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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What forms of personal identification do I need?
When you travel you are required to provide identification to verify your identity as well as that of any of your traveling companions. For U.S. citizens traveling within the U.S. you need to carry a non-expired government issued photo ID that matches the name on the reservation.
For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates and a visa if required. It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure all documentation is acquired. If a visa is required you must obtain it from Visa Services or the appropriate foreign consular representative. Remember to allow enough time for processing and mailing. If you have any questions regarding passports or visas, go to http://travel.state.gov/ for assistance.
2. What electric current is used?
Depending on which region you are traveling to please note that the electric current may change. The U.S. uses 120 V. You can purchase a converter at most hardware, travel or some general stores. Remember that if you are traveling with any item that uses heat or an electric motor (blow dryers, curling irons, shavers, etc.), the converter needs to manage that as well!
Below is a table of electrical currency for popular destinations.
| Country | Voltage |
| Argentina, Greece, Martinique, Chile | 220 V |
| Aruba, Mexico | 127 V |
| Austria, Hungary, Ireland, Norway, Spain, Belgium, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent, Czech Republic, Portugal, Denmark, Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, London | 230 V |
| Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico | 120 V |
| Barbados, El Salvador, Virgin Islands | 115 V |
| Brazil, Cuba | 110/220 V |
| Colombia, Panama, Dominican Republic, Jamaica | 110 V |
| Ecuador | 120 - 127 V |
| Malta, St. Lucia | 240 V |
3. May I request a specific room?
Normally, the type of room is part of your basic pricing package (e.g., rates for Oceanfront will be different than those for Garden View). We're happy to request room locations or services that may not otherwise be specified. Specific room numbers may also be requested but, like all non-specified services, it will be at the discretion of the individual properties to fulfill those requests.
4. Are you suppose to tip? If so, what is the normal percentage and who do you tip?
Tipping is always a matter of choice. Many of the all-inclusive resort properties have a "no-tipping required" policy. There are also several properties that have implemented a "no-tipping expected" or "no-tipping accepted" policy. However, gratuities are almost always accepted for extraordinary or particularly helpful or gracious services rendered. Tipping guidelines and norms vary throughout the world. However, if you are booking a stay at one the all-inclusive resort properties, gratuities are usually included for all listed services. Even with that, though, it is generally considered a good idea to add few dollars to those whose services have been instrumental in making your stay something beyond ordinary. Also, those who assist you at airports, concierge services at the hotel, spa and salon services - all of these should be considered "outside the standard services" and you might wish to tip these service providers according to local custom.
5. What facilities do resorts offer physically challenged guests?
Several Resorts offer disabled rooms which are equipped with king size beds, roll in showers or handrails and wheelchair accessibility. Please check with your agent for specific needs.
6. Will an English speaking person be available in international resorts?
The short answer is yes. Because so much of the resort industry in the Mexico/Caribbean market caters to US originating travel, English is a requirement for many of the service personnel who interact directly with clients.
7. Do I need to exchange my currency before I travel?
We do suggest you exchange a small amount of currency before you travel. Many countries do have ATM machines in which you will be able to take out more foreign currency if necessary. ATM machines will only dispense cash in foreign currency, so only get out the money you are planning to spend at that time. As a precaution we suggest you do not carry large amounts of money on you. Also, most larger shopping centers and restaurants do accept major credit cards and it is suggested you use your credit card when possible. If you do decide to exchange your cash once you reach your destination exchange it at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange centers.
8. If I am vacationing outside of the U.S. will my health insurance cover any emergencies?
In most cases your medical insurance will not cover you once you leave the U.S. You can purchase travel insurance which will cover any medical necessities, including emergency transportation, doctor office visits and hospital stay if necessary. Along with medical coverage while you are on your trip, some travel insurance will also cover a percentage of your trip if you need to cancel for medical reasons prior to departure. Please ask your agent for more details about travel insurance.
9. What should I pack?
Each destination as well as resort varies on attire. Before you leave try to research the local customs, dress and climate, this should be your guide. If you are vacationing in the Caribbean your attire will be more casual; shorts, sandals, bathing suits and casual wear will suffice. Be aware that some restaurants within a resort may have a dress code in which evening attire is required, a jacket for men and evening dress for women and dress shoes. So it is recommended you bring a couple of dress clothes for certain occasions. It would be in your best interest to pack light. Different airlines have rules and regulations regarding how much luggage you are allowed on the plane. Some resorts do offer laundry service for which you may pay a small fee to have your clothes laundered; this is a definite plus because you will reduce the need for extra clothing. Be sure to pack all your personal toiletries - deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, sunscreen, hair dryer. And don't forget to check the TSA website for the current rules regarding the carriage and packing of liquids. http://www.tsa.gov
10. Is internet access available?
Most resorts do offer internet access either in room or in a common area; nominal fees may be applicable and vary from resort. If internet access is a must for you, be sure to ask your travel agent or research your resort beforehand to assure availability. Some secluded locations will not have the technology for internet access and in these locations in room phone access may not be available.
11. Is everything included in an all-inclusive resort?
Every all-inclusive resort offers something different and each resort has a unique plan. Generally all-inclusive resorts are known for offering: meals, most beverages, resort activities (these vary widely between resorts and most do not include anything motorized), rooms and transfers from and to local airports.
12. Why should I book an all-inclusive resort or package?
The all-inclusive resort is an excellent choice for those who want to have a managed cost. Although all-inclusive can mean different things at different properties, you can be assured that the greatest amount of your expense is known and covered before you ever leave home. With such things as room, meals, drinks and resort activities covered, there is very little that you need to think about in the way of additional expense! Many people are also surprised to learn that additional activities (such as golf, deep sea fishing, etc.) may also be available for purchase before departure!
13. Are there any health issues that I need to be aware of?
Travelers should visit their personal physician at least 4 weeks before traveling for a routine checkup and other health precautions. Some destinations may have certain vaccines that are required before you depart, these vaccines take time to be effective in your body and some vaccines must be given in a series over a period of days or sometimes weeks. Be sure that you and your traveling companions are up to date on your routine vaccinations; this is to protect you from diseases that are still common in many parts of the world even though they rarely occur in the U.S.
14. I am very concerned about safety, are resorts safe?
Your personal safety is a very big issue for the resort operators and they take many precautions to ensure that your vacation is worry-free. Of course, it is also important that common sense is not discarded while you are vacationing. Be aware of your surroundings and potentially dangerous situations - especially when not on the resort's private property. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables close to you at all times in a concealed pocket or pouch. If you do not need your valuables at that time store them in a safe, if available by your resort, or a safe place in the same location. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe.
15. Will I need to rent a car?
In most cases you will not need to rent a car, at some resorts there are so many activities, restaurants and shopping you may not experience everything before your vacation is over. Most Caribbean resorts offer shuttles to local attractions, activities or shopping facilities. If you do wish to get away on your own, you can arrange for the service of a taxi. In some of the more exotic locales, the transportation infrastructure may be very different that what you might normally expect with little or no access to such things as rental cars or regular transportation. If being able to get around independently is important to your travel plans, be sure to ask your sales associate about rental car options prior to finalizing your vacation plans.
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