of treetop platforms linked by zip lines, takes guests deep into the jungle. The guides are knowledgeable – and all ages are certain to love it.

#5 Castries Market

**Local people & food at Castries Market**

St. Lucia’s capital boasts an open air market that is full of a variety of food & souvenirs. National Geographic has rated it #3 food market in the world. Don’t miss out on the locally caught fish, spices, fresh fruit and fresh coconuts on the streets of Castries. The market is closed on Sundays.

#4 Hurricanes try to stay away from St. Lucia

Because this is such an enjoyable island, with so much to do, most hurricane wrath is felt further north and the very worst of the stormy weather tends to stay away from this more Southern location. (Hurricanes can reach St. Lucia.)

#3. Chocolate lovers heaven on earth

Hotel Chocolat, since 2011, has been home to a 14 room hotel & restaurant. Britain’s famous chocolatier, obtains cocoa from it’s plantation, the Rabot Estate near Soufriere. Dine on a delectable menu featuring chocolate or plan to go on one of its three-hour “bean to bar” tours to learn all about cocoa production, pick and taste fresh pods, graft your own plant, and then smash dried beans to make a chocolate bar.

#2. Best Resorts & locations imaginable

Nestled between St Lucia’s landmark Pitons and the Caribbean waters, find so many luxurious resorts & hotels, making vacations the most memorable spots anywhere in the Caribbean. With impeccable service, incredible menus, eye dropping views, and gorgeous accommodations these luxurious resorts won’t soon be forgotten.

And the #1 reason why St.Lucia is the perfect Caribbean island…St. Lucia has best view in the Caribbean!

There are more gorgeous beaches on St.Lucia than imaginable! Along the west coast – Anse Castanet, further north – Marigot Bay with it’s picturesque harbor, mile-long Reduit Beach, and the largest, most popular, near the town of Rodney Bay, is the biggest, and most popular. St Lucia’s spectacular coastlines and Grand Pitons are among the most photographed.

If you want to find out more about St. Lucia: https://www.stlucia.org. Don’t miss my next posts about the resorts that I visited while on St. Lucia. Call/ email today to find out how to experience St. Lucia’s Top 10! Susan@GoTravelStl.com

Susan

What’s Up Zika?

November 1, 2018 By Susan Robson

What’s Up Zika? Zika, a mosquito borne virus, first hit Caribbean destinations in 2015, and then exploded in 2017 & 2018. Since GO TRAVEL STL primarily works with Destination Wedding and Honeymoon couples, it was obvious that many couples wanted to avoid Caribbean destinations to avoid issues with family planning.

What’s Up Zika? Caribbean Sheds Active Zika Transmission Classification

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently removed Zika—the mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe birth defects during pregnancy—as a high-level threat for the Caribbean, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) announced.

What’s Up Zika? According to data released by CARPHA, Zika virus transmission in the region has been interrupted for more than a year, reaching undetectable levels and thus posing little risk to residents and visitors.

What’s Up Zika? The evidence was backed up by data from all over the world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States, which showed that no Zika had been detected for over 12 months in travelers returning from the Caribbean to their native countries.

What’s Up Zika? “The Caribbean is the most tourism-dependent region in the world. It is also one of the most popular Honeymoon Destinations worldwide and ongoing cancellations due to the classification of most Caribbean countries as Category 1 is hurting the industry unnecessarily,” Executive Director, CARPHA, Dr. C. James Hospedales said in a statement. “Therefore, CARPHA felt compelled to provide the evidence and to advocate for the removal of this WHO Zika classification system.”

What’s Up Zika? “Sandals Resorts is deeply rooted in the Caribbean and the removal of the Zika virus as a high-level threat means that residents and guests alike can experience the beauty of the region worry-free,” said Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, in a statement.”Tourism is integral to the Caribbean and we’re excited to continue welcoming brides and grooms, honeymooners and couples simply looking to get away at some of the most beautiful beaches in the world in some of the most luxurious and romantic suites.”

What’s Up Zika…what does this mean to travelers? It means Zika is down , so that everyone can begin travel to all of these dream destinations, again! So Fabulous! Contact Susan@GoTravelStl.com to find your perfect Dream Honeymoon or Destination Wedding! I can’t wait to hear from you! Susan

Certified Sandals Specialist …why you need one!

