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New Passport Fees Imposed by U.S. State Department
7/9/20103:31:43 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Effective July 13, the U.S. State Department will impose new fees for many of its passport-related products and services. The total cost of a new passport will increase from $100 to $135 for adults (age 16 and older) and from $85 to $105 for minors. Renewals will increase from $75 to $110 for adults and from $60 to $80 for minors. Travelers needing extra visa pages will pay $82. Previously, this service has been offered free. As a result, ASTA members should take this opportunity to alert travelers of the new fees.
Adult Passport Book (First Time): Current Fee: $100 | New Fee: $135
Minor Passport Book (First Time): Current Fee: $85 | New Fee: $105
Adult Passport Book Renewal: Current Fee: $75 | New Fee: $110
Minor Passport Book Renewal: Current Fee: $60 | New Fee: $80
Adult Passport Card (First Time): Current Fee: $45 | New Fee: $55
Minor Passport Card (First Time): Current Fee: $35 | New Fee: $40
Adult Passport Card Renewal: Current Fee: $20 | New Fee: $30
Minor Passport Card Renewal: Current Fee: $10 | New Fee: $15Top Beaches
6/9/20102:17:45 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
TOP BEACHES FOR AMAZING SAND
A beach is a beach is a beach...right? Not so when the sand beneath your feet is like that offered by these selections, chosen as the best beaches for sand quality . Creamy powder, talc, feather-soft; the adjectives go on and on. We say just check our list and then go!...
Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
This twelve-mile beach on the northeast coast of Providenciales looks almost like a long snowbank lining the turquoise sea. Grab your shades, a towel, and you'll sink into this sand in no time.Saline Beach, St. Barts
"Saline offers beautiful settings and is great for walking along the shore," said Benoit Côté, Chief Operating Officer. We also love setting up picnics along this uber-comfortable stretch, with wine, cheese and other French goodies picked up along the way. Be warned that many choose Saline as their preferred clothing optional beach.Sian Kaan, Riviera Maya, Mexico
A bit remote? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. This extreme southern end of the Riviera Maya thins out into a ribbon of sand one of our staffers calls "the most serene and private beachfront setting" he's ever seen. That means a paradise all to yourself, with the option of massages on the beach with no one else in sight.
Shoal Bay East, Anguilla
The absolute, undisputed, unanimous choice among our staff for best sand quality in the world goes to this wide creamy-soft stretch, also blessed with laidback beach bars and restaurants. If you don't like the sand at Shoal Bay East, perhaps there are some beaches on the moon that will satisfy you.TOP BEACHES FOR BARING IT ALL
Sometimes you just need an all-over tan, right? Whether legally designated as a nude beach or simply de facto (though we can't condone it officially of course...) these stretches are the perfect spots to let your inhibitions go, let the sun hit your entire body, and simply enjoy the feel of the sand and water as nature intended. It's something you just have to try once...
Colombier Beach, St. Barts
The oh-so-French island of St. Barts has no problem with nudity just about anywhere on its shores, but we love Colombier especially for its relative isolation. You get here only by boat or by half hour walk along a scenic path. That means that usually this spectacular beach is fairly empty, perfect for those shy first-timersPlum Bay, St. Martin
Located on the sexy French side of St. Martin, this soft beige bay is quiet and romantic, in other words perfect for getting sun without tan lines. Rent one the villas set right on this beach and don't be surprised to have the whole thing to yourself.Orient Bay, St. Martin
We couldn't even put a picture of this beach, it's so replete with those strolling the sand in the buff. Technically, only one end of Orient Beach is reserved for naturists, but topless sunbathing is very common (this is France, after all), and you're likely to see several nude bathers wandering in common territory. If this bothers you, stay away. If not, join in and enjoy
Tropical Vacation Packing Tips and Checklist
5/21/20102:11:54 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
I've been in the travel business for a while, so you might think that I'd have packing for trips down to a science by now. However, I must admit that I've earned a reputation in my family for always forgetting to pack at least one vital item. Toothbrush, swimsuit, sunscreen, pants -- you name it, and I've probably forgotten it.
To save you from a similar predicament, I've drawn up a brief list of some tips on packing, along with some items that you shouldn't forget as you prepare for a stay at a tropical resort. It is by no means a complete list -- just a few things to consider.
Tropical Vacation Packing Tips and Checklist
When packing, place your passport, air tickets, travel insurance documents, contact numbers and any other important information in a pouch or bag that's easily accessible, and carry it with you on your flights. Once you've arrived at the resort, place these important documents in the room safe, if one is available. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a different location, such as purse or briefcase, or scan it and carry a copy in a laptop.
If you expect to arrive at the resort before the designated check-in time, pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, flip-flops or sandals and other beach gear in a carry-on bag. If your room isn't ready when you arrive, at least you can still hit the beach or pool. The front desk will store your suitcases for you until you can check in.
If your resort offers an upscale restaurant that you plan to visit, pack dressier clothes and shoes for a nice dinner.
Bring a light jacket or sweater -- sometimes evening breezes off the water can be cool.
Sunscreen with a high SPF is a necessity in tropical climates. Consider bringing a hat or visor as well, and don't forget the sunglasses. If you expect to do any hiking, you might also add insect repellent to the list.
Scuba divers must remember their diving certification cards.
A few resorts offer horseback riding along the beach. If you plan to do this, bring long pants.
Bring plenty of camera film or memory cards and extra camera batteries from home, as these items can be pricey if purchased at a resort.
Pack an extra pair of contacts or glasses.
Put prescription medicines in your carry-on bag, in case your checked luggage is delayed.
Pack a few of your favorite DVDs if your room has a DVD player. Many resorts include iPod docks among their in-room amenities, so bring that along too.
If you have a laptop computer and you want to stay connected to home or work, find out if your hotel has in-room or wireless Internet access. Always carry your laptop onboard your flights.A few things you don't need to worry about packing are towels, irons or hair dryers, as these items are generally available at the resort.
Barceló la Jolla de Mismaloya
11/9/200910:56:10 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Hi John
Just wanted to say thank you again for the travel arrangements for my trip to Puerto Vallarta at the end of October. Barceló la Jolla de Mismaloya was a beautiful resort that I would definitely return to again.
Thank you, and hope to check in with you around this time next year to book another trip.
-Greg Struthers