Amazing Experiences Magazine

experiencesQuantumCruisingOur experts climb aboard

Royal Caribbean's first Quantum Class ship12

ISSUE 1: JANUARY – MARCH 2015

Amazing

20HAWAII IS CALLINGSix reasons to visit Hawaii that will have

you hula-ing the whole way there

26ECOTOURISM

Leaving your destination a

better place than you found it

Photo: Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas

A NEW MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING NEW TRAVEL TRENDS IN

2015

2 LIBERTY TRAVEL | JANUARY – MARCH 2015

Departments:Editor’s Note 4

Travel Talk Roundup 6

Visualize: Panama 8

City Stays: A Trip to Paris 36Paris is a city of adventure, and there’s never time to see everything. We’ll help you figure out what to see and what to skip.

Our Experts Say: 46 New Travel Experiences

Features:Honeymoon in Paradise: 16 Tahiti

Hawaii: Six Reasons to Traverse 2,500 Miles 20

Top Travel Apps 24

Ecotourism: Leaving Your Destination 26 a Better Place Than You Found It

Celebrity Stays 28

Quiz: 29 Which Celebrity Destination Are You?

All-Inclusive Tipping 34When should you tip, and how much should you leave?

Escorted Tours 101 35

Destinations for Foodies 38

Rollin’ on the River 40See Europe in a whole new way — along its waterways!

Special Needs Travelers: 45 Go with Confidence

C O N T E N T S

Cover Story: Quantum Cruising 12Our experts climb aboard Quantum of the Seas and tell you all you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s newest class of ships.

16

38

8


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CELEBRATING New Experiences IN THE NEW YEAR

It’s the New Year, and we’re all looking forward to rushing into 2015 with a head full of steam and a bucket full of big ideas about how we’re going to change for the better. At Liberty Travel, we got an early start and rolled out our brand new Amazing Experiences magazine.

This new quarterly publication will bring you the latest travel trends and the hottest travel news you need to know to get the most out of your global journeys. In our inaugural issue, and in the spirit of ushering in a new year, we stick to the theme of new experiences: be they new to everyone or just new to us. A large part of traveling, after all, is getting out there and broadening our horizons by immersing ourselves in the unfamiliar.

So dive in and see our experts’ up-close and personal look at Royal Caribbean’s new oceangoing behemoth, Quantum of the Seas (page 12). You may have read about all of the exciting new “firsts” on the Quantum Class ships, such as robot bartenders, bumper cars, and skydiving, but how does the actual experience stack up to the expectations?

Also, follow Liberty Travel Vacation Expert Jennifer Lewallen into the waters off of Grand Cayman and experience her close encounter with friendly stingrays (page 46). See how these strange and perhaps misunderstood creatures teach her the true meaning of “Caymankind”.

And of course we have lots of other great travel stories and information inside, including new flights and resort openings, essential tips for different types of travel, and all of the information you need on some of the best destinations around.

We hope you enjoy the brand new Amazing Experiences magazine, and we look forward to bringing you plenty more great travel stories in the months ahead!

By Phil Gusman

EDITOR'S NOTE

Marketing Director: John Feenaghty

Marketing Manager: Marissa DiRado

Artworks Manager: Leigha Hughen

Designer: Tatiana McGrath

Editor in Chief: Phil Gusman

Managing Editor: Meghan Brennan

Assistant Managing Editor: Susie Reese



TRAVEL TALK ROUNDUP Everything you need to know about new flights, hotel and resort openings, and new cruise experiences.

ON LAND

Playa Mujeres, Mexico will be home to Finest Playa Mujeres, the newest addition to the Excellence Group of hotels, on Feb. 12. Finest Playa Mujeres will be the only all-inclusive luxury resort in Cancun that welcomes guests of all ages, and will have all-suite accommodations, ranging from 800 to 3,400 square feet. Services and amenities include 12 pools, yacht excursions, beginner’s scuba lessons, water sports, cooking lessons, outdoor fitness trails, and Finest’s ONE Spa.

* * *Palace Resorts announces that Moon Palace Jamaica Grande will open in Ocho Rios, Jamaica on Feb. 1. Palace Resorts had assumed ownership of the property, formerly known as Sunset Jamaica Grande, in July 2014. Renovations and improvements since then include modernizing guest rooms, revamping and expanding meeting spaces, a redesign of common areas, restaurant updates, and the addition of Palace Resorts amenities such as FlowRider® Double wave simulator, Wired Teens Lounge, ultra-chic Noir nightclub, expansive kids club dubbed “The Playroom” and more.

* * *

BY AIR

Alaska Airlines will add new nonstop flights between San Diego and Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, beginning March 5. The flights will operate three times weekly on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Alaska Airlines will also begin daily nonstop service between Seattle and Washington, D.C. on March 11. The flight will depart Seattle for Dulles International Airport at 9:20 a.m., and will depart Dulles for Seattle at 6:20 p.m.

* * *

Spirit Airlines will offer 10 new nonstop destinations from Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport in 2015. Daily flights to Tampa, Baltimore/Washington, D.C., and Oakland/San Francisco Bay begin on March 26, March 27, and April 16 respectively. New flights to Mexico begin on May 7, including three per week to Cancun (increases to daily on June 11), two per week to Los Cabos (increases to four per week on June 11), and two per week to Toluca/Mexico City (increases to three per week on June 11). New flights to Central America begin on May 28, including three per week to Managua, Nicaragua and San Pedro Sula, Honduras; and four per week to San Jose, Costa Rica and San Salvador, El Salvador.

* * *American Airlines is adding new service from Miami to Germany with daily fights between Miami International Airport and Frankfurt Airport beginning May 14. American will also add Birmingham, England to its network with daily flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International beginning May 7.

* * *AeroMexico is offering special low rates on round-trip flights from New York to Cancun, exclusively through Flight Center by Liberty Travel. Passengers will enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks onboard and no baggage fees. Call 1-877-610-6000 for more information.

* * *Delta will add daily nonstop service to several cities from Seattle. Four daily flights to Sacramento, Calif. and Boise, Idaho will begin on May 4. One seasonal daily flight to Ketchikan, Alaska and Sitka, Alaska will begin on May 15. And five daily flights to Denver will begin on June 4. Delta will also be offering nonstop flights between Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport and New York John F. Kennedy International Airport for the 2015 summer season. Flights will begin four times a week from June 5 and increase to five times a week from June 15. The airline has scheduled a Boeing 757-200 aircraft with 164 seats on the route. Delta says its Sweden services feature fully flat-bed seats and a range of dining options in the BusinessElite cabin.

* * *

BY SEA

Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) will have a new flagship for its ocean fleet. The company has purchased Grand Holiday from Costa Crociere, which it will re-name Magellan and launch in spring 2015. The ship, at a gross tonnage of 46,052, will carry 1,250 passengers and operate as an adults-only (16 years and older) ship. Christian Verhounig, CEO and chairman of CMV says, “The introduction of Magellan to our growing ocean fleet is another important milestone in the expansion and strategic development of the group’s presence in the UK and wider international markets which will increase overall capacity to 115,000 passengers."

* * *Building off of its Breakaway Class of ships, Norwegian Cruise Line will launch Norwegian Escape in fall 2015, which is a Breakaway Plus Class ship. Escape will offer seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami. It will include popular Breakaway Class features such as the Waterfront—an oceanfront promenade lined with restaurants and bars, and 678 Ocean Place—three decks featuring NCL’s largest casino, Skyline Bar, and dining options. Escape will have a gross tonnage of 163,000 and 4,200 passenger berths.

* * *Royal Caribbean International will launch its second Quantum Class ship, Anthem of the Seas, in spring 2015. Among other highlights, the ship will feature a skydiving simulator, bumper cars, a 220-foot outdoor poolside movie screen, and the North Star—a capsule that elevates passengers 300 feet above sea level and offers 360-degree views of the sea and destinations. Anthem will have a gross tonnage of 167,800.

* * *

Moon Palace Jamaica GrandeOpening February 2015

North Star on Anthem of the Seas


The Hyatt Zilara™ & Hyatt Ziva™ trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt International Corporation. © 2014 Hyatt International Corporation. All rights reserved. © 2014 Playa Resorts Management, exclusive operator for Hyatt Zilara™ & Hyatt Ziva™.

