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New COVID Test Requirements for International Travel: Effective December 6, 2021

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CDC Updates International Travel requirements effective december 6, 2021

Yet another change to US international travel requirements! If you've traveled internationally this year, you know that a negative covid test is required to return to the US.

You cannot enter the USA by air without presenting a negative covid test.

Effective December 6, 2021  there are changes to TEST TIMING.

Starting next week, all travelers ages 2+ with a flight departing a foreign country bound for the US are required to show a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than ONE day before travel.

This is regardless of vaccination status; all travelers must now test 1 day prior to travel.

Previously, this test timing was 3 days for fully vaccinated travelers and 1 day prior for unvaccinated travelers.

For more info, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html

Travel Vaccine Card Covid Restrictions Mexico

I’ve Visited 9 All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico since COVID: Here’s What I’ve Learned

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I'm sure you have some questions about what travel is like in the post-COVID world.  Since mid-June, I've been in Mexico twice, touring all inclusive resorts.  I've also stayed at several stateside hotels.

My third COVID trip to Mexico is actually tomorrow, August 4! On this trip, I'll be staying at two different all incusive resorts, the 8th and 9th Mexican resorts I've visited since June.  I'll be (respectfully) crashing a destination wedding on Wednesday - ha!  If you want to follow along, I share all of my trip information on Instagram, usually via Stories (@alpacabagstravel). My June and July trips are archived in the "highlights" section at the top.

In addition to seeing a boatload of all inclusive resorts, tomorrow will be my 10th and 11th flights since COVID began (I've flown American and Delta).

As a travel agency owner, I feel a responsibility to investigate this new world and report back. While you may not be ready for travel right now, I want to show everyone what this new world is like.  When you're ready, I'll be here to help!

CDC Announces New COVID Regulations for US Travelers

COVID Travel to Mexico: Myths & mythbusting

  • Air travel to Mexico is not prohibited. When people say "the borders are closed to non-essential travel" they are referring to the land border of Mexico and Canada. Air travel has never been restricted. You can read more about this here: https://mx.usembassy.gov/travel-restrictions-fact-sheet/
  • The country of Mexico does not currently have any COVID testing requirements for entry. Entry into Mexico is pretty much business as usual, minus a thermal temperature scan upon arrival and a health form.
  • Re-Entry to the US has also been easy. The US does not currently have any federal requirements for re-entry from Mexico. Your state, city or employer may have requirements, but the federal government does not. My customs process has been easy ... the customs agent asked the same general questions about my travel but there was no temperature check, no health screening. NOTE: If you are traveling from European and Asian countries, there are special requirements, but not for Mexico.
  • One heads up: The internet and social media can be wonderful, but I have seen a lot of blatantly incorrect information about travel. If you are seeing stories about travel requirements, please note the destination. For example, the Caribbean islands do have testing requirements, Mexico does not. Jamaica and St. Lucia are some of the strictest countries right now. This is where working with a professional travel advisor can be a huge benefit.

At The Airport

  • Almost every airport requires face coverings to enter. Pay attention to posted signs about restrictions. Food and beverage options may be limited as many airport restaurants have not yet re-opened. As travel increases, more restaurants will re-open.
  • Consider packing a snack for the plane as food & beverage options onboard may be limited
  • Security lines have been longer due to social distancing requirements, but most move pretty quickly. You'll briefly remove your face mask to show your full face to TSA when going through security.
  • Have patience with airport employees. The rules regarding travel (like everything else!) are changing quickly. They are doing an amazing job at keeping up with the new rules, usually with a smaller staff because of social distancing.
  • When you check-in at the airport, you may be given a QR barcode to scan and fill out. This is a health form required by the Mexican government. I have found that the gate agents in the US are a little confused about this form. Some think you need to fill it out before you fly, some think you need to fill it out to return home. In my two experiences so far, no one has checked it upon entry to Mexico, but it WAS required to exit Mexico. More on that later.

