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Sydney Australia for New Years

by Tammy Levent October 12, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

Looking forward to celebrating next New Year’s Eve? Making plans for the next new year should always be done many months in advance, as this is the best way to ensure that you get to do exactly what you want to do when celebrating the new year coming in. Because there are many new year’s celebrations that you’re able to choose from that are taking place all over the world, making sure you know exactly what it is that you want to do is highly recommended. This way you’re able to choose the absolute best New Year’s venue to celebrate the new year coming in, which is going to ensure your having a fabulous time!

Why Sydney Australia?

Did you know that Sydney is known as the New Year’s Eve capitol of the world? Sydney Australia is one of the top rated places for celebrating New Year’s Eve, which is why more than one million people choose to celebrate in Australia’s infamous Sydney Harbor every single year!

The entire event is absolutely free and is one of the most popular and largest gatherings of New Year’s Eve crowds taking place today. Preshow entertainment starts at about 6:00 PM and includes special aboriginal ceremonies, aerial acrobatics and fantastic water displays that are all a must see. There are two different fireworks displays, with the first one starting at about 9:00 PM and the second one starting at the stroke of midnight.

The Harbor of Light Parade starts after the first fireworks show and consists of boats gliding across the water all lit up in different colors, making for a truly spectacular display of lights!

The long running fireworks display is quite spectacular, and can be viewed from the many areas made available so everyone is able to enjoy the fireworks show. While most people do set up along the Sydney Harbor foreshore, other celebrators choose to take a cruise where they can enjoy the fireworks show while enjoying dinner, drinks and entertainment on one of the many cruise options available.

Make Your Plans Now!

Accommodations are not a problem due to the fact that many Sydney hotels will set aside rooms that offer the absolute best New Year’s Eve views, with many including private balconies. If you’re wondering where you’re going to celebrate next New Year’s Eve and thinking that Sydney Australia is the place for you, be sure to book your trip as soon as possible in order to make sure you’re able to get the absolute best New Year’s Eve accommodations.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

October 12, 2018 0 comment

Small Group Travels to Europe are Best

by Tammy Levent September 18, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

Thinking about planning your next trip to Europe? Great! A European vacation is able to offer travelers a number of unique and exciting things to do, giving them memories that are easily going to last a lifetime. When you choose to take your next vacation in Europe, you’re going to get to experience all of its rich history and fascinating culture, which is one of the main reasons why Europe is still a top vacation destination. If you’re wanting to get a group together, be sure that it’s a fairly small group, as small group travels to Europe are best.

A European Vacation

The history, the culture, the splendid cuisine, the exciting nightlife, the charming villages, the lovely ambiance and much more are all to be found when vacationing in Europe! Because there is so much to do and see when in Europe, the following is a list of some of the more popular things to do or must see attractions when vacationing in Europe.

While Paris, Rome and Florence may be crowded, they are a must see and accordingly are well worth the visit!
The Swiss Alps are a perfect vacation stop for travelers who enjoy winter sport activities and small charming towns.
The Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is a must see for its sheer beauty, a perfect place for nature lovers.
The European architecture includes many styles and is absolutely spectacular, making it a good idea to schedule in some tours of famous architectural buildings.
European museums are many and include some of the most impressive collections worldwide.
Eating musts include – tapas, pizza, cheeses. Drinking musts – wine.

Why Small Travel Groups are Best

Why are small travel groups best when traveling to Europe? Because small group travels allow travelers to explore their destinations in a much better fashion when compared to large travel groups. Smaller traveling groups are simply able to better enjoy seeing and exploring all of the many sights there are to see when vacationing in Europe. Small groups allow everyone to get to know each other. When there are too many people in a group, it’s easy for travelers to get lost in the crowd.

Small group travel benefits:

See things the way locals see them – more intimate – places are more easily accessible – can make new friends – has access to places larger groups cant go, like small, local restaurants – impact of small groups is smaller, important when visiting smaller European villages.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

September 18, 2018 0 comment

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Why Australia is Truly a Bucket List Trip

by Tammy Levent August 23, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

How many different kinds of trips do you have on your bucket list? Bucket list trips are the best and are named so because they are deemed to be such a fantastic vacation destination that they are a definite must see at least once in someone’s lifetime.

