Anne Van Dyke - Pacific Islands Holiday

The ultimate tropical island retreat means sun,relaxation,swimming,exotic scenery,a fruity cocktail or two...and of course a well earned break.

To ensure all goes smoothly note the following tips:

• Online photos and pictures in brochures can be deceiving so ask if that sand is as white as it looks(not photo shopped) and the resort is ON the beach and not across a busy road.
• The cheapie package advertised seems too good to be true and it probably is.
  Ensure the bargain hotel fits your needs, is clean, not run down and is on the beach.. not in town or at the Airport! I've heard horror stories of resorts being miles from the sea or even next to the sugar train railway tracks.. certainly not peaceful!
• Also, is the resort on the right side of the island? At some island locations it can rain non stop or the beach is very tidal not allowing much time for swimming in the sea.
• Choose the right resort for you. If travelling as a couple you may want a hotel that caters to just adults and these do exist. Maybe it's more luxurious, tranquil and there's an emphasis on food and spa treatments... no playgrounds here. There are also island resorts that market to the young party crowd so if you're much older stay away from these.
• If travelling with children there are many resorts that cater for families.
  The rooms may have an apartment style and there's many activities at hand. For example, a kids club could give parents time out and have a separate and safer kiddie's pool. You may also be lucky to spot a Kids Eat Free deal. Check the small print though as the children may only be allowed to eat off a specific menu at a specific restaurant.
• Chose your flights well. The early or late flight may be less expensive but does it connect with the transfer van or the boat that takes you to/from the island resort. Sometimes it's unavoidable but ideally you don't want to waste a precious night at an Airport hotel.

Finally, check whether your chosen resort has Air Conditioning or working Fans in the rooms - especially for children. This can certainly affect your (and their) night's sleep... and who needs to be sleep deprived on their holiday.

To plan your travel contact Anne Van Dyke on:
(09)420-2963
[email protected]
www.annevandyke.com