travel insider december 2017

Volume 12 – Issue 12 | December 2017 THE TRAVEL Travel Impressions Introduces INSIDER Colombia Serving Travel Agents Exclusively Since 1974 Sun, Sand & Stunning Diversity A MESSAGE FROM SCOTT WISEMAN President Dear Travel Partners, We made it! As we cross the finish line for 2017, let’s clasp hands and congratulate ourselves on a year well- lived. In a year rife with natural disasters, it’s been a testament to our partnership to be ending it together with such high hopes for the future. As revealed during our annual Best of the Best celebration, we have a lot in store for our partners in 2018. New destinations, new tours, new technology, and new opportunities for you to increase your earnings in the new year. Because as we said, “we ‘would walk 500 miles and [we] would walk 500 more’ … to be the tour operator that helps your friends and family explore.” This month, we’re encouraging them to do so in some really unique ways, from all the 411 on Woodward in Riviera Maya to the new Hotel Xcaret’s underground cavern spa treatments and, of course, our recently launched destinations of Iceland and Colombia. Other ideas we throw out there in the last 2017 issue of The Travel Insider include romance at El Dorado Spa Resorts, by Karisma; domestic discovery with our Northeast Now promotion; open-walled splendor in Saint Lucia; villa luxury in Europe; and tons more. The only South American country to give you your choice of Pacific Ocean or Caribbean We’re all over the place this month, and we promise that’s Sea coasts, Colombia has fast become a must-go destination, sought out for its: a theme that’s going to continue in to the upcoming year. Happy holidays to all of you, my extended family! And best • Astonishing biodiversity, with up to 20% of the world’s plant species and the greatest wishes for good health, increased success, and memorable variety of birds, orchids, and native butterflies on earth moments on the road ahead. • Landscapes ranging from the highlands of the Andes to the Amazonian rainforest Warmly, • History-changing archaeological sites • Wide range of cultural influences; over 100 languages are spoken nationwide • High Happy Planet Index rating—Colombia ranks third worldwide • Upcoming Caribbean city Cartagena Scott Wiseman Now, Travel Impressions is making it easy for your customers to experience it all. Did you follow the hashtag #TIBOB2017 last month? Have them explore Cartagena, the “Pride of Colombia,” whose colonial walled city and If not, search it now on Facebook, Instagram, and fortresses have earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site designation and whose beaches Twitter for special peeks inside the exclusive event, and nightlife have made it a secret hot spot for those in the know. Add 12 available resorts— held at Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa! including all-inclusive options!—and you have everything you need to recommend this exciting new destination. Ask your BDM how you can earn an invitation to next year’s agent appreciation gala to join the fun in 2018. Call our Reservations team or visit www.travimp.com/Colombia to learn more! Say Goodbye to 2017 … and Hello to Savings! end of year From our first LoyalTI First anniversary to our 22 Best of the Best, 2017 has been a year nd to remember … but we’re already looking ahead to 2018. countdown Join the End of Year Countdown starting 12/11/17 for exclusive rates and added values to help your clients start a new year off right: seeing new places!

credit SUPPLIER OF THE MONTH At Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets Resorts & Spas, and Breathless Resorts & Spas, Endless Privileges and ® ® ® Unlimited-Luxury go beyond laying out by the pool. Immerse yourself in enriching activities that teach the Art of Life . Enjoy secrets made by the moment. Live it up with a social calendar to steal your breath away. With so much to see and do, couples and friends Receive 750 bonus can customize a vacation style uniquely theirs—every time. LoyalTI First points for Rates that let you “Fall Into Savings” and—exclusively for TI guests, at select resorts—up to $500 in resort coupons every AMResorts means the hardest part will be deciding where to go first. booking you make this Booking Window: 12/1/17 – 12/31/17 | Travel Window: 1/2/18 – 8/17/18 December for travel any time! Some secrets are meant to be shared. Recommend Travel Impressions’ Cancel for Any Reason Waiver to protect their trip. Blackout dates of 2/16/18 – 2/20/18 and 3/30/18 – 4/6/18 apply. Resort coupons are per room, per stay; amount of $300 or $500 varies based on room category booked. Resort coupons must be presented at time of service request and are not redeemable for cash and nontransferable. Additional terms, conditions, and restrictions apply; visit www.travimp.com/SupplieroftheMonth for details. LoyalTI First not valid for group bookings. EL DORADO SPA RESORTS, BY KARISMA