Elev8ted Travelz

27/09/2023

11/08/2022

Another date night activity and you can bring a friend or two or three! Summer is coming to an end so do it while you still can!

Enjoy a private two-hour sailing experience for up to six people along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Kick back, relax, and let the US Coast Guard licensed captain treat you to stunning views of Chicago’s spectacular skyline. Make the experience your own. The flexibility of a private charter all...

11/08/2022

Looking for a fun date night? Check this out!

Studio W.I.P. by Native 312 Events offers a unique spin on BYOB paint night! Join us as we host an intimate look into the world of Street Art as we learn about some different styles and techniques with guest artists. Then you get your hands dirty as you walk around our gallery setting and test out y...

23/07/2022

Not sure if you can fly with that?? Check this article out!

Can you bring safety pins in your carry-on? What about a pool cue? Or how about a snow globe? The answers to those questions, in order, are yes, no and it’s complicated.

11/07/2022

Starting July 1, travelers will no longer "be permitted to use your expired U.S. passport to return to the United States," the State Department wrote on its website. Previously, U.S. citizens who were abroad were allowed to enter the country if their passport had expired on or after Jan. 1, 2020.

"If your passport has expired, please contact your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for a U.S. passport," the State Department added.

The rule was initially implemented to help travelers navigate delays in passport processing due to consulates and embassies being forced to cut back staffing. That led to an "unprecedented" backlog of passport service appointments.

In the U.S. alone, processing times topped up to 18 weeks and the State Department even removed the option to book last-minute appointments online for a time. Currently, passports are taking eight to 11 weeks to process, or five to seven weeks if travelers pay the expedited fee, according to the State Department.

Passport renewals have also gotten more expensive after the price increased by $20 last year. Now, it costs $130 to renew an adult passport, an extra $60 for expedited service, and an extra $18.32 for one to two day delivery.

While currently the most convenient way to renew a passport is by mail, President Joe Biden signed an executive order last year requiring the government to design a new digital system. Most passports expire after 10 years, but many countries require visitors to have up to six months of validity on their passports before traveling.

Travelers who do renew their passports now have the option to select an "X" as their gender on their application, indicating an "unspecified or another gender identity."

19/04/2022

28/02/2022

🚨 Beginning March 1, 2022, Jamaica will see a significant relaxation of several of its entry protocols 👏🏾

Traveler’s will no longer be required to obtain a travel authorization through the Jamcovid or Visitjamaica websites👏🏾

Quarantine requirements will also be eliminated. However, it is recommended that you limit your movements for at least 5 days after travel 👏🏾

Mandatory PCR tests for BUSINESS travelers has also been removed👏🏾

Reminders:
• 12 years and older will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or Antigen), which was conducted within 72 hours prior to date of travel at check-in for their flights.

• If you intend to travel to Jamaica prior to March 1, 2022, you still must apply for and obtain approval for a Travel Authorization before arrival in Jamaica. Apply online at www.visitjamaica.com

Fall in love with Jamaica at VisitJamaica.com - the official source for vacation planning. Discover things to do, hotels, history, culture and itineraries.

03/02/2022

Puerto Rico Entry Requirements:

Due to the constant drop in the number of COVID-19 cases in Puerto Rico, Governor Pedro Pierluisi has announced new entry protocols for travelers to the Island, which began on yesterday February 2nd.

As part of the new rules, vaccinated passengers arriving on domestic flights will no longer need to present a negative test to enter the destination, while unvaccinated travelers who present a negative test from two days prior will not be required to quarantine.

Read article below for more details. Email [email protected] for booking inquiries.

Looking at the constant drop in the number of COVID-19 cases in Puerto Rico, Governor Pedro Pierluisi has announced new entry protocols | Vaccinated travelers on domestic flights won't need a negative test, while unvaccinated travelers with negative test won't need to quarantine.

28/12/2021

🎉

Do you know the difference between
All-Inclusive
European Plan
American Plan
Modified American Plan
Breakfast Included
Continental Breakfast Plan

🤔Do I go All-Inclusive or do I pick the European Plan?

