Memorable Costa Rica

Monkeys, zip-lining, plantains, and hiking. Kayaking, sunsets, macaws, and fishing. Pura Vida. The Costa Rican way of life.

I was recently accepted to participate in an Education Journey to Costa Rica hosted by one of our preferred suppliers and cannot be more thrilled to visit this beautiful country. I know several people that have traveled to Costa Rica but I have yet to make the journey there. Other than the great things I hear about Costa Rica and the stunning pictures, what else is there to know? U.S. News has good synopsis about Costa Rica along with Costa Rica’s official site. Being the world’s premier eco-tourism destination, this small but mighty country has a plethora of sights and activities for the adventure seeker along with the ones looking for Zen and relaxation. Costa Rica is ranked as one of the most visited international destinations, so I am excited to see first-hand what everyone else has enjoyed about this country and learn the true meaning of “Pura Vida.”

On this journey, we will be visiting multiple resorts and hotel in several regions: San Jose, Arenal, and Papagayo. We will start off in the country’s vibrant capitol city, make our way into the volcanic and hot springs region, and end in Costa Rica’s ultimate luxury beach location. Being able to visit three distinct and scenic destinations in Costa Rica will provide a greater understanding of what this country offers to all visitors.

So, there are a few questions on my radar before this trip. Is Global Entry worth applying for? For those not familiar with Global Entry (GOES), our wonderful website has a special page with information and link about GOES. Since I am hoping to have future international travel plans in the near future, this may be a good investment. Who absolutely hates waiting in lines and can make time to fill out an online form and take a trip the nearest Global Entry Enrollment Center for an interview? This girl can. See ya later long, obnoxious airport security lines.

Another question that I always run into and close family/friends can attest to is: What do I WEAR??? I am NOTORIOUS for overpacking so I will try my very best to pack wisely for this trip. There are many articles and YouTube videos on how to pack light, recommendations on clothing/shoes, which luggage is best, etc. The advice we always give to our clients is to take items you can layer, take a few neutral items you can mix & match with (i.e. black pants/shorts you can pair with different tops), take wrinkle-free clothing if possible, and for ladies, accessorize with multiple scarves/sweaters. My issue I always run into is taking too many shoes. Probably because I own too many shoes. This is where my wonderful sister’s advice comes into play and forces me encourages me to narrow my selections. I have yet to master the carry-on packer, but I hope to one day achieve that goal.

Lastly, I want to understand the type of tourist Costa Rica attracts. Beyond Group Travel has a variety of clients who travel with us (young families, honeymooners, recently retired, mature couples) and I would like to know what activities and properties best fits our client’s needs. Our clients (as should any client) rely on us as a travel company to provide honest feedback on whether a destination/supplier will give them the best outcome and experience for their pre/during/post travel. Being able to provide personal experience about a certain destination/supplier is always a plus and eases the minds of curious clients. I am hopeful that with this educational journey, I can familiarize myself with Costa Rica and be able to assist our travelers of potential vacations to this fantastic destination.

Did you know that the recent 2017 American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) How America Travels National Study shows that Millennials continue to use travel agents more than any other age group? This study showcases the value travel agents bring to the trip planning process and how travelers who have worked with a travel agent in the past agree that travel agents “look out for their clients.” With the ever-changing available resources to the traveler, travel agents still continue to be a vital resource when planning for a trip. You hear that Millennials? Travel agents are not only for the mature traveler. We advocate for all travelers and assist in finding the best travel experience.

And of course, who isn’t excited to see tropical animals, gorgeous waterfalls, and mesmerizing beaches. I sure am! Pura Vida. I can get used to that. 😊

UPDATE: The Global Entry application process took me ten minutes to fill out and received approval for an interview within two weeks. There are three locations in Houston where one can go for an interview: Houston Public Library in Downtown Houston, and two locations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (one is only available if you have gone through TSA security). Be aware of the operating hours and make sure to plan enough time if neither location is near your approximate area. Luckily the downtown location is minutes from my home – yay! 

 

BGT Goes Exploring in Luxury

Genuinely grateful the election of 2016 is behind us and hard to believe that 2017 is around the corner. We are already immersed in 2017 programs and well into 2018.