SAY I DO TO FREE WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS.A wedding is not just any day. It’s the culmination of a courtship, and the beginning of a life to be shared. As such, it deserves to be planned by skilled experts, set among spectacular beauty, and followed by a honeymoon every bit its equal. At Hyatt Zilara™ & Hyatt Ziva™, delivering unforgettable weddings, honeymoons and vow renewal ceremonies is the sole focus of our experienced wedding staff.

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THE NEXT


B. Franklin / Shutterstock.com

9 LIBERTY TRAVEL | JANUARY – MARCH 2015 JANUARY – MARCH 2015 | LIBERTY TRAVEL 9

GREAT DESTINATION:

Panama?Panama may not be on your list of top vacation spots, but it should be.

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as RIU Plaza Panama and Marriott Panama City; and, of course, the

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Ivan_Sabo / Shutterstock.com


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CRUISINGQuantum

Royal Caribbean knows how to make a splash (pardon the pun). When the cruise line launched its first Oasis Class ship in 2009, it was the largest and longest cruise ship in service and featured unique concepts, such as spreading amenities across seven neighborhoods, and cruising firsts such as zip-lining.

So with Royal Caribbean in the midst of launching its next class of ships, the Quantum Class, it was interesting to see how the company would up its game. And the early images and statements did not disappoint. What in the world is that arm coming off the top of the ship? Why, that’s the North StarSM, a glass capsule that gives passengers a 360-degree view of the ocean and destinations from 300 feet in the air. Other unique firsts added to the anticipation: skydiving at sea? Bumper cars? Robot bartenders? Count us in!

But for all the hype, you can’t really judge a book by its cover—or a cruise ship by its pictures for that matter. Liberty Travel is committed to providing real knowledge to its customers, so we sent a number of our professionals to experience Royal Caribbean’s first Quantum Class ship, Quantum of the Seas, for themselves. Two of them shared their views with us, and the verdict is the ship is a true wonder, but maybe not for the reasons you’d think.

Patricia Wagner, Liberty Travel Cruise Product Manager, for example, says that for how big Quantum of the Seas is, it’s actually the ship’s coziness that makes it stand out. “As large as it is,” she says, “the judicious use of public space gives the ship a much more intimate feel than its size implies.”

Wagner says she and her team were generally impressed by the dining and shopping options, “such as Michael Kors and Bulgari; Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian, etc.” Wagner also calls out The Café @ Two70 for its quick bites and a “really excellent” cup of coffee. “Overall, the experience was comfortable, fun, and very enjoyable – just what a cruise should be!” she says.

When describing the best experience on the ship, the Liberty Cruise Product Team does not focus on some of the headline-grabbing cruising firsts, but rather the simplified check-in process. “Registering online and uploading the ID photo; then just speaking with a staff member with an iPad who swiped my passport and said, ‘You’re all set. Your room keys are at your stateroom,’ turned what used to be a tedious, time-consuming, please-get-me-off-this-line process into a pleasant ‘welcome aboard,’” says Wagner.

As for the biggest surprise on the ship? It’s technology-based, but it’s not the robot bartenders. Rather, Wagner says it is how well the SMART technology works and how easy it is to understand. “The wrist band room key, the IQ app—which you can download to your phone and use to keep in touch with all things on the ship—were all surprisingly easy to understand and use.”

Liberty's Cruise Product Manager recommends that cruisers familiarize themselves with the SMART technology before boarding. “It enables a guest to do so many things without a visit to guest services and standing on line.”

Liberty Travel experts break down Royal Caribbean's newest class of shipsBy Phil Gusman

Skydiving onboard Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas

JANUARY – MARCH 2015 | LIBERTY TRAVEL 13

But what about all those activities?Of course, when it comes to the Quantum Class ships, much of the attention is on the new and exciting things to do. Notes Wagner, “Any new ship strives to come up with different attractions in order to provide fresh, new experiences for their guests. Royal Caribbean is especially adept at this.”

She says the SeaPlex indoor area “is without a doubt a fabulous concept. Enclosing this space to provide an entertainment activity area totally protected from inclement weather ensures that this will be a great draw for families with kids no matter the children’s ages.”

The area houses bumper cars, rollerskating, a circus trapeze, indoor basketball, plus an upper floor with air hockey, ping pong, and “a whole wall of flat screen TV’s connected to Xboxes with the most up-to-date games” sure to entertain kids of all ages, “and most adults, too,” Wagner says.

Some of the other well-publicized firsts, she adds, such as skydiving, the North StarSM, and the robot bartender, “are areas of unique interest, but not something you are going to do over and over.”

However, Liberty’s Marketing Manager Marissa DiRado speaks very highly of the skydiving experience, recommending it for anyone cruising on Quantum of the Seas as a potential “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

DiRado, who has also cruised on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Breakaway, which launched in 2013, says she was just as impressed with the daytime activities aboard Royal Caribbean’s new ship as she was with the nighttime activities on the NCL vessels.

After the sun went down on Quantum of the Seas, DiRado says, “‘The Music Hall,’ the main source of nighttime entertainment, had Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen cover bands during primetime after-dinner hours.” She notes that adding some activities, say, for people who would like to dance, would be welcome.

During the day, though, DiRado says, “From bumper cars to skydiving simulators, FlowRider®, rock climbing walls, rollerskating, and so much more, there was never a dull moment.

The accommodations When you’re cruising, you’re likely not going to spend all of your time in your room given all of the onboard activities and great locations you will be visiting. But it is where you will be resting your head at the end of the day, and while cruise ships usually have somewhat limited space for accommodations, there were things to like about the staterooms on Quantum of the Seas. Wagner says, “As with most cruise ships, there is not much you can do with staterooms in the limited space environment of the ship until you get into the larger suite categories. I was in a balcony stateroom and found it roomy enough and comfortable.”

DiRado stayed in a superior balcony stateroom and says Royal Caribbean did a good job selecting the right furniture for the room to make it feel more spacious.”

Advice from the prosThinking of taking a cruise aboard Quantum of the Seas? Both Wagner and DiRado recommend making reservations for activities as soon as you can. Wagner says, “Make as many reservations as you can in advance, whether dining or activities or shore excursions. This leaves you free to just enjoy and not spend all your time running around trying to arrange things. I’d rather sit by the pool with a cool drink than stand on line any day.”

DiRado adds that specialty dining reservations, in particular, should be reserved before cruisers leave for their trip to ensure they get to eat at the restaurants of their choice.

Quantum of the Seas began sailing November 2014. It will be joined by fellow Quantum Class ships Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015 and Ovation of the Seas in fall 2016.

Balcony Stateroom aboard Quantum of the Seas

*Conditions Apply: Prices do not include airfare. Special promotions valid on new bookings only. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy accommodations in US Dollars. Availability is limited. Rates are subject to change; holiday blackouts, peak period surcharges, and cancellation charges may be applicable of up to the full price paid depending on the package and when it is cancelled. Other restrictions may apply. Contact Liberty Travel for further details. Bahamas & Florida cruise based on 4/5/15 sail date. Liberty Travel does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of the offers displayed.

Enjoy a 7-Night Bahamas & Florida Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's NEW SHIP Quantum of the Seas

+ $143 taxes, fees & port expensesfrom

$2069*


ONLY AT

INTRODUCING

Your 5-Night Getaway

Take unbeatable value, exclusive experiences, creative bundling, and great destinations; then sprinkle in some incredible perks, and you get Liberty Escapes—a new product line Liberty Travel will be rolling out in 2015.

These five-night vacation packages will offer unique experiences to Liberty Travel customers. With packages to destinations like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cancun, and Riviera Maya—and our Vacation Experts to back you up before, during, and after your vacation—you’re sure to have the vacation of a lifetime.

