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Top 5 Self Drive Vacations

Just about nothing beats the fun and freedom of jumping behind the wheel of a car and dashing off on a well-planned adventure. You have probably enjoyed plenty of self-drive vacations around areas local to you, and now I invite you to see some of the world’s best sights through a windshield (of course, I recommend you get out the car from time to time for slower-paced, more personal experiences).

When you have decided to hit the road, let Travel by Darcy be your first pit stop: I will help you find the self-drive vacation destination that best matches your travel style and budget. In the countries recommended below, you can usually get from here to there via trains or planes or even ferries, but an expertly planned road-trip itinerary ensures that no stone goes unturned—and no terrific pub, road-side landmark, or must-see attraction goes unexplored. Ready for a vroom with a view?

IRELAND

The Emerald Isle is a gem of a destination throughout the year, especially if you are looking to experience a blend of boisterous cities and bucolic countryside. A self-drive vacation is easily the best, most rewarding way to explore the country (and between us, expect to take several wrong turns along the way, as road signs in Ireland are notoriously confusing . . . consider getting lost part of the adventure!). After a stay in Dublin, pick up a rental car and head north or south through country scenery to historic castles, hiking and fishing, and plenty of can’t-miss sights. With so much to see and do here, plan on a minimum duration of 10 days to maximize the fun.

SCOTLAND

Defined by its Highlands, valleys, lakes, and rugged coastline, Scotland is also known for its Scottish English, that oh-so-delightful dialect. From historic sites to vibrant cities, there is much to explore here, and a self-drive vacation allows you to wander from place to place, meeting friendly locals, eating in pubs, staying in castles, and taking on the mighty (and important) challenge of finding your new-favorite Scottish whiskey. After a stay in Edinburgh, pick up a rental car and start driving; in just about any direction you will find fairytale castles, rich history, and lots of distilleries. (If you are an Outlander fan, let me help you identify all the filming locations in Scotland you can visit.)

NEW ZEALAND

Just about everywhere you turn here, there is a sight that takes your breath away—a mountain of blue ice at Fox Glacier, emerald-colored lakes at Tongariro National Park, black sand beaches along the West Coast. Just as impressive? The country’s range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to historic sights, and the best way to make sure you do not miss a thing is a self-drive vacation. After a stay in Auckland, rent a car and explore the thermal mud baths in Rotorua and wine tasting in Hawk’s Bay; or, after a stay in Christchurch, crossover Arthurs Pass in your rental and travel along the west coast, exploring fjordlands before ending in Queenstown, the unofficial basecamp for New Zealand adventure-lovers. Whichever route you choose, make sure to set aside at least two weeks for a full experience.

SWITZERLAND

Though this country is known for its political neutrality, Switzerland displays an obvious prejudice for striking natural beauty, like soaring Alpine passes, twinkling glaciers, almost a dozen UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and too many mountain-ringed lakes to count. You will not see nearly enough of Switzerland from the window of a speeding train or plane; you have got to put yourself in a car to be in the middle of all its glorious nature. After a summertime stay in Zurich, drive out to Lake Lucerne, Bern, and Interlaken, and beyond, following winding roads and stopping in charming villages along the way.

CANADA

Much like the United States, Canada’s landscape is ever-changing as you head from coast to coast, including sandy beaches, glittering city skylines, and towering mountain ranges dotted with the densest parts of a wild wilderness. Just as most people do not drive across the USA on vacation, it is best to concentrate on a single part of Canada to get the most enriching, full experience. For instance, you might explore the Canadian Rockies with a round-trip adventure starting and ending in Calgary, or you might spend a week getting to know Jasper, Banff, and Lake Louise, trying to see if you ever get tired of all those magnificent views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Finding it hard to choose your favorite? Let me match you with your just-right destination—it might even be a place not on this list! As a Travel Specialist, I have spent the last 20+ years helping people plan and enjoy their dream vacation, and I know the best places to visit.