Cindy & Linda Cooking onboard Explorer

A highlight for us this year was to be invited to board Regent Seven Seas BRAND NEW Explorer while she prepared for her 1st sailing in the Mediterranean. In the words of Frank Del Rio, President and CEO of Regent's parent company Norwegian Cruise Lines, Explorer is timeless. Billed as the most luxurious ship in the world, we found Murano glass, Chagall art and a cast iron Tibetan style prayer wheel, all ensconced in a 55,000 ton vessel that mimics grand hotels found in Europe - simply exquisite, and frankly, an experience for your bucket list - and what's not to love about everything's included.

We want to once again thank our wonderful partners at Regent Seven Seas and especially for our travelers who trust us to recommend this fabulous line. We have outstanding values in 2017 for Alaska and the Mediterranean - email us for more details.

If you are still contemplating a River Cruise - now's the time to make a decision to reserve.  So many options and savings available and do not wait - these ships are a quarter of the size of ocean liners and plenty of time is needed to secure the best date for you. We have found enormous savings in roundtrip air to Europe with Viking; their longships are the best value on the rivers in Europe today. If you have 15 days - we can offer a fantastic trip on the Rhine, Main and Danube.  Call us soon - these offers will sell out.

Sometimes traveling is confusing - we understand and found this comparison chart for those travelers still perplexed about Trusted Traveler, Global Entry, Sentri etc.
Take a look here for more details:  Trusted Traveler Comparison

In just a week, we are off to New York City to experience the 90th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you haven't had the opportunity to join us, make 2017 your year to bring your family.  It's an incredible 4 night program that really has something for every family member. Watch our website for more details: BGT Website

With Thanksgiving just over a week away, we want to say thanks for all of our blessings, especially to our travelers!

2016 has found us exploring many parts of this beautiful globe meeting so many of you, helping you plan your adventures and follow your dreams. We are very grateful for your trust and faith in our service. Happy Thanksgiving!

#welovecruises #bucketlist #BGTgroups #NewYorkTravel #MacysThanksgivingParade #LuxuryGoesExploring #VikingRiverCruises #RegentSevenSeas

Dog Days of Summer

As we are based in Houston, things really heat up here late July and well into August.  Many people in the city take this time to travel to Colorado, North Caroline, really anyplace but here.  For us, we move from an air conditioned home to an air conditioned car and then our air conditioned office. If you don't go out at lunch, the weather seems inconsequential.

In researching this term, we learned that it really comes from the Greek's (laughing out loud if you have seen My Big Fat Greek Wedding) as they associated it with the Dog Star Canis, the brightest star in the constellation during this time period. While the meaning has changed over time and we sometimes make up answers, thought it would be a perfect time to provide the correct definition. See here for link to National Geographic

I digress - this year, in 2016, have made a notable change in our blog to provide more information vs. sales details of what trips might be available. Yes, we will have plenty of those opportunities but moving this blog to more informational with details you can use.  Travel is our passion and we appreciate you coming along for this journey.

This installation we decided to provide highlights of noteworthy news stories in the travel industry that may assist you in these next few months.  Daily we have been asked the question:  "Are you still traveling to Europe?".  Our resounding reply is "Yes"...in fact due to ample supply, there is still great cruise pricing to be found, so if Europe is still on your list for 2016, call us or email Cruise@BeyondGroupTravel.com with your preferred dates. We love to assist you in planning an adventure.

If out of the country travel is in your future, you don't want to leave without first joining Global Entry. Nothing worse than returning home from an International trip and having to face a crowd at Passport Control.  Don't have Global Entry?  Click Here to learn how to apply!!

Plus my favorite is after you have found your checked luggage, in Houston, you get an entirely separate line to hand in the customs form - relief!  Makes traversing the airport after an international journey a breeze!

Our company is almost 7 years old however our founders have combined 60 years in the business. We have experienced and witnessed many changes throughout the years with the ID that one has to carry in order to to board the airplane. Prior to 9/11, your ticket was all that was necessary and then exchanged for a boarding card.  Not to create boredom here with all the changes, we did find this excellent article at USA Today describing the steps to take in the event of a loss or pickpocket.  Click here to read USA Article  As a matter of course, we provide all of our travelers with a copy of their passport to store in their checked luggage as a precaution in case of a loss of luggage.  You may also want to store the photo in your phone.

