By Judy Newell
Mexico News
Don’t let sargassum stop you.
In recent weeks, there have been concerns about the sargassum seaweed that’s present around the Riveria Maya. While sargassum is a natural phenomenon, it can come as an unwelcome visitor on vacation.
There are parts of the region, namely Cancun and the tranquil shores of Isla Mujeres, just a 15-minute ferry ride from the mainland, that have not experienced such an influx. In these areas, travelers can enjoy various ocean experiences, like swimming with docile whale sharks during their annual migration.
For visitors with an adventure focus, the Riviera Maya offers a variety of non-beach experiences, including its fascinating archaeological sites, natural aquatic theme parks, and ancient cenotes with crystalline water, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
International News
Escorted Japanese vacation including airfare.
16-Day Inspiring Japan
From US$3,799 per person. Airfare, bullet train, and quality hotels. See Mount Fuji, Hirosima Peace Memorial Park, temples, shrines, and castles.
23-Day Grand Japan
From US$5,193 per person. Incredible in-depth sightseeing on escorted tour with a night is a traditional Ryokan, UNESCO sites, and unique experiences.
17-Day Unforgettable Japan
From US$3,799 per person. Escorted tour includes airfare, all hotels, some meals, and private transport.
Dates available in 2022: from August to November. Dates available in 2023: from March to June and August to November. Only US$99 deposit per person.
Biden administration easing Cuba flight rules.
The Biden administration will start scaling back Trump-era restrictions on Cuba. It will lead to more flights to destinations beyond Havana. It will lift caps on remittances that Cuban Americans can send to family on the island. The Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program will be reinstated, and consular services will increase. However, these measures “do not yet eliminate travel restrictions for U.S. citizens,” a Cuban government spokesperson said.
The Euro is currently the weakest it has been in years.
Great news for North Americans planning a European trip this summer: the Euro has officially dropped to its lowest value since 2017. So what does that mean for you?
Just last year, the Euro was valued at $1.20 to the dollar but this year it has drpooed to $1.05. Amidst a summer of skyrocketing travel prices, room rates, and fuel costs, this change gives American travelers a bit more bang for ther buck.
Inflation across all of Europe, along with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, are among the top reasons for the sizeable shift in value. Additionally, the dollar is currently stronger than usual, providing travelers with more favorable exchange rates around the world.
Cruise News
Crystal Cruises ships up for auction.
Two Crystal Cruises ships are heading for the auction block. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will be offered in a sealed tender process in the Bahamas.
Bidders are required to post a 10 percent deposit with their bid by June 7. Winning bidder(s) will be informed by June 14 and have seven days to complete the transaction.
The ships have been impounded since February 5 in Freeport, due to the collapse of parent company Genting Hong Kong. Genting recently sold three cruise ships for scrap that were part of its Asia-based Star Cruises brand.
Aviation News
Qantas offering a “Fly Now Pay Later” option.
Qantas hopes to boost ticket sales with a new fly now, pay later deal. The airline teamed up with buy now, pay later provider Zip to spread the cost of travel with flexible repayments. Customers can also accrue Qantas Points on the payments as well as on the flight itself. Virgin Australia also partners with Zip, while Jetstar customers can pay in installments through Afterpay.
Deal of the Week
The world is on sale.
Inspiring Vacations tours include roundtrip international airfare from major U.S. gateways, 3-4-star accommodations with breakfast daily, sightseeing, English-speaking local guides, partially escorted, arrival and departure transfers, and some meals.
12-Day Incredible Vietnam and Mui Ne Beach Break
From US$1,699 with $99 deposit.
Incredible sightseeing including strolling around the vibrant capital Hanoi, overnight cruise in Halong Bay, exploring Ho Chi Minh City, and a relaxing beach break in quiet Mui Ne.
- 5 nights accommodation in 4-star hotels, plus an overnight cruise in Halong Bay
- 4 nights at a relaxing beach resort in Mui Ne
- Breakfast daily, two lunches, and one dinner
- Local english-speaking guides in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- Air-conditioned transportation throughout
- All entrance and sightseeing fees as mentioned in the program
13-Day Inspiring Canada and Alaska
From US$1,999 with $99 deposit, includes return airfare.
Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Park’s snow-capped peaks, exploring Vancouver and Calgary’s cosmopolitan heartbeat, visiting iconic Lake Louise, and cruising the Inside Passage to Alaska.
- 5 nights accommodation in comfortable 3-star hotels
- 7 nights Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean including gratuities
- Breakfast daily, six lunches, and seven dinners
- English-speaking Tour Director throughout Canada, day 1-5
- Dedicated transportation as outlines in the itinerary
- All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for over 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around th eworld. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit client’s interests, physical abilities, and budgets. Please contact Judy for further information on Ttrave News topics, Mexico, and international tfravel. Cell phone 415 111 8765; Vonage 949 300 3682; email at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net. Her office is in Rancho Los Labradores on the highway to Dolores Hidalgo.
Sources: Journey Mexico, Inspiring Vacations, Travel Mole, The Navigator, and Dunhill Vacations.
