Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Planners: Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Kavonda Rogers

How To Travel With Your Wedding Dress

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How To Travel With Your Wedding Dress

Celebrating your wedding in your dream destination is beyond magical. The music when you walk down the aisle, the touch of silky linen on your skin, and the smell of freshly picked flowers while you are in your wedding dress will make your fairytale dreams come true.

However, one major struggle of destination wedding brides is ensuring that they don’t damage their wedding dress while travelling. So, we put together tips that will help you ensure that the most important dress of your life will stay beautiful on your big day even while you travel.

Check them out here:

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Choose a wrinkle-free fabric.

Wrinkles on cloth will always be untidy to look at. For your wedding dress, choose a wrinkle-free fabric like tulle. It is lightweight, soft, and it still keeps its shape. Also, if tulle will have slight wrinkles, a bit of steam will straighten back the fabric. Lace and crepe can also be your other option since fold lines go well with these kinds of cloths.

Don't put your dress inside a suitcase.

Folding your dress inside a piece of luggage will not give you peace of mind, especially if you check-in your luggage. Always think that things might not go well, and you don’t want your dress to be stained, damaged, or worse get lost with your baggage.

Take Your Gown as a carry-on

Carry-on is the best option for your problem. You can lay your dress on top of the baggage in the overhead compartment or ask a flight attendant to hang it inside their closet. Make sure that you cover the dress with a garment bag to protect it from stains and thread runs.

Related: 8 Reasons to Have a Destination Wedding

Buy an airline ticket for your dress

Yes, you heard it right! You can buy a spare seat for your dress if you want to ensure that it stays in shape throughout your boarding. You can also make use of the extra baggage count that goes with the ticket for your dress.

However, if your budget won’t permit this option, you can always try and push your luck. Ask a flight attendant if there is a place or even an empty seat where you can lay your dress flat.

Give it extra care during ground travel.

When riding a car to your destination, make sure that you place your dress in the trunk without crumpling it. It is suggested that the dress rests on top of the luggage. Better yet place it on your lap or the empty seat next to your if there’s any.

Bring a hand steamer and a sewing kit.

Your sewing kit can save you from ruining your big day because of snagged threads and other things that might go wrong with the fabric. Despite the precautions you made on your travel, it is normal for your dress to still have wrinkles. If you have a handy cloth steamer with you, a crumpled garment will not be a problem.

Call and give the airline and resort a heads-up about your dress.

Never forget to tell them that you have a wedding dress with you. Some airlines give special service for passengers who have fragile or valuable luggage. If you don’t have any portable steamer with you, you can contact the hotel management beforehand if they have a press and steam service for your gown.

Just follow these 7 tips on How to Travel with Your Wedding Dress, and you’ll never go wrong. So, are you ready to travel to your dream destination wedding?  If so; let Honeymoons and Vacations by Vonda help you get started on your wedding planning journey.  

 

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How & When to Send Destination Wedding Invitations

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How & When to Send Destination Wedding Invitations

The preparations for a destination wedding can be quite different from the usual. This type of marriage needs intense planning to avoid missing the critical details, from choosing the perfect venue, reception, theme, guests and in sending the invites.

Getting the correct timing and ways to send invites for a destination wedding is crucial. You have to be meticulous and on point in doing it. You don’t want to miss out on any beloved guests and give them ample time to prepare for your big day.

With the amount of things to do, it is essential to keep them organized and laid out. So, here are 5 essential steps to follow in sending destination wedding invites:

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Establish Your Personal Website

Creating a personal website is helpful in terms of communication. Establish a personal website where you can update your guests regarding important dates, locations, dress codes, and other essential details. 

A personal website makes communication a lot easier and faster. Ensure that you make this as soon as you finalize the wedding date and destination. This will give your guests time to prepare and clear out their schedule for your wedding day.

Related: Perfect Destination Wedding Invites

Send Your Save The Date Cards

When you decide to have a destination wedding, months or a year before the big day, you should have already sent your Save the Date cards. This is the point where your final date, location, and guests are all laid out. You can utilize your website to save the date or opt for the traditional mailing of save the date cards to your guests. 

Save the date cards should be informative. Opt for a fresh and straightforward design that would not contrast with your overall wedding theme. Include all the important details like the wedding date, location, and the URL of your website. 

Related: How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

Provide Constant Updates On Your Website

Update your website from time to time to keep your guests in check with changes in the essential details. This will also signify that your website is active and that your guests can rely on it for communication.