Finally - as we near 2017 - are you dreaming of a once in a lifetime trip?  We have compiled a list of Bucket List Cruise Destinations for you to think/dream about.
They include:

1. Alaska - always a favorite - cool with outstanding shore excursions
2. Antarctica - with Zodiac boats, daily landings are possible to this driest place on earth. Visiting the 7th continent is on my list!
3. Australia and New Zealand - Visiting this continent and this country via cruise ship offers a taste with only having to unpack once.
4. Galapagos - a living testament to the power of evolution. See/experience a plethora of flora & fauna here on land and in the water.
5. Panama Canal- whether you do a full transit or just the entrance, this one is truly a delight to experience the gigantic locks and hear the stories on how this was built. Certainly an engineering marvel.
6. South Pacific - Tahiti and that space in general offers up dreams of crystal blue water, thatched huts and and paradise like none other on earth. 
7. World Cruise - planning retirement or just time on your hands, this option is a cruiser's paradise typically incorporating an itinerary that includes all or most of above.

#BGTgroups #WeLoveGroups #BGTcruising #BucketList #TravelGram #JustCruise #TravelBlog

Thanksgiving in New York 2015

Thankful? Are we ever! 

Beyond Group Travel is still counting our blessings from our amazing annual Thanksgiving holiday trip to New York City, held this year November 25-29, 2015.  We were thrilled to share this holiday experience with over 120 travelers comprising of alumni and families from the Flying Longhorns, many folks who were 

Travelin’ with the Tide (University of Alabama), avid supporters of The Ohio State University Alumni Association, fun-loving friends from the Traveling Aggies and loyal clients of Beyond Group Travel. 

Linda and Cindy never tire of visiting NYC to share this holiday with family and friends and, this year, our newest staff member, Leigh Stubbs, joined in the festivities.  

Leigh, Cindy and Linda at Le Parker Meridien

This year we moved to a new hotel and were thrilled with our accommodations at Le Parker Meridien. The location at 56^th Street between 6^th and 7^th Avenues put us in the ideal area to easily get to so many crowd favorites that NYC has to offer.  Without even leaving the premises, our travelers delighted in the tastes of The Burger Joint and Norma’s, two of NYC’s hottest and recognized restaurants.  They could be pampered from head to toe at the Drybar (hair blowouts), Tenoverten (mani/pedis), Moonshine (massages and facials), Blushington (makeup applications), Sharps Barber and Shop (old-school style barber services) or Skin Laundry (laser and light treatments). And the kids were thrilled to swim in the top floor glass enclosed pool with sweeping views of Central Park. 

Check out this view from the pool area:

 

In typical Beyond Group Travel style, we kicked off our events with a Welcome Reception just steps away from our hotel at Redeye Grill.  We cannot say enough nice things about the beautiful private rooms, the delicious food and the attentive service. The special touch to the evening was a visit from the singing and dancing Toy Soldiers.  They mesmerized the children and adults couldn’t help but tap their toes and sing along! 

Kids loved the Toy Soldiers entertainment!

Kicking off  birthday and anniversary celebrations with a little help from the Toy Soldiers!

What trip to NYC at Thanksgiving would be complete without the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?  We loved taking in the fanfare with our private use of 

A Voce, located in the Time Warner Center at Columbus Circle.  No one left hungry as the food and drinks were plentiful and absolutely delicious.  And this location gave us spectacular views of the parade coming towards us on Central Park West and turning onto 59^th street.  

Delicious food!

Great conversation!

Wonderful view!

Our group certainly had the opportunity to hit many of the city’s highlights. 

All were treated to the entertaining Radio City Christmas Spectacular. 

The high-kicking Rockettes brought smiles to the faces of all ages!

And New York without Broadway?  Of course not!  Everyone enjoyed one or two of some of the best that Broadway has to offer, choosing between The Lion King, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Aladdin and The King and I. 

As if that weren’t enough, our travelers had the option to venture out on a Circle Line Cruise to see the NYC skyline with closeup views of Lady Liberty and participate in a 

Downtown Manhattan tour led by our amazing private tour guide, culminating with a moving visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

Fulfilling dreams of seeing the Statue of Liberty!