Contact me today and let me know how I can help!

Top 5 Places Stay in an Overwater Bungalow

There is something especially captivating about overwater bungalows. The epitome of indoor-outdoor living and rustic-chic style, this unique accommodation option is found in some of the world’s most alluring spots, offering easiest-ever water access and can’t-be-beat views. Suspended just feet above the ocean, the focus is on pampering and indulgence, from a King-size bed with luxurious linens inside to a swim-up patio outside.

Hotels and resorts typically offer a range of overwater bungalows, so it is important to pay attention to room descriptions and bungalow locations before booking—e.g. the more affordable choice is often the least private bungalow closest to the beach and facing a busy resort. Of course, I am here to help you navigate a sea of options, so you find one that is just right for your travel style and budget. To get you started, here are a few of my favorite overwater bungalows from around the globe.

TAHITI

A thatched-roof bungalow set on stilts just feet above a crystal-clear lagoon, with a private sundeck and glass floor viewing panel. It is this image that may first come to mind for overwater bungalows, and it is just what you will find in Tahiti, a closer-to-home option for those on the West Coast. Here, delight in all the beauty and joy of Polynesian culture, from hip-swinging dances to lip-smacking dishes, and resorts that range from modest to uber-luxe. Rather than stay on the busy island of Tahiti, set your sights on Moorea Island, with its fine resorts and mix of outdoor adventures, or Bora Bora, a more exclusive, remote island group where you might dive with manta rays by day and dine under the stars at night. Trips should last 7 to 10 days at a minimum.

MALDIVES

The Republic of Maldives is an archipelago nation known for sea, sand, and sun, sun, sun. Not yet a popular destination for North American travelers, it is already a favorite for Europeans, who flock here for the spectacular white-sand beaches and world-class water activities. Most of the accommodations are island resorts, so choosing one comes down to preferences: for those who want to stay in an all-inclusive with lots of variety, consider Club Med Kani (several of its most luxurious overwater suites allow for the ultimate indulgence: the ability to dive into the ocean straight from your suite) or the Four Seasons Resort Maldives, offering a trio of distinct and distinctly upscale options, like Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa with its extraordinarily generous Water Suites. No matter which you choose, it is important to note that resorts here are not typically all-inclusive, but meal plans are available. Because of increased travel time, trips should last at least 10 days; if possible, try to schedule a stopover in Dubai on your way there or back.

CARIBBEAN

Sandals Resorts recently unveiled overwater bungalows at two of their resorts in Jamaica (Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals South Coast) and one on St. Lucia (Sandals Grand St. Lucian). The cost is higher for similar accommodations in Tahiti or the Maldives and you have to book very (very!) far in advance since there are only a handful of overwater bungalows at each resort. On the flip side, both Jamaica and St. Lucia are easy-to-get-to destinations for most Americans, meaning you do not have to spend all day in transit and you can justify a shorter trip. More positives: Sandals Resorts are all-inclusive (so you can leave your wallet in your suitcase) and adults-only (so you can leave the kids, and the whining, with Grandma); in addition, its overwater bungalows are modern and romantic, with divine details like an over-the-water hammock, swim-up platform, and a big patio with Sandals signature Tranquility Soaking Tub™ for two.

MEXICO

Mexico’s Riviera Maya (just south of busy Cancun) is known for its outdoor adventures, from exploring the world’s second-largest reef to experiencing its famed Mayan sites. Yet you may never enjoy any of that for yourself if you stay at El Dorado Maroma, a most affordable upscale, adults-only, all-inclusive, and the only place in the country with overwater bungalows, called palafitos. You see, these elegant palafitos are uniquely situated off one of the best beaches in the world, Maroma Beach, with pinch-me views of sunrises and sunsets and indulgent details like a private infinity pool and ladder into the ocean. In other words: there is absolutely no reason to leave the sweet sanctuary of your overwater bungalow. Trips should last 7 days at a minimum.

