Bowman’s Travel Brief: Tales from the Caribbean

This week’s brief comes to you from Guadeloupe, where the sunshine and stunning views have made for a warm welcome.

Escaping 30-degree weather has certainly lifted my spirits. The power of travel truly is amazing.

A beautiful island in the Caribbean, Guadeloupe is filled with lush scenery that will take your breath away.

Given it’s a French overseas region, most visitors come from France.

However, more and more Canadians and Americans are discovering that these islands are a terrific vacation destination.

French is the native language in Guadeloupe, which has made for some interesting interactions. But the people are definitely friendly, and it’s been wonderful learning more about their culture and history. I’ll have more on this journey soon, so be sure to stay tuned to TravelPulse.

Of course, Guadeloupe isn’t the only island in the Caribbean with warm weather and sensational views.

Most travelers flying south for an island getaway this time of year are fleeing the cold weather, and the Caribbean is a region that provides people with plenty of options.

Which island in the Caribbean is your favorite? I’d love to hear from you, so follow me on Twitter and Instagram and let me know the islands you love the most.

If you’ve visited one place more than once, try stepping out and experiencing a new island next time.

Each island has something to offer well beyond fun in the sun and amazing views. There’s so much to discover, so ditch the cold this winter and make your way to the Caribbean.

Or start planning on how you can visit an island (or two) in the Caribbean at some point in 2019. You won’t regret it!

Get Caught Up

In case you missed it this past week:

Marriott, Starwood data hack impacts at least 500 million travelers.

TripAdvisor has updated its platform and teamed up with TravelPulse.

Mexico’s tourism industry continues to grow.

A tourist had quite the shock on the first day of his vacation in Switzerland when he went hang gliding and his pilot failed to secure his harness. He held on for dear life and managed to escape with only a few injuries. Watch the incredibly scary video here.

Report Names Most Dangerous Countries for Travel in 2019

Cultural Routes and Experiences Make Tourism More…

Canadian Couple Spends Vacation Helping Wildfire Victims

The holiday season is upon us. If you love the snow, check out these destinations guaranteed to have a white Christmas.

Advice from an Agent

Marcia Carpenter is a Travel Consultant for Graham Travel/Nexion and is based in North Carolina. She can be reached at marciacarpenter52@gmail.com

When asked what advice she would give travelers thinking about traveling to the Caribbean, Carpenter said:

“One of the most important things for travelers should think about is their budget.

I highly recommend doing an All-Inclusive, especially if it is your first time to the Caribbean. Find one that includes transfers, all your food, drinks, both alcoholic and non, tips, entertainment and activities at the resort and non-motorized water sports.”

Carpenter’s advice to agents who sell Caribbean destinations:

“Do your research about resorts before selling to a client. I always look at reviews and Trip Advisor especially if I have not seen or visited the resort myself.

Go on as many FAM trips as you can to see the products, so you will have first-hand knowledge of the resorts. And know how far the airport is from the resorts so you can inform your clients how long transfers take.

Try to upsell a resort to your client. Explain the difference between Garden view, Ocean View and Butler Categories if the resort has them. Also, suggest to your client that they can book tours, spa treatments and dinners on the beach because this will mean more income for you.”

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