Our exceptional tour guide giving personal background to the events of 9/11.

Enjoying the view on the Circle Line Cruise.

We hope you can tell how much fun we had – the compliments received from our travelers truly warm our hearts. We are thankful for each and every friendship that we made new or nurtured on this annual tradition bucket list trip.

Our wheels are already in motion preparing for Thanksgiving in New York 2016.  Whether you are interested in traveling yourself or with friends and family, this trip will leave you with lifelong memories of a very special way to celebrate Thanksgiving!  

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Regent Seven Seas Cruises for Your Alaskan Adventure

"Alaska is still wild and untamed. Its lure is intoxicating. In Alaska, nature has the power to transform even the most city-hardened hearts. You'll never be the same. Man is dwarfed by the proportion of nature. [...] Embrace Alaska and awaken your soul." -Terry Breen, cultural anthropologist and storyteller

Alaska is a destination at the top of many travelers' bucket lists, and for good reason! With towering glaciers, snow-capped mountains and exotic wildlife, The Final Frontier offers majestic views of untouched wilderness. If you're thinking about embarking on an Alaskan adventure in 2014, read on for the top 5 reasons why you should choose a Regent Seven Seas cruise!

1. Regent is the best way to see Alaska—Explore all the natural beauty Alaska has to offer by getting up close to its scenic coastline. A highlight for many traveling to Alaska is Hubbard Glacier, North America's largest tidewater glacier. Regent guests are able to fully experience all the sights, sounds—even smells!— of the glacier, as the size of Regent's ships allow for sailing as close as half a mile away from the glacier. Most other cruise ships are only able to get as close as six miles away! 

In another feature unique to Regent, cultural anthropologist and storyteller Terry Breen sails on all Regent Alaska cruises, offering colorful commentary about the history and wildlife of Alaska. Many of our clients say that Terry's insights provide the WOW factor that make the trip worth it!  

2. Truly all-inclusive cruising—Airfare, shore excursions, gratuities, beverages and ground transfers are all included on Regent cruises, which can add up to a savings of thousands of dollars! Considering that shore excursions on other cruise lines typically cost between $125-300 per person, per excursion, this an exceptional value.

3. Personalized service—With a maximum capacity of 490 passengers, Regent's fleet of ships offers the best ratio of staff to guests among similar cruise lines, allowing for a more relaxing and luxurious experience. 

4. Ideal timing—Alaska's cruise season typically runs from June through August, when temperatures are the warmest and daylight hours peak at 14-18 hours per day.

5. Hassle-free traveling—Forward your luggage to Anchorage and breeze through airport security—without the headache of dealing with your luggage. 

Beyond Group Travel is offering two Alaska cruises on Regent next year:

• Glacial Serenity, sailing June 18, 2014
• Timeless Alaska, sailing July 16, 2014    

Beginning in Anchorage, each sailing stops in 6 ports along the Inside Passage aboard the Seven Seas Navigator. Prior to embarkation, you will have the option to explore nearby destinations such as Denali National Park. The 7 night voyage concludes in Vancouver. 

Contact us today to make your reservation on this unforgettable journey to Alaska!



Take the hassle out of group travel; call us to plan your next group trip or join ours! 713-954-4825 or 1-877-648-1973.

Fit for Foodies!

Experience the Rich Culture of Northern Italy by River

June 22-29, 2014

As a culinary mecca, foodies from all over the world flock to Italy—and as the only river cruise line recognized by Zagat with the best dining in the industry, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is the perfect complement to wining and dining your way through the country! We're excited to announce Italy’s Po River & the Venice Lagoons, where travelers will explore Northern Italy's hidden gems and culinary delights on this eight day, seven night cruise aboard Uniworld’s River Countess.

You’ll spend a total of five days in Venice, soaking up the enchantment of the city—including an exclusive evening opening and lighting ceremony event at St. Mark’s Basilica; 

Next, you’ll journey to Padua, one of the oldest and most picturesque cities in Italy;

Then you’ll sail to visit Seravalle, where you’ll embark on an excursion to Ravenna, the City of Mosaics;

From Seravalle, you’ll meander along the Po River to Polesella, where you’ll spend a full day in Bologna and participate in a pasta making workshop;

Last, you’ll tour the famed city of Romeo and Juliet, Verona, before sailing back to Venice. 

