Jamie and Vinh’s destination wedding at Unico Resort was nothing short of magical. In this post, they share their experience of planning a wedding away from home, tips for couples considering a destination wedding, and why a wedding specialist was key to making their dream wedding a reality.

Lauren: Why did you choose a destination wedding?

Jamie and Vinh: We chose a destination wedding because one of our very good friends got married a year prior to us and we loved everything about it. We loved that all the planning and preparation wouldn’t all be over in just one day. Instead, we were able to hangout and spend quality time with everyone throughout the whole week, which allowed us to really enjoy the wedding together  without feeling obligated to go from table to table all night. It also helps that everything was significantly cheaper compared to the US. We got everything we wanted for an incredible price. 

Lauren: How many attendees did you have?
What kind of experience did you envision your guests having? 

Jamie and Vinh: We had about 68-70 guests. The type of experience we envisioned for our guests was for it to just be a big weekend long party celebrating our love. I wanted our guests to have the trip of their life and to not worry about anything once they stepped on the resort except which drinks to order or what food they want to eat. I feel so lucky to have so many of our guests say it was one, if not, the best and most memorable wedding they’ve been to. 

Lauren: What was one part of planning your wedding that you knew you couldn't have done alone?
How did having a Destination Wedding Specialist help with that?

Jamie and Vinh: One part we couldn’t have done alone was definitely organizing all the bookings of the room, flights, and travel. Lauren’s direct relationship with Unico was also a great benefit. Just having Lauren’s experience with destination weddings and traveling in general was invaluable in planning a destination wedding. We had so many questions and had no clue what we were doing in the beginning and she made the process so smooth and easy. It was one less thing for us to stress about because she had it all covered. To say she was on top of it is an understatement. 

Lauren: What piece of advice would you give to couples who are just starting the planning process?

Jamie and Vinh: Some advice I would give to couples who are starting the planning process is that it will be stressful but it will all be worth it in the end. Just don’t forget that this day is all about you two, so try not to worry about all the noise and make decisions based on what you two want and what would be best for you. 

Lauren: What’s one “extra” you’re super glad you splurged on?  What surprised you the most about your wedding? 

Jamie and Vinh: One extra we were glad we splurged on was definitely the fireworks during our first dance. The fireworks were a big hit with our guests and they were so shocked when they came on. 

What surprised me most about my wedding was just how amazingly smooth everything came together even though everything was planned through email, video chat, and phone calls. I never physically saw anything and yet it was everything I could ever imagine and more. Everybody that we worked with was amazing and a key player in helping our vision come to life. 

Lauren: If you could choose three words to describe your wedding, what would they be?

Jamie and Vinh: Three words to describe our wedding would be magical, intimate, exciting. 

Lauren: What is your favorite memory from your big day?

Jamie and Vinh: It’s hard to pick one memory of our big day because we have so many but for Vinh, his was the fireworks during our first dance. For me, it was the last song when we had our friends and family surrounding us and singing with us. I just felt all the love at that moment. 

A note from Lauren: It was such a pleasure helping Jamie and Vinh with the wedding of their dreams!

Ready to plan your own unforgettable destination wedding? Contact me today to start planning your dream wedding at Unico Resort!

In order to give this hike an appropriate introduction, I have to tell you first about the weather conditions that we endured during this trek. We went to New Zealand in April, which is supposed to be their fall. This April, however, was unusually cold, windy, and rainy, which made for a lot of cancelled excursions. The day that we had set aside to do this trek was no different.

While checking into our hotel, which I swear was haunted (another story..), we noticed a sign at the check-in counter that described the conditions for the following day for the Tongariro Trek. The sign stated a -3˚C windchill with up to 70 mph winds. I know! Crazy, right??

Despite these horrible weather conditions, we layered up and decided to attempt this hike. We headed out from the hotel early that morning with our guide to the Mangatepopo car park.

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TIPS BEFORE YOU START:

1. Schedule a shuttle to/from your hotel - Parking at the Mangatepopo car park is limited to 4 hours for people that are doing shorter walks. If you are completing the entire trek, then you need to schedule a shuttle.

2. Check the weather. Check the weather. Check the weather!

3. Dress in layers.

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FACTS ABOUT THE HIKE:

Distance: 19.4 km (12 miles) point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 765 meters elevation gain and 1125 meters elevation loss if you hike from Mangatepopo car park to Ketetahi car park
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 6 to 8 hours
Location: Tongariro National Park, North Island of New Zealand

C/O Tongariro Crossing

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ESSENTIALS FOR THE TREK:

Tongariro National Park can be subject to unpredictable weather, and conditions can change quickly. It is important that all walkers carry the essentials for their journey across.

