Caribbean Weather

by Bruce Kahler | Jun 23, 2021 | Agent, Caribbean, Resources, Travel, Weather, Wedding

Average Caribbean Weather By Month

January

Caribbean weather in January is certainly warmer than the U.S., Canada, or Europe, but some places are warmer than others. The warmest destinations include Cayman Islands and St. Lucia; the coolest include the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Turks and Caicos. Rain averages about two to three inches per month. Keep in mind that sea temperatures is often cool for swimming in northern locations.

February

Temperatures in February show little movement. In some places they increase a degree while in others they decline. In Dominica, rainfall increases to four inches. Costa Rica reaches a low point for rain, which is good news for western Caribbean cruises.

March

March is one of the most popular months for visiting the Caribbean, not just because of spring break, but because of warming temperatures and low rainfall for many destinations. In Dominica, rainfall climbs again to five inches, but keep in mind that Dominica is a lush island with waterfalls and tropical rainforests. It’s a great place for ecotourism, though not so much for lying on a beach. Costa Rica continues to have low rainfall.

April

April is another great month to visit the Caribbean, for the same reasons as March, but with some exceptions. In San Juan, Puerto Rico, rainfall reaches its first high point of the year at six inches. It’s not the best time for a long-term stay, but it’s okay for cruise visitors, who can visit indoors San Juan historical sites and shopping.

May

Caribbean weather in May includes a brief rainy season for many destinations. Aruba is a safe bet because it is the driest island of all. Rainfall at Cancun, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, and Dominica jumps to five inches or more per month.

June

This is a bad month for the Bahamas, with an average of nine inches of rain. Cozumel gets eight inches, while Belize and Costa Rica average more than 10. For people who like hot weather, Cancun, Cayman Islands, and Cozumel have average high temperatures that reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

June is the official beginning of the annual Caribbean hurricane season. But historically it almost no hurricanes and only one tropical storm every other year, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center.

Tropical storms often threaten the Caribbean during hurricane season from June through November. Source: Pixabay Creative Commons license

July

Hurricane season is starting to make itself known, with six inches or more of rainfall for the Bahamas, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, and St. Lucia. It’s a good month for Antigua, Cancun, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. July averages three tropical storms with two that become hurricanes.

August

“Ugh” is a good word to describe rainfall for the Bahamas and Cancun. Every major destination except for the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao averages four inches or more. On average, August has three tropical storms with two that become hurricanes.

September

September is the worst month of the year for Caribbean weather because it’s the worst month of the annual hurricane season. An average of four tropical storms occur in September with two that become hurricanes. Avoid Caribbean destinations, except possibly the ABC islands—Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao—and maybe the Dominican Republic. But at least September is warm.

October

October is barely better than September, usually the second worst month of the year for Caribbean weather. All of the major destinations average five inches or more of rain. On average, four tropical storms develop, but they rarely grow into hurricanes.

November

The Bahamas finally get a break from the rain and wind, but the temperatures are starting to drop too. Barbados, Cancun, and Jamaica are becoming better options. St. Maarten has the heaviest rain of the year. On average, only one tropical storm forms every other year. Hurricanes are rare.

December

The hurricane season is officially over and rainfall declines everywhere. But temperatures are declining as well; the Bahamas, Cancun, and other northern destinations are usually too chilly for swimming. Dominican Republic and St. Thomas are worthy options. Tourist activity starts to increase in the Caribbean as northerners start to flee cold winter weather.

Best Time to Visit Cancun

by Bruce Kahler | May 26, 2021 | Resort, Romance, Wedding

Passport Application tips

by Bruce Kahler | May 16, 2021 | Europe, Resort, Resources, Wedding

Successful Travelling Begins with a Passport

~ Passport information update ~

The Department of State has issued updated passport guidance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In accordance with new safety guidelines, the Postal Service has made changes to its passport application process.

Beginning March 25, 2020, the Postal Service will conduct all passport application services by appointment only. You can use a computer or mobile device to go to usps.com/scheduler to make appointments.

Passport fairs will resume only after it is safe to do so.

Make your passport the first of your travel check-off list

To help you prepare for your international traveling any time of year, here are some passport application tips that are spot-on for happy adventurers. You can access passport information on our Passport Page on USPS.com^®.