Now, we’ve mentioned the growing popularity of river cruises in our previous posts, but if you’re thinking about a river cruise for your next vacation, USA TODAY blogger Gene Sloan explains another reason why Uniworld should be at the top of your list: Beginning in 2014, the company will offer unlimited complimentary wine, beer and spirits as well as complimentary gratuities for onboard and onshore services for all of its European river cruises—creating a new standard in luxury river cruising with a truly all-inclusive experience!

Our exclusive package also offers the following amenities:

• The Epicurean Adventurer Program, including an Italian dessert-making demonstration and tasting; an olive oil and wine tasting; and a special wine and food pairing dinner
• A complimentary cocktail party with hot and cold canapés
• $50 onboard credit per person 
• Six onshore excursions led by engaging English-speaking guides.  You’ll have the opportunity to visit four UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days

As a special offer for Beyond Group Travel clients, you can guarantee 2013 pricing for this 2014 sailing if you book by September 30! Click here to view the brochure, and contact us to make your reservation on this unforgettable journey exploring the food, scenery and culture of Northern Italy.

Take the hassle out of group travel; call us to plan your next group trip or join ours! 713-954-4825 or 1-877-648-1973.

Cruise Through the Heart of Europe with The Dining Diva!

September 29-October 10, 2014

We are thrilled to announce our next cruise with The Dining Diva! Our clients always have a fabulous time with Molly, and we've worked together to make sure this European adventure is filled with unique experiences you won't find anywhere else.

Fall is absolutely the best time of the year to visit Europe - by then, the temperatures have cooled down and the throngs of summer tourists have dissipated. And if you have yet to travel Europe by river cruise, you're in luck! River cruises are growing in popularity because they are a spectacular way to see some of Europe's most extraordinary capitals as well as its quaint, smaller cities. In fact, Cruise Line International Association estimates that river cruises have seen a 10% annual passenger increase over the past five years.

You'll start your journey with three nights in the charming city of Prague! In the bustling capital of the Czech Republic, explore the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and more. As all of The Dining Diva's trips are designed with culinary delights in mind, she'll guide the group to find the best Czech dumplings in Prague!

Next, the group will travel to Nuremberg, where you'll set sail on the Danube River aboard the brand new Avalon Illumination. Launching in 2014, the Illumination features suites with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows so you can take in the beauty of quaint towns from your very own room. The Illumination also features exquisite fine dining and unparalleled service.

The seven night cruise winds along the magnificent Danube, stopping in three countries along the way. Each port features guided sightseeing tours.

• Nuremberg, Germany 
• Regensberg, Germany
• Passau, Germany
• Melk, Austria
• Vienna, Austria
• Budapest, Hungary 

Click here to view the brochure, and contact us to make your reservation–you won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind trip!

Take the hassle out of group travel; call us to plan your next group trip or join ours! 713-954-4825 or 1-877-648-1973.

Stress-Free Packing Tips

With nearly every airline charging fees for checked baggage these days, more and more savvy travelers are opting to use carry-on bags. It can be tricky to fit all of your belongings in a compact carry-on, so we’ve gleaned some tips from the experts to take the stress out of packing: 

• Plan accordingly: One to two weeks before your trip, take a look at your itinerary and create a packing list that takes into consideration all of the activities you’ll be doing and places you’ll be visiting. A good list will make the packing process go smoothly and will ensure you don’t forget anything!
• Forget folding—roll your clothes: Rolled clothes take up less space than folded ones, allowing you to utilize more space in your carry-on bag. As an added bonus, travel expert Caroline Costello points out that the rolling technique decreases the likelihood you’ll end up with wrinkled clothes when you arrive at your destination!
• Streamline your liquids: If you’ve taken a flight in the last decade, you should be aware of TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons: each passenger is allowed to bring one quart-sized, clear zip-top bag containing liquids, aerosols and gels stored in 3.4 ounce bottles or less (by volume). Most drug stores and pharmacies carry travel-sized toiletries that meet TSA requirements, or you can fill empty bottles with your favorite products. If you’re still having trouble whittling down your liquid allotment, try finding solid alternatives. For example, travel blogger Caroline Morse suggests bringing cleansing face cloths instead of liquid face wash.
• Make the most of your personal item: Most airlines allow passengers to bring one personal item in addition to a carry-on bag. Travel blogger Caroline Morse advises travelers to use a large tote bag as your personal item. Not only does a tote bag give you extra storage, it also keeps essentials like medications and cell phone chargers and close at hand during the flight.
• Expect the unexpected: Traveling can be unpredictable. Be prepared for split seams or the occasional loose button with a small sewing kit. Stain remover pens are great for minor spills. And in the midst of an unanticipated downpour, you’ll never regret packing a travel-sized umbrella and/or a rain jacket! 