Liberty Escapes bundles air transportation, accommodations, hotel transfers, and more to give you incredible value at an amazing price. And that “more” is where the really incredible stuff happens. Just for booking a Liberty Escape, you’ll get a $50 prepaid American Express card, up to a $200 sightseeing credit, and, because we’re so sure you’ll love your Escape, up to a $100 deposit on your next vacation!

on a Whole New Level

ALWAYS INCLUDED: up to $200 Sightseeing Credit

$50 American Express® Giftcard

up to $100 Deposit on your next vacation

5-NIGHT LIBERTY ESCAPES:Riviera Maya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $1019*

Cancun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $1029*

Dominican Republic . . . . . . . . from $1099*

Jamaica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $1199*

*Conditions Apply: Additional fees for baggage may apply. Prices do not include baggage fees or other ancillary fees charged directly by the airlines. Please refer to to http://www.libertytravel.com/flights/baggage-fees.jsp or contact your airline for detailed information regarding their checked baggage policies. The above destinations are served by a variety of carriers. Special promotions valid on new bookings only and prices are valid at time of publication and may change prior to booking. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy accommodations. Packages include round-trip airfare from New York and do not include meals unless otherwise indicated. Availability is limited. Seats may not be available on all flights. Rates and/or package prices on airfares & resorts are subject to change; holiday blackouts, peak period surcharges, and cancellation charges may be applicable of up to the full price paid depending on the fare and/or package and when it is cancelled. U.S. or international government imposed taxes and fees of up to $60 may apply on arrivals and departures depending on the itinerary chosen, and are payable to the appropriate airport authority. Some fares may be non-refundable, but may be exchanged for a fee of up to $200, plus any additional airfare costs due to difference in new airfares. Other restrictions may apply and vary by resort and airline carrier. Contact Liberty Travel for further details. Liberty Escapes: Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and in US dollars. Savings are not redeemable for cash. Riviera Maya pricing based on Occidental Grand Xcaret; valid for travel 5/1/15-12/23/15. Cancun pricing based on Grand Oasis Palm; valid for travel 5/1/15-12/23/15. Dominican Republic pricing based on Melia Caribe Tropical; valid for travel 5/1/15-8/21/15. Jamaica pricing based on Riu Montego Bay; valid for travel 5/1/15-8/11/15. All offers must be booked by 1/31/15. Liberty Escapes Bookings are subject to a cancellation fee of $200 plus any additional charges imposed by airlines and hotel depending on the Liberty Escapes Booking and when it is cancelled. A deposit may be required to cover the cancellation fee of $200 plus any portion of the airfare which is non-refundable. American Express® Gift Card, Sightseeing Credit and Travel Deposit are valid for new Liberty Escapes Bookings only and will be issued to customer upon receipt of final payment. One Gift Card, One Sightseeing Credit and One Travel Deposit per adult per Liberty Escapes Booking (maximum available are 2 of each). American Express® Gift Card subject to the terms and conditions attached to the gift card and as issued by American Express®. Sightseeing Credit must be redeemed through Liberty Travel and for the current Liberty Escapes Booking. Travel Deposit is valid for 12 months of issue from the time the original booking is paid in full and can only be redeemed when the future booking is paid in full. Sightseeing Credit and Travel Deposit have no cash value, are not transferrable, can only be redeemed once and cannot be combined with any other offer. Sightseeing Credit and Travel Deposit will not be available on the cancellation of the Liberty Escapes Booking after final payment. Not valid for contracted group rates. Liberty Travel does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of the offers displayed.


Don’t Just ‘Escape’…

Chichen Itza, Mexico

Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park,

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Tuff Gong International Recording Studio, Jamaica

We want to encourage sightseeing and exploration while you’re away on your Liberty Escape, so we’ve also put together a wide variety of Liberty Experiences, with amazing options that let you take in your destination with a local guide and see off-the-beaten-path attractions you won’t find anywhere else.

In Mexico, you can take a private transfer to Chichen Itza and tour the ruins before the maddening crowds arrive, then take a dip in one of Mexico’s hidden cenotes, Mother Nature’s underground swimming pools. You’ll also take in a cooking demonstration and visit a colonial city—a hidden gem off the well-worn tourist trail.

Or take a ferry to Isla Mujeres, off the Yucatan coast, and visit Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park for hiking, sightseeing, snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, and a close encounter with friendly dolphins. Spend time in the water with these amazing marine mammals before shaking hands and hugging goodbye!

Travel to Jamaica and enjoy a Bob Marley-inspired day with an exclusive reggae experience, or a coffee experience that will make foodies and coffee lovers alike swoon.

Take in the culture and history of the Dominican Republic with a tour to the biggest cigar factory in the country and to a local village where sugar cane workers live. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, take a trip to Samana and enjoy stunning views and endless water activities.

With these and so many other Liberty Experiences to choose from, your vacation will be the perfect fit for your interests and travel style.

‘Experience'


HONEYMOON

TT-0237_Rebrand_TravelFlash_3rd_pg_fin.indd 1 11/18/14 9:49 AM

Your honeymoon is the first vacation of your married life, which makes it one of the most important trips you’ll ever take. So when you decide where you’re headed, you want to make sure it’s somewhere memorable. Somewhere with sunshine to spare, white-sand beaches, overwater bungalows…we just described Tahiti, didn’t we?

There are some very good reasons why Tahiti is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. Seclusion, for one – it’s far enough away to avoid any unwanted interruptions, but still easy to get to, with just one stop required when traveling from New York. It’s uniquely beautiful, so every one of your vacation photos will have a stunning backdrop. Tahiti is the perfect place to do whatever you want, whether that’s sailing the ocean, snorkeling a lagoon, or nothing more than lying by the water and hearing the waves crash on the sand. Besides, who can say no to an overwater bungalow?

The Tahitian people are amazing as well, and with them as your hosts, your honeymoon is sure to be filled with smiles. From being greeted on arrival with music, dance, and flowers to a morning meal delivered to your room by catamaran, the people you encounter will be warm and welcoming in a way that will make you feel like you’re part of Tahiti.

A Tahitian honeymoon also means the opportunity for island hopping through French Polynesia. Tahiti is the biggest and most populous of the islands, as well as being home to the city of Papeete, where you can shop to your heart’s content and eat at some great – though not inexpensive – restaurants, where the cuisine reflects the multi-ethnic nature of French Polynesia. It’s easy to get out of the city, and most accommodations are a short taxi ride from downtown.

in ParadiseBy Meghan Brennan


There’s a point during a vacation when you realize things are unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced. For many, it happens the moment they step on board Air Tahiti Nui. On our award-winning, daily nonstops from Los Angeles to Paris and Tahiti, with connections to Auckland and Sydney, passengers enjoy French-inspired cuisine and are cared for by a cabin crew that is as captivating as the islands they call home.

On Air Tahiti Nui, “going above and beyond” takes on new meaning.

PARIS17100 KM / 10687 MLLOS ANGELES

6200 KM / 3875 MLTOKYO8800 KM / 5500 ML

AUCKLAND3900 KM / 2437 ML

TAHITI

SYDNEY1338 KM / 2153 ML

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JobClientMedia TypePublication LiveTrimBleed

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Dan YamadaN/AN/AAndy CareyIngrid ChenIngrid Chen

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Notes

Perhaps the most famous island of the archipelago is Bora Bora, less than an hour flight away from Tahiti. Home to the first overwater bungalows, these unique accommodations quickly became an icon of French Polynesia. Smaller islands like Huahine and Moorea have their charms as well. Moorea is largely rural, but is home to the Tiki Village, where you can see a replica of a traditional Tahitian village, learn about the Polynesian way of life, have a fantastic buffet dinner, and see an amazing show. In Huahine, you can tour the stunning lagoons via motorized canoe, with opportunities to see coral gardens, various villages, and the pearl farms from which come the famous Tahitian black pearls.

However you choose to spend it, a trip to Tahiti with your new spouse is guaranteed to be an unforgettable start to your new life together. Contact a Liberty Travel Vacation Expert today to book your honeymoon in paradise.

Overwater Bungalow on Bora Bora


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• NEW lavish Oceanfront Family Suites• NEW Family Concierge Check In lounge• NEW dedicated Family Concierge restaurant• Pools & private beach areas with valet service• Life-Enriching activities• Paradisus Kids beach Welcome pack• Special in-suite kids amenities (robes & slippers)• Cookies and milk turndown service• Exclusive family activities and sports

A Meliá Hotel & Resorts Brand

D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C I M E X I C O I C O S T A R I C A ( 2 0 1 6 )

Announcing the NEWFamily Conciergeat Paradisus Palma Real

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A NEW LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE

THE LEVEL

• Private check-in/out lounge• Private beach, pool and bar area with

concierge service• Priority access to the exclusive GABI Club• Special in-room amenities, like pillow and

aroma menus• Preferential reservations for restaurants,

recreational activities, YHI Spa and more

Continuing to set the standard for all-inclusive resorts, Meliá Caribe Tropical is proud to introduce THE LEVEL and THE LEVEL ADULTS ONLY.

Located on the powdery, white sands of Bávaro Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the magnifi cent Meliá Caribe Tropical unveils an exclusive escape for savvy travelers seeking memorable vacation experiences, timeless luxury, superior service and personalized amenities designed to captivate and inspire. At THE LEVEL expect your every need to be anticipated beforehand.