Take:

• Food and plenty of fluid, especially in the summer months. If you are planning on completing any of the summit tracks, ensure you have additional water supplies.

• Waterproof and wind-proof raincoat and trousers

• Strong, sturdy boots (you will be trekking over uneven volcanic terrain)

• Warm clothing layers: woolen or polypropylene thermals and fleece

• Hat and gloves

• Hot Hands

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• First Aid Kit

• Map

• Cellphone

Due to the rugged and alpine environment, the weather in the car park at the beginning of the track can differ greatly from conditions 1000 meters higher further up the track. Be prepared to change your plans and turn back especially when visibility is poor or strong winds prevail. [C/O Tongariro Crossing]

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Map C/O New Zealand Department of Conservation

Mangatepopo Car Park to Soda Springs (~1-1.5 hours)

When you leave the carpark, you will start off walking through the scrubby grassland, toward the Mangatepopo Valley. The trail is well-maintained and an easy walk starting off as boardwalks have been build to help protect the fragile environment. Views of Mount Ruapehu will be to the left, and as you round the corner, ominously in the distance, Mount Ngauruhoe comes into view.

Like so many other locations in New Zealand, Tongariro National Park was used during filming of Lord of the Rings. You might remember it as Mordor, where, during the entire trilogy, Frodo and Sam try to get to Mount Doom, aka Mount Ngauruhoe, so they can destroy the infamous ring. Unfortunately, as I stated earlier, the weather was terrible so Mount Doom was not visible during our trek. The next day, however, the weather cleared and there was a beautiful view of Mount Doom in the distance.

Soda Springs to South Crater (~1 hour)

This area of the trek is known as the “Devil’s Staircase” because it is super steep. If you have a clear day, then I’ve heard that view is beautiful. Even on an overcast day, the view looking out over the valley is still breathtaking.

This is a huge contrast from the leisurely boardwalk walk at the start of the trek. By the time you reach the top, you will be breathless!

Remember those layers that I recommended..yes this hike was done on the same day. I think I had enough clothes to change my full outfit like 3 times haha!

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SOUTH CRATER TO RED CRATER (~1 HOUR)

After climbing up Devil’s Staircase, you will continue along a long flat trail that looks like a lunar landscape that you would find on Mars. I don’t have any photos from here as this is where the weather took a turn for the worse.

These are the photos from the official Tongariro Alpine Crossing site. As you can see, the area is gorgeous on a clear day, even in the winter!

At the top of south crater, there are the emerald pools.

RED CRATER TO BLUE LAKE (~30 MINUTES)

Once you reach red crater, you are on an exposed ridge. Once we reached this point, it was -3 degrees C with winds up to 45 mph. It was literally insane. Due to the loose rock and sand, we were crawling at one point up this ridge with the volcanic crater to our right and a dropoff to our left. We could not see more than 2 ft in front of us. It was a very scary situation.

BLUE LAKE TO KETETAHI SHELTER (~1 HOUR)

KETETAHI SHELTER TO KETETAHI CAR PARK (~2 HOURS)

PACKING GUIDE FOR THIS TREK:

Disclaimer: This list contains Affiliate Links for products I’m currently using. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees but support me to keep this site running!

The packing list below are the necessities for a trek on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The weather is unpredictable and can change quickly, so I recommend to pack in layers to be most comfortable.

CLOTHING

• Thermals (Base layer) - I like Thermotech or Hot Chilly’s

• Waterproof Jacket and Pants (I like this Northface Gor-Tex but Frogtoggs are the cheapest, most economical option.)

• Mid-layers

  • Fleece Pullover

  • Hot Chilly’s Half-Zip Pullover

• Outer-layers

  • Warm Vest

  • Jacket

  • Hat (Preferably fleece-lined) and gloves

• Hiking Pants (I like these Columbia ones or these Eddie Bauer ones)

• Hiking Socks (My absolute favorite! They are double-layered to prevent blisters.)

• Hiking shoes (Great resource for hiking boot reviews here)

  • Timberland Women’s Mt Maddsen Mid Leather Waterproof Hiking Boot

  • Merrell Moab 2 WP Low Hiking Shoes - These are my personal favorites, although, they are very heavy.

• Sunglasses

• Refillable Water Bottle - This one is nice because it has a clip to clip to your bag and also it compresses so packs down easily.

• Coola Sunscreen - My fav!