All-Inclusive 👇🏾

Guests at an All-Inclusive resort have it all. The reservation includes all food and beverages. That includes alcohol, taxes, and even gratuity depending on the resort. Many of these resorts have multiple restaurants, bars, and snack areas, so guests have a large number of dining options. Being hungry is a simple problem to solve. Is it time for that midnight snack? No problem if the resort has a 24-hour snack bar. Just head on down and grab something. Planning on enjoying a few adult beverages? At an All-Inclusive, guests can try that mixed drink they've always wanted.
Although many All-Inclusive resorts are large, there are also numerous choices of a medium-sized or boutique resort; and all would offer great amenities. Non-motorized water sports are generally included in AI. Most resorts offer free nightly entertainment. Travelers looking to relax, not worrying about the little things, and stick around the resort for the majority of the trip may be interested in the All-Inclusive option. It's the full-service vacation.

Plan 👇🏾

The European Plan means that all food provided by the hotel is charged at an additional cost. Tips are the guest's responsibility. If you're planning on venturing out beyond the resort, then this might be your best option. While an All-Inclusive resort makes things convenient and within close range of your room, the European Plan is more for the adventurous type who wants to do some exploring. Since you won't be at your resort or hotel much, it doesn't make sense to pay for meals you won't be eating anyway.
An EP vacation tends to be more intimate than at an AI resort since they are more popular with smaller properties. There's no pressure to "get your money's worth" like at an AI where guests feel compelled to take advantage of all their options.

Plan and Modified American Plan 👇🏾

Some resorts and hotels offer what is known as the American Plan (AP). This means breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included with the price of reservation. Drinks and snacks are not included. The Modified American Plan (MAP) includes breakfast and either lunch or dinner.

Included vs. Continental Breakfast Plan 👇🏾

Resorts and hotels also make a distinction between Breakfast Included and Continental Plan. The Continental Breakfast Plan is the classic continental breakfast popular at many hotels. Breakfast is self-serve, and guests are given juice, coffee, and tea options. There are no cooked foods such as pancakes, breakfast sausages, or eggs, but there are breads such as muffins, pastries, bagels, or scones. Some continental-plan hotels have waiters. It is customary to leave a tip. No other meals are covered.
Breakfast Included is similar to the Continental Breakfast Plan in that breakfast is the only meal covered by the reservation cost. However, breakfasts are a little more involved with cooked foods on the menu. Breakfasts can be buffet or a la carte, and are generally staffed with waiters who should be tipped.
Note that not all resorts are equal, so it is best to check what exactly their meal plan includes.

25/12/2021

On December 27, passport book fees will be increased by $20 for all customers. Avoid processing delays and submit the correct amount by checking travel.state.gov on the day you apply or renew.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

25/12/2021

The official website of Universal Orlando Resort announced it would reinstate mandatory mask mandates for indoor areas, including theme parks, hotels, restaurants and shops.

As part of a series of updated safety guidelines, all guests and employees must wear facial coverings regardless of vaccination status, starting on Christmas Eve.

The theme park is combating the rising number of COVID cases with new facial covering rules.

18/12/2021

Travelers can now authorize an approved laboratory to send their negative test result directly to Aruba’s Embarkation-Disembarkation (ED) card entry platform and rest assured that it will be instantly accepted.

The ED card registration is mandatory for all visitors to Aruba, including minors and infants. Proof of a negative PCR test, within 72 hours prior to entering the country, is also required of all travelers above 11 years—including those already vaccinated.

The island of Aruba has introduced a service in collaboration with OK2Roam, which eliminates the need to make travelers wait for their PCR test results to be manually verified an | Travelers can now authorize an approved laboratory to send their test result directly to Aruba’s Embarkation-Disembar...

03/12/2021

President Joe Biden's administration has announced more strict COVID-19 testing and quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in the United States following the discovery of the new Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Instead of the three days testing requirement, travelers entering the United States Internationally by air will have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of departure, regardless of vaccination status or nationality.

The CDC is implementing stricter COVID-19 testing requirements for travelers arriving in the US on international flights.

25/10/2021

Cali anyone?

You may want to start planning a trip to LA soon because the U.S.’s first cannabis cafe just opened in the City of Angels. Lowell Farms: A Cannabis...

13/08/2021

Check out the new mandate for New Orleans…

Effective Monday,Aug. 16, everyone in New Orleans age 12+ must show proof of at least 1 dose of a vaccine or a negative PCR test within the last 72 hours to do activities with a higher risk of transmission. This is in addition to the indoor mask mandate.

13/08/2021

Looking for something to get into in your state or for an upcoming trip out of town or out of the country? Check out the link below to book your excursions and airport transfers.

