February 17, 2024 Issue, Page 13 of 14

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February 17, 2024 ‘The Elk City News- 13 EXPLORE YOUR DREAM DESTINATION Tips for planming a travel adventure FAMILY FEATURES Pack Like a Pro | f you find yourself dreaming ofsunshine, sand and sparkling Gathering everything pools, it may be time to start looking forward to y« you need for a vacation, vacation getaway. Get a jumpstart on building ex especially with kids in for the journey ahead by beginning preparations early, which tow, can be stressful. offers many benefits, including better rates and more time to To make the proc: research your options, easier, organize your Start exploring ideas for a fun-filled trip with these tips from packing based on factors | the travel experts at Funjet, which specializes in providing like the length of your travelers with vacation packages to hundreds of destinations trip, airline policies around the world: and your family’s activities, Essentials Plan Ahead like an umbrella should Booking your vacation well in advance allows you to take not be overlooked, advantage ofthe best deals at the most popular hotels and hottest especially if your travel dates. In addition, by being flexible with travel dat destination’s weather families can save hundreds ofdollars. Moving travel dates by a can be unpredictable. day or two can result in major savings, often even more than the Maximize luggage discounts you can get on last-minute trips. space by packing travel- sized toiletries and put Research Dream Destinations electronic necessities like your mobile device, Deciding where you want to go is the first step, but with a literal world of possibilities, it can be difficult to narrow down your charger and headphones choices. One place you can find inspiration is by exploring the in your carry-on bag. top travel destinations others are choosing. For example, the top 10 travel destinations booked with Funjet in 2023 include numerous Anticipate Extra international destinations. Las Vi is the only U.S. city to make Expenses Protect Your Group Travel the top 10 list. Mexico is especially popular, with Cancun, Cozumel, While all-inclusive resorts make tropical getaways stress-free When traveling with a group, there’s a greater chance of Puerto Vallarta and San Jose Del Cabo. Others include Belize City, and economical, it’s customary to express appreciation for something happening that changes plans between when you book Belize; Liberia, Costa Rica; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Panama City, exceptional service with tips. Resorts typically don’t require your trip and leave. That’s why it can be a good idea to take Panama; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. tipping, but guests commonly tip as a gesture ofgratitude, When a “travel with confidence” approach and consider including a deciding to tip, families should consider modest amounts, like travel protection plan in your reservations. This insurance allows Consider All-Inclusive Options $1-5 per meal per person, and be mindful of different service travelers to cancel their trip for any reason, if necessary. When Whether you prefer adults-only or family-friendly, luxury or levels as well as the convenience ofusing local currency. Having traveling with a group, stick with nonstop flights when possible, budget-friendly, there’s a diverse range of all-inclusive resorts to cash on hand makes it easier to tip as needed and ensure you as you’re more likely to stay together, which can mean more choose from, All-inclusives are known for their convenience and have extra for souvenirs and other purchases. cost-effective travel. value. They offer hassle-free experiences with meals, drinks and often activities included. While many resorts in Mexico and the Unplug and Unwind Enjoy the Experiences Caribbean islands are all-inclusive, be aware that smaller islands Although most travelers believe it’s essential to stay connected, While spending leisure time by the resort pool with afternoon like Antigua may feature European plan-style hotels, where it’s a good idea to limit screen time so you can make the cocktails can be a relaxing reward, you can make the most ofa meals and drinks are not included. most of your vacation. Schedule a specific time, preferably destination vacation by also planning a tour. Many destinations An all-inclusive package usually encompasses a variety of in the morning, to address emails and online tasks then enjoy offer services that can assist travelers with booking various activities and amenities curated to offer an enjoyable and cost- a worry-free rest of the day. While phones are often used to adventures, ranging from catamaran cruises to hikes and almost effective vacation. Within these packages, guests often have capture photos and videos or look up information about nearby everything in between. the opportunity to access amenities such as swimming pools, attractions, putting away the screens means you'll be able to engage in sports activities, participate in fitness classes and other enjoy the scenery, connect with loved ones and have a truly Find more tips and plan your next adventure at Funjet.com or entertaining experiences. rejuvenating experience. call your local travel advisor. Where to Stay Start planning your dream getaway by checking out these traveler-favorite destination properties, based on bookings through Funjet: Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts Highly Rated Hotels for Groups = Dreams Onyx Resort & = Royalton Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Spa (Punta Cana, Collection (Mexico) Dominican Republic) = Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf& Spa Resort (Quintana = Dreams Bahia Mita Surf& Spa Roo, Mexico) Resort (Nayarit, Mexico) = Dreams Flora Resort & Spa (Punta Cana, = Riu Caribe (Cancun, Mexico) Dominican Republic) ® Riu Guanacaste (Costa Rica) ‘= Oasis Palm (Cancun, Mexico) = Riu Negril (Jamaica) m= Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach (Honolulu, Hawaii) = Iberostar Grand Paraiso (Riviera = Marival Emotions Resort & Suites (Nuevo Maya, Mexico) Vallarta, Mexico) = Riu Cancun (Mexico) ® Royalton Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection ® Royalton Riviera Cancun, An (Dominican Republic) Autograph Collection (Mexico) = Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa (Oranjestad, Aruba) ® Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera m Bahia Principe Grand La Romana (Dominican Republic) Cancun (Quintana Roo, Mexico) = Dreams Macao (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic) & Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa 1 Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres (Mexico) (Oaxaca, Mexico) m Zoetry Agua Punta Cana (Dominican Republic)