Why Australia is a Bucket List Trip

There’s just something about the Land Down Under that makes travelers want to experience all that Australia has to offer. Maybe it’s the diverse ecosystem where extraordinary landscapes and natural beauty can be found no matter where one looks? The Outback region is famous for this. Or maybe it’s the top-rated beaches where one can relax while enjoying the hard to believe they are so blue waters? Or maybe it’s because one can snorkel amongst the infamous Australian reefs?

Or maybe it’s because of the strong sport culture that allows sports lovers to enjoy and even participate in a variety of sports, both land and water. Or maybe visiting the multiple wineries that are now producing some world-class wines is making it so that Australia is on their bucket list. Or it could be the food scene, which is one that easily lures foodies from all over the world due to the wide variety of delicious Australian cuisine available.

Or maybe it’s for the sheer adventure that Australia offers those who are looking for the best adventure opportunities when traveling. Or maybe it’s because Australia is considered to be a multicultural country, or continent if you prefer, making it so that the country’s food, lifestyle and even cultural practices now include a wide diversity of backgrounds.

Whatever the reason, Australia should be a bucket list trip for every traveler!

Sydney

Sydney is Australia’s largest city and is known to have some of the best Australian beaches, as well as some of the best restaurants in Australia that offer world class dining.

Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the most visited cities in Australia and is growing quickly in its diversity. When vacationers decide to visit Melbourne it’s likely they’re looking to enjoy the local arts, music and food scene. Coffee shops are also something to be enjoyed when visiting Melbourne, Australia,

Queensland

Home to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, visiting Queensland is a must for those who love sports and outside activities!

Bucket List for Things to Do While in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef
The Opera House
Bondi Beach
Museum of Old and New Arts
Eat Barbecued food
See a Kangaroo
Explore the Badlands, Outback

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

August 23, 2018 0 comment

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Padmanabhaswamy Temple

by Tammy Levent July 25, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

Sometimes it’s okay to travel just to see the beauty of the other cultures and Padmanabhaswamy Temple in India is one of the richest temples in the entire world. It’s a sight to see for every tourist.

Located in Thiruvananthapuram, it has been dated as far back as around 500 B.C. Other historical texts have described the Temple as being “made of gold.’

Overall, however, the origins of the temple remain a mystery that has been hard to uncover. It is most notably famous for its underground vaults, each containing a massive amount of gold and jewels. Only five of those vaults have been opened and explored as of right now, adding even more mystery to the temple.

Other than the vaults, the temple also has many other notable features. There are nine entrances to the temple, which relate to the nine orifices of the human body. This includes murals, sacred sources of water, grand corridors, shrines, and other architectural wonders.

There are multiple shrines for many of the deities worshiped at the temple. Some of these are Sree Padmanabhaswamy, Vishwaksenan, Sree Yoga Narasimha Moorthi, and Thiruvambadi Sreekrishnaswamy. While these names might not be familiar to you, seeing the shrines in person are a wonder to behold. They are beautiful works of artwork in their own right, and serve as a piece of history and religious importance within the Temple.

There are festivals and ceremonies that take place in the Temple on various days to celebrate the importance of these deities. These are ceremonies and festivals that have been celebrated for centuries and have a large religious connection to the culture.

If you go to visit the shrine when these festivals are taking place, you can see some of the culture right before your eyes. If you do decide to visit, however, you have to make sure you follow the customs and regulations required of the Temple. For one, you cannot enter if you are a practicing Hindu. You must bathe and put on clean clothes before entering, and those clothes must be the proper attire. Photography is prohibited inside the Temple as well as holding any type of electronic equipment. You also cannot smoke or spit inside the Temple. There are many other regulations and customs required to enter the Temple that are required as well. Make sure that you learn them before you go.