Find and book city tours, helicopter tours, day trips, show tickets, sightseeing day tours, popular activities and things to do in hundreds of destinations worldwide

09/08/2021

Have you been waiting to check out Niagara Falls on the Canada side??? Well as of today, August 9,2021, Canada is open to Americans that are fully vaccinated!! Grab those passports!

On Monday, August 9, Canada will reopens its borders to leisure travel from US tourists. Read CNN Travel's Q&A guide to find out all the essential information before you visit.

04/08/2021

Planning a trip to the Bahamas? Check out the new COVID testing requirements effective Friday, August 6,2021.

01/08/2021

Looking to view Chicago from a different perspective??? Why not grab your crew and take a Kayak tour! No experience necessary!! Click the link below for more details.

Explore the beauty of downtown Chicago from the water on a relaxing 2.5-hour kayak tour. In either a single or double kayak, you'll paddle along the Chicago River, passing by landmarks like Willis Tower as you listen to interesting tales about the city from a professional guide. Enjoy personalized a...

01/08/2021

Summertime Chi is winding down! Book your private sunset sail now! September and October slots are filling up fast! BYOB!!

Enjoy a private two-hour sailing experience for up to six people along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Kick back, relax, and let the US Coast Guard licensed captain treat you to stunning views of Chicago’s spectacular skyline. Make the experience your own. The flexibility of a private charter all...

29/07/2021

The Chicago boat scene is this Saturday, July 31st. It’s not too late to rent a private yacht!

Gather up to 12 of your friends and let the party begin at the Chicago Play Pen! Chill on floaters, swim, or just enjoy the scene.

Cruise Chicago’s lakefront and river to experience breathtaking views of the skyline and architecture. Want to dock to get a bite to eat?...just let the captain know!

Click the link below to book!

https://www.viator.com/tours/Chicago/Cruise-on-a-Prviate-Yacht-in-Chicago/d673-304643P1?pid=P00011640&uid=U00126434&mcid=58086

What an amazing experience you will have on this One of a Kind Private Sightseeing tour! We will explore the wonders of Chicago from a 46-foot Private Yacht. Chicago's newest Harbor has been adorned with new playgrounds, swimming pools, food stands, and more. We will pick meet you here for the start...

26/07/2021

🚨🚨🚨According to the State Department, anyone who wants to apply or renew their passports right now is looking at wait times of up to 18 weeks (12 weeks for processing and up to six weeks for mailing). Expedited service, which costs an extra $60, is currently taking up to 12 weeks.

Visit travel.state.gov for more information.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

16/07/2021

It’s been a bit gloomy here in Chicago. Why not check out what the Field Museum has to offer?

Delve deep into the world of natural history with this Field Museum All Access Pass in Chicago. Your pass includes access to all ticketed exhibitions and one 3D movie. Spend as long as you like exploring the museum's collection of more than 26 million artifacts. Get to know SUE, the world's largest....

16/07/2021

Time to get out in these Chicago streets! Grab your significant other or besties and take a sunset cruise.

The Sunset Cruise departs from the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge on Wendella's world class tour boats. Enjoy the beautiful City architecture from the best vantage point in Chicago. The vessel will then navigate through the Chicago Lock and out onto Lake Michigan. Watch the sun slowly set behind t...

11/06/2021

Auntie Lori says Summertime Chi is in full force! Gone head and enjoy discount access to five of the city’s top attractions with the CityPASS get yours at the link below:

What's Included
Admission to the Shedd Aquarium
Admission to the Skydeck Chicago
Admission to the Field Museum
Plus your choice of admission to 2 of the following attractions:
Adler Planetarium (TEMPORARILY CLOSED)
Art Institute of Chicago
Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

Chicago CityPASS® — Discover Chicago's best attractions at one great price with an easy to use mobile ticket. Spend less, experience more. Save 50% on prepaid admission to 5 must-see attractions: • Shedd Aquarium • Skydeck Chicago • Field Museum Plus your choice of admission to 2 of the f.....

11/06/2021

Planning an international trip? Check out the new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first!

What do the new CDC international travel guidelines mean for you?

24/05/2021

Get those passports ready🤗

Spain has announced that travelers who’ve been fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) will be welcomed into Spain, regardless of their country of origin, starting June 7.

Spain has announced that it will be ready and eager to welcome fully vaccinated foreign visitors as of June 7, regardless of where they come from.

18/05/2021

Planning a trip to the US Virgin Islands??? Check out the mask update below!