• Waterproof phone case

• Headlamp

• Camera

• Go-Pro

• DJI Mavic Pro

• Extra SD Cards

Paros

Blue Oyster
Ampelas
Tel: +302284052707

At Blue Oyster bar/restaurant in Ambelas you will find a variety of fish, delicious starters, Mediterranean dishes and fresh oysters. It opened in July 2020 and in its dishes it hosts the best that the Parian sea and land has to offer. Fresh fish and shellfish, Cycladic products and locally farmed meat, are transformed into wonderful creations in its kitchen, which will not disappoint even the most demanding. Its environment is exactly what you are looking for on your vacation: A beautiful terrace overlooking the endless blue, air awnings, comfortable seating, finesse from end to end. The menu is of the same philosophy – familiar flavors, teased so as to highlight the top raw materials, elegant presentations, meat options and fish.

Cuore Rosso
Parikia
Tel: +302284022920

At Cuore Rosso, you will enjoy a culinary experience in true Italian style! Hre pizza is the queen!

Every product used in the kitchen is carefully selected from the most excellent Italian produce. The menu features a wealth of traditional Italian dishes: stuffed calzones, delicious lasagna, carpaccios, typical Italian platters of regional cold cuts accompanied by the famous fried 'gnocchi' and, finally creamy 'burrata' with truffle, delicious buffalo mozzarella and fresh salads with many tasty combinations! 

Galazia Hytra
Summer Senses Hotel
Tel: +302284093000

In collaboration with Michelin star restaurant Hytra (Athens), Galazia Hytra welcomes guests within the premises of Summer Senses Hotel indulging in an evening of fine dining under the Mediterranean stars. The team at Galazia Hytra invite guests to taste a menu of unique dishes representing the best of creative Greek cuisine with an international twist, updating classic recipes with modern techniques and exceptional raw ingredients.

Henri G
Parikia
Tel: +302284024407

Established in a unique neoclassical mansion built in 1890 and located in the centre of Parikia’s old Market Street. On its exclusive balcony, guests can enjoy an elegant dinner while shoaling up the atmosphere of the traditional market, by observing the goings-on in the streets below and enjoying the view on the dome of the “Aghia Triada” church. Chef Henri Emmanuel Guibert is half Greek and half French. He is presenting an elegant and sincere Mediterranean cuisine, with a discrete touch of French inspiration, using local selected products from Paros.

Sigi Ixthios
Naousa
Tel: +302284052639

Favorite meeting place for ouzo, fresh fish and seafood at Naoussa port. The menu is a smart blend of Mediterranean and Greek fish restaurant cuisine and uses local ingredients imaginatively. Freshness is what matters above everything else here. The location in the quiet side of the harbor of Naoussa offers magnificent views of the yachts in the marina. Try the beans with red sauce, a really tasty Greek recipe!

Siparos Seaside **** My fav
Naousa
Tel: +302284052785

Siparos serves the culture and flavor of Paros with a creative, contemporary twist.

We blend authentic Mediterranean tastes from local ingredients to make own-label products and traditional dishes, reimagined for the modern diner.

Mario
Parikia
Tel: +302284051047

Mediterranean cuisine and with target on quality, organic and fresh products with local aromas and tastes of the Aegean culture. Their cuisine uses local groceries, daily fresh fish and of course with the help of the weather, they offer best sunsets, with great food and refined wine. 

Mr. E
Parilio Hotel
Tel:+302284051000

Parilio connects with the local parian cuisine and pays tribute to old traditional recipes and local produce seen through the eyes of Mr. E, a global explorer of today, that anchored in Paros to connect his past with the present. While soaking in the calmness and relaxing surroundings, your stay will be enriched by subtle pleasures and a wealth of culinary diversions prepared by celebrated Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis.

Tsachpinis
Naousa
Tel: +302284051300

Right in the center of the small port of Naoussa operates fish restaurant Ouzo Seafarers Tsachpinis.

Situated directly accessible from each side of Naoussa and seafront provides the opportunity to enjoy other dishes, spaghetti with seafood, fresh fish, handmade, traditional dishes cooked with love.

Barbarossa
Naousa
Tel: +302284051391

Barbarossa has a history in Paros. Its kitchen has served celebrities, members of royal families, people who have written history. But the ingredients remain simple. They are the building blocks of Greek island gastronomy. The foods that Paros produces. Barbarossa's kitchen is Paros, on a plate.

Les Amis
Pounta Port
Tel: +302284051110

Wine bar restaurant with fine Mediterranean cuisine combined with gourmet flavors. Options from fine dips and dishes can accompany your drink. The magnificent balcony of the wine bar Les Amis will enchant you.

Klarinos
Lefkes
Tel: +302284041608

If you are looking for a break from fish, Klarinos in the beautiful village of Lefkes is the best place to try simple and wholesome Greek food. This is clearly a meat taverna, so make sure you try the succulent barbecue spare ribs, bifteki or sausage. For vegetarians, dishes like spanakopita and fried zucchini offer a delicious alternative. A budget choice with excellent value for money.