NORTHEAST NOW El Dorado Seaside Suites Sheraton New York Times Warm up their winter! Square Hotel American Winter Wonderlands Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. It doesn’t get much more classic Americana than these historical East Coast cities. And from festive ice skating rinks to outstanding shows and world-class museums, winter is a magical time to see them. Cooking Up Romance Book this December for dates into March with offers like: When it comes to Gourmet Inclusive , it’s not just the cuisine that’s elevated. At • Reduced rates and free WiFi at the ® El Dorado Royale and El Dorado Seaside Suites, Karisma’s thoughtful, adults- Sheraton New York Times only amenities set sparks to fire in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Romance unfolds with: Square Hotel • Gorgeous all-suite room categories, including swim-ups and honeymoon suites • Discounted rates at The Westin • Rejuvenating treatments at Náay Spa, designed according to the Mayan New York Grand Central, elements – try a sunrise or moonlight couples massage at El Dorado Royale New York Marriott Marquis, or a Golden Suite Grand Experience for two at El Dorado Seaside Suites and W New York – Union Square • Dinner and a show—five courses with wine pairing, hosted by the head chef • Third night free at the and sommelier—at Royale’s Fuentes Culinary Theatre Fairmont Copley Plaza • Double swings and tropical libations at Cotorros bar at Seaside Suites • Memorable Moments Signature Wedding Collection • Reduced rates at the Sheraton Boston Hotel or Courtyard by Marriott Washington, D.C. Cozy up to seasonal savings at www.travimp.com/NortheastNow. Gourmet Inclusive packages are per person and feature: ® Roundtrip hotel transfers | Hotel accommodations Hotel tax and service charges | All meals, drinks, and snacks Non-motorized water sports | Daily activities Booking and travel windows vary by individual offer and terms, conditions, and restrictions apply. Call for details. Nightly entertainment and much more! travelimpressions.com | Reservations 800-284-0044

DREAMING OF CANCUN … That’s exactly what these two Dreams Resorts & Spas will have your customers doing. Embracing the white sands, bold flavors, and captivating culture of Cancun in an Unlimited-Luxury ® setting, they’re proof that accessible upmarket family vacations aren’t just a fantasy. Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa Close to Playa del Carmen, this AAA Four Diamond resort brings the Mayan world right on property. Temazcal ceremonies introduce traditional wellness, while a kids-sized Chichen Itza climbing wall lets Explorers 12 and under scale Mexico’s most- visited archaeological site. The new Locked in Love Garden, inspired by Paris’ love locks bridge, and outside-the-box octagonal rooms, angled for prime sea views, keep guests grounded in the present. 3 Unlimited-Luxury Nights from $863 Per Person ® in a Premium Deluxe Tropical/Garden View Double Room Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort With special privileges at the Greg Norman-designed Playa Mujeres Golf Course and a nearly 16,000-square-foot spa, it’s no wonder those two features are included in the name. A water park, clubs for kids and teens, and lazy river exclusively for Preferred Club guests give even more reason to discover the newest Dreams Resort & Spa in the area. Through 1/15/18, a staging of Broadway hit Rock of Ages—a fan-favorite at this year’s Best of the Best—adds one more. 3 Unlimited-Luxury Nights from $799 Per Person ® in a Junior Suite Garden View King Room Save up to 50%, plus receive $200 in resort coupons! Advertised rates are valid for travel 3/12/18 – 3/15/18 and vary by departure date. Booking Window: Now – 1/10/18 | Travel Window: Now – 4/2/18 Unlimited-Luxury package prices are per person and include: ® Roundtrip hotel transfers | 3-night hotel accommodations | Hotel tax and service charges | Endless meals, snacks, and top-shelf spirits Non-motorized water sports | 24-hour room and concierge services | Daily activities | Nightly entertainment and much more! Resort coupons are per room, per stay, not redeemable for cash, and nontransferable. Coupons must be presented at time of service request and are broken down as follows: Two coupons of $40 and one coupon of $20 in spa treatments; $60 for one romantic dinner per stay, with one coupon of $40 and one coupon of $20; $40 for bottles of wine at any restaurant, with four coupons of $10. travelimpressions.com | Reservations 800-284-0044