“Removing the masking requirements and simply relying on the honor policy at this point is not something we think will protect our community against the spread of the virus,"

USVI Will be Among Last Jurisdictions to Lift Mask Mandate, Bryan Says

18/05/2021

Juneteenth celebration in Hawaii??? Sounds like a plan to me!!!

On April 27, the island of Hawaii passed legislation to officially recognize Juneteenth as a day of acknowledgment and commemoration for the end of...

15/05/2021

According to the Disney website, masks are needed:

Upon entering and throughout all attractions; all theaters, including theater entrances; all transportation, including transportation entrances; and all indoor locations, including restaurants, except when actively eating or drinking while stationary.

And, starting on Monday, May 16, Disney World said it would begin phasing out temperature checks for visitors.

"Face coverings will remain required at all indoor locations, including restaurants, shops, and indoor hotel public areas," Schroder said. "Face coverings are also required at all attractions from the moment guests enter the queue to when they exit the experience."

Policy goes into effect today; masks must still be worn in line.

12/05/2021

No Passport? No problem!!

There are 6 beautiful destinations you can visit without having a passport!

1. Puerto Rico 🇵🇷
2. U.S. virgin islands 🇻🇮
3. American Samoa 🇼🇸
4. Guam 🇬🇺
5. Northern Mariana Islands 🇲🇵
6. Hawaii

-Have you visited any of these destinations?

-Which one would you like to visit?

10/05/2021

Ready to visit Belize Central America 🇧🇿?? Check out this new Marriott property in San Pedro! Alaia Belize is a 155-unit complex operating as the first true four diamond resort on Ambergris Caye.

Alaia Belize officially opening its doors today as the FIRST Marriott International resort in Belize, under the Autograph Collection.

05/05/2021

Planning a trip to Jamaica? Here’s an update to their COVID curfew:

As of this weekend, the prime minister said, the curfew will begin 6:00 pm on Saturday and at 2:00 pm on Sunday and will end at 5:00 am the following day.

For Labour Day, which will be celebrated on Monday, May 24 this year, Holness said there will be an all-day curfew. He said on May 23 the curfew will begin at 2:00 pm, continue all day on Monday and end at 5:00 am on Tuesday.

Holness also noted that the curfew hours for weekdays will remain at 8:00 pm to 5:00 am and will end on June 3 at 5:00 am.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced adjustments to the weekend ...

13/04/2021

Check out these gems!

01/04/2021

The state of Quintana Roo enacts NEW TAX for all tourists (includes cities of Cancun, Cozumel, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen).

Beginning with departures on April 1, 2021, all foreign tourists will be required to pay a tax in the amount of approximately $10 to $11 USD per passenger depending on the exchange rate. Payments for families and groups can be made in one single transaction.

Payments can made online at http://visitax.gob.mx/, or at the airport prior to departure at kiosks that accept cash. If guests choose to pay online, they will need to provide the number of people traveling, name, age and passport number of each individual, and their departure date.

Tourists departing the state of Quintana Roo must show their proof of payment at the airport prior to boarding.

The new tax was designed to pay for future tourism developments.

24/03/2021

News you can use 👇🏾

🧪🩸😷 COVID test questions

🚫 no COVID test needed when traveling to Mexico 🇲🇽or Dominican Republic 🇩🇴

☑ COVID test is required when traveling to Hawaii, Aruba 🇦🇼, Bahamas 🇧🇸, Curacao 🇨🇼, Grenada 🇬🇩, Jamaica 🇯🇲, Panama 🇵🇦, St. Martin 🇸🇽, Turks and Caicos 🇹🇨

⚠️ Also, many hotels offer free COVID test before returning to the USA 🇺🇸

15/03/2021

Planning a trip to Mexico in the near future? Check this article out!

Beginning April 1, international visitors to the state of Quintana Roo which includes Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum will begin paying a new tourist tax.

International visitors to the Mexican State of Quintana Roo must pay a new tourist tax beginning on April 1, 2021.

21/02/2021

Are you ready to travel yet wondering which countries are reopening?? Check out the article below before planning your next getaway.

Editor’s note: This post was last updated on Feb. 18, 2021 with new information. Coronavirus has us frozen in place for the most part and dreaming of when we can start booking travel again. In the meantime, we’ve been doing a lot of stories at The Points Guy about what those dream trips look lik...

16/02/2021

18/01/2021

American Airlines will make its mobile health passport service available to all customers entering the U.S. beginning Jan. 23!

The carrier will make Verifly, its mobile health passport service, available to all customers entering the U.S. beginning Jan. 23.