Ouzeri Halaris
Piso Livadi
Tel: +302284043257

Fresh fish and an endless list of fish appetizers by the port at Piso Livadi. 

Soso
Naousa
Tel: +306974878281

Located in a quiet cobblestone alley in the picturesque port of Naoussa, Soso prepares high-quality Greek fusion dishes that have made it the culinary queen of the town. Soso is perfect for a dinner for two and for those who like traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. The wine and beer menu are varied and well thought of. Dishes like the haloumi cheese with honey, the lamb in lemon sauce and the slow-cooked pork are among the most popular.

Markakis
Piso Livadi
Tel: +302284042177

“Markakis” restaurant is located in the eastern part of Paros in the beautiful and picturesque port of Piso Livadi. The hospitable space combined with the wonderful traditional Cycladic meze plates and the affordable prices we provide create the ideal backdrop for the visitor. In our place you can try seafood, meat and vegetables dishes of high gastronomic interest as well as dishes with special flavors and Cycladic scents. Enjoy your lunch and dinner ideally with the new list of ouzo and Greek spirits as well as the wine list where you can find Greek labels always looking at the picturesque harbor of Piso Livadi.

Mediterraneo
Naousa
Tel: +302284053176

Favorite meeting place for ouzo, fresh fish and seafood at Naoussa port. The menu is a smart blend of Mediterranean and Greek fish restaurant cuisine and uses local ingredients imaginatively. Freshness is what matters above everything else here. The location in the quiet side of the harbor of Naoussa offers magnificent views of the yachts in the marina. Try the beans with red sauce, a really tasty Greek recipe!

Monastiri Beach Club
Monastiri Beach
Tel: +302284053560

Monastiri Beach Bar & Restaurant is a real-life utopia on Paros Island that shows its visitors how to experience life in a holistic and sustainable way. Whether someone is looking for a gastronomical adventure or just a place to indulge in the coolest summer activities, our venue, our services, and our staff can accommodate the most important moments of your life and satisfy everyone’s high standards and lavish needs. Get lost in our summer utopia and explore a side of life in unprecedented style.

Thalassa mou
Alyki
Tel:+302284091461

Thalassa mou offers fresh Greek Mediterranean cuisine. Home made creative dishes by owner chef Marios Salmatanis that are unique on the island. Extensive wine list.

Yemeni
Naousa
Tel: +302284051445

Greek traditional cuisine. During your walk in the picturesque alleys of Naoussa you will find Yemeni, a traditional tavern operating since 2007 with respect to quality and tradition. The menu includes mainly homemade specialties cooked with passion and fresh ingredients, most of which come from the owners’ farms. Traditional Parion omelette (strapatsada), lamb cooked in the wood oven with potatoes, cured beef served with cheese & tomato, meatballs with tomato sauce (soutzoukakia), stuffed cabbage leaves with rice & meat, and many more will certainly not make your choice easy. Do not miss the octopus with fava beans.

Antiparos

Captain Pipinos
Agios Georgios
Tel: +302284021823

Located at Saint George beach and overlooking Despotiko bay, Captain Pipinos is one of the most famous restaurants of Antiparos serving fresh fish and delicious seafood dishes. 

Klimataria Tavern
Chora
Tel: +302284061061

Greek traditional food

Sapou
Chora
Tel: +302284061165

Famous international cuisine restaurant

Lollo’s
Chora
Tel: +302284061215

Great pizza that tastes authentically Italian!

Vassilenas Blue
Antiparos Town
Tel: +302107210501

Vassilenas Blue brings to Antiparos the same prize-winning tastes and the hospitality tradition of the most historic Greek restaurant. Vassilenas was established in 1920 and is run by the same family for three generations. In Antiparos, away from the big crowds, we will be sharing our modern Greek cuisine and our love for fish, seafood, Greek wine, and relaxed hospitality. We are looking forward to welcoming you around the big olive tree that dominates our beautiful courtyard.

Samano
Chora, Kouros Village Hotel
Tel.+302284061497

Self-described as ‘’refined gastro’’, Samano restaurant is a new arrival in Antiparos dining scene. Mediterranean and Greek cuisine with a twist along with an interesting wine and cocktail list.

Santa Pacou
+30 6972424104

In the purely Cycladic setting with white tables and handmade decorative details adding their own touch of elegance, Santa Pacou is a traditional Greek cuisine restaurant with a modern twist and creative curiosity. King of experience, the traditional wood oven, which dominates the beautiful balcony and bakes incessantly kneaded bread, pies, local meats and much more.