Elite Travel Management Group. Inc

July 25, 2018 0 comment

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Backroads Trips are the Best

by Tammy Levent June 28, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

Backroad trips are a top choice for travelers who are looking for the best off-the-beaten path adventures. Many travelers are looking to avoid touristy locations nowadays, and instead are wanting to explore the backroads of countries. The reason is because they want to learn about and experience the culture of a particular country, and traveling through their backroads is one of the best ways they can do this.

Backroads trips are the best because travelers not only get to immerse themselves in a new and exciting culture, they are also in full control of their traveling adventure.

Spain

Spain is a common vacation destination because of its rich cultural heritage that simply keeps bringing travelers back year after year. The reason why travelers keep coming back to visit Spain time and time again is because Spain is a place that expects everyone to enjoy themselves. Having fun in Spain is a requirement and includes eating delicious Spain cuisine, enjoying the company of good friends and fellow travelers, and exploring the backroads.

While there may be many adventures to be had in Spain, taking some time to explore the back roads of Spain is a definite must for travelers who are looking for some fun off-the-beaten path adventures.

Portugal Backroad Trip

The fact that Portugal is divided into different regions – Northern Portugal, Central Portugal, Lisboa, Alentejo, Algarve, Islands – means that travelers can choose from a variety of backroad itineraries. The backroads of Portugal can offer travelers a truly authentic experience and here are just a few of the examples – exploring the many wine regions, spending time with local fishermen, preparing innovative cuisine with a local chef, visiting the incredible art museums, and much, much more.

Andalucía Backroad Trip

Traveling the backroads of Andalucía is a definite bucket list trip for travelers. The spirit of Spain can be found in Andalucía, where fiestas, tapas and bull rings abound. The stunning landscape in Andalucía is captivating and dramatic and perfectly supports the vibrant culture found here. Seeing the limestone cliffs up close is a definite must. Traditional Andalucía cuisine includes the best gazpacho, tapas and olive oils made from local olive groves.

Travelers can easily lose time exploring the ancient town and backroads of Andalucía, with many travelers saying that they will be back soon so that they can explore even more of the many backroads that Spain has to offer

Backroad trips in Spain can be taken while walking, bicycling, and/or driving.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

June 28, 2018 0 comment

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Global Entry Do I need it?

by Tammy Levent May 24, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

Seems the buzzword of the day is “Global Entry.” Everybody is talking about this new way of getting through the airport faster, but is it worth it for me to apply?

First, let’s define this buzzword of the day: According to the website, Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States through automatic kiosks at select airports. Global Entry cards are issued to Global entry members who are U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and Mexican nationals.

What does all that mumbo jumbo mean? The whole idea behind this program is to move travelers along a little faster. Its members skip the line and head directly to a kiosk where they put their fingerprints on a scanner for verification, get a receipt and keep going.

As a travel agent who travels often, I figured I would finally apply for Global Entry. First, there’s a whopping 30-page questionnaire, a background check, an appointment that took about three months to get and, finally, an interview.

Now, you should know that they do not approve everyone. For example, if you have ever been convicted of a criminal offense or have charges pending, including outstanding warrants or if you are subject of an investigation of any kind.

If you just want to apply for Global Entry simply because you want to get into a shorter line at the airport, sign up for the TSA pre-check instead. Global entry is just for ease of customs.

Keep in mind, however, that Global Entry isn’t permanent, so think about if this is what you really need before you cough up the $100 bucks that you need for your application fee. You need to renew your credentials in five years, so if your passport expires sooner than, you are still good you just have to add the new credentials to the new passport.

If you violate the terms of the Global Entry just once, you will never be approved again. Violations include smuggling livestock, smuggling anything really and lying about how much to declare, get it?

On the cover there is a little gold square bar like the chip that is on your credit card. Protect this little gold square bar more than anything when you traveling overseas. Identity theft is definitely an international issue right now.

That’s it, in a nutshell.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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May 24, 2018 0 comment

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Hot top 3 Europe destination this year, Amsterdam, Paris and Rome

by Tammy Levent March 26, 2018

written by Tammy Levent

Looking to tour Europe this year? Excellent, because there’s so many amazing places to see and things to do. Right now, the hottest tourist destinations are Amsterdam, Paris and Rome.