The Postal Service^™ has operated as an agent for the U.S. Department of State to process passport applications since the 1970s.

The Postal Service is currently expanding offsite availability of its passport acceptance services and extending appointment hours across the country. You can see a list of passport offices throughout the country at the Department of State Travel Newsroom.

In 2007, more than 18.3 million passports were issued. The Postal Service accepted applications for more than half — 9.8 million. Those passports expired in 2017, creating a surge in passport applications and renewals.

In addition, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (enacted in 2009 that requires a passport or passport card when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and other countries of the Caribbean by land and sea) has added to the surge.

Preparing to travel out of the country

First, as you make your foreign travel plans, don’t forget to check your passport’s expiration date. It should be valid for at least six months after you return home and needs to have two or more blank pages. Also, be sure to check your family’s passports.

The passport application process can take several weeks, so it’s important to apply for your first-time or renewal passport as soon as you know you and your family will need them. You can check the current approximate processing time on the State Department’s Travel website.

The good news is the Postal Service has 4,800 passport acceptance facilities around the country that can accept first-time passport applications on behalf of the U.S. Department of State. It’s easy to find one by using the USPS^™Locator for a list of Post Office™ locations near you that process passports.

Gearing up for future travel and in need of a passport? The Postal Service will be here to help by offering the convenience of passport application and renewal at passport fairs, once it is safe to do so. New fairs will be listed regularly so be sure to visit the USPS press release page and click on your state. During the fairs, appointments are not required. Customers are encouraged to arrive early, as applicants will be served on a first-come, first-served basis until the applicant maximum capacity has been reached.

USPS processes first-time passport applications and passport renewal applications for those not eligible to renew by mail. See ‘How do I renew my passport?’ in the FAQs listed below for information on renewal by mail.

What’s New?

Passport Execution Fee Effective

The Department of State passport execution fee for submitting your passport application to a passport acceptance agent (a United States Post Office, state or local government or State Department official) for verification and review is $35. For more information, see details at the Department of State .

Applying for a Passport is Just a Few Clicks Away

There are a total of 4,800 Post Offices around the country that offer passport acceptance service. Of these, more than 3,100 offer appointments via telephone, and these select offices now offer the ability to schedule appointments through the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler^™ (RCAS^™) tool.

Be Timely

Current applications for the first-time at acceptance facilities throughout the country, routine passport processing is estimated to take between 4 to 6 weeks.

We encourage adult applicants to apply well in advance of travel plans as we anticipate longer than average wait times for passport processing over the coming months. First time applicants are encouraged to apply at the nearest acceptance facility.

Acceptance facilities do not accept renewal applications, so adult renewal applicants should mail in their application.

Take a new photo

There are new guidelines for passport photos. If you want to renew your passport and your existing photo shows you wearing eyeglasses, you will need to take a new passport photo without them. At some Passport Acceptance Facilities, photos can be taken for an additional fee.

Passport Video

Please see our video on USPS TV for a short presentation with some helpful passport tips. The tips include how early to apply for a passport, where to locate a USPS office for assistance, how long a passport is valid, expiration requirements, application requirements, and other important information to ensure your passport is ready for travel.

For more than 40 years, passport acceptance has continued to provide a convenient service for customers as well as a revenue stream for the Postal Service. The Postal Service is proud to work with the Department of State to provide customers with such a convenient way to apply for their passports.

Frequently Asked Questions

We want to ensure your passport application process goes smoothly and that you have the resources you need to begin your travel planning. Here are some common questions USPS passport acceptance clerks are often asked regarding passports.

Q: How do I apply for a first-time passport?

First-time passport applications must be submitted in-person at a passport acceptance facility (e.g., U.S. Post Office).

Here’s what you’ll need to do at a Post Office facility:

Complete Form DS-11: Application for A U.S. Passport

Submit evidence of U.S. citizenship

Present state-issued identification

Submit a photocopy of the identification document

Pay the applicable fee

Provide one passport photo

At some locations, you can have your passport photo taken on-site for an additional fee.

Q: Can I renew my passport at the passport acceptance facility?