BELIZE

On the east coast of Central America, Belize has one of the world’s lowest population densities, meaning it is a destination of open spaces to discover and enjoy; in addition, English is the official first language, making Belize an easy international escape for US travelers. Thatch Caye has a series of bungalows built on stilts over the ocean; because of all the sea grass, the seawater is not as clear and smooth here as it is in the other destinations on the list, giving its rustic-chic experience a touch more rustic charm. Because it takes a while to get to this rather remote location, suggest booking a 3- to 5-night stay on the beach and then heading inland for thrilling fun in the jungle, like hiking, zip-lining, and waterfall rappelling.

Finding it hard to choose your favorite? Let me match you with your just-right escape—it might even be a place not on this list! As a Travel Specialist, I have spent the last 20+ years helping people plan and enjoy their dream vacation, and I know the best places to visit.

Contact me today (call 603-418-8698 or send an email to me at info@travelbydarcy.wpcomstaging.com) and let me know how I can help!

The Buzz: Zika-Free Tropical Honeymoon Spots

After all the pomp and circumstance (and stress!) of a wedding, your honeymoon should be a relaxing time together. But if you want a tropical honeymoon—and if you hope to get right to work expanding your family—this very special escape could be ruined by the threat of Zika-infected mosquitoes.

According to the CDC, the Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in tropical destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central/South America. While Zika’s most common symptoms (fever, rash, joint pain) aren’t life-threatening, the virus can pass from a pregnant woman to her fetus and can lead to severe fetal brain defects—so if you’re planning on baby-makes-three sooner rather than later, you’ll want to pick a tropical honeymoon destination that’s known to be free of the Zika virus.

Let me introduce you to a few favorites:

Bermuda

Famous for its pink-sand beaches and British aplomb, the island of Bermuda is a semi-tropical paradise just 600 miles off the coast of North Carolina, making it an easy flight for east coast travelers. Bermuda has a version of winter, so it’s best to visit between April and November. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities and a plethora of boutique beachfront hotels and luxe, full-service resorts, though it should be noted that this is not a destination to consider if you’re looking for all-inclusive accommodations. While there is affordable fun to be had (think pub crawls), Bermuda tends to be on the pricey side.

Hawaii

A tropical destination in the Pacific, Hawaii is comprised of eight major islands, and each one offers its own personality and experiences along with a unique selection of accommodations, from boutique hotels and full-service resorts to self-catering condos. Getting to Hawaii is a relatively short flight from the Midwest and west coast; if you’re flying from the east coast—and it’s definitely worth it!—plan to stay at least 10 days to make the most of your time. Whichever island or islands you choose, expect to relax and recharge with all sorts of natural pursuits, from snorkeling above a school of rainbow-colored fish to hiking lush tropical rain forests to stargazing with your feet nestled in the still-warm sand.

Tahiti

Romance comes easily to Tahiti, with its French culture and backdrop of clear blue water, cream-colored sand beaches, lush green foliage, and inviting rows of thatched-roof, over-water bungalows. Here, you’ll need bathing suits, sunscreen, and not much else! It takes time to get to Tahiti, due to the travel logistics created by limited air options; once you arrive, you’ll want to spend at least 10 days to maximize your R&R. A year-round, higher-priced tropical destination, Tahiti can get a bit rainy—and slightly less expensive—between January and April. Consider booking early for improved air availability (remember, options are limited) and to allow adequate time to budget for your trip.

Maldives

A sizzling-hot tropical honeymoon destination for 2018, it’s now easier than ever to get to the Maldives via Dubai, though getting here is still a hike from all U.S. destinations, so you’ll want to stay at least 10 days to recover and fully immerse yourself in the spirit of relaxation (side note: consider extending your stay in Dubai to add a dose of over-the-top dazzle to your honeymoon). All about the stunning scenery—think white sand beaches and turquoise water—the Maldives is a water-lovers paradise with plenty of activities in and around the surf; there are also plenty of accommodation options, from over-water bungalows to island resorts like the Four Seasons.