Amsterdam: Tourists are flocking to the capital of the Netherlands and there’s good reason why: It’s absolutely beautiful. It has numerous canals and bridges, and buildings that are uniquely propped up on wooden poles. The country is filled with rich history, from Anne Frank, whose story of being a Jewish girl who went into hiding to escape the Nazis you can see at the Anne Frank Museum. There’s the Dutch painter, Vincent Van Gogh, who was born in the Netherlands and known for such paintings as Starry Night. You can tour the Van Gogh Museum and enjoy Museum Night every November. Amsterdam is also the home of the Heineken beer and, of course, the Royal Palace, which is active and can be toured. Last, but not least, is the government monument, The Vondelpark, named after a Dutch poet, Joost van den Vondel.

Paris, France: You’ll say oui, oui to Paris! Why? If you really need a reason, let’s start with the fact that France is considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. It’s called “The City of Love” after all. You can toast your love by touring houses of such great champagne producers as Domaine Pommery, where you can tour the Elizabethan-style estate that includes an exhibition of contemporary art. Visit Moët & Chandon, one of the most popular champagnes in the world and take a 45-minute traditional tour followed by a tasting of Moët Impérial, a champagne that was created in 1869.

Nothing goes better with champagne than chocolate and the Salon du Chocolat, a three-day festival held in October at the Porte de Versailles in Paris, is a must-see. Paris is also one party town so enjoy some nightlife at Le Montana, The Buddha Bar, and the La Locomotive. If you aren’t a club hopper and prefer theater to happy hours, visit Moulin Rouge, a troupe of 80 artists and many international acts who perform to music. Of course, there’s the Eiffel Tower, too.

Rome, Italy: A trip to Italy wouldn’t be complete without stopping in its capital, Rome. Here you can visit the Colosseum, built around 75 A.D and originally called the Flavian Amphitheater. It served as a venue for bloody gladiator matches. After touring, make sure you sample some gelato, especially at Giolitti, a short walk from the Pantheon, which was founded in 1900.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

March 26, 2018 0 comment

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Traveling with infant tips on the plane

by Tammy Levent October 17, 2017

written by Tammy Levent

Dear Tammy: The kids are back in school, but that doesn’t mean that the younger ones are traveling with mom and dad. I have many clients who are traveling during the off season. I would like to give them some healthy travel tips and tips on traveling with infants on a plane. What do you recommend?

Tammy: I think it’s awesome that you want to provide your clients with some tips on how to stay healthy while traveling and how to care for their infants while traveling. Tell them that it’s important to ground themselves when they, or their children, or not feeling well, whether it’s a cold, sinus infection or flu and wait to fly until they feel better. If they must travel, ask about over-the-counter medicine for the symptoms. They may want to take a medication for sinus congestion or aches and pains, but be aware that the medication can cause drowsiness.

It’s important to address ear pressure too. Changes in cabin pressure can cause painful popping in the ears, especially for children. Chew gum and have the child chew gum to restore the balance of pressure during takeoff and landing. For infants, bottle-feeding during this time can be helpful. Eardrops are also available to help ease the pain.

Whatever your mode of travel, have each child pack a bag filled with their favorite treats, cards, electronic games, a book, notebook and pencil and more. They should also pack a surprise gift or two for the plane trip to keep the children entertained.

Children can also suffer from jet lag, so it’s important to build in some time to adjust their nap schedules. Consider adjusting their nap schedule back a few hours.

Make sure to carry any special medications in your carry-on that your child may need, just in case your luggage is lost.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, when traveling on an airplane, a child is best protected when properly restrained in a car safety seat appropriate for the age, weight and height of the child. Children who weigh more than 40lbs can use the aircraft seat belt. The car safety seat should have a label noting that it is FAA-approved. Belt-positioning booster seats cannot be used on airplanes, but they can be checked as luggage (usually without baggage fees) for use in rental cars and taxis.