On The Plane

  • Pay attention to airline rules about face coverings. These can vary by airline and can change frequently. As of today, nearly every US airport and all US based airlines require face coverings. You can remove them for eating or drinking, but they must be worn for the duration of the flight. For specific airline information, please visit your airline website. Failure to comply may result in travelers being banned from future flights.
  • Food and beverage service will be limited to reduce personal contact. Most airlines are giving a snack bag with a bottle of water, crackers or cookies and hand sanitizer. If you need anything, just ring your call button.
  • Masks are required in-flight except for when eating or drinking. I found that it really wasn't that bad - I forgot about mine after awhile. I have flown with both cloth masks and disposables. I found that the disposables were more comfortable for travel. If you're worried about flying in a mask, try practicing at home before you depart. The beach on the other end will make it all worth it!

Transportation & Hotel Check In

  • Your temperature will be scanned with a thermal scanner as you leave the airport. When you meet your transportation, the driver will be wearing a mask or a face shield. Your luggage will be sanitized before going into the vehicle. The vehicles are all sanitized and sprayed between guests. The Mexican government required special training and a paid certification for transportation companies, so the they are very prepared for your arrival!
  • If you are in a private vehicle with only your party, you can remove your masks. If you are in a shared vehicle with strangers, face masks are required.
  • When you check-in to the resort, your temperature will be scanned. You'll also walk through a sanitizing mat to sanitize your shoes before entry. Finally, you'll also be asked to complete another health form. This form will ask basic questions about your recent health and any exposure to COVID-19.
  • To re-open, resorts were required to complete an extensive re-training and certification process. The resorts have taken this very seriously. Sanitation, cleaning and social distancing measures are all in place. Your room will have a small packet of masks and hand sanitizer for your use. Mask enforcement is up to the individual resort.
  • Resort employees are very excited to be back at work. Each time I've visited, I've been greeted with excited smiles and lots of conversation. It's fun to get to know your bartenders and servers ... these are some of the hardest working men and women on the planet. While some restaurants may be on reduced hours and some swim up bars may be temporarily closed, there has been no shortage of food, drinks or great service.
  • Some resorts are checking temperatures and sanitizing shoes at the entry to every restaurant or bar. As a former NYer, I know shoes are filthy dirty ... why weren't we doing this before?!? I love this!

Want to Know More?

We can help! As your travel advisor, we'll help you navigate the pros and cons of each destination and match you somewhere perfect based on your preferences and budget! In addition, we'll provide:

• Extensive, hands-on destination and resort knowledge
• Customized vacation packages
• Personal resort connections
• Access to exclusive offers you can't find online
• One-on-one attention
• Emergency support
• Real humans, no call centers

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Destination Wedding Planning Is Still Okay During COVID-19: Here’s 10 Reasons Why

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Destination Weddings are still a fantastic choice for couples who want a unique celebration

Travel Destinations Reopen after COVID-19

As the owner of a travel agency specializing in all inclusive Destination Weddings, the last few weeks have been a very wild, uncertain ride. Since mid-March, we have helped nearly 15 wedding couples (that’s almost 700 wedding guests!)  to postpone or change their destination wedding plans.

During this process, the travel industry has shown amazing patience, persistence and fortitude.  We have stuck out the tough times while looking forward to better times ahead. As I work with each individual wedding group, I’ve noticed a wide range of emotions.  Some couples are scared, some are nervous. Some just want to know when this will end (don’t we all!). Throughout it all, there has been one common theme and question: “Is it still okay to plan a destination wedding?”

My answer is YES - a resounding yes!  Yes, it is still okay to plan a destination wedding during COVID-19. In the past few weeks, we have all gained a new appreciation for human connection and celebration.  With that in mind, I think Destination Weddings are still a fantastic choice for couples who want a unique, meaningful and intentional celebration of their marriage.

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looking forward

While travel may look a little different for a while, the human need to explore and celebrate will shine through. This time will pass, and people will be more ready than ever to get out and explore. Planning a destination wedding is a great way to give your guests something to look forward to. While we all may need to adapt a little, I am more excited than ever to help couples plan their destination wedding. Need convincing? Consider these points:

1. When travel rebounds, people will look for a reason to celebrate.

Travel will rebound… slowly at first, but it will.  After weeks of lockdown and quarantine, gathering in person and sharing new experiences will be more important than ever.  Your friends and family are looking for the occasion to celebrate; your destination wedding can be the event that everyone looks forward to.

2. Destination Weddings allow you to focus on what’s important - you, your fiance and your guests.

With a destination wedding, there are fewer decisions to make and fewer choices to labor over. Since you are not burdened with managing hundreds of details, you get to relax and enjoy this amazing time with your loved ones.