THE LEVEL ADULTS ONLY

• All of THE LEVEL services plus exclusive benefi ts such as luxury accommodations located in a privileged adult’s only area

• Private adult’s only beach, pool and bar area• Energy for Life activities designed for adults• Access to Cuatro, the social epicenter for the Adults Only experience with dining and

lounge areas


Hawaii: Six Reasons to Traverse 2,500 Miles

Kauai is a special island full of natural mystery and enchanting beauty. Sometimes called the “Garden Isle,” this paradise offers diverse pleasures such as glistening waterfalls and rivers, and dramatic lava caves and state parks. The Opaekaa Falls and the Wailua Falls flow from the Wailua River and can be experienced via boat tour. Fern Grotto, a brilliant lava rock cave sheltered by draping ferns, serves as a popular romantic and wedding spot. Poipu Beach, one of the Travel Channel’s Best American Beaches, marvels with humpback whales and large honu (Hawaiian sea turtles). Zip-lining through the Kauai brush adds excitement to this island getaway. Some of Kauai’s wonders are so exclusive, they are only accessible by sea or air.

Oahu is the island most people imagine when they hear Hawaii. It is the home of the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. The memorial explores the events of the Pacific War, including Pearl Harbor, the internment of Japanese Americans, and other aspects of World War II. Waikiki, the once-royal sanctuary, serves as a well-known tourist destination with incredible resorts and world-class shopping and dining. Diamond Head (or “Leahi” in Hawaiian) is located in Oahu with a 760-foot crater that has been used as a military lookout post but is now a national treasure for hiking and mature sports. Perhaps Oahu is most famously known as the home of TV’s Magnum, P.I.

Moloka’i is the natural Hawaiian island least touched by modern forces. It’s also one of the smallest at only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide. Still, it has the highest sea cliffs, like the 3,900-feet high Na Pali cliffs, which hold a Guinness World Record. The Kalaupapa National Historical Park is one of the island’s popular attractions with three miles of trails, 26 switch-backs, and breathtaking views. Papohaku Beach (AKA Three Mile Beach) is one of the largest white-sand beaches in Hawaii, and here you’ll also find picnic areas, restroom facilities, and a great view of Oahu. Moloka’i is a great place to snorkel or dive with natural finger coral and reef fish.

There are six reasons why Hawaii is revered as a world-class getaway: Kauai, Oahu, Moloka’i, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii Island. These islands aren’t just a part of the State of Hawaii; they are each a tourist destination all their own, with a unique blend of history, incredible sights, and renowned cuisine. Though Hawaii is about 2,500 miles from California, the islands make the trip well worth it with natural wonders not seen anywhere else.

By Susie Reese


Lanai is home to Hulopoe Bay, another one of America’s best beaches, and here, tide pools formed from volcanic rock breed an abundance of marine life, like hermit crabs, sea stars, and even acrobatic spinner dolphins. During the winter months, humpback whales frequent Hulopoe Bay. Keahiakawelo, or the “Garden of the Gods,” is in North Lanai and is a surreal rock garden at the end of the island that glows orange, purple, and red at sunset. When visibility allows, visitors can see Moloka’i and Oahu from the high cliffs. For adventure, an off-road exploration to Kaiolohia offers an eight-mile beach that caused many a shipwreck, including a 1940s oil tanker that is still there today.

Maui is one of the most scenic islands in Hawaii with its Road to Hana. This drive is only 52 miles, but takes upwards of two hours to traverse with its one-lane bridges (59 in all) and 620 curves. It also provides a close look at Hawaii’s natural beauty with lavish rainforest, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning cliffs. The warm Hana Bay Beach Park and Hamoa Beach ease tense muscles after the long trip, and Wai’anapanapa State Park holds a feast for the eyes with its gorgeous black-sand beach. An extra 10 miles past Hana hosts a series of waterfalls called the Pools of Oheo at Haleakala National Park, and the Pipiwai Trail has the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. Also at Haleakala, the sunrises are a palette of colors and sights, certainly not to be missed.

Hawaii Island is a short 40-minute plane ride from Oahu, and it’s well worth it. The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kilauea Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. The park boasts more than 333,000 acres with 150 hiking trails where you can experience volcanic craters, deserts, rainforests, a walk-in lava tube, and two volcanoes — Mauna Loa, which erupted in 1984, and Kilauea, which has been erupting since 1983. The park is both a World Biosphere site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also on the Big Island is Kona, which is a 60-mile stretch from the international airport to Kealakekua Bay, where the exclusive and highly sought-after Kona coffee is grown.

Don’t wait to experience all of the reasons to visit Hawaii. Contact a Liberty Travel Vacation Expert today and plan the perfect blend of history, flavors, and adventure on the Islands of Hawaii.


For more than 25 years, RIU Palace has been putting unique experiences at your fingertips and setting a high standard for luxury accommodations around the world. From your welcome glass of cava to the very last moment spent soaking up the sun, you know you’re in a world where anything is possible.

Whether you’re spending valuable quality time on a family vacation or getting away from it all with a special someone, RIU Palace hotels are the perfect place to escape. Unwind by the pool, sample one of the many restaurant options, or dance the night away at Pacha. However you enjoy RIU Palace, you can relax knowing you’re experiencing the 24 hour All Inclusive program they’re known for in surroundings that will make you feel like you’re living the high life.

Riu Palace Peninsula, Cancun

Contact a Liberty Travel Vacation Expert today to experience the wonders of Riu Palace.


MEXICO · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · BAHAMAS · JAMAICAARUBA · PANAMA · SAINT MARTIN · COSTA RICA · MIAMI

WORLD-FAMOUS ALL INCLUSIVE BEACH RESORTS

We are pleased to introduce the NEW Riu Palace Antillas Hotel which opened October 11th on Palm Beach

as the first Adults Only hotel in Aruba and the NEW Riu Palace Saint Martin Hotel which opened November 1st

on the French side of the exclusive island of Saint Martin. Both of these hotels offer the exclusive services

and facilities of our Palace line and our renowned 24 hr All Inclusive program.

• Beachfront location

• 4 restaurants, including Krystal fusion restaurant

• 3 bars, including 1 swim-up bar

• Gym and spa

• Free WiFi throughout the hotel

RIU PALACE ST. MARTIN HOTEL

Discover the new hotels in our exclusiveRIU PALACE line

• 5 restaurants, including Krystal fusion restaurant

• 5 bars, including a 24 hr Lounge Bar

• Casino, pool, spa and Pacha nightclub

• Free WiFi throughout the hotel

RIU PALACE ANTILLAS HOTEL

We’re all about you

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FlightAware Flight TrackerTrack real-time flight status with this app and check out the tracking map that shows any commercial flight worldwide.

Cost: Free, but offers in-app purchases.

FUN FOR ALL:GRAND OASIS CANCUNOASIS CANCUNGRAND OASIS TULUM

OASIS TULUM

ADULTS ONLY: GRAND OASIS SENS (21 AND OVER)

FAMILY FRIENDLY:GRAND OASIS PALM

Participating myTime resorts:

GRAND OASIS SENS GRAND OASIS CANCUNGRAND OASIS PALM GRAND OASIS TULUM

Something FOR Everyone

TRAVEL APPSTraveling is an enriching experience, but of course there can be some hiccups that arise. To ease any hectic experiences you may encounter, we have travel apps to help keep you organized.

Perfect World ClockNever be confused about what time it is at home again! This world clock app lets you see what time it is at home and across the globe.

Cost: $0.99

WhatsApp MessengerKeeping your data and cell roaming off but your hotel offers WiFi? Stay connected with friends and loved ones at home by sending messages, pictures, and videos using WiFi, all for free!

Cost: Free

XE CurrencyNever get ripped off at the register again! This app converts live currency rates to U.S. dollars so you can know exactly how much your dollar is worth when traveling abroad.

Cost: Free

TipulatorAll cultures tip differently. What is generous in the U.S. might be offensive in other countries. This tip calculator will help to split bills and give advice on proper tipping etiquette in various countries.

Cost: Free

Google TranslateCommunication barrier? Fear not! This app allows you to write sentences in English and translate to hundreds of other languages, even offering voice readouts as well!

Cost: Free

TOP

25 LIBERTY TRAVEL | JANUARY – MARCH 2015RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SHIPS’ REGISTRY BAHAMAS AND USA

Norwegian Breakaway is the largest and most innovative ship to ever homeport in New York City. She sails to the pink sand beaches of Bermuda during the spring and summer and the warm tropics of The Caribbean and Bahamas & Florida in winter. Uniquely designed to capture the romance of traveling on the water, Norwegian Breakaway has an industry-first open-air space to connect you with the ocean on The Waterfront.