BE A DREAMER DOMINICAN REPUBLIC DREAMS Imagine the Possibilities in Punta Cana Golden sands and turquoise waters create a postcard backdrop for beautiful dreams. Situated on Punta Cana’s Uvero Alto beach, at Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa, the last thing you’ll want to do is close your eyes. Spend days: • Sharing pics and updating statuses over free WiFi with the Unlimited Connectivity app • Taking in the views from your private balcony • Floating peacefully around one of the largest free-form pools in the Dominican Republic • Trying for par at one of four nearby golf courses • Taking dance, cocktail, cooking, or Spanish lessons • Enjoying active afternoons at the baseball cage, ocean trampoline, archery and pistol ranges, and on the beach playing football, volleyball, or proving you have what it takes in the Beach Olympics • Browsing the Dominican Market for handicrafts, handmade jewelry, and other souvenirs • Wind-surfing, snorkeling, or taking an introductory scuba class in the pool • For kids, climbing the inflatable iceberg and making friends at the Explorer’s Club • For teens, sports, games, and hanging out at the snack bar at the Core Zone Teens Club Fill up nights with: • 24-hour room and concierge services • Theme parties and nightly shows • Family game nights or adults-only rum tastings • Camping out on the beach once a week with the Explorer’s Club, for kids 12 and under • Socializing at nightly mixers, weekly bonfires, and discos for the 13 – 17 set • Teppanyaki at Himitsu or, just for adults, gourmet French cuisine at Bordeaux • Dinner and drinks at one of four neighboring Dreams, Now, and Sunscape Resorts & Spas with the Sip, Savor & See Dining Experience • Recapping the day over specialty cocktails at Veranda • Dancing at Desires Music Lounge • Experiencing the local nightlife in Punta Cana 3 Unlimited-Luxury Nights from $639 Per Person in a Deluxe Tropical View Room* ® Includes $200 in resort coupons! Advertised rates are valid for travel 3/12/18 – 3/15/18 and vary by departure date. Booking Window: Now – 1/10/18 | Travel Window: Now – 4/2/18 ® Unlimited-Luxury package price is per person and includes: Roundtrip hotel transfers | 3-night hotel accommodation | Hotel tax and service charges | Endless meals, snacks, and top-shelf spirits Non-motorized water sports | 24-hour room and concierge services | Daily activities | Nightly entertainment and much more! *Rate does not include a $10 per person Tourist Card for Dominican Republic, payable at the airport upon arrival. Guests may now pre-purchase these cards prior to departure at http://www.dgii.gov.do/tarjetaTuristica/EN/ about/Paginas/default.aspx. Resort coupons are per room, per stay, not redeemable for cash, and nontransferable. Coupons must be presented at time of service request and are broken down as follows: Two coupons of $40 and one coupon of $20 in spa treatments; $60 for one romantic dinner per stay, with one coupon of $40 and one coupon of $20; $40 for bottles of wine at any restaurant, with four coupons of $10. travelimpressions.com | Reservations 800-284-0044

SHARE SECRETS ON “ROCK OUT” MEETS SILVERSANDS “WORK OUT” The New Woodward Riviera Maya Ski, snowboard, and rock in paradise? Do all three and much more thanks to the brand-new Woodward Riviera Maya, which opened earlier this fall at the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya. Found on the family side of the resort, this massive indoor sports facility is sure to become a favorite for kids and adults. CHEER YOUR HEART OUT GO FOR GOLD Ready? OK! Because yes, cheerleading is a sport. And with a competition- Or at least pretend to. Practice flips on the trampolines, your floor routine on the style spring floor and live DJ soundtrack to back you up, you’ll be more than spring floor, and your best smile for your landing. Don’t be afraid to hit a wall— ready to “bring it on.” it bounces back. BIKE FOR LIFE SHRED THE GNAR If BMX is your one true calling, Woodward Riviera Maya is the place to do it. Look Snowboarding goes year-round with dryland spaces and indoor ParkBoards™— as fierce as the skull kid on the Woodward mural as you defy gravity over a resi. plus ParkSki™—equipment. Grind off boxes and stomp your landings with everything but the powder. BECOME A NINJA WARRIOR … But only if you can conquer the Wrecktangle! A timed Parkour obstacle ROCK THE FOAM PARTY course, you’ll feel ready for prime time as you jump from swinging bag to Not the kind you picture for an all-inclusive, this pit isn’t filled with bubbles; swinging bag, hop across the Lily Pads, and try not to fall into the “moat.” it’s filled with Styrofoam. One level down from the main courses and its own launch ramp, take a running dive in. GET SOME AIR TIME Invert, ollie, and 360 down the ramps, rails, and stairs of the skate park like a Hawk. Part of a group? Start a play skate and maybe learn a new trick or two. Or, if the whole family’s joining in, trade the board for a scooter. GET DOWN WITH DOWNTIME Between runs, spins, and tricks, hit the café/snack bar to refuel, then head over to the DJ booth to request your favorite workout jam or the viewing platform to cheer on your fellow athletes. Ready for your close-up? An interactive digital media space lets you choose your best shot. Post with #WWRivieraMaya and #WWRM, and prepare for the fanfare. Woodward rules and regulations: Possession or usage of drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited. Theft, vandalism, fighting, and threatening or harassing behaviors will not be tolerated and, if warranted, the appropriate law enforcement officials will be contacted. If any of the rules are violated, guests will be removed from the facility without refund. Woodward Riviera Maya is fully insured, and all participants must sign a waiver. There is a nurse on property and a doctor on call 24/7. travelimpressions.com | Reservations 800-284-0044