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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I just returned from an amazing two week island hoping journey through Greece. On our last stop, we stayed on the island of Crete in Chania. Domes has a couple of properties in Chania - Domes Zeen Chania, family friendly and Domes Noruz, adults only.

Domes Zeen Chania is where we stayed and we enjoyed their half board program. We took advantage of breakfast and pool-side lunches so that we could experience all of the dining options in town.

The resort is located on a pebbly beach close to Chania town. We rented a car to be able to explore on our own but the hotel also offers a shuttle into town for 10 euro each way.

Their pool was amazing for kids as it started really shallow and then gradually became deeper. It was awesome as Charlie was able to swim on her own for the most part. The kids all loved playing together so she was definitely warn out by the end of the day! This resort is amazing for kids with a ton of family friendly amenities - kids club, playground, swimming pool, beach, and a lounge with snacks!

We stayed in the Family Villa 2 Bedroom Private Pool which was perfect for us. This resort is really large and built into a hill. This villa was located at the top near the Haute Living area but also the furthest away from the pool and beach. Not to worry though, the resort offers golf carts that will come and pick you up to take you where ever you need to go.

C/O Domes Zeen Chania

The food was very good here with a lot of options for breakfast and pool-side lunch or snacks. Service was excellent as well and the bartender can make a very good (very spicy) bloody mary!

Overall, we loved our stay at Domes Zeen Chania and we are already planning a trip to go back!

I would love to book this fabulous property for you and your family today! Send me an email at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

Or you can always VIP yourself using my booking link here (Send me an email for the password).

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Araxovoli

Kamares

Tel: +302284032362

Tasteful fish tavern located right at the port of Sifnos.

Cantina

Seralia Beach

Tel: +302284035395

Built on the rock of Seralia beach, the old scenic village cantina maintains its traditional appearance and, today, contains the gastronomic treasure of the amazing chef Giorgos Samoilis. Cantina restaurant overlooks the crystal-clear waters and the Cycladic houses of the famous Kastro, offering unforgettable moments of relaxation and enjoyment. The hospitality is unique, and the food is absolutely amazing following a zero waste philosophy.

Bostani

Verina Astra Hotel, Poulati

Tel: +306981723727

Lying at the heart of a garden with fragrant herbs and plants, overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the Bostani Bar & Restaurant is the perfect spot to savor fine Greek cuisine with a creative approach to the culinary heritage of Sifnos and the Aegean region. Get the opportunity to reconnect with simple, traditional tastes, yet elevated by high-level cooking techniques. Combine it with the summery and relaxed atmosphere of this unique location for the ultimate fine dining experience on the island.

Drakakis

Apollonia

Tel: +306972123571

Drakakis kafenion is a fixture on the Sifnos food scene. Located in the heart of Apollonia along the main paved lane, it is one of the island’s oldest coffee houses. Greek coffee, home-made sweets, and meze are served at the relaxed pace that underscores the old world aura and the absence of items like filter coffee or espresso from the coffee menu. Drakakis is a hangout for locals and visiting celebrities, a place where people stop by to catch their breath and experience the Greece of yesteryear.

Gerontopoulos

Apollonia

Tel: +302284031431

Since 1950, in the mornings, locals sit and chat over thick Greek coffee and traditional pastries.

Kelari

Kato Petali

Tel: +302284032268

A short walk from Apollonia just off the main road is this traditional, family-run taverna that’s been serving local Sifnian cuisine since 1988. Known for its meat dishes and hearty meals cooked in an old wood-fired oven, you can sit in the courtyard under vine-covered pergolas or inside surrounded by olive oil-processing artefacts. 

Lempesis Tavern (Chrysopigi)

Artemonas

Tel: +302284071295

Located right on the beach and under the trees, you can enjoy a bit variety of starters including the traditional dishes “mastello” and “rovithia”. The chef is considered by the locals as the young ‘Tselementes’.

Tsikali

Vathy

Tel: +302284071150

Right by the mole with the church, with tables on the sand only 3 meters away from the beach, you can enjoy amazing ‘gemista’ and other ‘mageirefta’ with self-produced meat and probably the best myzithra in Sifnos. 

Omega 3

Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284072014

In a place that does not fill your eye, on the sandy beach of Platys Gialos the chef George Samoilis and Giannis Arvanitis curated the wine list created an oasis of fine multicultural fish food.

Mama Mia

Apollonia & Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284033086 

Chef Filippo with his son Pietro, create the best pizzas in the area!

Maiolica

Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284071428

Maiòlica offers a light, refreshing and healthy food experience, just a few steps away from the sea. The menu is based on authentic, local ingredients from both Sifnos and around Greece. Each dish is prepared with knowledge, passion and balance, reflecting the diversity of culinary cultures from across the Mediterranean.