Plus, Norwegian Cruise Line has partnered with myTime, offering you a wide range of exclusive value added benefits including discounts for dining, shore excursions, spa treatments and so much more. There has never been a better time to cruise aboard Norwegian Breakaway and discover what it is like to Cruise Like a Norwegian®.

THE BEST OF NYC SAILS TO SEA™

NORWEGIAN BREAKAWAY


Loving the planet and loving travel shouldn’t be mutually exclusive – luckily, they’re not anymore. What’s the solution? A nifty little thing called ecotourism.

When you take travel and add an ethical component, congratulations! You’ve got ecotourism, or at least responsible tourism. You’ve heard the saying “Take only photos, leave only footprints,” but when you take only photos and leave a place better than you found it, that’s responsible tourism. It’s all about sustainable travel and caring for the animals, plants, and people you encounter on your journeys.

It’s hard to define ecotourism, but at its core, it’s about seeing and appreciating the natural beauty of our planet (and there’s a lot of it), and going beyond simply “doing no harm” to “actively helping” in the process. Fortunately, it’s rapidly getting easier to see whatever part of the world you want in an eco-friendly way, and Central American destinations have been at the forefront of this movement. From Guatemala to Panama, the gorgeous beaches and awe-inspiring rainforests are playing host to guests looking to learn about the planet and do something good for it at the same time. Whether you’re zip-lining through the jungle, making friends with one of the native turtles, or climbing up the side of a volcano, you can make sure your host country gets as much out of the experience as you do.

And it’s not just about Central America. Africa is home to plenty of lodges that allow you to get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals without disturbing their natural habitat. You can cruise the Norwegian fjords and see this stunning natural phenomenon on ships that have fewer emissions, making them better for the very fragile ecosystem. In the South Pacific, you can snorkel reefs that feature greater biodiversity than almost anywhere else on the planet.

There are always ways to improve the impact of any kind of travel, and it’s worth looking into on your next vacation, whether that means replanting the rainforest, making sure your resort treats its employees well, or just taking the time to support a local business.

E C O TO U R I S M :Leaving Your Travel Destination a Better Place Than You Found It

By Meghan Brennan


N E W F O R 2 0 1 5 !BEST OF IRELAND SOUTH Escorted Tour – 6, 7 or 8 days Featuring Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and more. Two departures per week, March to November

D I S C O V E RIRISH HERITAGE & DROMOLAND CASTLEEscorted Tour – 8 days Experience Irish Culture and historic landmarks. Weekly departures, March to November

N E W F O R 2 0 1 5 ! GREAT BRITISH CITIES Escorted Tour – 10 days Featuring highlights in London, Edinburgh, Cambridge, and York. Departs Fridays, April to October

N E W F O R 2 0 1 5 !TASTE OF DEVON, CORNWALL & WALESEscorted Tour – 8 or 10 daysFeaturing Cardiff Castle Banquet, scenic drives in key locations and more.Departs Sundays, May to November

I N D U L G ESCOTTISH & IRISH SUPREMEEscorted Tour – 13 daysEnjoy luxurious hotels, and magnifi cent castles.Departs Thursdays, May to October

E X P E R I E N C EBRITISH IRISH GRANDEUREscorted Tour – 14 or 15 daysExplore British & Irish landmarks, culture and more!Weekly departures, April to October

All CIE Tours travel programs are protected by the company’s $550+ Advantage, a no-feebenefi t guaranteeing that travelers are never charged for special features considered optional extras with other tour companies.

• 83 years of travel experience • Choice of over 50 tours• Guaranteed departures & prices

Photos: Top – Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry;Bottom – Buckingham Palace, London


Whether it’s fun in the sun for friends and family, or an intimate, luxurious retreat for two, the trio of limitless all-inclusive Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten offer something for everyone.

luxuriously limitlesssophisticated styleexhilarating fun

SINT MAARTEN

Want a glimpse into the lifestyles of the rich and famous? Then “vacay” like Leonardo DiCaprio in Rome, or like George Clooney on Lake Como with lavish, exotic hotels around the world. At such retreats in Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, you and your family can enjoy luxurious accommodations and celebrity amenities with spectacular suites, incredible surroundings, and unparalleled luxury.

Revered as one of Thailand’s most elegant villas, Tassana Pra is situated on a cliff overlooking Big Buddha Beach and the village of Bank Rak. Extravagant gardens with an oceanfront lawn, colorful flowers, stone steps, and a picturesque lily pond provide ultimate privacy and relaxation, especially when coupled with the freeform infinity-edge pool and a magnificent verandah that wraps around the front of the house. Mingling traditional architecture with modern amenities, this tropical hideaway brings the comfort of home and the mystique of an exotic locale together to create the quintessential island getaway.

No luxurious hotel list is complete without at least one from Paris. Part of the acclaimed Dorchester Collection, Le Meurice is that hotel, which has catered to celebrities and high society since its inception in 1815. The hotel was designed in the style of Louis XVI and features Italian marble bathrooms and gourmet specialties under the culinary direction of Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse. Perfectly situated between Place de la Concorde and the Louvre, the hotel combines luxury, comfort, and convenience.

Best known as the private island of Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island is a world-class, world-renowned resort with six Bali houses, each with a one-bedroom suite, and a Great House with eight bedrooms and one luxurious master suite. The all-inclusive resort can accommodate up to 30 people at one time — or one celebrity’s entourage. With fine wines and specialty-made food, Necker Island is the finest accommodation in the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio and welcomes celebrities, royalty, and you.

Known for its immense beauty and optimal privacy, the North Island has only 11 villas, including the exclusive Villa North Island that was the honeymoon escape used by Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. Creating “barefoot luxury,” these handcrafted villas are made from wood, local-hewn stone, and glass, and celebrate nature with open walls, plunge pools engulfed by tropical ferns and fauna, and natural granite backdrops. The eco-friendly resort doubles as a conservation project for endangered wildlife and vegetation.

STAYS

Tassana Pra | Koh Samui, Thailandtassanapra.com

Le Meurice | Paris, Francedorchestercollection.com/en/paris/le-meurice

Necker Island | British Virgin Islandsneckerisland.virgin.com

North Island | Seychellesnorth-island.com

CelebrityBy Susie Reese


DISCOVER YOURSELF

CENTER STAGE

ON RENAISSANCE

PRIVATE ISLAND

The Newly Renovated Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino

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QUIZ: Which Celebrity Destination Should You Visit?

1. Let’s start easy: how far do you want to go?

A. A quick flight’ll do!

B. I want to feel far away from all my cares.

C. If they can track me down, I’m not far enough.

2. OK, now, what’s your favorite vacation drink?

A. Mojitos, baby!

B. I’ll take a glass of wine on the terrace, thanks.

C. The local liquor of choice, neat or on the rocks.

3. What do you want to pack for this getaway?

A. Think something sparkly and sky-high heels.

B. Light cottons, maybe some nice jeans.

C. Bathing suits, sarongs – no one’s seeing me anyway.

4. Which is your favorite travel movie?

A. Dr. No

B. Under the Tuscan Sun

C. The African Queen

5. What do you want to do all day?

A. Shop ‘til I drop, make some new friends, check out a restaurant…

B. Tour – there’s so much to see!

C. Relax on the beach.

If you picked mostly A’s…

Pack your tiniest bikini and highest heels; you’re headed to South Beach! This

getaway of Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady is the perfect place for you to

enjoy the high life. You’ll see and be seen, and don’t worry; everyone will know

exactly how glamorous you are.

If you picked mostly B’s…

Congratulations, you have something in common with George Clooney – Lake

Como is the place for you! Take a ride on the funiculare up into the mountains,

go sailing, and relax with a glass of wine – or gelato. You’re on vacation, after all.

If you picked mostly C’s…

Are you going on vacation or dropping off the face of the earth? Either way,

you can do it in the Seychelles. When you see how isolated this island nation is,

you’ll understand why Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

chose it as their honeymoon escape – and when you see the beaches, you’ll

wonder how they ever left.


Resorts for Everyone by Sandals

Negril • Ocho Rios

†Scuba diving included for certified divers. PADI dive courses, night dives and kids’ dive programs are additional. Beaches®

is a registered trademark.

MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE WORLD

Sometimes you have to

to

GET AWAY

GET TOGETHER

Beaches® Resorts are the perfect destination for your entire family. There’s swimming, sailing, and scuba diving†—even the kids can get certified! Or they can splash and play at the exhilarating Pirates Island Waterpark. With so much to do, kids from tots to teens will never want to leave. Discovery Dining means you have up to eight gourmet restaurants to choose from, satisfying even the pickiest eaters, and lively bars, where drinks are always on the house. Here, you can relax and soak up the sun on Jamaica’s best beaches. Best of all, everything is included. Because when you get together at Beaches, it’s the best time of all.

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MONTEGO BAY • ROYAL CARIBBEAN RESORT & PRIVATE ISLAND • CARLYLE WHITEHOUSE EUROPEAN VILLAGE & SPA • NEGRIL BEACH RESORT & SPA

GRANDE RIVIERA BEACH & VILLA GOLF RESORT • ROYAL PLANTATION, OCHO RIOS

*Scuba included for certified divers. PADI dive courses and night dives additional. Activities vary by resort. Caddies mandatory but not included. Sandals® is a registered trademark.

Whether you prefer luxury on a grand scale or barefoot island elegance, Sandals has a resort

to match any mood. All resorts share the Sandals Luxury Included® Difference—so you get

a world-class vacation that includes the best beaches and the largest pools. Enjoy unlimited

sports—even scuba, waterskiing, and golf.* Dine at up to 15 restaurants per resort on cuisine

from the Far East to the West Indies accompanied by complimentary Stone Cellars by

Beringer® wines. Experience the most romantic suites in Jamaica, featuring private pools and

butler service. So if you’re in the mood for unforgettable luxury, you’re in the mood for Sandals.

INCLUDEDINCLUDED

SERSERVICEVICEVICESERVICESERSERVICESER

ISLANDISLAND

If you’re in the mood for luxury, then there’s a

Sandals®

Resort in Jamaica for you.

The Sandals Luxury Included® Difference means everything you can imagine is included.

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Book with a certified EuroGuru™ and get the most out of your Europe adventure. All Liberty Travel vacation experts know their stuff, but EuroGurus™ go through extensive training to become certified specialists in everything Europe. We’ve been to the cities, seen the sights, and mastered the transportation systems, so we can tell you where to stay, where to go, and when and how to get there.

What is a EuroGuru™?


Why book with a EuroGuru™?

• We know Europe the way you know your neighborhood.

• We have air and rail schedules down to a science.

• We have the inside scoop on every activity and attraction you can think of, from Europe’s iconic landmarks, to tours, to river cruises.

• We give you in-depth, personalized advice—based on real experience. We’ll tell you which Paris restaurant is perfect for your birthday dinner, then find you the best way to get from there to London in time for your cousin’s wedding.

• Because it’s Liberty Travel, you know you’re getting the best deal, with no fees.

Earning a EuroGuru™ certification is no rubber

stamp. We go through intense training in a number of areas:

• Avalon Waterways certified

• Rail Europe TRAC certified

• Back-Roads Tours certified

• Europe Air Specialization

• Visit Britain certified

• Globus certified

Immerse yourself in the charm of Puerto Vallarta's best hotel, Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta, where contemporary Mexican architecture blends perfectly with the mountains of the Western Sierra Madre and Vallarta's most beautiful beach. Enjoy the freshness of its large palapa in the lobby, its restaurants, beautiful rooms and comfortable suites.


We’ll get you the perfect car.

You just figure out where

it’s going to take you.

How much should you tip at certain destinations?The American dollar is valued differently depending on the country. So, when traveling abroad, it’s important to know how to properly tip. In the Caribbean and Mexico, a suggested housekeeping tip is about $20 per room for the week, while in a destination like Costa Rica, $1-2 per night would suffice. For guided sightseeing and adventure tours, $25 per group for the guide and $10 for the driver would be considered generous in both the Caribbean and Mexico. In Costa Rica, 10% would be a perfect gratuity for any additional services purchased on the trip.

It’s one aspect routinely overlooked when traveling to an all-inclusive property. People often have the mindset that since food and beverages are included, everything else should be as well. When receiving a service, though, it’s proper etiquette to tip, and this includes bartenders, waiters, and housekeeping. The staff should be rewarded for good service. You wouldn't stiff a waiter at a nice restaurant while you’re home, would you? So why would you while on vacation?

While the tips shouldn’t necessarily be on the same level, it’s common courtesy to still include them and it's only going to guarantee you better service during your stay.

All-Inclusive TIPPING

Waitstaff and bartendersIf you’re planning on relaxing poolside with drinks, tip the waitstaff at the start of the shift: you’ll receive better service and you won’t have to worry about taking care of them before their shift ends. A $10 tip per person is more than enough for drink service by the pool for the day, no matter the destination. In the end, it’s all about your judgment: tip what you can afford and what you think is fair. Remember, some all-inclusive resorts don’t allow tipping to avoid any awkwardness or preferential service, so ask your travel consultant if you have any questions on the proper amounts and procedures.


LUCKY YOU. Britain & Ireland 2015

14 BRITAIN & IRELAND TOURS TO CHOOSE FROM

ESCORTED TOURS 101By Meghan Brennan

For travelers who haven’t taken one before, an escorted tour can seem like an odd way to vacation – there’s less free time and you go everywhere in a group. However, they’re actually a fantastic way to see a new place – and maybe meet some awesome people along the way!

Escorted tours go pretty much anywhere it’s safe to travel. From the U.S. and Canada to the Mongolian steppes and everywhere in between, you can see anything and everything with a tour group. Groups primarily travel between stops by bus, but on tours to more distant places, you might have to fly between cities, or take a train or even a boat. Either way, you’ll get to see a lot more of the region than you would by just checking into a hotel and hanging out there for a week. Plus, because you’re all traveling as a group, tours are perfect for social butterflies and solo travelers looking to make new friends!

Tours are great for all kinds of travelers. Large groups can contract a tour company to arrange a private vacation. Solo travelers can have a private room or bunk with other wanderers taking on the great wide world alone. Adventurers can zip-line through the rainforest, hike the Inca trail, or ride a camel through the desert. There are tours divided by age group, activity level, what you want to see, how you want to see it – it’s not exaggerating to say the options are pretty much endless.

This kind of vacation tends to be split between being guided around cities and sites and having free time to look around. While the exact time spent doing each depends on the tour group, you’ll almost always have some time to explore, shop, and eat on your own, apart from the group – if that’s what you want to do. And there are many tours out there, so no matter what kind of pace you’re looking for or how much free time you want, your consultant will be able to help you find the perfect tour for you.

Contact a Liberty Travel Vacation Expert today to book an escorted tour for your next adventure!


“Paris is always a good idea.” So says the eponymous heroine of the film Sabrina. Finding truth in film can be a bit like believing everything you read on the Internet, but in this case Hollywood may have gotten it right.

Paris is a city of adventure. Each of its arrondisements, or neighborhoods, is home to some attraction or landmark, and there is never time to see everything. So how are you supposed to pick? With our help, of course!

Let’s start with some easy ones – the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Both are symbols of this ancient city, and both provide fabulous views. So which should you visit? Ideally, go and see both, but if there is time to climb only one, make it the Arc. The Tower is generally swamped with tourists, and the view, while stunning, doesn’t look quite like Paris without the Eiffel Tower looming over all. From the top of the Arc de Triomphe, though, one can see the rooftops of Paris and all the major landmarks. It is a spectacle not to be missed.

On to museums. Two of the most famous museums in Paris are the Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay, and they are different beasts entirely. If you must choose between the two, it is entirely a matter of preference. If you prefer Impressionism, then the Musee d’Orsay is the place for you, and you will probably be able to see all of it in one visit, including all the Van Gogh and Monet your romantic heart can stand. If you find yourself up for the challenge of the Louvre, though, and don’t mind leaving much of it unexplored, head there. Visit the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, wonder at Winged Victory and Madonna of the Rocks. Either way, it is guaranteed to be an incredible experience.

The fact is that Paris has innumerable sights to see and experiences to enjoy, and it would take a lifetime to see it all – one we would be very willing to give. So the solution to never knowing what to see next in Paris is obvious – as soon as you return home, you’ll just have to start planning your next trip back.

Contact a Liberty Travel Certified EuroGuru™ to start planning your own adventure in Paris!