Fiji

From bright-pink sunsets to brilliantly colored coral, Fiji’s beauty will take your breath away. A collection of tropical islands in the South Pacific, Fiji is often grouped together with Tahiti but it has its own distinct culture and attitude . . . and hotel styles (instead of over-water bungalows, for instance, you’ll find beachfront bures). There are affordable, full-service resorts on the main island, and self-contained resorts on islands easily accessible by a short flight. Most of the islands have limited dining options, making them perfect candidates for all-inclusive accommodations; on the main island, meal plans aren’t necessary due to several restaurant choices. Traveling from the U.S., you’ll cross the international dateline getting to Fiji, so this is another destination with a suggested 10-day duration.

Greek Isles

With a coastal landscape unlike anywhere else on earth—boasting bright-white villages hugging cliffs that extend down towards the twinkling azure sea—Greece is distinctly and delightfully itself. Honeymoon-friendly semi-tropical Greek isles like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete offer up beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and only-here caldera views, along with charming shops, friendly locals, and cafes serving the freshest seafood and incredible wine. The best time to visit is between May and October and that short window means you want to book early to score a coveted cliff-side room. Consider extending your stay with a trip to Athens where you can explore the country’s ancient past by day then return to the present with an evening of electric nightlife.

Thailand

Tucked away in Southeast Asia, the tropical Kingdom of Thailand makes you feel like royalty as it spoils you with, well, everything: modern cities, beautiful beaches, quiet countrysides, towering mountains, elaborate temples, ancient ruins, royal palaces, and really (really!) exquisite food. To experience it all, plan on a best-off trip lasting 10 to 14 days, with stops in a city (perhaps Bangkok), mountains (possibly Chiang Mai), and beach (maybe Phuket or the island of Koh Samui).

UPDATE (2019): In addition to Martinique, travelers can head to The Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, Guadeloupe, and Saint Barth’s for a relaxing trip—all are on the CDC’s list of Zika–free countries

As a Romance Travel Specialist for 20+ years, I’ve helped many couples plan and enjoy their dream honeymoon. I believe your honeymoon is just as important as your wedding—maybe even more so!—and I have unique insight into what to do, and avoid, in planning this most important trip. Whether you’re looking to honeymoon with a side of adrenalin or R&R (or a bit of both!), let me match you with your just-right destination. I can help you get anywhere in the world—whether it’s on the list above or not—and I can work with any travel budget. I look forward to hearing from you!

P.S. You’re not a travel agent, so stop acting like one. Trying to plan a perfect honeymoon with the information you find on-line is risky at best. Get in touch with me, and enjoy the absolute pleasure of having a travel professional ask the right questions and match you with your ideal experiences—as an added bonus, I’ll help you save time and money. Together, we’ll plan one once-in-a-lifetime trip after another.

Where to go in 2018!

As 2017 comes to a close, 2018 stretches out ahead of us, with 365 days of potential and possibility. My suggestion? Fill in some of those days with unforgettable vacations. Whether it’s a far-flung escape with friends, a close-to-home weekend getaway with someone special, or a memory-making adventure just about anywhere with your kids or grandkids, a well-planned, personalized vacation is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

In 2018, imagine finding a favorite new wine in South Africa—or New Zealand . . . being as active, or as chill, as you desire in Hawaii . . . strolling along Bermuda’s famous pink sand beaches . . .

These are just a few of the (many) experiences waiting for you in the (many) destinations around the world. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, defaulting to your same-old travel haunts, or crossing your fingers that the information you find on-line is accurate, entrust your planning to Travel by Darcy.

I’ve spent my life traveling the world, and my passion is matching people with their ideal vacations. Here, I help narrow down your where-to-go list to just those places that are prime for a first visit, or revisit, in 2018. Of course, this list represents just a taste of what’s out there; once I get to know your travel style and budget, I can recommend a destination that’s just-right for you.