Nos

Nos Hotel & Villas, Faros

Tel: +302284028957

Inside the elegant NÓS Hotel & Villas in Faros, Sifnos you’ll find the homonymous restaurant with the kitchen's focus on local ingredients and familiar flavors of Greece. The extensive list includes fresh raw dishes, amazing appetizers, fresh salads, and well-cooked main courses with juicy meats and fresh fish and seafood. 

Limanaki

Faros

Tel: +302284071425

Every morning, George Kakakis’ fishing boat returns to the serene port of Faros and supplies his family restaurant, Limanaki Fish Tavern, with whatever bounty the sea had to offer. Tables here are on the water’s edge beside small, wooden boats. Before you order, ask to see the catch of the day. Look for the blue table covers and explore Faros’ three beaches while you’re there (Fassolou, Faros and Vlycho).

Rampagas

Apollonia

Tel: +302284032215

The owner/chef Vassilis Kallidis, created an interesting menu with new flavors based on the Greek Mediterranean cuisine and especially the Cycladic traditional gastronomic flavors. The restaurant combines the aura of the island with carefully selected Greek wine brands.

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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Please email me to book: lauren@thatblondetravels.com. Let me know preferred dates and what room type you are looking at for fastest response.

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The Palms and The Shore Club Turks & Caicos

This Black Friday sale is for new bookings only. This is an exclusive offer for Departure Lounge clients only (ME!)

Booking dates: November 29th only!
Travel By dates: January 2 to February 14, 2025 for Shore Club private Villas only.
Blackout dates: January 17-19, 2025

The Shore Club Villas - 35% Off on the 4, 5 and 6 Bedroom Villas (private Villas)
Booking Date: Black Friday Only
Travel Date: Jan 2 - Feb 14, 2025
Blackout dates: Jan 17-19, 2025
Minimum night stay:  4 nights

The Shore Club Turks and Caicos Resort:
20% off Junior Suites only.
30% off on full-size suites:  1, 2, and 3-bedroom suites only.
Booking Dates: Black Friday Only
Travel Date: Jan 2 - Jan 15, 2025
Minimum night stay: 4 nights
Offer is for new bookings only

The Palms Turks and Caicos:
20% off Junior Suites only
30% off on Full-size suites 1, 2 and 3-bedroom suites only.
Booking Date: Black Friday Only
Travel Dates: Jan 2 - Jan 15, 2025
Minimum night stay: 4 nights
Offer is for new bookings only

Please email me to book: lauren@thatblondetravels.com. Let me know preferred dates and what deal you are looking at for fastest response.

SOME OF THESE SALES ARE VALID TODAY ONLY - NOVEMBER 29, 2024

Please email me to book: lauren@thatblondetravels.com. Let me know preferred dates and what deal you are looking at for fastest response.

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The Palms and The Shore Club Turks & Caicos - TODAY ONLY!

This Black Friday sale is for new bookings only. This is an exclusive offer for Departure Lounge clients only (Me!)

Booking dates: November 29th only!
Travel By dates: January 2 to February 14, 2025 for Shore Club private Villas only.
Blackout dates: January 17-19, 2025

The Shore Club Villas - 35% Off on the 4, 5 and 6 Bedroom Villas (private Villas)
Booking Date: Black Friday Only
Travel Date: Jan 2 - Feb 14, 2025
Blackout dates: Jan 17-19, 2025
Minimum night stay:  4 nights

The Shore Club Turks and Caicos Resort:
20% off Junior Suites only.
30% off on full-size suites:  1, 2, and 3-bedroom suites only.
Booking Dates: Black Friday Only
Travel Date: Jan 2 - Jan 15, 2025
Minimum night stay: 4 nights
Offer is for new bookings only

The Palms Turks and Caicos:
20% off Junior Suites only
30% off on Full-size suites 1, 2 and 3-bedroom suites only.
Booking Date: Black Friday Only
Travel Dates: Jan 2 - Jan 15, 2025
Minimum night stay: 4 nights
Offer is for new bookings only

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Malliouhana anguilla

Booking dates: November 29th -December 15th
Travel By dates: Stay through August 15, 2025
Blackout dates: Varied

Stay 4+ nights and get 25% off + 1 Complimentary 50 Minute Massage per stay (Pre-paid rates – Non-refundable)

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EXPLORA JOURNEYS

Booking dates: November 13 - December 4
Travel By dates: November 20, 2024 and April 9, 2026
Blackout dates: *see below for exclusions

Book with Explora Journeys before 4 December 2024 to benefit from savings of up to 50% on your journey fare and pay a reduced deposit of only 5%.