What to See and What to Skip

Paris:A TRIP TO

By Meghan Brennan

Find inspiration in every direction at

The Condado Plaza Hilton. As the

only hotel in San Juan with views of

the Atlantic Ocean and Condado

Lagoon, we invite you to discover

this magical island from a truly

unique vantage point.



D ES T I NAT I O N S FO R

FOODIES ANTIGUAQ&A with Shawnee Knight, owner and chef at Cater by Shawnee, an authentic Antiguan Caterer.

What cultures have converged to create the Antiguan culture?

Antigua’s culture emerged from the mixing of Carib and Arawak Amerindian, West African, and European, primarily from Britain.

What dishes is Antigua known for?

Antigua is known for goat water — a spicy stew seasoned with hot peppers, cinnamon, and cloves. Recipes vary, but all are rich and full of flavor. Fungee and pepperpot are the national dishes. Fungee is cornmeal and similar to polenta. Pepperpot is a thick vegetable stew made with eggplant, yams, okra, dasheen leaves, plantains, and pumpkin. It’s usually served with fried dumplings.

Are there signature ingredients?

Coconuts, pineapples, sugarcane, mangoes, and a lot of aromatic herbs grown locally.

How do you incorporate Antiguan food into your restaurants?

Antigua is in my blood, so naturally I gravitate toward fruits, vegetables, and of course the seafood I grew up with, and incorporate them all into my menus. I am known for my fusion style of cooking — my Antiguan Cioppino incorporates the freshest seafood, a fiery tomato based broth, and fungee dumplings. This dish to me is home and has given patrons a chance to taste a little bit of Antigua.

Do people eat in local restaurants during their stays?

Yes, tourists love to sample the local food. You don’t really experience Antigua if you haven’t had a ducana or souse from a roadside food stand.

What are some of the local drinks?

Local drinks include Mauby, sea moss, tamarind juice, mango juice, and coconut water. There are over 21 flavor beers and rum, many of which are made locally. Wadadli is a pale lager brewed on the island and Cavalier is the rum used for our delicious rum punch and other rum-based drinks.

What are the signature dishes for breakfast, lunch & dinner?

Typical “local” Antiguan breakfast includes salt ling fish, chop-up (okra, eggplant, spinach, and pumpkin), fungee, johnny cakes, plus avocado and a hardboiled egg. Lunch and dinner are usually steamed fish and fungee, goat water, rice and peas, ducana, pepperpot, and souse.


ARUBAOne of the Caribbean’s southernmost islands, Aruba possesses a rich culinary history — something the 355-room Radisson Aruba continues to cultivate and include in the resort. One of the newest additions to the gastronomy offered on property is the wine program.

“This is why we have the extensive wine program,” says Mark Naber, director of Food and Beverage. “We want to consider our wine to be food as well. When you pair the wine and food you have an extraordinary dining experience.”

At Radisson Aruba, the wine really is just as important as the food at the resort, each complimenting the other, making for delectable meals.

“We are starting with the notion that wine is not different than food; in fact wine really is an organic part of the dining experience,” states Shawn LaRue, wine specialist. “That’s just a fundamentally different, sort of Old World European way of looking at wine.”

Wine is not the only culinary focal point. There are also “cooking with the chef” sessions, which stem from successful test runs during corporate events on the island. These cooking sessions are for the whole family to enjoy and are sure to provide plenty of fun and entertainment during a stay.

“Everyone will get a chef hat and and apron when they come in. We’ll have some menus ready,” says Kien Fat Lie Kwie, executive chef. “I will then tell everyone some history about Aruba and about the food that they are going to be cooking, mostly local food.”

So check out the Radisson if you’re a food and wine lover looking for a vacation.

ST. THOMAS By Kirby Williams

Like most Caribbean islands, St. Thomas is known for its quirky and versatile food options. Food is a part of the island’s spirit. Most cooks don’t have recipes or cookbooks; they cook from memory and taste of a certain dish. Each taste you experience is a reflection of who the chef is and where he/she has come from. No two tastes will be the same, which is indicative of the many different cultural backgrounds on the island.

The main eating quarters of St. Thomas are in Frenchtown, Charlotte Amalie, and Red Hook. In Frenchtown you’ll find the top-rated authentic cuisine on the island called Oceana. If you’re looking for ambiance and authenticity in the same place, Oceana is your go-to restaurant. This hotspot is located on the beach on the central southern tip of the island.

Guests rave about the views and location, but the real reason for its amazing reputation is the Caribbean soul they’re putting into their cooking. With fish options raging from mahi-mahi to grilled Chilean sea bass, this beachfront restaurant offers the most diverse servings of fish you can find. For the non-fish lovers, you’re still in luck. Oceana boasts very nice New Zealand filet mignon and pork options that will leave you full for days!

Next we’ll take a trip to Charlotte Amalie, which is east of Frenchtown on the southern tip of the island. Here you’ll find the Big Kahuna Rum Shack. Just as its name suggests, this is a dynamic spot that mixes many Caribbean flavors with everyday favorites. From the Caribbean Burger to pulled pork, this is a menu that is familiar, but also pulls you out of your comfort zone. And don't miss the rum! This upbeat spot is fun for locals and travelers from all around, and to many people, this is a place they must visit when they come to the island of St. Thomas.

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Cultural CurriculumOK, so you won’t find Broadway shows on these ships. The entertainment here is usually of the quieter variety – think lectures by experts on the areas you’re traveling through, cultural experiences like dance troupes, and culinary demonstrations (not to mention tastings!). Bookworms will flip for the on-board libraries, and nautical nuts will love the ship tours offered on lines like Avalon Waterways. Plus, unlike Caribbean cruises, excursions (usually guided city tours) are included in the cost of your cruise, so you don’t have to worry about how to see the city.

Basically, river cruises are a great way to explore a new place in a new way – and we’ll always take that.

Contact a Liberty Travel Vacation Expert today to book your European River Cruise.

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ROLLIN’ ON THE RIVERIf you think cruising is just for the Caribbean, Alaska, or even the Mediterranean, then have we got news for you! One of the best and fastest-growing kinds of cruising is the happening on the waterways of Europe – river cruising. So why should you give river cruises a chance? We’ve got three pretty good reasons.

Smaller ShipsLarge ships are made for the open seas, but narrow rivers need smaller vessels. This works out pretty well for river cruisers – smaller ships mean a more intimate experience. River cruise ships also usually have more balcony cabins and suites simply because there’s so much to see! So not only do you get to sail through Europe, you get to watch the Old World go by from the comfort of your own room. What’s not to like?

Interesting ItinerariesDon’t get us wrong, we love a good beach or two (or five), but there’s something to be said for a weeklong trip that whisks you away to 10 cities in four countries. Most of Europe’s major cities are along rivers like the Seine, Main, or Danube, so it’s easy to find a cruise that appeals to your interests, whether you like history, wine, music, or all of the above! These cruises get even better at the holidays, when they take you on tours through cultural areas like Germany’s Christmas markets.

By Meghan Brennan

Avalon Waterways


We’re here for your every airfare need!

Special fares you can’t get online? We’ve got them!

Want to book in-store, online or over the phone? We’re flexible!

Need assistance at an inconvenient time? We’ll be there for you 24/7!

We’re the Airfare Experts-long haul, complex flights are our specialty!


Not to mention how cool you’ll feel when everyone else at the pool is wondering who the celebrity in the cabana is.

Melia Hotels International includes such grand resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico as Paradisus Resorts, where luxury is reimagined for your comfort and excitement; ME by Melia, where adults experience the vibrancy of life; and Melia Resorts, where travel is reinvented exclusively for you.

myTime Select began welcoming guests to most Melia, ME, and Paradisus resorts October 1 with Melia Nassau Beach joining the myTime Select team January 5, 2015 and ME Cabo and Melia Cabo Real joining February 2015.

Contact your local Liberty Travel Vacation Expert to get your exclusive myTime Select inclusions!

BE ONE OF THE SELECT FEW WITH myTime Select

With myTime from Liberty Travel, you’ll enjoy special touches, unique recognition and extra amenities, all at no extra cost to you. myTime provides a true VIP experience with a level of service unavailable to other resort guests. With myTime, the special touches start when you check in to your hotel, from a personal greeting upon arrival to a cold towel and beverage at a dedicated check-in desk, and much more.