No. First time applicants are encouraged to apply at the nearest acceptance facility. Acceptance facilities do not accept renewal applications, so adult renewal applicants should mail in their application.

Q: How do I renew my passport?

You can apply for a passport renewal by mail if the following apply to your passport:

Undamaged and able to be mailed with your application;

Was issued when you were age 16 or older

Was issued within the last 15 years; and

Was issued in your current name or you can legally document your name change with original or certified copy of your marriage certificate or the government-issued document evidencing your legal name change.

If you meet the above criteria for a mail-in renewal request:

Complete Form DS-82: Application For A U.S. Passport by Mail

Include your most recent U.S. passport book and/or card

Include a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order if your name has changed

Pay the applicable fee

Provide one passport photo

Mail your application to the address on the form

If none of the above passport criteria apply, then you need to apply in-person. See the USPS Locator for a list of Post Office locations that process passports.

See more information about passport renewals here: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/renew.html

Q: I’m not currently in the United States, how do I apply for a U.S. passport?

See here to apply for a U.S. passport while outside of the United States: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/applying-for-a-u-s–passport-from-outside-the-united-states.html

Q: I’m traveling in two weeks and need my passport renewed. What are my options?

If you have urgent travel needs (within two weeks), make an appointment at your nearest passport agency by visiting Travel.State.Gov or call our National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.

Q: How long does it take to get my passport?

Passport processing takes between 6 to 8 weeks, however, if you choose an expedited service*, you can receive a faster processing time.

See here for expedited passport application information:

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/services/expedited.html

There is a $60 fee for expedited requests.

Q: Where do I find general passport information?

Information, a list of fees and instructions how to apply for a U.S. passport is available at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/. U.S. citizens may also obtain passport information by phone, in English and Spanish, by calling the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.

Or you can always stop in at your local Post Office and ask us in person, we’re happy to help.

Finally we would like to wish you and yours happy travels this year wherever your journey takes you.

Bon Voyage – Aloha – Cheerio – Farewell – Adios!

Shared from:
https://uspsblog.com/usps-passport-tips/

Travel tips

by Bruce Kahler | May 10, 2021 | Cruise, Insurance, Resort, Wedding

Your trip is booked and the anticipation of your upcoming adventure is building. As you plan and prepare for your upcoming trip, review these tips to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

Visit the tourism website for your destination country and review any new requirements they have due to Covid-19. Many countries have requirements in place for Covid-19 testing, minimum travel insurance coverage and more. You can also check the CDC or WHO websites for information. This website is a handy resource for finding Covid-19 testing locations all over the world.
Make copies of the endorsement page of your passport. Leave one copy at home with a friend or family member. Take another copy with you, in a separate part of your luggage from the actual passport, or take a photo of it with your smart phone.
Take a small amount of cash ($100-300) in local currency for ease of transition at your destination. Many international currencies can be purchased from your own bank (if it’s large enough) or through a large, corporate bank.
Make sure your credit card will work in the country you’re visiting. Most European banks have switched almost entirely to the more secure chip-and-PIN technology. Fewer businesses abroad are accepting the outdated magnetic-strip cards. You may also want to find a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, as this can save you a lot of money.
Acquaint yourself with the electrical voltage requirements in the country/countries you are visiting. If the voltage is different from the US, purchase a converter and/or adapter. Your best bet is to buy an adapter with different settings that adjust to most outlets, so you only have to bring one adapter instead of one per country.
Check with your cell phone provider about plans and pricing for international calling, texting and data.
Place any liquids (soaps, shampoos, etc.) that will be in your carry-on in clear 3 oz. bottles, together in a clear quart size Ziploc bag.
Make note of the telephone number for the phone number of services in your travel protection plan.
Call your debit and credit card companies to advise them of your travel dates and destinations. You can also do this by logging onto your online account.
Keep any prescription drugs in their original containers and pack them in your carry-on luggage.
Learn a few key phrases in the local language of your destination. (Simple things, like “Hello”, “Goodbye”, “Thank you”, “Where is the bathroom?“)
If you have any food allergies or severe medical conditions, it’s important to learn how to inform others about those issues in a foreign language. If you don’t feel comfortable with your language skills, print out a document with relevant phrases or make flashcards to carry with you.
Do not pack your travel documents (itinerary, passport, paper tickets or vouchers) in your checked luggage.
Unless you are planning to attend a black tie or similar event, leave your valuable jewelry at home.