October 14, 2018 By Susan Robson

**Certified Sandals Specialists Give You More!**

Knowledgeable Sandals Agents hold a Certified Sandals Specialist designation. This special group of agents completes site visits to Sandals properties and attends yearly meetings to keep informed of changes & enhancements to the resorts. Travel professionals in the program receive exclusive educational opportunities and marketing materials, as well as customized services, sales, and educational support. This knowledge allows me, as your agent, to tailor your travel to your specific needs and desires. My specialist training gives me:

Knowledge of all Sandals & Beaches properties
Knowledge of room types, locations, and all pertinent details.
Knowledge of the Luxury Included experience at Sandals & Beaches.
Knowledge of discounts and specials
Knowledge of the flights to your destination/ from your city.
The ability to get you more for your $$.

Since Sandals has fixed pricing, you won’t save money doing it yourself by booking online, and it may result in you being disappointed. My travel agent advice/help is no-charge, so why not?

Your Certified Sandals Specialist agent plays an important role in making sure that you find the destination that best fits your budget and preferences. By giving you the best advice and support, you can rest assured that your travel will meet your expectations.

**Certified Sandals Specialis Susan Robson**

**Luxury Included at Sandals Royal Caribbean, Jamaica**

Go Travel Stl named winner by The Knot Best of Weddings 2018!

September 29, 2018 By Susan Robson

GO TRAVEL STL NAMED WINNER IN THE KNOT BEST OF WEDDINGS 2018

Twelfth Annual Best of Weddings Awards Honor the Top Wedding Vendors Across America

Chesterfield, MO, September, 2018—GO TRAVEL STL is pleased to announce they have been selected as a 2018 winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, an award representing the highest-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, the #1 wedding resource. This is the 4th year GO TRAVEL STL has been selected for The Knot Best of Weddings.

Winning The Knot Best of Weddings is a BIG deal! To determine the winners, The Knot assessed almost one million reviews from real couples across the various vendor categories—venues, musicians, florists, photographers, caterers and more. The Knot Best of Weddings 2018 list showcases the highest- and most-rated vendors across all regions and planning categories. Check out this year’s Best of Weddings winners to start your wedding /honeymoon planning and see all the top vendors in your area, including florists, wedding planners and everything (yes, everything) in between.

“This is an honor to be recognized by our clients, for 4 years in a row, as the winner of this prestigious award – Go Travel Stl.”

For more information about The Knot Best of Weddings and a complete list of winners, please visit www.TheKnot.com/BestofWeddings

GO TRAVEL STL

Meet The Owner – Susan Robson…Most of my life career was spent teaching children. After I retired, I combined my love of teaching, with another love…TRAVEL! Working with couples who are soon going to be married, is so exciting and invigorating. It is wonderful to be able to share their enthusiasm and the joy of a new life together. My role is to make their first Dream together come true!

If you would like to get started now, go to www.GoTravelStl.com, to complete the much talked about

“Perfect Honeymoon Finder”, a Go Travel Stl exclusive! Thank you!

Susan

Luxury At It’s Finest – Hyatt Zilara Cancun

September 13, 2018 By Susan Robson

Hyatt Zilara foam party

Hyatt Zilara Beach Wedding

Luxury at it’s finest, again! Another WOW factor! Situated on the widest stretch of beach in the Cancun Hotel Zone, Hyatt Zilara Cancun is an adults-only, Luxury all-inclusive resort where guests find themselves experience Mexican warmth that truly makes them feel special. On our site visit, we found the resort expansive, modern and impeccably clean. Breathtaking views of the Caribbean spacious suites, fine dining, and above and beyond service from an attentive staff, make a stay here not hard to take! Add to that, luxurious amenities, and meticulously maintained grounds and facilities. To compliment all of this are six gourmet restaurants, spa treatments and services in Cancun’s only ocean view spa. Wine and spirits tastings, and enhanced pool and beach butler service top all this off.

Hyatt Zilara Beach

Hyatt Zilara Beach

The “Luxury at it’s finest” Hyatt’s weekly pool parties with live DJs, keep everyone active. The days and nights are filled with interactive dining events, Caribbean jazz dinners, and exciting circus events. There are Mexican cultural dinners, a Venetian carnival show, theme parties, guacamole and cocktail classes, and more. Daily morning yoga classes, followed by water aerobics or volleyball, a variety of games, arts, crafts, culinary lessons, and wine and spirit tastings keep everyone busy. Fee-based scuba and water sports also available. There is so much to do here, you may just not want to leave. But just across the street is shopping, shopping, shopping! The ideal location of Hyatt Zilara Cancun is definitely a plus! If you would like to stay at a this fabulous, adult-only property, located right on the popular Cancun Hotel Zone, be sure to contact Susan@GoTravelStl.com.