3: A Destination Wedding gives your guests new experiences and helps make memories

Want to see your grandma on a water slide?  Would you love to see your college friends on the dance floor with your dad? Will your mother-in-law ever try a mojito? These are the types of fun, shared experiences that you can have when you travel with a group.  After lockdown, people will have a new zest for life and trying new things.

4: All Inclusive Resorts allow people to try new things without focusing on price

If you’re bursting at the seams for a new adventure, why not try an all inclusive resort for your destination wedding? All Inclusive resorts allow you to try new things without worrying about cost!  Not sure if ceviche is for you? Want to try scuba but worried about the commitment?  The best all inclusives can include excursions, activities, spa treatments and more.  Why not give your loved ones a chance to try something new?

Best Destination Wedding Beach Decor

5: Your Destination Wedding Gives Guests a Pre-Planned Family Vacation

Most destination wedding guests stay an average of 4-5 nights in destination. Many guests choose to make this their family vacation for the year. Your guests may be anxious to travel and broaden their kids’ horizons, but they might not know how to organize this type of trip. Your wedding gives them a pre-planned, stress-free vacation!

6: Your Destination Wedding Can (also) be the Perfect Kid-Free Adult Getaway!

Your friends with kids are tired. Your sister is tired of faux homeschooling. Every couple needs some quality time to reconnect. If you’d really like people to get excited, consider an Adults Only resort for your destination wedding.  In our recent client survey, 90% of our clients were interested in an Adults Only trip before any other kind of travel.

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7: An all-inclusive resort destination wedding is an affordable alternative to a traditional wedding

According to The Knot Real Weddings Survey, the average cost of a wedding has ballooned to $33,900. Compared to the cost of a traditional wedding, a destination wedding can be one of the most cost-effective ways to start your life together. Depending on the number of guests, the destination and  the options you choose, a Destination Wedding can be free (yes, really!)  Our clients spend an average of $6,000-$19,000, depending on the options and time of year. Many of them are much less. Curious to know more about cost? Read our Destination Wedding FAQ.

8: Destination Weddings at All Inclusive Resorts can accommodate a wide range of budgets

For couples who may be concerned about cost, consider this: with an all inclusive resort destination wedding, your guests only worry about one price, one budget and one destination. At Alpaca Your Bags Travel, we work with couples to design a room block with a wide variety of price points, giving something for everyone. We typically recommend a mix of entry-level rooms, middle-tier Ocean View rooms and upgraded Suites, offering something for every budget level. Guests also have the ability to pay over time, making this an easy and affordable option.

9: With an all-inclusive resort destination wedding, there’s no logistical stress or added transportation costs

After the stress of COVID-19, people will want EASY experiences. People will want to feel pampered. When you choose an all inclusive resort for your wedding, everyone is in the same place. There’s no need for schedules & transportation headaches. Planning multiple events like a welcome party and a day-after brunch?  With everything in the same place, you don’t need to worry about how guests will get from point A to point B.

10: Resorts are ready to welcome guests with open arms (at a distance!)

Due to COVID-19, the travel industry experienced tremendous losses this Spring and Summer. As a travel agent who focuses almost entirely on destination weddings, I am in constant contact with hotel managers, reservations agents, hotel concierges, resort wedding planners, transportation companies and tour operators. In many destinations, tourism is the driver of a local economy. Every single friend I have made in Mexico and the Caribbean is ready to welcome guests as soon as they can. There has never been a better time to support the travel industry and tourism as a whole.

11 (Bonus!): The travel industry is resilient and adaptable. New health & safety policies are being implemented every day.

Airlines, hotels and tour operators are changing their operations on a dime, quickly implementing new safety procedures for guests and staff alike.  As we all adjust to a post-COVID world, the travel industry is quickly pivoting to accommodate this new-ish normal. Safety is paramount, as evidenced by new protocols that are being shared and updated every day. There are new procedures for housekeeping, new processes for dining, room service and the beach. If we have learned anything from past events like 9/11, the travel industry is resilient and adaptable.  As the world changes, the travel industry quickly adapts, ready to reward those who embrace adventure. 

BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION NOW - BUT DON'T DELAY. 2021 AND 2022 WEDDING DATES ARE BOOKING FAST.