Keeping in touch with your clients and providing great travel tips is a great way to be a thoughtful travel agent. Nice job.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

October 17, 2017 0 comment

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Exodus Travel Cycling Through Tuscany

by Tammy Levent October 10, 2017

written by Tammy Levent

When most people think about a trip through the Tuscany countryside, they think about a relaxing drive with the windows down, or enjoying the sites with others on a bus tour. However, with Tuscany’s rolling hills and winding roads, one of the best ways to see the area is on a bicycle. It’s a great way to cover more ground, travel at a slower pace and stop along the way to see sites.

The best part about biking through Tuscany is that, depending on what you are interested in doing while you are there, you can create your own agenda. For example, you can bike through Northern Tuscany and get to know the great city of Florence or just focus on Tuscany and park your bike occasionally to enjoy a glass of wine and a nice meal. Then get back on and continue your journey. The choice is yours.

There’s a tour company called Exodus Travel that helps you to put together your Tuscany biking adventure. As they say, when you bike through Tuscay, you “Live “La Dolce Vita” as you cycle to the iconic city of Pisa, the masterpieces of Florence, wineries and so much more. You can cycle to the iconic leaning tower of Pisa to the Ponte Vecchio in Florence and, of course, through the Tuscan countryside. You’ll see da Vinci’s birthplace and sample some of Italy’s finest cuisine.

In addition, Exodus Travel also has cycling packages for touring other parts of Italy, including Campania and the stunningly beautiful Amalfi Coast. On this tour, you can cycle through the Cilento National Park, quaint fishing villages, the Greco-Roman city of Paestum, Positano and of course Amalfi.

If you’re concerned that you are not up to cycling such big distances, don’t worry. There are tours for the more advanced cyclist as well as moderate tours where you aren’t going faster than 10 miles per hour. There is something for everyone and cycling through Italy brings a whole new level of exploration to your trip.

If you are interested in exploring Italy on bicycle, contact us and we will help to put together a trip of a lifetime for you.

Elite Travel Management Group

October 10, 2017 0 comment

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5 Cities in Europe to Travel with Kids

by Tammy Levent October 3, 2017

written by Tammy Levent

Finding a vacation destination that keeps both adults and kids entertained is important. Europe is filled with so many cities that are perfect when you are vacationing with the children. Depending on the age of your children, the little ones might like a city’s zoos and parks, while the older ones will enjoy the tours, science centers, parks and museums. Here are five European cities that are a perfect destination for kids.

Copenhagen, Denmark: If you haven’t already, introduce your children to the movie ‘Hans Christian Andersen,’ starring the legendary Danny Kaye before visiting this beautiful city. After they see the flick, they will want to visit the fairytale castles and historic landmarks in person. Denmark is also home to The Blue Planet, the country’s national aquarium and they have a science center, zoo, and children’s museum.

Madrid: Tweens and teens will love the more than 50 museums in Madrid, as well as its nature parks, and amusement parks. There’s the nature park, Faunia Madrid, as well as the train museum, Museo Ferrocarril. Teens will love the architecture at Plaza Mayor and the Museo de Prado which is home to some of the greatest works of art that you will see.

Rome: From the pizza and pasta to the art and architecture, everyone seems to love Rome, including the kids. Kids will love seeing what they are learning about in school, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Reykjavik, Iceland: You can thank Elsa and Anna, characters in the wildly successful Disney movie Frozen, for a spike in the kids’ interest in Iceland. While you are visiting, make sure to take them on a tour to see some of the more than 30,000 puffins on the islands off the coast of Reykjavik. And kids of all ages love Iceland’s most famous Geysir, a hot water spout.

London, England: If your kids are fans of Mary Poppins, Paddington Bear and Harry Potter, then London has to be on your list of places to see. The stories come to life and you can take them on Harry Potter and Paddington Bear tours. There’s also Buckingham Palace, the London residence and administrative headquarters of the reigning monarch, the London Zoo, and the Sea Life London that the children will enjoy.

Elite Travel Group

October 3, 2017 0 comment

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