Caribbean and International Travel Specials
Great destinations are available throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia, Scandinavia, Africa, and even the Middle East. We have traveled extensively and can plan your trip both on an individual basis or with an escorted tour.
Click below for group rates on current specials. Keep in mind that promotions are ongoing and change daily as do pricing and availability.
Auto Europe ( Independent Tours)
Avalon Waterways (River Cruises)
Globus Europe (Escorted Tours)
Monograms Europe (Independent Tours)
Sandals & Beaches Specials (Caribbean)
Tauck: World Discovery Tours (Escorted)
International Travel Recommendations
Below are commentaries on international destinations by our very own travel specialist and president, Janette Lee.
LA FLORIADE TOUR by Janette (May 2012)
I recently visited Amsterdam, Brussels, Bruges (Belgium) and Paris on Collette Vacations' Floriade tour. The trip was centered around garden lovers and horticultural fans. Of course, going during the Spring season was a particular treat. Let's start with the floral exhibits...Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam was absolutely breathtaking. Tulips in all color combinations, Irises abound, the shrubbery all in blooms of pink, white, lavender, coral, various trees in bloom also, small underplantings, etc, etc. It was a sensual experience for the eyes and nose and spirit. People from all over the world were there with the common bond of experiencing the earth in all its' glory. The second runnerup was Giverny, Monet's Gardens, with the Japanese bridge blooming with wisteria, and, of course, his famous water lilies in the pond and irises. The angelique pink fringed tulips are underplanted with a strong blue myositis (forget-me-nots). Of course, there was the Floriade which had exhibits from various areas of the world represented and lovely exhibits as well.
I'd never been to Amsterdam or Belgium, so this was a treat for me. Loved the uniqueness of Amsterdam with its' wonderful canals and architecture reminiscent of medieval times. So much to see here from the Ann Franck house, Van Gogh Museum, Diamant Museum, and for those interested in other pursuits, the coffee houses and red light district. On to Belgium for a total surprise and wonderful food...real Belgian waffles filled with ice cream/whipped cream and huge strawberries (yum), and chocolates in all shapes and colors (yum), and beer. Certainly a gourmet delight on every corner. And the Atomium, the sight of the World's Fair, which was their symbol akin to our NY World's Fair globe.
From Brussels we took a day trip to Bruges. This was a true highlight and not to be missed. The entire village is a Heritage sight and dates back to medieval times. The entire experience was charming, interesting, full of history, with lots of little places to eat, shop, and just stop for a quick libation.
I will continue with Paris, so stay tuned. Janette
MEXICO by Janette (December 2011)
Are you concerned about travel to Mexico? Do you know how many areas of Mexico are tourist friendly? Do you want adventure, partake of wonderful archeological sights, and get a great value for your vacation dollar? Mexico is truly our neighbor. The people are friendly. Bargains abound and Mexico offers truly luxury accomendations that are easily more expensive elsewhere. Janette is our expert on Mexico and will be happy to set up your dream vacation to any of Mexico's wonderful destinations. For Mexico is more than just Mexico City. The country is beautiful, cultural, exotic, and most of all, diverse. For those looking for a bit more of the Mexican experience, more exotic soft adventure and looking for an alternative to continued beach vacations try the following............
Chiapas, for example, is a Mexican state that features the Mayan site of Palenque dating back to 100 B.C., a UNESCO World Heritage site in the jungle renowned for its architecture, sculpture, and hieroglyphics. A fascinating history, beautiful natural waterfalls featuring the turquoise blue cascades of Agua Azul, and Misol-Ha with its 115 ft waterfall in the rainforest. Exotic wildlife that includes monkeys, crocodiles and exotic birds. The people here are from varied Indian cultures (the largest indigenous population in Mexico) and can be recognized by their native dress.
The capital of Chiapas is Tuxtla Gutierrez. San Cristobal de las Casas was the site of the Adventure Travel World Summit held last year where Mexico's President Felipe Calderon gave the inaugural address. Perhaps you will get the opportunity of seeing his documentary about all the different parts of Mexico on PBS.
Of course, you all are familiar with the sun, beach and all inclusive resorts of Cancun, Cozumel, the Riviera Maya and Los Cabos. Visits to Mexico is a must especially for the cultural aspect of the colonial cities like Mazatlan (which is on the beach), Guadalajara, and others like San Miguel de Allende. And Mexico is also the land of romance so if you're planning a destination wedding, honeymoon, and/or a romantic vacation, check with us for suggestions on Mexico. Do you want something unusual? Register your honeymoon/wedding gifts on our bridal registry. The memory is much more lasting than a toaster or linen!
HOW TO ENJOY ITALY by G. Emmett (original 2000, reprinted December 2011)
La dolce far niente is a big part of Italy. Zero in on the fine points. Don't dwell on the problems. Accept Italy as Italy.
Savor your cappuccino, dangle your feet over a canal...if it smells, breathe through your mouth....and imagine what it was like centuries ago.
Ramble through Rome and mentally resurrect those ancient stones. Look into the sculpted eyes of Michelangelo's David and understand Renaissance man's assertion of himself.
Sit silently on a hilltop. Get chummy with the winds of the past. Write a poem over a glass of wine in a sun-splashed, wave-dashed Riviera village.
If you fall off your moral horse, call it a cultural experience.
Italy is for Romantics.
EXUMA, TURKS & CAICOS, NASSAU -- SANDALS & BEACHES by Janette (November, 2010)
I just got back from a quick 3 day review of 3 separate islands of Sandals and Beaches resorts. Absolutely beautiful! Exuma Emerald Bay is the newest Sandals resort (formerly Four Seasons) and fabulous for those who want to play a challenging golf course. The beach is beautiful and this is an all-butler resort. Emerald Bay also has a gorgeous marina available for those who come in by boat/yacht.
Beaches Turks and Caicos on Providenciales has always been a favorite of mine. This is a family friendly resort that caters to all: family, children, singles, etc. Their new Italian Village is incredible and the room categories feature separate rooms for the children (bunk beds). These rooms can accommodate up to 7. There is an entirely children-only area called the Pirates Island filled with games, waterslides, surf stimulator, and more.