IRELAND

The Emerald Isle is a gem of a destination, any time of year, especially if you’re looking to experience a blend of boisterous cities and bucolic countryside. A self-drive adventure is one of the best, most personal ways to explore the country (but between us, expect to take several wrong turns along the way, as road signs in Ireland are notoriously confusing . . . consider getting lost part of the adventure!). With so much to see and do here—from touring a fairytale castle to sipping Guinness in a proper pub—plan on a minimum duration of 10 days to maximize the fun, and plan on expert guidance from me to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

SOUTH AFRICA

A travel “wow”, South Africa is one of those everything’s-here destinations. Famous for its sunny days, vibrant culture, and always-warm climate, this year-round hot spot is a must for birding and big-game enthusiasts, city slickers, oenophiles, and adrenaline junkies (and those who are a bit of each) with offerings like wild-life safaris, cosmopolitan cities like Cape Town, toast-worthy wine country, and outdoor pursuits that run the gamut from traditional (hiking, surfing, and sky-diving) to unique (dune-boarding, canopy tours, and para-gliding). Since it’s a bit of a haul getting here, consider a 10-day stay to be the minimum; depending on your travel style, I can match you with a travel group or I can completely customize your trip.

ITALY

A perennial favorite, this European country tempts with delightful diversity, from the snow-covered Alps in the north to the sunny shores of Sicily in the south—along with only-here spots like the rolling hills of Tuscany, the watery streets of Venice, and the breath-taking vistas of the Amalfi Coast. If this is your first trip to Italy, make sure to visit cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence while also getting a taste of rural life by renting a villa in the country; if you’ve been to Italy before, considering revisiting favorites and trying new areas (I have insight on some places you may not yet know about). Note: Now is the time to book a trip to Italy for summer 2018, so start planning today.

BERMUDA

A mere 600 miles off the coast of North Carolina, the 21-square-mile island of Bermuda is a semi-tropical paradise with British flair and famously pink-sand beaches—it’s a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat. Despite its small size, you’ll find a plethora of boutique hotels, full-service resorts, and luxury condo properties on the island (though all-inclusive accommodations are not an option)—trust me to recommend one that meets all your needs. There are also plenty of activities to experience in and around the surf and, unlike some Caribbean islands, its food and drink options are safe to enjoy without concern. For those seeking a Zika-Free tropical escape, Bermuda should be at the top of your list. Bonus: Instead of flying to Bermuda, considering cruising there from Boston or New York—of course, I can tell you how.

NEW ZEALAND

Just about everywhere you turn here, there’s a sight that takes your breath away—a mountain of blue ice at Fox Glacier, emerald-colored lakes at Tongariro National Park, black sand beaches along the West Coast. Just as impressive? The country’s range of experiences, from outdoor adventures like thermal mud baths and hiking to getting a literal taste of its world-class wine country. New Zealand’s summer is North America’s winter, and their peak travel season is December through March; the crowds may have descended, but the weather is so perfect, you won’t mind. Whether you join an organized tour or take a self-drive trip (and I can help you decide which is best for you!), make sure you set aside at least two weeks to experience New Zealand.

HAWAII

A beautiful beach that seems to stretch on to infinity. A lush jungle lit by dappled sunlight. A golf course with unfairly distracting Pacific views. A once-in-a-lifetime meal in Oahu. Welcome to Hawaii. This year-round, tropical destination is comprised of eight major islands, and each one offers its own personality (from vibrant to almost sleepy) along with a unique selection of accommodations (from boutique hotels and full-service resorts to self-catering condos). Together, we’ll narrow down the options and match you with your ideal Hawaiian escape—whichever island or islands you choose, expect to relax and recharge with all sorts of natural pursuits, from snorkeling above a school of rainbow-colored fish to hiking lush tropical rain forests to stargazing with your feet nestled in the still-warm sand. For those seeking a Zika-Free tropical escape, Hawaii should be at the top of your list.

