Let's adventure to the Western Caribbean and the "other" islands of Tahiti!  See if any of these deals can inspire an adventure where you can getaway from your everyday!

 

 

Spring Break in Belize? You better "Belize it!"

Ah, Spring Break – that magic time between the winter chill and sultry summer when the urge to get away, have some fun in a new location and just kick back and relax is at its strongest. Let’s face it, the same old places are… just the same old places, and more people are starting to discover a little country with some of the best, least crowded beaches in the world, hundreds of tiny islands scattered along the world’s second largest Barrier Reef, mountains, rainforests, an incredible collection of easy-to-get-to Maya temples and ancient cities, and an assortment of cool things to do ranging from the extreme to the extremely relaxing.

That little country?

You guessed it – Belize. There are many good reasons to visit this Caribbean Jewel (as locals proudly refer to their country), and here are ten just to get you started.

1) Location – Belize is a short hop from most major US airports, and little more than two hours from Miami, Houston or New Orleans. Leave home in the morning and be swimming with a cold pina colada that afternoon.

2) Ease – Belize is English speaking former British colony, and the Belizean dollar is pegged two-to-one to the US dollar, simplifying money management. It’s all a bit exotic while at the same time familiar, and this makes life easy indeed.

3) Weather - With an average year round temperature of 80 F (22C) Belize is always comfortable, and absolutely delightful between February and May.

4) Activities -For such a small country, Belize boasts an amazing assortment of activities catering to a wide range of adventures, from laid-back soft to very extreme. Visitors can explore Maya temples in rich rainforests in the morning and swim with sharks that afternoon. Exotic sacred cave exploration, cave tubing, jungle horseback and mountain bike riding, zip lining, jungle river canoe exploration, the world’s best scuba diving and snorkeling and much, much more. Dancing is a national pastime, and Belizean music is big on the world music stage. You won’t be bored.

6) Belize is the Heartland of the Maya - With so many easily accessible Maya archaeology sites, Maya village home-stays, special tours and cultural extravaganzas, Belize, with the Maya making up over 10% of the population, is the place to be for 2012.5) Affordability – Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Belize is quite inexpensive, and all-inclusive Belize vacation packages can result in real savings.

7) Bilingual -English is the official language, with many people speaking Spanish as well, making it easier to engage with the friendly population. Whether on tours, dive trips or just interacting with people, speaking the same language helps you get the most out of your vacation.

8) Green -Eco resorts such as The Lodge at Chaa Creek pioneered ecotourism in the region and sustainable travel has been wholeheartedly embraced in Belize, so you can feel good about visiting Belize. With the Chaa Creek Cares program, 10% of your room rates go directly into environmental and community programs, so your visit actually contributes to Belize’s environment and social well-being.

9) Surf and Turf -Although small, Belize is one of the most geographically diverse nations on the planet, with the Great Belize Barrier Reef (the world’s second largest), hundreds of small Caribbean Islands scattered along a stunning coastline, and an interior featuring the misty Maya Mountains and surrounding lush rainforests, broad savannahs, the pine tree clad Mountain Pine Ridge, an incredible cave network home to the May Sacred Caves still filled with artifacts and sacrificial skeletons, pristine rivers and more.

10) It’s Belize - A colorful cultural extravaganza. Along with a diverse geography, Belize is also home to a diverse, vibrant, harmonious mix of cultures. On any given day in any given town you’ll encounter Creole,Mestizo, Maya, Garifuna,Chinese, Lebanese, East Indian, European and North American expats in this veritable United Nations of a country. During his recent visit, when asked what he liked best about Belize, England's Prince Harry immediately answered, "The people," showing he isn't much different from the rest of us. Belizeans are a friendly, educated and exuberant people who take pride in welcoming visitors to their country. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you settle in and make friends.