HOT SPOTS & HIGHLIGHTS ® HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE WAIKIKI BEACH RESORT – OAHU, HAWAII THE HOTEL DU COLLECTIONNEUR ARC DE TRIOMPHE PARIS – PARIS, FRANCE Iconic. From its instantly recognizable Rainbow Tower to Waikiki’s only luau under the stars, that’s what this expansive Honolulu “village” excels at being. Spacious rooms and When Art Deco luxury is the request, this stylish Gate Collection hotel is the perfect suites face landmarks like Diamond Head and Kahanamoku Lagoon, while programs like address. Near Champs-Élysées, its location is as chic as the ocean liner-inspired Camp Penguin for kids, hula and lei-making lessons, and a diverse live music calendar lobby, golden Mosaïc Spa, and Erté-esque guestrooms within. Complimentary in-room ® celebrate island culture. A nightly torch lighting ceremony and weekly revue with fireworks smartphones offer an instant guide to the City of Lights … though exceptional cuisine at add even more authentic festivity. Le Safran may have guests preferring to stay exactly where they are. Receive reduced rates and full American breakfast buffet daily (maximum two Receive the 4 night free for stays booked in an Executive King/Double/ th adults per room) at Rainbow Lanai restaurant with bookings made by 3/31/18 Eiffel, Classic Suite, or Deluxe Suite room category by 3/31/19 and traveled for travel by 12/26/17 or between 1/8/18 and 3/31/18. by 12/28/17 or from 1/1/18 – 5/13/18, 7/9/18 – 9/9/18, 10/27/18 – 12/28/18, or 1/1/19 – 3/31/19. CASTELLO DEL NERO HOTEL & SPA – TUSCANY, ITALY NEW! BLUE BEACH PUNTA CANA LUXURY RESORT – Full immersion in Tuscan heritage is what guests can expect at this former aristocratic PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC estate. Nine centuries of history unfold around a Michelin-starred restaurant, Technogym- Forget being fashionably late; at this new resort, they’ll want to be early to the party. equipped Fitness Suite, and scenic ESPA, incorporating lavender produced on the On-trend décor creates a sophisticated vibe; an open layout puts the beach center grounds. But the experience doesn’t end there. Wine tastings showcase local varietals, stage. The Kids Blue Zone lets younger guests let loose, while parents unwind by the and the custom shoe designing program makes for a unique souvenir. pool. Multi-bedroom family suites, inspired by private residences, offer ample space for Receive the 4 night free with bookings made by 1/6/19 for travel through time together or apart. For even more indulgence, suggest the service of a dedicated th 1/7/18 or from 3/22/18 – 4/30/18, 10/1/18 – 12/28/18, or 1/1/19 – 1/6/19. butler or chef. ZOËTRY MONTEGO BAY JAMAICA – MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA ROYAL HIDEAWAY PLAYACAR – RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO Ideal for holistic romance, this boutique resort brings Endless Privileges to MoBay’s Convenience and privacy—adults will find both at this resort. Close to Playa del Carmen, ® exclusive Ironshore community—and butler service to every room. Three “guilt-free” its six pools, just as many restaurants, and a solarium with Bali beds balance adventure restaurants honor any dietary restraints, and meditation areas and tropical gardens with relaxation. Gorgeous gardens and coconut palms set a lush scene for a round of make the spa a truly tranquil retreat. Other ways to relax and re-center? Art exhibitions, tennis or special event. Tasting menus at Las Ventanas Chef’s Table, prepared right in afternoon tea, and guided snorkeling. front of you, turn celebrations up a notch higher. Receive rates up to 50% off plus up to $400 in resort coupons for bookings Receive $500 in resort discounts with bookings made by 12/30/17 for travel made by 1/10/18 and traveled by 4/2/18. Terms, conditions, and restrictions by 4/30/18. Discounts can only be applied to purchases of different services apply; call for details. and products within the resort not part of the all-inclusive plan. Call for details. travelimpressions.com | Reservations 800-284-0044