Feel like you are on your own private yacht with an array of inclusive experiences. Sail in unparalleled elegance in your home-away-from-home. Enjoy unforgettable culinary creations and indulge in ocean-inspired wellness as you visit celebrated and lesser-travelled destinations on a journey to the Ocean State of Mind.

This limited time offer is available for journey reservations made between 13 November to 4 December 2024. Combinable with select offers. Book with me to get your extra onboard credit!

Please email me to book: lauren@thatblondetravels.com. Let me know preferred cruise, dates, and room type you are looking at for fastest response.

Blackout dates: *Select Journeys are excluded from this promotion including but not limited to:

EXPLORA II 13 May 2025 13 night journey from Barcelona to Monte Carlo  
EXPLORA II 13 May 2025 20 night journey Barcelona round trip  
EXPLORA II 20 May 2025   7 night journey Civitavecchia (Rome) round trip  
EXPLORA II 21 May 2025   5 night journey in Monte Carlo   
EXPLORA II 21 May 2025 12 night journey from Monte Carlo to Barcelona

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AUBERGE HOTELS

Booking dates: November 12 - December 9
Travel By dates: November 2024 - December 2025
Blackout dates: Property specific blackout dates apply

Promotion varies by property: 25-35% off

Auberge VIP Perks:

Daily Breakfast for 2
Resort Credit
Early check-in/late check-out *based on availability
Upgrade on arrival *based on availability

Auberge VIP bookings begin Tuesday, November 12, 2024 and end Tuesday, December 9, 2024.

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ROSEWOOD HOTELS

Booking dates: November 26 - December 3 (Rosewood Elite - me!)
Travel By dates: November 29, 2024 - August 31, 2025
Blackout dates: Property specific blackout dates apply

Save 30% off Best Available Rates, plus Rosewood Elite benefits, immersing oneself in the unique cultures and adventures each destination has to offer.

Rosewood Elite Perks:

Daily Breakfast for 2
Resort Credit
Early check-in/late check-out *based on availability
Upgrade on arrival *based on availability

Rosewood Elite bookings begin Tuesday, November 26, 2024 and end Tuesday, December 3, 2024, with public sale opening on November 29, 2024.

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Quark Expeditions Black Friday Sale! (Please see blog post for more details)

The Explorers Black Friday sale offers up to 50% off on Antarctic 2024/2025 and Arctic 2025 voyages, allowing your guests to explore with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions—by ship, helicopter, Zodiac and kayak.  

The sale will run from Monday, November 18th, 2024, to Monday, December 2nd, 2024.     

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Pix Around

Booking dates: November 13 - December 2

All prints and albums that can be purchased on their website will be 30 % off (excluding Christmas Cards, which will be 20% off).

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Seabourn

Booking dates: November 13 - December 3
Travel By dates: All dates open
Blackout dates: NA

Two Category Veranda Suite Upgrade
15% Reduced Deposit

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Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection

Booking dates: November 12 - December 2
Travel By dates: November 12, 2024 - December 18, 2025
Blackout dates: December 29 - 31, 2024

30% off with a 2 night minimum length of stay.

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Villas of Distinction

Booking dates: November 24 - December 8
Travel By dates: through December 31, 2025
Blackout dates: amount is based on the base villa cost and excludes taxes, fees, and security deposit. Minimum booking value of $5,000 applies. Offer may not be combinable with other offers. All offers are subject to availability and may not apply to all villas or travel dates. Other restrictions may apply; please call for full details.

Villas of Distinction®, a leading luxury villa provider, is thrilled to announce exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals designed specifically for travel advisors. From November 24 to December 8, 2024, clients enjoy cashback rewards of up to $2,000 on luxury villa bookings for travel through the end of 2025.

Booking Value Villas of Distinction Visa Prepaid Card

$5,000 – $15,000 $150
$15,001 – $25,000 $250
$25,001 – $35,000 $350
$35,001 – $50,000 $500
$50,001 – $75,000 $750
$75,001 – $100,000 $1,000
$100,001 + $2,000

Terms & Conditions: Offer may not be combinable with other offers. All offers are subject to availability and may not apply to all villas or travel dates. Other restrictions may apply; please call for full details. Consumer choice offer valid for new bookings made between 11/24/24 – 12/8/24 travel from 11/24/24 - 12/31/25. Amount is based on the base villa cost only. Minimum booking value applies. Cash back will be paid in a Villas of Distinction Visa® Prepaid Card upon deposit. Villas of Distinction Visa® Prepaid Card is issued by MetaBank®, N.A. , Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 12 months; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. Offer is valid for travel advisors’ clients. The Villas of Distinction Prepaid Card will be mailed directly to the travel advisors’ client within 30 days of deposit. Client mailing address must be provided. May not be combinable with other offers. All offers are subject to availability and may not apply to all villas or travel dates. Other restrictions may apply; please call for full details.