 

Belize Travel     Belize Natural Wonders Starting At: $ 2638.00     Best of Belize Starting At: $ 3389.00     Ramon's Village Resort Starting At: $ 1087.00 Ramon's Village is a sanctuary nestled in a tropical garden of royal palms, bougainvillea, lilies, hibiscus and dozens of other types of tropical flora. Styled after the Tahitian cottages on the Polynesian island of Bora Bora, cabins are built from native materials by craftsmen utilizing the skills and techniques the islanders used in the days of the great sailing ships.   Coco Beach Resort Starting At: $ 1350.00 Nestled 3.5 miles north of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye is this haven for romance, barefoot luxury, relaxation, and adventure. The resort offers a wide range of accommodations from hotel rooms that sleep two to sea view penthouse suites that sleep six. Daily housekeeping is provided with all accommodations.   Turtle Inn Starting At: $ 1375.00 This resort offers an unparalleled private island experience with an array of activities from the thrilling to the relaxing. From Blue Creek Cave to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve there are endless opportunities to explore and take in the natural beauty of Belize. The accommodations provide guests with an exotic experience that will delight their senses while still making them feel right at home.   Costa Blu Adults Only Beach Resort Starting At: $ 1237.00 This unique property combines pristine Caribbean waters, natural beauty and exceptional personal service to create an idyllic tropical island retreat. Guest rooms at this lovely resort include furnishings inspired by the colors and textures of the surroundings, along with Caribbean themed artwork and modern amenities. Many rooms offer large private balconies or patios overlooking the Caribbean Sea.   Grand Caribe Belize Starting At: $ 1117.00 Grand Caribe Belize is an exquisite, state-of-the-art, coastal resort located on 550 feet of seaside beach near the north end of Ambergris Caye, about 2 miles north of the small picturesque town of San Pedro.   Land of Belize Starting At: $ 1050.00 Discover the natural wonders, picturesque coastline and rich cultural history of Belize. This often-overlooked paradise is packed full of lush jungle, spectacular ruins, long sandy beaches and first-class underwater attractions, and on this tour, you'll get the chance to sample them all. From the buzz of Belize City, through the marshlands of the Crooked Tree Sanctuary and to the island paradise of Caye Caulker, discover the best of Belize on this epic 8-day adventure to one of Central America's little-known gems. Sit back and relax into the Bel-easy-an way of life.

 

 

The Marquesas, a quieter side of Tahiti

About a three hour flight from the Society Islands and the Tuamotu Atolls, the Marquesas, or Henua Enata meaning "Land of Men", are seemingly lost at the end of the earth. Grand, brooding, powerful and charismatic: that pretty much sums up the Marquesas.

 

Don’t expect turquoise lagoons, swanky resorts and an electric nightlife – the Marquesas are an ecotourist’s/adventure seeker’s dream, not a beach-holiday destination. The islands are not flooded by tourists - this place is remote and the beauty of Marquesas is less known. In fact, one of the early Survivor reality shows was filmed in the islands.

 

Some of the most inspirational hikes and rides in French Polynesia are found here, allowing walkers and horse riders the opportunity to explore the islands’ rugged interiors. Here the past is almost palpable, thanks to a wealth of archaeological remains dating from pre-European times.

 

Another highlight is the culture. In everything from cuisine and dances to language and crafts, the Marquesas do feel different from the rest of French Polynesia.

 

The primary islands with lodging are:

 

Nuku Hiva - Mystic Island
The largest island in the Marquesas is known for towering spire-like peaks; secluded, lush valleys; ancient religious sites; fjord-like bays; and waterfalls so high that most of the falling water evaporates as it descends.

 

Hiva Oa - Paul Gauguin's Island
This majestic and historic island is known for its wild, untamed landscape, giant stone tiki, endless and unearthly vistas, and as the final resting place of poet Jacques Brel and artist Paul Gauguin.