RIU HOTELS & RESORTS JADE MOUNTAIN Make Their Birthday a BASH Take Five (Nights) in Saint Lucia It takes three to party—and five rooms to make it a bash. Birthday groups Sometimes, all you want to do is break from the schedule. At Jade Mountain, celebrating at a RIU in Mexico, Central America, or the Caribbean can book perched high above Saint Lucia’s iconic southwestern coast, your customers a Birthday Bash package to receive: can do just that. • Two-hour private party on the beach with open bar and DJ* • Door banner for the birthday girl/guy and souvenir swag for the whole group Bold design joins luxury amenities for a sumptuous setting built for letting go. • Group dinner at a specialty restaurant † A taste of the tropics sets taste buds singing at James Beard Award-winner • Birthday cake, bottle of sparkling wine, and cooler of beer Chef Allen Susser’s Jade Cuisine, while two beaches and sprawling infinity • Pool or group contest with prizes pools with Piton views keep the backdrop equally exotic. Open “sanctuaries”— • Services of a hotel group coordinator not suites—sans fourth wall chase all care away. Plus, based on hotel and travel dates booked, free stays for the th 6 or 11 guest means no one misses out on wishing happy returns. A free 5 night gives even more time to hit pause. th th Booking Window: Now – 12/14/18 | Travel Window: 1/3/18 – 12/18/18 Book by 12/31/18 for travel any time in 2018! Valid with either EP or all-inclusive plans in Sky, Star, and Moon room categories. Clients who pre-book Package is available for up to 20 guests; additional guests at additional cost. *Beach tax not included the Modified American Plan or All-Inclusive Plan optional meal plans will receive the same meal plan † where applicable. Semi-private reservation subject to hotel availability. Some restrictions may apply. free of charge on the promotional free night(s). THE VILLA EXPERIENCE HOTEL XCARET MEXICO Ana, Dubrovnik, Croatia Four Seasons of Europe A Brand-New Way to Xcaret Winter, spring, summer, or fall, it’s always the perfect time to visit Europe. A full Xcaret just got even more family-friendly. Opening this month, the new Hotel year of travel ahead and five countries to choose from creates endless opportunity. Xcaret Mexico will create a distinctly Mexican experience for all ages moments from the park. Built to EarthCheck Design Standards, guests can explore: Greece – Picturesque alabaster towns along mythic shores make Mykonos and Santorini the islands to beat for coastal living. • Suites spread across five unique “Casas,” inspired by the Mayan elements • All-Fun Inclusive amenities, including free access to Experiencias Xcaret ® France – Urban and chic, rustic and charming, or Mediterranean and glamorous— Nature parks and tours find it all in this country of art and beauty. • Xiquillos Kids Club and Xiipal Teens Club, highlighting Mayan culture Italy – As fashionable as it is traditional, families and lovers alike hit their stride in • Ten restaurants and eight bars emphasizing local gastronomy Tuscany, Amalfi, Sicily, and more. • Optional Temazcal as well as hydrotherapy, salt water isolation, and other treatments in underground caverns at Muluk Spa Spain – With the second-highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of To celebrate the grand reveal, bookings made by year’s end for travel 12/1/17 – any country, Spain’s culture is as dazzling as its landscapes. 12/22/18 and packaged with air will receive special opening rates. Plus, one Croatia – Trending for its preserved heritage and high value, discover the kid ages 6 – 12 stays free from 12/1/17 – 12/22/17 and 8/20/18 – 12/22/18! beauty of the Adriatic from Dubrovnik to Porec. Font: GeosansLight V - is Custom Designed TheVillaExperience.net 888.284.3786 Offer subject to availability. Additional kids pay the child rate. Reservations required for select parks and by Travel Impressions and Villas of Distinction tours and must be coordinated through the concierge. Tours operated by Travel Impressions, Ltd. Rates are land only, per person, and based on double occupancy. Blackout, weekend, holiday, and peak season surcharges apply. All public charter flights sold through Travel Impressions on Alaska Airlines PC #16-102/PC #17-082; Allegiant Airlines PC #16-075/PC #16-115/PC #17-083; Icelandair PC #17-076; Miami Air PC #17-110; Swift Air PC #17-075/PC #17-103; Viva Aerobus PC #17-102/PC #17-104; Volaris PC by Travel Impressions and Villas of Distinction #17-135; and XTRA Airways PC #15-095/PC #16-103 are operated by Apple Vacations, LLC. For all Riviera Maya properties, the Riviera Maya Municipality of Solidaridad environmental levy of 20 Mexican pesos per room, per day is not included and will be collected at hotel check-out. Rates, information, and promotions are accurate at time of publication and are subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges, and restrictions. Rates are subject to change based on currency fluctuations. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the publication of this newsletter. Additional higher priced packages available. Valid for new bookings only. Travel Impressions materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of Travel Impressions. CST #2029006-20, IOWA #758, Washington UBI #602 425 801. KG12696-17_VK_11.20.17