Send The Formal Invitation

The fourth step is sending your formal and in paper wedding invitation. By this time, guests already have a solid foundation for your wedding details from the website and save the date cards. Invitations should be sent 2-3 months before your wedding.

Your formal wedding invitation is a symbol of your warm invite to your chosen guests. Make sure to transmit the feeling of love and connection through your invitations. The overall design and layout will speak volumes to those who will receive it. Incorporate your theme and fresh colors that will take part in the unification of your love. 

Set Your RSVP Deadline

It is vital to set the deadline beforehand of your RSVP to confirm the total guests that will be attending. Align the period that would not overlap any important dates in your preparation. The deadline for an RSVP depends on the corresponding deadlines of other matters in your preparations.

Ensure to give a good 4-6 week time for guests to decide. The layout for your RSVP is also essential. It should have straightforward queries and answers you need from your guests. Have it simple and can be included in your formal wedding invitation.

Committing to someone for better and for worse is life-changing. You do not want your special day to have an epic turn of events, especially if it is a destination wedding. Following the provided steps, you are guaranteed to be a step closer to your dream wedding.

Destination wedding invites are a part of the whole conceptualizing and actualization process of your big day. It is a reflection of your dedication and the effort you put in to achieve the best. Show your guest how your wedding means to you through your invites. With the help of the great artists from minted, your wedding invites are guaranteed to be as beautiful as the love you share with your partner.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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8 Reasons To Say Yes To A Destination Wedding

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8 Reasons To Say Yes To A Destination Wedding

There is something unique and wondrous about celebrating the union of love in a foreign place. A destination wedding will answer your call for uniqueness and adventure on your special day. Share the fun and love together with your guests and partner with the various activities your chosen destination offers.

The sky’s the limit for all the things and sceneries you can witness, making your special day one for the books. If you are still looking for reasons why you should opt for a destination wedding, then we have laid it out for you.

Here are 8 reasons why you should say yes to a destination wedding:

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Escape The Ordinary

A breath of fresh air, new sights and uniqueness are some of the many things a destination wedding will bring you. Give your relationship a treat and experience a ceremony that you will remember for the rest of your lives as a couple.

Go out of your comfort zone, and you will see the exciting things a different place will give you. A wedding is a once in a lifetime experience that should be exceptional, and this is your chance to do that when you decide to opt for a destination wedding.

Related: How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

Get Away From The Hustle and Bustle Of The City

The hustle and bustle of the city can be quite exhausting. Taking the time to celebrate your special day in a place where there is peace and serenity will be worth it. Explore sites that offer the breath of fresh air you need that lacks in your highly urbanized home.

Realize the value of privacy

Destination Wedding by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Having your wedding in an unfamiliar place where you have limited acquaintances will highlight your privacy. If you are a person that gives high value to this, then you should consider holding a destination wedding.

Be intimate with your invited family and friends, away from the stressful crowd in your hometown. Destination weddings will set boundaries and limitations you crave in the traditional kind of wedding. 

Related: More Destination Wedding Tips

You can control the guest list

Most destination weddings are held in a foreign place, away from your hometown. With this, you can limit your guests and be intimate with each one of them. Limited guests also mean fewer expenses and the controllable crowd.

Discover New Culture And Destinations

Explore the wonders of your chosen destination, where you can enjoy the sight and learn new things about other cultures—a definite win-win situation for you and your guests. You will have the time of your lives and give yourselves the best intangible souvenir from your wedding.

Bond With Your Guests Through Various Activities

There are a lot of destination weddings celebrated in islands and beach resorts. This comes with multiple activities you can enjoy with your guests and will enable you to create a deeper connection with them. 

The bond that you will share with your partner extends to the special people in your lives. Your wedding will not be a one-day event, but several days of enjoyment and bonding. 

Enables you to save time and money

Contrary to popular belief, planning a destination wedding is more manageable and less stressful than a traditional one. Some resorts offer numerous designed packages that will help you have the best wedding in a beautiful place and inclusive of all the things you need. 

From the things you need before, during and after the ceremony will all be laid out for you. This will save you some time and money, taking you away from the hassle of the nits and bits of the planning process. All you need to do is enjoy your mini-vacation and special day.