Safe and happy travels!

Group Differences

by Bruce Kahler | May 9, 2021 | Resort, Resources, Romance, Travel, Wedding

What is the difference between a contracted room block and a flexible group for my All-Inclusive destination wedding?

Are you dreaming of the perfect wedding on the beach but find yourself stuck and overwhelmed when it comes to research, reservations, and nit-picky details?

We know that coordinating travel arrangements for your group of guests requires careful planning. To ensure the best fit, we offer two distinct options to accommodate your type of group, number of travelers and flexibility of schedule.

1. Traditional group travel

This is the perfect booking option for travelers on the same itinerary who need flexible payment and cancellation policies for the entire group plus, other general group contract benefits.

A traditional group typically comprises:

20 or more people
10 or more rooms
All traveling together (but with various date combinations)
Flight & hotel packages, or just accommodations
Set price for all travelers with pre-reserved block inventory!

2. Flexible Groups

They’re ideal for small groups of 10 or more who want to vacation together at the same resort, yet need flexibility with their travel dates, flights, length of stay or who may travel from different cities.

No need to sign a group contract!
Guests can book from any origin and the hotel will still see them coming as one group
You can customize every booking to the clients’ individual travel needs

How it works

Terms and Conditions:

* Must use unique promotional code for additional qualifying travel companions

* Names are required at the time of booking and name changes are not allowed.

* The offer requires a minimum of 10 people using the promotional code provided.

* Promotional code does not ensure that all associated Flexible Getaways passengers will be accommodated on the same flight in the event that a schedule change occurs.

* Offer is not retroactive and cannot be applied to previously booked packages.

* Group inclusions and amenities can change at any time and are at the resort’s discretion. Any complimentary stays or upgrades will be applied to the couple’s reservation unless otherwise informed to your group specialist.

* All resort credits are assessed approximately 3-4 weeks after travel and are refunded to the designated reservation via the original form of payment. Hotel complimentary credits are typically based on the most common hotel room category booked and the most common length of stay booked.

Hotel’s complimentary credit value is at the hotel’s discretion. Only rooms booked through Destination Weddings Expert, LLC will count toward complimentary credit eligibility.

* Lead booking does not determine package rates. All packages are subject to availability and pricing at the time of booking.

* Minimum 3-night hotel stay required.

* All guests must stay at the same hotel unless otherwise contracted with Destination Weddings Expert, LLC.

* Discount will recalculate if modifications are made to the booking.

* Standard Terms and Conditions apply and are outlined during the booking process; other restrictions may apply.

Why Choose Us

Apollo Travel Orlando is dedicated to ensuring your experience, as well as your guests, is seamless from start to finish. When reserving your destination wedding with us, you’ll enjoy:

Flexible deposit, payment, and cancellation options
The best vacation prices—including flight, hotel, and activities
Complimentary room upgrades and money-saving offers based on group size
Customized itineraries and group activities
Group Travel Protection Plan, protecting your travel investment
You’ll receive professional, personalized one-stop-shop service

International Traveler Resources

by Bruce Kahler | May 7, 2021 | Resort, Resources, Travel, Uncategorized, Wedding

INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER RESOURCES


Best Time to Travel	Currency Converter	Electrical Outlet Information
Shows travelers which destinations are best to visit during certain times of the year based on weather and local events.	XE provides the most powerful Currency Converter on the Web.	Protect your personal electrical items with the proper converter.

International Health & Vaccination travel	Checklist	International Emergency Resources
The Atlanta CDC reports for International Health and vaccination requirements for foreign travel.	Protecting our yourself as you travel abroad.	Tips for traveling abroad.

International Travel Warnings	Languages	Tips for Older Travelers
State Department country-specific travel warnings.	Make the most of your trip abroad by learning the local language terms and culture of the countries your visiting.	Plan ahead for a safe trip abroad.

Passport Services	Times and Dates	Worldwide Tipping
Get your passport now	Time zones, calendars including holidays, distance calculator, and dialing codes from around the world.	Good information about tipping around the world.