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NIZUC Resort & Spa

Booking dates: November 28 - December 2
Travel By dates: January 6 - December 18, 2025
Blackout dates: This offer applies to new reservations only and cannot be combined with other promotions. It is valid across all room categories except for the NIZUC Villa and Presidential Villa. Minimum Length of Stay (MLOS): 3 nights. Blackout Dates: Presidents' Week: February 14-17, April 12-18, Thanksgiving: November 26-28

Up to 45% off plus an exclusive add-on value: a complimentary room upgrade at the time of booking!

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Azamara Cruises

Booking dates: November 19 - December 4, 2024
Select Voyages Only

Up to $4,000 Off combinable with up to $750 onboard credit!

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Booking dates: November 15 - November 30
Travel By dates: January 6 - December 18, 2025
Blackout dates: select sailings; Not combinable with Covert offers

$1000 per suite credit

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Please email me to book: lauren@thatblondetravels.com. Let me know preferred dates and what deal you are looking at for fastest response.

Before I get started on my review, don’t forget that I am a preferred partner with Four Seasons! What does this mean for you? Extra perks for no extra charge!

Preferred Partner Perks when you book with That Blonde Travels:

Daily Breakfast for 2
Resort Credit
Early check-in/late check-out *based on availability
Upgrade on arrival *based on availability

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From the moment you step foot on the pristine shores of Four Seasons Resort Anguilla, it’s clear this is no ordinary vacation destination—it's an oasis of tranquility, sophistication, and natural beauty. My stay at this stunning resort was nothing short of extraordinary, and I can’t wait to share my experience.

Location & Setting: Situated on a breathtaking stretch of Anguilla’s coastline, the resort boasts two immaculate beaches, each with soft, powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. The sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea are simply mesmerizing, and the resort's design does a wonderful job of blending into the natural landscape, creating an atmosphere of relaxed luxury.

Whether you’re lounging by the infinity pools, enjoying water sports, or exploring the nearby beaches, the resort’s setting immediately transports you to paradise.

Service & Hospitality: The hallmark of Four Seasons properties is their impeccable service, and Anguilla is no exception. Every staff member I encountered was friendly, attentive, and genuinely eager to make my stay unforgettable. From the personalized welcome to the farewell, I felt like a VIP throughout my time there. Special shout-out to the concierge team and Chavez, who helped arrange everything from private boat trips to dinner reservations at the island’s exceptional restaurants. Chavez also helped me create a route on google maps for the day that we rented a Moke! Above and beyond! Also, a special shout-out to the pool servers, Yella and Del, who helped make our days perfect!

Accommodations: My one bedroom ocean-view suite was spacious and elegantly appointed, with a private terrace, featuring a plunge pool, offering stunning views of the turquoise sea. The attention to detail was evident in every corner, from the luxurious linens to the state-of-the-art amenities. I particularly appreciated the large bathroom with a deep soaking tub—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Dining: Food at Four Seasons Anguilla is a true highlight. The resort offers a range of dining options, from casual beachside meals to refined, fine-dining experiences. I dined at Salt, where the steak and fresh seafood was outstanding.

For breakfast, the buffet also at Salt was perfect—offering everything from fresh tropical fruits to made-to-order omelets and pastries. I also loved the beach bar, where I could sip on a refreshing cocktail while watching the sun set. Don’t skip the Mojitos!

Activities & Amenities: Beyond lounging and relaxing, Four Seasons Anguilla offers a host of activities for those looking for adventure. We particularly enjoyed renting a Moke for the day and driving around to see the island! There’s also a world-class spa that offers indulgent treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind, and a fitness center that’s well-equipped for those who like to stay active.

Final Thoughts: Four Seasons Resort Anguilla is the epitome of modern resort luxury. It’s a perfect destination for anyone seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and top-notch service in one of the Caribbean’s most stunning locations. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, savor world-class dining, or explore the island, this resort delivers it all. My time at Four Seasons Anguilla was truly unforgettable, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking for a slice of paradise.

Preferred Partner Perks when you book with That Blonde Travels:

Daily Breakfast for 2
Resort Credit
Early check-in/late check-out *based on availability
Upgrade on arrival *based on availability

You can send me an email for a quote at Lauren@ThatBlondeTravels.com or use my VIP Booking Link (Send me a quick email to get the password).