Make Your Wedding The Most Memorable

Destination Wedding by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

What is more special than having to share your union of love in front of your close family and friends? Celebrating it in a place that holds an essential part in your relationship. It could be your dream destination, where you met each other or somewhere that makes you feel that your love can conquer everything. 

Saying ‘I do’ matters more when you say it in front of the people you treasure and to your soul mate. Planning a destination wedding can be hectic and includes a lot of pressure especially if you don’t know its basics. But with our help, you can ensure that your dream destination wedding will come true.

Contact us if you need help in making that dream wedding come to life.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, and the Caribbean.

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How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

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How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

Destination weddings make one of the most important days of a couple even more special. Whether it be by the beach at sunset, or in a popular tourist spot, every detail should be flawless and picture-perfect.

There are many good ways to make a dream destination wedding possible. It can be as stress-free as it can be with the right destination wedding specialist. There can be several travel agents that can help you with this, but choosing the best is something couples should pay great attention to.

Here are five steps in choosing the best wedding planner:

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Get to know them

As the famous line goes, “First impressions are lasting impressions.” This is also true when choosing a wedding planner. You must get to know them well because you will be working with them for a year or more.

When choosing a wedding planner, they need to have the same vision and goals as you and your future spouse. You must also make sure that they are as professional and can help you put your dream wedding together.

Never book an agent without any form of consultation – whether it be face-to-face or through a video call.

Related: Honeymoon Planning Tips

Know their communication channels

Destination Wedding Planning by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

It is essential to know how an agent makes himself/herself available. Phone and email are two common ways to communicate. However, other details you need assistance when making decisions like color inspirations cannot be made through the mentioned ways.

See to it that they can also speak to you through video conferencing to keep in touch, especially when important decisions are needed to be made. As a hands-on bride, it is best to work with an agent who has multiple communication channels.

Related: 10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the USA

Are they a specialist in your destination?

Different agents specialize in various destinations. It is best to pick someone who spent some time getting to know a few areas well so they can give you the answers to your questions and give you what you need.

Looking into their social media accounts and website can also help make sure that they are aligned with your destination. If you are looking at a wedding in Bora Bora, but their constant postings are about the Cathedrals in Italy, you should look for someone that has more experience in planning your preferred destination.

Look into their experience.

Experience is indeed the best teacher, which makes it essential to choose a destination wedding planner who has spent a long time in the industry. Working with a professional destination wedding planner who has a well-rounded background will make the planning process more manageable.

Make sure to pick an agent who has exposure to your destination of any sort. This can either be through classes or first-hand travel – or even both.

do they have time to service your needs?

Some wedding planners accept multiple bookings per year. This can affect their availability for a consultation and prevent them from tending your needs and guests. On the other hand, too few weddings can also reflect how they have been doing in the industry.

Wedding planners with 3 to 5 weddings a year might be overextending themselves. Choose a destination wedding planner who can give you time during the entire duration of the planning process.

Follow this guide and start planning the destination wedding of your dreams. Let  Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda help you put your wedding visions into reality.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in US

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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the US

After having the perfect wedding to start a beautiful, loving marriage you and your partner are looking forward to, you deserve the best romantic honeymoon. The location you choose should fit the type of people you and your partner are. To help you with your search, we listed below 10 of the best honeymoon destinations in the U.S.

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Upstate New York

Honeymoons destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

If you are having a fall wedding then Upstate New York is the best location for you.  During the fall there is nothing better than driving the scenic highways and watching the beautiful changing of the leaves.  New York is also a great option if you love wine. Upstate New York is known for its wineries, and you must try the Apple wine.  

Must see locations: McGregor Vineyard, Yaddo Gardens Artists’ Community and Letchworth State Park

Maui, Hawaii

Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

It is no wonder lists like this include Maui. The sun, beaches, and lively adventure-filled activities. If you’re an outdoorsy couple, you can ride a helicopter to see an aerial view of the island or go hiking through the trails of Haleakala National Park. You can watch the moving performance of a traditional luau while eating fresh pineapples and other Hawaiian cuisines.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Relax on the west coast of Florida while enjoying the fantastic coastal views. They also have cozy inns and romantic cottages that are a bit secluded from the crowd. You will also enjoy combing for seashells along Bowman Beach.

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai is another paradise destination for adventurous couples. You can go swimming or boogie boarding at Kalapaki Beach. If the weather is good, you may also go kayaking on the river of Garden Island. Kauai doesn’t have a lot of large chain hotels so you can really experience all the island has to offer without the crowds.  