Susan

Destination Weddings & Honeymoons at Ocean Riviera Paradise

August 17, 2018 By Susan Robson

Are you planning a Destination Wedding or Honeymoon? Take notice of this resort and incredible event at the Ocean Riviera Paradise in Riviera Maya, Cancun for everyone…no matter what your travel requires.

Ocean Riviera Paradise Fest

This will be the 1st Edition of this event to include: Renowned Chefs and Celeb Pit Masters Fire Up The Kicthens During the 1st Edition the Paradise Food & Drink Fest.
More than 15 renowned chefs
11 demos performed by international cuisiners
Original BBQ Series
More than 10 kitchen talks featuring seminars, chats and workshops
Gastronomic authorities who combine their talents in 6 pairing dinners

Paradise Food and Drink Fest at Ocean Riviera Paradise Resort in Riviera Maya is a culinary event planned for all guests to experience excitement and passion of an all-inclusive festival – never seen! If this were your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon – can you imagine?

Gastronomic Experiences

This will be an event of talented chefs shaking pans with travelers who are passionate about world class cuisine, wine, cocktails, and much much more!

This premier lineup says it all. “The talent is second to none and will absolutely enhance the guests’ all inclusive experience.” stated Juan Carlos Dominguez, Vice President of Marketing, Ocean by H10 Hotels. “The festival will offer a variety of activities to feed upon from the first cracked eggs at breakfast to the last bites of chocolate at dessert, into four categories throughout the day”

Click here to see a full list of chefs, events, and experiences. www.paradisefoodanddrinkfest.com

If you would like more information to be a part of this epicurean experience, contact Susan@GoTravelStl.com, or to start planning your Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, Anniversary, or Family travel! Thank you! Susan

Luxury at it’s finest – Hyatt Ziva Cancun – A Must see!

August 11, 2018 By Susan Robson

This is a resort that I’d been wanting to see for some time, so on this trip to Cancun, it was a must! And, WOW…what a WOW factor! The resort is expansive, modern & impeccably clean, 17 bars and restaurants, breathtaking oceanfront views, and exceptional service provided by every staff member.

Entering the property and walking through the lobby, your eyes are immediately drawn to the beautiful azure & turquoise blue waters of Punta Cancun’s peninsula. The water is warm & calm, and the sand is soft and kid-friendly! Because of the resort’s position on this peninsula, guests see spectacular beach Everywhere! The beach area right in front of the resort is smaller, but the “Club” Tower section has it’s own “private beach”, which is way more expansive with plenty of chairs, umbrellas & cabanas in both areas. 3 infinity pools, private piers for romantic dinners, unlimited room service, and 11 ala carte & international dining/buffets are all available on this property.

Between the standard rooms and the “Club” suites at this resort, the “Club” rooms definitely have more space and come with more amenities and well-appointed features. The rooms come with 5 full bottles of liquor- sparkling wine, scotch, tequila, vodka, and rum, along with various other snacks and candies. The views were amazing! I can’t stress that enough! These were spectacular! Since they are so high up, there a total view of our

surroundings. However, most rooms have awesome views of the ocean, but maybe not as superior a view depending on how high up the room is located. It didn’t matter if you were looking out from the balcony (which included a hot tub), from the room, or fromthe bathroom, all provided picturesque views of the resort and the peninsula.

The main pool/quad area is accessible right off the lobby, and boasts several levels of pools, with some areas covered by awnings. There is also a poolside bar that provides drinks and refreshments. Music, performances or cookouts took place at different times of the day. Directly in front of the Club Tower, is another pool area with tiered levels of pools, with consistent water depth throughout each tiered level. A poolside bar available in the patio area of the Club Tower. There is also adults only rooftop pool and bar, which has some totally captivating views, and a kids club, that has a kiddie waterpark along with slides and other activities, for children ages 4-12 only.

The service and dining at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun definitely went above and beyond a normal hotel/resort stay. The resort has 7 ala carte – actual sit-down dining restaurants serving different themed cuisines. Totally 11-12 “food options” available to guests. There is also 24-hour room service, so your “food options” are truly unlimited. La Bastille – French restaurant, El Mercado – buffet, Moongate – contemporary Asian, Tradewinds – grill & steakhouse, 24 Hours – snacks & finger foods, Lorenzo’s – Italian, Habeneros – beach/pool grill, Chevy’s – Classic diner, Pasteles – ice cream fountain, Casa Del Café – coffee shop, Tres Cervezas – sports bar, Club Tower Lounge – snacks/finger foods, Room Service – the best!