If you’ve been dreaming of a 2021 destination wedding, I cannot stress this enough: NOW IS THE TIME!  With so many weddings moved from 2020 to 2021, dates are booking quickly, much faster than normal.  If you’ve been considering a destination wedding but aren’t sure where to start, why not schedule a free consultation with me?

On the call, I will explain the pros and cons of a destination wedding. I’ll answer any questions you might have about flexible policies, cancellation terms and how you can earn FREE travel for your event. 

We can collaborate to create the wedding (and vacation) of your dreams.  Ready to get started?

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All Inclusive Resort Destination Wedding Honeymoon Travel

The Best All Inclusive Resorts for Spa and Wellness Travel

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Who could use a spa escape right now?  This travel agent LOVES an all-inclusive resort spa. I can't wait to get out and enjoy some relaxing waves along with a fantastic massage.  During these uncertain times of COVID-19, I'm dreaming of resorts that are known for relaxation. I'm also ready for some adventure!
If you're with me, keep reading for my Top 5 Resorts Known for Spa and Wellness.  Hopefully this will inspire you for when its safe to travel once again!

All inclusive resort wellness spa travel

Great All-Inclusive Resort Spas: BodyHoliday: St Lucia

  • Known for its unique approach to well-being, BodyHoliday lives by the motto: "Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind"
  • Here, guests will receive one spa treatment per day included in their room rate (excludes arrival/departure dates)
  • Enjoy a wide-range of treatments, therapeutic cares, classes, adventures, and sports!
GRAND VELAS SPA ALL INCLUSIVE REORT

Great All-Inclusive Resort Spas: Grand Velas: Riviera Maya, Riviera Nayarit and LOS CABOS, MEXICO

  • At Grand Velas, you'll go far beyond all inclusive - where you're invited to relax, play, and unwind in the breathtaking surroundings
  • Rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with pampering treatments at the world-famous holistic spa
  • Relax in your very own wellness suite where inclusions range from an aromatherapy kit and Jacuzzi, to an exercise bike and a personal wellness concierge
  • In addition, you'll have access to some of the finest gourmet dining experiences in Mexico!
UNICO 2087 ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT

Great All-Inclusive Resort Spas: UNICO 2087 HOTEL RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

  • Unico 2087 offers adult guests an authentic vacation experience - where everything is included
  • Unlimited spa treatments mean you only pay 25% the cost of a treatment
  • Popular treatments include the Essencia Signature Massage, revitalizing body wraps, and locally-inspired beauty rituals
  • A wide-variety of personal training sessions, meditation and yoga, beachfront classes are also available daily
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LE BLANC SPA RESORT ALL INCLUSIVE MEXICO

Great All-Inclusive Resort Spas: LE BLANC SPA RESORTS: CANCUN & LOS CABOS MEXICO

  • Le Blanc Spa Resorts are known for their upscale setting, elegant suites, and world-class spa services
  • It's the dreamy escape for lovers or anyone looking for a vacation filled with pampering
  • Guests receive around-the-clock personal butler service so your days are filled with nothing but luxury and sophistication
  • The wellness program provides exclusive in-room wellness amenities, a complimentary aromatherapy menu, and multiple spa packages
COUPLES TOWER ISLE ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT SPA VILLA

Great All-Inclusive Resort Spas: COUPLES TOWER ISLE SPA OASIS VILLAS: OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA

  • Your stay includes unlimited spa treatments and gratuities at Couples Tower Isle
  • Popular options include couples' massages, facials, body treatments, aromatherapy and more
  • Guests can enjoy their very own villa with a plunge pool and private in-villa dinners with fresh seafood, organic island ingredients, and menus centered around clean eating
G ADVENTURES WELLNESS TOURS

ALL-INCLUSIVE ADVENTURE TRAVEL: G ADVENTURES WELLNESS TOURS

  • Take yourself on a wellness journey that offers the perfect balance of awe-inspiring destinations, rejuvenating activities, and healthy food experiences
  • G Adventures helps you return home feeling even better than when you left
  • Great wellness tours for solo travelers
  • Some fun experiences and destinations include: paddle board yoga in Costa Rica, hike to the Skogafoss and Seljandfoss waterfalls in Iceland, or diving and snorkeling experiences near Menjangan Island in Bali

NEVER LOSE YOUR SENSE OF WONDER! DREAM NOW, TRAVEL LATER.