Charleston, South Carolina

Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Laden with the charming old Southern-style architecture, this quaint little place is perfect for honeymoon goers. Enjoy a ride on a horse-drawn carriage to see the beauty of the city.

Must See Locations: Colonial Houses and Harbour Ferry

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Stay in one of their romantic lodges, which have soaking tubs and fireplaces where you can snuggle with your partner. You can also enjoy a walk in the Ecola State Park and visit the Hug Point State Recreation Site for its caves and waterfalls.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Enjoy a relaxing time at the Granite Hot Springs after a whole day of skiing or hiking. This destination is perfect for couples who prefer the woodlands over beachside locations. If you have time, take a ride on one of their hot air balloons.

Savannah, Georgia

Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

If I had to chose a US honeymoon location Savannah would be at the top of my list.  Savannah is one of my favorite cities and the best part is that it is a walking city.  You can easily navigate the downtown area by walking. Savannah is full of culture since it is America’s first city.  Don’t miss a boat ride at the riverfront.  You will also may want to cross the bridge and visit Hilton Head or go to the beach at Tybee Island.   

Related: Jamaica Honeymoon

These are just a few of the best honeymoon destinations in the US. If you’re ready to book your honeymoon getaway, let us help you! Contact us for more information and other inquiries.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico and the Caribbean.

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Must Visit Places in Spain

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Must Visit Places in Spain

With towering classic architecture wonders, beautiful Mediterranean beaches, and a tapestry of cultures, there’s no wonder Spain belongs to the top destinations in Europe. From the medieval streets of Toledo to the Moorish arches of the Cordoba’s Great Mosque, Spain truly is a country full of life and vibrant energy.

If you have a hard time deciding which places in these beautiful cities you’ll want to visit, we compiled a list of top destinations in Spain. Check it out:

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Tenerife

Must Visit Places in Spain by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Located off the coast of West Africa, one can easily distinguish Tenerife by its beaches, mountain peaks, and amazing landscapes. Mount Teide is the highest peak in all of Spain, which is in the Teide National Park. If you love natural land formations of craters and other geological wonders, visit Tenerife!

Seville

Must Visit Places in Spain by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Swing to the beat of flamenco music in this city! Seville is the capital city of Andalusia and is the center of flamenco in Spain. You can find performances in the town that showcases the culture of the dance full of drama and passion. You will also love a trip to Real Alcazar, one of the well-preserved architecture marvels in Seville. 

The Prado and Paseo del Artes

Must Visit Places in Spain by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Ranking among the top museums across the world, The Prado is home to several art collections. It houses art from the 12th century until the 20th century. This museum is known for its works by Velazquez, El Greco, and Goya – artists from the Golden Era of Spain.

You should also visit other top-ranking museums along with Paseo del Artes – Reina Sofia Art Museum, Caixa Forum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum for a complete experience.

These are few of the destinations you can visit in Spain. No matter what you’re looking for depending on the kind of traveler you are, Spain will always have something for you. Just by walking along its street and visiting their museums, you’ll realize Spain is the perfect balance of rich history and an energetic present.

Related: Best Things to Do in Croatia

Hopefully, you will add Spain to your travel bucket list. If you have been to Spain let me know in the comments below.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.

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Things to Do in Hawaii

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Things to Do in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of those destinations where people assume it is one location when it is really several location.  Hawaii has 8 main islands.  The most popular are Oahu (Honolulu), Maui and the Big Island.  Each of these areas are different and unique and provide a different travel experience.  So, don’t let your anniversary trip to Honolulu make you scratch off going to Maui in the future.  Trust me they are nothing alike.  Let’s dive into the best things to do in Hawaii.

This Central Pacific archipelago includes hundreds of islands and a diverse range of activities to partake in.  With huge waves, volcanoes and an interesting culture, Hawaii will keep you busy and entertained.  These are eight top things to enjoy while visiting the beautiful atoll.

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Whale Watching

Things do to in Hawaii by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

The ‘Big Island’ is the most popular destination for whale watching in Hawaii.  The peak season to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales is from January to March.  You have the option to view via a cruise or private boat tour.

Luaus

Things to Do in Hawaii by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Luaus are traditional ceremonies are a major source of entertainment on all islands within Hawaii.  Take the opportunity to enjoy live dancing, learn about Hawaiian as well as Polynesian culture and enjoy a delectable cuisine.