The service and dining at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun definitely went above and beyond a normal hotel/resort stay. Truly truly, this resort would provide an amazing and enjoyable time! Guests can FULLY relax here, as almost all of the small details are taken care of. All you have to do is be there… and enjoy! I can’t wait to visit and enjoy the wonderful Hyatt Ziva Cancun again someday! If you or your family would like to check this out, be sure to contact me…Susan@GoTravelStl.com Coming next…Hyatt Zilara! Thanks! Susan

Legally Speaking – Marriage requirements in Mexico

April 5, 2018 By Susan Robson

Marriage Requirements – Mexico

Marriage in Mexico is becoming very popular because it has some excellent locations to get married alongside some picture perfect scenarios. From golden beaches with turquoise waters, to old colonial cities with their charm, old buildings, cobbled streets domes and archways.
Mexico is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for American and Canadians to get married, and given the opportunity to get married surrounded by stunning scenery, it’s not hard to see why!
If you want to get married in Mexico, there is nothing legal or technical stopping you from doing so; but you will need to plan ahead and get a few documents together, fill in a few forms and pay a few fees. This simple guide will help you through it all!

Legal Ceremonies

Clients frequently ask me for information about legal and symbolic ceremonies in Mexico. The following requirements are for legal marriages. Same-Sex legal ceremonies are accepted.
*Valid passports & certified copies of your birth certificates
*Blood Tests are required, but they can be done at the resort. Please work with your wedding coordinator to arrange this.
*Cost of blood test $200 USD per couple
*A marriage application form is needed. Your wedding coordinator will send you this form to complete 15 days prior to the wedding.
*Witnesses: 4 witnesses need to be present at the legal ceremony, and they must have valid a passport and to have arrived at the destination at least 3 business days prior to the wedding.
*Witnesses can be provided for a tip of $10 USD

Symbolic Ceremonies

*If you are planning a symbolic ceremony you will simply need valid passports and to have arrive 3 business days in advance of the ceremony. *Valid passports *Arrive 3 business days in advance of the ceremony. *Contact your wedding coordinator for more details. And, if you are ready to start talking about planning a Destination Wedding, be sure to contact me for help with questions about destinations, all-inclusive resorts, special offers and pricing, group benefits, and so much more! I’ll help guide you through this process with the greatest of ease. My resort and industry knowledge, experience, and site visits of resorts will be an asset to you and your companion. I wold love to talk to you about your Dream! Susan Susan@GoTravelStl.com

Legally Speaking – Foreign Wedding requirements

June 14, 2017 By Susan Robson

Legally speaking… couples ask me all the time about the legal wedding requirements to get married in the Dominican Republic (Mexico & Jamaica, too). So, even tho I blogged about this a while back, I’ll write about each country’s requirements. Dominican Republic…you are first!

WEDDING REQUIREMENTS TO GET MARRIED IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Legal Documentation required for a Legal/Civil Wedding:

• Original and one copy of Single Status Affidavit*, notarized at your place of residency (Bride and Groom, one for each), showing names as they appear on your passports.

• Birth Certificate of bride and groom (two copies). If parents’ names are not shown on the certificates, please indicate them separately for us.

• One photocopy of passport, picture/information page (Bride and Groom).

• Passport photocopies of the witnesses which can’t be family members (if they do not have witnesses, the hotel will provide them)

• If formerly married, two copies of divorce decree or death certificate.
• Name change document, if name has been changed (including divorcees who had reverted back to maiden name).

• Bride and Groom need to be in the country for 3 days before the wedding

The documents should be legalized by the Dominican Consulate no longer than 3 months prior to the wedding date, and it is the couple’s responsibility to have all the documentation ready before the wedding date, as required. The Judge is an outside service provided by the Dominican Government, the hotel cannot be held responsible for any delay or alteration. The Judge will duly register your Wedding Certificate at the Central Civil Board; The Hotel will then send the wedding certificate to the couple by courier, this procedure may take 2 – 3 months.

Couples need to send, with their documentation, copies of their birth certificates, and photocopies of your passport.

VERY IMPORTANT!! All these documents must be translated, and legalized by the Dominican Consulate before arriving to the Dominican Republic, except the passports.

When traveling to the Dominican Republic for your wedding, please make sure to bring all the original documents and legalized translations with you, personally.

***Note: A Resort reserves the Right to celebrate the wedding if the legal Documents are incorrect and not accepted by the judge due to not following the correct procedures to arrange the legal requirements for a Legal Wedding.

If you would like more information about Destination Weddings, just complete my “Perfect Honeymoon Finder”, and I will be in touch with you soon! Thank you,

Susan