ST. LUCIA

This Eastern Caribbean island is a top pick for 2018 for the same reason it made my 2017 list: it’s simply perfect for families, friends, and couples. St. Lucia offers plenty of activities in the mountains (rainforests, waterfalls, and the dramatically tapered Pitons which define the island) and the beach (sleeping fishing villages, world-class diving sites, and volcanic beaches); it also has a wide range of resort and condo options. In other words, once I get to know what you want from a Caribbean island vacation, I can most likely make all your wishes come true on St. Lucia.

RIVER CRUISING

Many travelers think cruising means taking a ride on a massive ship that’s more of a floating city. There’s something to be said for size and diversity, but I encourage you to consider a different type of cruising: a river cruise along the waterways of Europe. You’ll absolutely love the intimate boat size, slow pace, and interactions with locals. Especially hot right now are cruises along the Danube with Viking River Cruises and the new “U” by Uniworld, known for adventure for social-minded 21-45 year old travelers—but trust me when I tell you that there are cruises out there that are just right for couples, families, friends, everyone, and I can match you with the cruise line, ship, and itinerary that’s best for you. Some cruises book up to a year in advance, so if you’re thinking of taking the plunge this year, get in touch with me soon.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or R&R (or a bit of both!) in the year ahead, let me match you with your just-right vacation. I look forward to hearing from you!

P.S. You’re not a travel agent, so stop acting like one. Trying to plan a perfect trip with the information you find on-line is risky at best. Get in touch with me, and enjoy the absolute pleasure of having a travel professional ask the right questions and match you with your ideal experiences—as an added bonus, I’ll help you save time and money. Together, we’ll plan one once-in-a-lifetime trip after another.

The Caribbean is (STILL) Calling

Swaying in a hammock between two tall palms. Frolicking in warm, clear ocean water. Savoring a pampering morning at a seaside spa or an afternoon on a golf course with gorgeous views at every turn.

The Caribbean has long held the allure of idyllic destinations designed for rest and relaxation. Yet a recent string of extreme weather—most notably Hurricane Irma—has left devastation in its wake, casting a serious shadow on these notoriously sunny locations.

So, what can you do to help?

The first thing to do is donate to legitimate recovery efforts like the Red Cross, Global Giving, or Hurricane Relief Fund. More than clothes and water, those most hard-hit areas need money to rebuild infrastructures, rebuild communities, and rebuild lives.

The second thing to do is travel to the Caribbean. Tourism is vital to this region, so if you’re considering a trip this winter or anytime next year, now is a fantastic time to book your escape to any of the following destinations:

In the Caribbean, Aruba, Barbados, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Grand Cayman, Grenadines, Jamaica, and St. Lucia are all open for business; Antiqua, St. Kitts/Nevis, and Turks & Caicos escaped heavy damage and are ready to welcome guests after completing clean-up efforts.
In Mexico, Cabo San Lucas, Cancun/Riviera Maya, and several Pacific Coast resort destinations like Huatulco, Ixtapa, and Puerto Vallarta are all open for business.
And don’t forget Belize, Costa Rica, and Panama are also tropical options that survived the recent hurricane season without damage.

When planning your Caribbean vacation, there are a few special considerations to make—for instance, if you plan on traveling during the 2018 hurricane season (July – October) you might want to focus on destinations that are typically outside of hurricane paths, like Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Curacao, Grenadines, and St. Lucia; and before booking your hotel, check on its current status—here’s a great resource for individual hotel updates.

Feeling worried or finding it hard to choose which destination is right for you? I’m here for you. As a Travel Specialist, I’ve spent the last 20 years helping people just like you plan and enjoy dream escapes. I’m up-to-date on your best options throughout the islands and Mexico, and I’ll match you with the destination and resort that best reflect your needs and budget; and I’ll calm any concerns along the way.

Contact me today (call 603-418-8698 or send an email to me at info@travelbydarcy.wpcomstaging.com and let me know how I can help!