With these tips, you should be well prepared for your next adventure!

Take the hassle out of group travel; call us to plan your next group trip or join ours! 713-954-4825 or 1-877-648-1973.

The Ultimate Escape to the Caribbean

T.S. Eliot once said April is the cruelest month…if that's true, then January can’t be far behind! Think about it: all the joy and excitement of the holidays is over, the days become shorter and the temperatures hover around freezing. Blech!  

It’s around this time every year that people start dreaming of sunshine, sand, and warmer weather–which is why we’re excited to offer the spectacular Sun Splashed Isles Cruise from January 23-February 2, 2014! Experience a different kind of "winter blues" sailing in the eastern Caribbean's cobalt and turquoise waters aboard Oceania Cruises’ elegant Riviera.

This ten day voyage was carefully created to ensure that you’ll wake up to a new port nearly every day. 

Discover the colorful Spanish colonial architecture in Old San Juan...

lounge in the famous baths at Virgin Gorda in Tortola... 

and snorkel in the crystalline waters in St. Barts... 

Of course, since this is an Oceania Cruise, you'll be able to enjoy all the luxuries of upscale cruising, including gourmet dining, spacious staterooms and indulgent spa services. Enjoy all that Riviera has to offer with a $100 spa or shipboard credit per stateroom, prepaid gratuities (a $150.00 value) and a 1-hour cocktail party with hot hors d’oeuvres – exclusive amenities just for our clients!

Click here to view the brochure, and contact us to make your reservation–you'll thank yourself next winter!

Take the hassle out of group travel; call us to plan your next group trip or join ours! 713-954-4825 or 1-877-648-1973.

The Hideaway REVEALED!

Oh my.  What a VOYAGE!!!  We enjoyed an incredible time onboard Oceania Cruises Riviera for Caribbean Hideaways from January 23rd-February 2nd with The Dining Diva.   This voyage was created with a culinary focus in mind, complete with a culinary course in the culinary center onboard!  Our group of 30 travelers were a delight to escort on this journey, and we are already looking towards our next journey with The Dining Diva (stay tuned)!

We discovered the hideaways in the Eastern and Southeastern Caribbean from Bathsheba in Barbados, the rum distillery in St. Lucia, to the quaint French township of St. Barts.

Of course, our sailing was fulfilled with the ports alone, but, as our loyal travelers know, we aren’t just about the voyage as planned.  We thrive on enhancing the journey!!  The Dining Diva worked with us from May 2012 to develop this culinary trip, and the cuisine of Oceania Cruises paired with our added cuisine-focused shore excursions and cooking class in Oceania’s onboard culinary center.

A highlight for many included our rum distillery tour and rum tasting the beautiful St. Lucia!

By the way, did you know St. Lucia had these awe-inspiring pitons?  We knew they existed, but we didn’t realize the beauty these add to the coast of St. Lucia.  We actually know of a couple luxurious resorts facing these pitons!

As an added bonus to the exciting ports, delectable cuisine, and excellent service-oriented vessel, our group took advantage of the extra days at sea.  In fact, this was a large draw for this selected itinerary because of the number of days at sea allowing our travelers to experience all that Riviera has to offer. 

While our 10-day voyage was joyous in every way, it seemed to go by so quickly!  The sun has set on this unique experience, and we are already planning our next. 

Take the hassle out of group travel; call us to plan your next group trip or join ours! 713-954-4825