Nestled along the sugary white sand beach on Palm Beach, Aruba lies the all-inclusive OCCIDENTAL GRAND ARUBA. A Caribbean oasis of

relaxation and delight where guests can feel free to swim, snorkel or sail the calm turquoise waters just beyond their door, bask in the sun with

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• All-inclusive beach front Resort

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• A wide selection of a la carte restaurants including an International buffet

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• Wide selection of day time activities and evening entertainment

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And the perks don’t end until you’re ready to leave for the airport (which might be harder than you think after days of pampering!). From the moment you enter your room and find a welcome gift waiting for you, to the free spa access and complimentary spa services, to the resort credits and discounts that you’ll use to make your stay even more incredible, you’ll feel like the most important person on the property, and all you have to do is book a vacation with your Liberty Travel Vacation Expert.

Just in case that isn’t enough, Liberty Travel and Melia Hotels International went ahead and kicked it up a notch. Now myTime Select offers even more exclusive enhanced amenities. Expect all the great benefits of traditional myTime, plus up to $2,000 in resort credit when you stay at a myTime Select property. That’s an extra $2,000 to use on rounds of golf, private romantic dinners, and so much more.

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43 LIBERTY TRAVEL | JANUARY – MARCH 2015AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP does not employ or endorse travel agents. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

Exclusive AARP Member BenefitsAARP members save up to $100 for 2 travelers

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Destination WeddingsWith experience planning destination weddings all over the world, we know how to make sure yours runs smoothly from start to finish, and we’re dedicated to making sure “I do” is the perfect start to “happily ever after”.

Meetings & IncentivesWe’ll provide you with a seamless, reliable, and cost-effective way to book and manage all of your corporate group travel. We can even create a program tailored to your business needs, down to food and beverage planning. Need some on-site help? We can do that, too – this is meeting made easy.

CelebrationsWhether it’s a family reunion, birthday, high school reunion, or just a gathering with old friends, let us do all the planning so you can relax, have fun, and make some new memories while toasting to old ones. You do the celebrating, we’ll do everything else.

OrganizationsFrom schools, to church groups, to volunteer groups, we’ll help arrange any event for every type of organization. Looking for a way to raise money for your organization? We can help plan your fundraising trip, too. From flights to hotels and everything in between, we’ll take care of the details so you can stay focused on the big picture.

From dream destination weddings, to productive corporate events, to successful fundraisers and everything in between, we know group travel, and we’re ready to help you get the most out of your trip.

Atlantis, Paradise Island

Sandals & Beaches Resorts


Go With ConfidenceSome of us wing packing, throwing a few items together at the very last minute. Some of us have a checklist when we travel.

Slacks? Check. Sandals? Check. Toothbrush and toothpaste? Check.

And some of us have a longer checklist than others.

Dialysis? Pureed foods? Scooter?

It can be hard to procure the necessary items for a relaxing vacation away from the comforts of home, so until recently, special-needs individuals—senior citizens, amputees, slow walkers, and people with wheelchairs or chronic diseases—refrained from indulging in their love of travel. Now, the possibilities aren’t quite endless, but they’re definitely increasing. With the right amount of planning and a willing spirit, almost anyone can have a pleasant getaway.

Get up and Get Living, Special Needs Travelers!When Linda Cutrupi’s mother had a series of strokes, she explored different options to give her mother a better quality of life. What she found were a wealth of opportunities for special-needs travelers.

“There’s no reason 90% of people can’t do something,” says Cutrupi, owner of Mainly Special Needs Travel and a travel consultant with more than a decade worth of experience. “People are too scared or don’t think they can travel, but that’s no longer the case.”

For those with a disability, Cutrupi offers a cruise as the best option. While flying poses concerns for many mobility-limited, cruises depart from New York/Bayonne and Miami and are self-contained getaways with many handicap accessible restaurants

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Special Needs Travelers:

By Susie Reese

and entertainment levels, reachable by elegant glass elevators. Handicap-accessible cabins are available for those needing extra room for wheelchairs or fold-down shower seats, and depending on the cruise line, ships are equipped with lifts for the pools and whirlpools. For guests in need of dialysis or even chemotherapy, certain cruise lines are able to accommodate as well.

On ShoreCutrupi also lists all-inclusive resorts as another option for the special-needs traveler. These luxurious establishments thrive with excellent and attentive service, including special amenities like a Mobi-chair and near-elevator rooms. The all-inclusive aspect allows for several meal options, and if a modified diet is needed, such as pureed or honey-thick foods, the resorts can usually accommodate when notified ahead of time.

If heading to an all-inclusive resort, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are the most special-needs compliant because both destinations are part of the United States. Hotels on these islands must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Islands such as Barbados, Aruba, Jamaica, and St. Martin took strides recently to accommodate mobility-limited guests. Most hotels in Latin America have ramps, elevators, and specifically equipped rooms, but speaking with a travel agent is a must before booking to know destination options and activities.

A vacation for or with a special-needs traveler is no longer a dream. With accessible accommodations and activities, traveling to new and exciting destinations is a reality.

Contact a Liberty Travel Vacation Expert today for help planning a vacation for special needs travelers.


NEW TRAVEL EXPERIENCES:

A Massage from a Stingray?I consider myself an adventurous traveler—always seeking what my destination has to offer and finding unique experiences that I can’t find anywhere else. When faced with the opportunity to visit Grand Cayman—an island known for its generosity and tranquility rather than adventure—I wasn’t sure the daring side of me would be satisfied on this trip. I was happy to be proven wrong.

The Cayman Islands have a longstanding reputation for having some of the friendliest inhabitants in the Caribbean. They use the word “Caymankind” when describing the experience you are sure to have when visiting any of their three islands. It comes as no surprise that this infectiously friendly nature would stretch past the sandy beaches right into the ocean itself. Just off the coast of Grand Cayman, in the North Sound, is a sandbar where an unusual gathering between humans and sea life unfolds.

Boats carrying curious travelers anchor at Stingray City on a daily basis. I found myself among the crowd, cruising through crystal blue water on one of Captain Marvin’s experienced vessels. For those who are less squeamish than most, an experience like no other awaits. Upon my approach, I saw people, standing chest deep in the water, surrounded by unidentifiable brown specks moving silently under the waves. After stepping into the

crystal clear water, there was a calm before the storm. It started with one curious creature. It glided right into the open arms of our guide, greeting him like an old friend. “This is my favorite girl,” he said. Quickly following her bold approach, more stingrays flocked

to our party, wanting us to feel welcome. Before long, it was impossible not to feel one of their wings gliding past me no matter which way I moved.

As distracting as this was, I tried my best to pay attention to the guide while he rambled on about stingray facts and know-how. Suddenly, he asked, “Who wants a stingray massage?” And I definitely wanted one. With the stingray still in his arms, he swam behind me and gave her a boost so she could wrap her wings around me, sliding them up and down my shoulders. It was a delightfully soft, albeit strange experience that I won’t forget. When she was finished, I was sure to give her a thank you kiss on the nose —it’s said she will grant me seven years of good luck!

Still exhilarated from my encounter, I felt bold. Holding out my arms like our guide, I was soon holding a stingray that seemed content to lie in my arms for as long as I let her. For a final farewell, I

offered her a tasty snack of squid, which she gently took right out of my fist. As the boat departed, and I got my final glance of the party on the sandbar, I couldn’t help but feel that those curious and playful creatures taught me the true meaning of “Caymankind”.

Jennifer discovered her passion for travel at the early age of 14 when she was lucky enough to spend a summer in Europe with the student travel group People to People. Still in her novice year with Liberty Travel, her experience comes from her extensive travels throughout the USA, the Caribbean, and Europe. She loves sharing her knowledge and experiences with her clients and through her writing. Always looking for a new adventure, she hopes her travels will take her to Asia next, but she is up for going anywhere! Jennifer is based in Cherry Hill, N.J. Contact her at 856-665-9450.

By Jennifer Lewallen, Liberty Travel Consultant

OUR EXPERTS SAY


$1,800 Limitless Resort Credit based on a 7-8 night consecutive stay per room. Bookings of 3 nights receive $500, up to $750 with a 4 night stay, up to $1,500 with a 5-6 night stay, up to $2,000 with a 9-11 night stay and up to the equivalent of $2,500 with a stay of 12-13 nights and up to $3,600 with a stay of 14 nights or more. *A 20% service fee will apply over the final price of all transactions using the Limitless Resort Credit promotion on all services or products available at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya. Service fee can only be paid with cash, room charge and credit

card. Service fee cannot be paid with the remaining Limitless Resort Credit promotion balance. Other restrictions may apply.

PLAYTIME ISN’T OVERIT’S JUST GROWN UP

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