See a Lava Show

Hop aboard a World class catamaran to get up and close to the volcano fingers as they enter the sea.  You will have thoroughly trained staff aboard and safety is paramount.  You can select from a tour in the morning, sunset, day or twilight tour.

Related: Hawaii Honeymoon Guide

Helicopter Tours

There are various tour lines that offer unique aerial journeys that allow you to view the breathtaking Hawaiian scenery.  From volcanoes and waterfalls to hidden valleys and majestic coastlines.  A helicopter tour is truly an ideal way to sightsee.

SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding)

Things to do in Hawaii by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

This activity originated in Hawaii and is a derivative from surfing.  SUP is soothing and allows you to explore the waterways on your own terms.  A great paddle path to take is from the Lanakai Beach to the Mokulua islands.

Horseback Riding Tours

Explore the coastline or venture to hidden trails on an exploratory horseback tour.  Most companies offer private as well as group tours.  There are countless ranches and stables that accommodate tourists.  Paniolo Adventures is one of the largest, with an 11,000-acre cattle ranch located in Waimea.

Mauna Kea

Things to do in Hawaii by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

This dormant volcano is a unique wonder to explore and erupted over 4,000 years ago.  You can hike the summit but be sure to stop by the VIS (Visitor Information Station) to check for weather and safety tips.

Kona Coffee Farm Tour

Kona coffee is some of the best gourmet coffee that you can find and is world-renowned.  Kailua Kona, which is located on the ‘Big Island’, is the heart of Kona coffee.  When taking a coffee tour, you will get to see processing facilities as well as the coffee fields.  Don’t forget to take some time to indulge in the popular beverage.

Grab your gear and take charge of your getaway with these great suggestions that will be sure to make your experience fascinating.

I can’t wait to hear from you. 

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

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Things To Do in Antigua

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Things to Do in Antigua

Antigua is an often-over-looked island in the Caribbean.  Yet, the same island has so much to offer.  During my visit I found it to be an island with fewer tourists than most places in the Caribbean.  So, if you are interested in exploring a new place in the Caribbean consider Antigua. 

Antigua is situated in the Caribbean east, southeast of St. Kitts and north of Guadeloupe and Dominica. It is a picturesque island that people dream of visiting when they fantasize about a Caribbean getaway. Antigua is categorized by its beautiful ocean views and turquoise blue waters. What most people don’t realize is that there is a lot more to this island than just the beaches.

There are beautiful beaches of places like Half Moon Bay, Dickenson Bay, Galley Bay, and Valley Church. These are just the right places to enjoy sunbathing, water sports with the family, swimming, and snorkeling fun, but there is so much more to do.

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Betty’s Hope

Things to Do in Antigua by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Betty’s Hope was the first and the most abundant sugar plantation on the island of Antigua. It stands as a reminder of the role that Antigua played in the British Colonial Era. It was a plantation that helped Britain generate considerable wealth in the Caribbean.

Established in 1674, it was named for the daughter of one of the former owners. The comprehensive visitor’s center and museum educate tourists on the daily lives of slaves on this plantation. It also offers a way to step back into the past and understand Antigua’s rich history.

St. John’s Saturday Morning Market

Things to Do in Antigua by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

St. John is the capital of Antigua and is the center of island life on Saturday mornings. This market draws in vendors from all over the island and provides a wonderful place for tourists to spend time. This market is a beautiful reflection of Antigua. You can get in touch with the locals, their incredible culture, and their fun way of life.

Nelson’s Dockyard National Park and Shirley Heights

Nelson’s Dockyard, located in English Harbor, served the British Naval Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). It also served as the headquarters for Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson from 1784-1787. The area is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, shops, and even a museum where you can spend a fantastic day out in Antigua.

Shirley Heights is a great hike that you can take from the Dockyard. Shirley Heights is just under 500 feet above sea level, and the summit of this hike allows for views of Guadeloupe island and the active volcanic island of Montserrat, both located just to the south. It is also a prime spot for a great Sunday night party at the Shirley Heights Lookout Bar and Restaurant. For more nightlife fun head to Falmouth and English Harbors.

With a wide selection of markets, shops, and restaurants to tour while in Antigua, this island filled with rich colonial history offers plenty of activities away from the beach. Be sure to check out each of these great locations like I did. 

Related: Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Hopefully, you will add Antigua to your travel bucket list. If you have been to Antigua let me know in the comments below.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.

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