 

Some cool places to see while visiting the islands:

 

Hanahevane Bay

This glorious bay is caressed by jade-green waters and is studded with a broad strand of golden sand. It’s a good picnic spot(despite a number of pesky nono)and has shallow, calm waters and a few coral formations, making it suitable for snorkelling. It’s accessible by boat only.

 

Flower Stones

Located in Ua Pou, the beach of Hohoi valley, are beautiful, rounded stones with inclusions which resemble light yellow flowers. These stones appear in patches across the valley.

 

Vaipon Canyon and Waterfall

Located near Nuku Hiva (Hakaui Valley), this beautiful, narrow chasm is surrounded by almost vertical cliff pinnacles rising more than 550 m high. At the end of the valley one of largest falls in all of Tahiti, rising nearly 350 feet tall, what sight to see.

 

Cultural Center
The Paul Gauguin Cultural Center opened in 2003 on the 100th anniversary of Gauguin's death. Located on land bought by Gauguin, the center's exhibition of reproductions leads the visitor through three sections themed around quotes attributed to the artist: "escaping to reach art", "the right to dare anything in art", and "becoming part of a primitive culture."

 

Archaeological Discovery Safaris
Hidden in the theatre of mountains of the Marquesas is a mother lode of ancient sacred sites including ceremonial complexes, stone temples, and tiki statues. On Nuku Hiva, Taipivai Valley is home to temples and large tiki, while the village of Hatiheu is home to the famous Kamuihei and Hikoku sites known for their petroglyphs and ruins. On Hiva Oa, an immense ceremonial complex in Taaoa Valley has been restored and offers a unique view of the fierce and proud Marquesan heritage.

 

 

Tahiti Adventure

 

8 Day Islands of Discovery with Overwater Bungalow and Flights Starting At: $ 2698.00 Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort offers an idyllic base for relaxation, adventure and discovery. The resort features stunning views over Matavai Bay and the beautiful black sands of Lafayette Beach. A perfect location to relax before your Tikehau adventure.

6 Day Manava Beach Resort Moorea Getaway Starting At: $ 1119.00 Dig your toes into the warm sand at the charming Manava Beach Resort & Spa. Experience the boutique hotel ambiance exuding the welcoming characteristic of French Polynesia.

7 Day Hold Your Breath Bora Bora and Taha'a with Flights Starting At: $ 3588.00 Experience everything that the Society islands can offer in the hands of the world class Le Meridien and Le Taha'a through Bora Bora and Taha'a. Within minutes of arriving in Bora Bora, you will be enjoying paradise while surrounded by the backdrop of world-famous Mt Otemanu. After your time in Bora Bora, you will be in the pinnacle of luxury, an overwater suite at Le Taha'a Island Resort and Spa in Taha'a. One of only two Relais & Chateaux hotels in French Polynesia.

7 Day Moorea Family Escape with Flights Starting At: $ 5398.00 Dig your toes into the warm sand at the charming Manava Beach Resort & Spa. Experience the boutique hotel ambiance exuding the welcoming characteristic of French Polynesia. Located on the northeast coast, this resort is walking distance to shops and only fifteen minutes from the ferry dock but still delivers on supplying a feeling of seclusion. Bring the whole family on this value-packed exclusively priced vacation.

8 Day Moorea & Bora Bora Luxury Escape Starting At: $ 3749.00 The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is set against a stunning mountain backdrop which melts into a crystal clear lagoon. The unspoilt beauty of this verdant paradise, also known as the 'Island of Love', was the inspiration for many works by French Impressionist, Paul Gauguin.

Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort managed by Sofitel Starting At: $ 2074.00 Set on the west coast, The Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort - Managed by Sofitel is where Modern meets Luxury. Offering 149 guestrooms and suites overlooking the gardens and Lagoons, overwater bungalows feature views of Moorea. Enjoy the restaurants and bars, Wellness Center and Meeting space.

Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort Starting At: $ 1577.00 Located four miles from downtown Papeete, and set amidst a tropical garden landscape on the exotic black sands of Lafayette Beach, the 165 deluxe air-conditioned rooms and suites feature large balconies and stunning views of Matavai Bay.

Le Meridien Bora Bora   Starting At: $ 4040.00 Boasting more than ¼ mile of white sand beach, this magnificent resort features 85 overwater and 15 beachfront bungalows, each with spectacular views of mysterious Mt. Otemanu and the gorgeous blue lagoon. The bungalows are appointed with king size beds, a sitting area and spacious baths with tubs that overlook the lagoon.

Radisson Plaza Resort Tahiti & Le Taha'a Private Island & Spa   Starting At: $ 2768.00 Set amidst a tropical garden landscape on the exotic black sands of Lafayette Beach, Radisson Plaza Resort Tahiti is an idyllic retreat. This full service 165-room resort combines all the special touches you can only experience in your French Polynesian hide-away. The Taha'a Pearl Beach Resort faces the island of Taha'a, offering exquisite views of the lagoon and on the ocean side an unsurpassed view of Bora Bora.

Papeete, Moorea & Bora Bora Vacation Package Starting At: $ 2915.00 Stay 2 night In Papeete At Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa  Stay 3 Nights In Moorea At The Manava Beach Resort And Spa Moorea  Stay 3 Nights In Bora Bora At Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa  Sailing Sunset Cruise In Moorea   save Up To 20% In Pateete And Moorea    Save Up To 30% And Breakfast Daily In Bora Bora

 

Cruising Tahiti     Papeete (Tahiti) to Papeete (Tahiti) Starting At: $ 6699.00 Ship: Seven Seas Navigator Seven Seas Navigator has few equals, as all accommodations are suites with ocean views, most with private, furnished balconies. Guests who sail in one of her 245 suites enjoy an exceptional level of service by a warm and friendly crew at an extraordinary ratio of 1 to 1.42.   Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands - 14-Night Cruise Starting At: $ 11395.00 Ship: m/s Paul Gauguin With two indulgent weeks in the Marquesas, Tuamotus, and Society Islands, there's ample time to soak up everything that makes this corner of the world so spectacular. In contrast to the aquamarine lagoons and white-sand beaches of the Society Islands, the Marquesas Islands offer rugged peaks, deep valleys, dense rain forests, and rich Polynesian culture.​   10 Night Papeete To Papeete Legends To Lagoons Cruise Starting At: $ 3099.00 Ship: Regatta Our acclaimed Regatta has undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation to create a virtually new ship. Sleek and elegantly charming, Regatta is the flagship of the Oceania Cruises fleet. Her decks are resplendent in the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings. Regatta offers every luxury you may expect on board one of our stylish ships.   18 Night Papeete To San Francisco Pacific Wanderlust Cruise Starting At: $ 2999.00 Ship: Regatta Our acclaimed Regatta has undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation to create a virtually new ship. Sleek and elegantly charming, Regatta is the flagship of the Oceania Cruises fleet. Her decks are resplendent in the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings. Regatta offers every luxury you may expect on board one of our stylish ships.   Azure Seas from Tahiti to the Marquesas Starting At: $ 16720.00 Ship: National Geographic Orion Remote and enigmatic, the Marquesas are islands that belong to the past. Some of them virtually untouched since the era of European exploration, their isolation has given way to a proud people whose unique Marquesan dialect is a direct link to the ancient Polynesian language of Maohi.   Tahiti to the Marquesas: French Polynesian Discovery Starting At: $ 8360.00 Ship: National Geographic Orion Follow in the path of early Polynesian navigators on this epic voyage that spans over 2,700 miles of the Pacific, calling at some of the most remote and pristine reaches of French Polynesia before arriving at the Big Island of Hawaii. From Moorea's verdant peaks to the vibrant reefs of Kiribati, explore lush trails, stroll secluded, palm-fringed beaches, and kayak idyllic coves.