Just because travel is restricted right now, doesn't mean you can't dream up your plans for the future! Here's some ways to prepare for your next big trip and fuel your wanderlust in the meantime:

  • Start a Pinterest Board - to get some great ideas!
  • Set up Google Flight Alerts - to remind you of the best prices!
  • Put Down a Deposit - to lock in your accommodations!
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All Inclusive Resort Destination Wedding Honeymoon Travel

P.S. Not ready to make the leap for an international spa destination?  Let's chat about this list from Travel & Leisure for the Best Domestic Spa Destinations?

40th Birthday Vacation Packages: Celebrate With a Group!

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CELEBRATE A 40TH BIRTHDAY (OR 50TH BIRTHDAY!) WITH AN ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT PACKAGE

Are you trying to plan a 40th birthday vacation?  What about a 50th birthday vacation group?  Or, perhaps your significant other just retired and you're looking for a way to celebrate? Whatever the occasion, life's milestones are always best celebrated with travel - and here's why…

40th Birthday Vacation Packages

CAN YOU CELEBRATE YOUR BIG BIRTHDAY WITH A GROUP TRIP? YES!

What better way to celebrate your special milestone or accomplishment than with a trip of a lifetime surrounded by the ones you love? Not only does group travel present a variety of unique experiences and opportunities, but it also allows you to bond with your family and friends so you can build memories that'll last a lifetime!

BIRTHDAY TRAVEL: GROUP DISCOUNTS AND PERKS

Resorts and hotels love groups! And that's why many of our favorite properties offer birthday packages with perks when you bring the whole gang along. Here are some examples of what you could receive:

  • Group Discounts when you book 5+ rooms
  • Free room nights and upgrades when you book in a group
  • Discounts on spa packages
  • Private parties, such as private beach party with a DJ
  • Simple Payment Plans
  • Perks for your group leaders, or even in some cases - FREE Travel!
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Get Your Free 1-Hour BIRTHDAY TRAVEL planning consultation

Got questions about how to plan your dream birthday celebration?
We’ve got answers—and we’re ready to dive into them all on your free, no-obligation discovery call.

Schedule a free consultation!

Hotel Xcaret: Say Hello to Mexico’s #1 Family All-Inclusive Resort

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Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Inclusive Family Resort

need a family friendly all inclusive resort with activities included?

In search of a family vacation that blends local culture with adventure? Then, look no further than Hotel Xcaret! Here, guests will live authentically at a first-of-its-kind, next-level, All-Fun Inclusive® resort, with a focus around natural beauty and Mexican culture.

  • Authentic details and decor incorporated throughout the resort to give guests a true taste of Mexico
  • Locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes inspired by the region
  • Unlimited access to all Xcaret parks and attractions (a $1,500 value for a family of 4!)
  • Designed for travelers of all ages - a true multi-generational resort!

hotel xcaret includes unlimited admission to all 8 xcaret parks and experiences

The cosmopolitan eco-parks of Xcaret highlight the natural beauty of Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya in over 50 natural and cultural attractions. From underground rivers and coral reef aquariums, to waterparks and nighttime adventures –all of Xcaret’s parks provide endless fun for the entire family.

Xcaret Tours
 Interested in exploring some Mayan history? Then, join one of Xcaret’s adventure tours, where you’ll embark on a journey to discover ancient secrets with visits to archaeological sites and ruins. Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then, test your bravery on Tour Xenotes, where you’ll be invited to zipline, cliff jump, or rock climb.

Transportation
And no need to worry about transportation. Hotel Xcaret provides park go-ers and tourists transportation to all Xcaret attractions, which departs every 30 minutes. You can even take a leisurely boat ride in the river over to the parks –we told you this place was unique!

Xcaret Extras
 And why stop there? To personalize your experience even more, guests are welcome to partake in other optional activities like dolphin swimming, fast-speed boat rides, breathable underwater tours (we’re not kidding), special events, gastronomy, and more!

Not convinced? Our friend Kathryn Potter of KP Travel Group wrote an awesome review of Hotel Xcaret!

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Get Your Free 1-Hour
planning consultation

Got questions about how to plan your family vacation?
We’ve got answers—and we’re ready to dive into them all on your free, no-obligation discovery call.

Schedule a free consultation!