Aug 13

Traveling by plane is actually getting cheaper, say the Grupo Mayan experts in the travel industry, and with the rising gas prices and the economy crisis less people are traveling by plane, so the ticket prices are going down.  However, the cost of luggage storage is on the rise because the airlines are feeling the crunch and so they have decided to start charging per checked bag.  You used to be allowed to have 2 checked bags along with your carry-on at no additional charge at least most airlines offered this.

Now, most airlines are charging a per-bag charge for checked luggage.  So in order to save yourself some time and money, this article is going to provide you with tips that will allow you to fit everything into a carry-on that will suffice you for a 10 day trip or less.

Packing is all about being prepared and coordinated.  You can fit a lot of things into a carry-on that is 26î or less you just have to go about it the right way.  One of the first things that Grupo Mayan experts recommend is having a small travel case that will accommodate all of your toiletries and keep them compacted so that it will save room in your carry-on.

Even if you are a style guru, when you are traveling you can easily maintain your style with sticking to the 3-color rule, black, white and navy.  With these colors they are mix and match and you can fit more into your bag by sticking with the primaries.  Make sure you have 3 pairs of shoes including the ones you are wearing.

If you are traveling with a coat or plan to take one just in case, do not pack it, say the Grupo Mayan experts.  Even if it is just a heavier sweater, do not put it in your carry on.  You can wear it onto the plane or just carry it.  This will save a lot of space in your carry-on.

Pack only the items that you know you are going to need because you can buy other dispensable stuff when you get there, say the Grupo Mayan pros.  In fact, you might just want to wait to get your toiletries at your destination.  Replace your toiletry bag with something else or a medicine bag instead if you need one.

You will be amazed at how much room you can save when you only take the things it is likely that you will need and purchase disposable items when you get to your destination, say the Grupo Mayan experts, so you do not have to worry about packing them to return home.

Aug 7

Packing always seems to be the biggest struggle for most people.  It can be a daunting task because you do not want to overload yourself, but at the same time you do not want to forget anything.  Some people, say the Grupo Mayan experts, fall at one or the other end of the spectrum and some of us fall somewhere in the middle.  It is always a great idea to sit down before you drag out the suitcases or luggage and make a packing list.  This way, you are less likely going to forget what it is that is important to you for this trip and believe it or not, it does prevent over-packing as well.  Sometimes packing can be compared to shopping because we have the impulsive packers.  You might even be an impulsive packer if you are someone who is packing and while packing you walk by something that you had not originally intended to take with you and you convince yourself to pack it and most often it is not really anything you need.

The following is in general a packing list that will help you remember everything you absolutely need and try to eliminate the things you do not really need.

Clothes are an obvious item, say the Grupo Mayan experts, unless you plan on visiting those beaches where clothing is optional, most of us are not.  The best thing to do when you are trying to decide what to take with you is to pick out two basic colors, like black and white, or navy and white and then you can pack whatever else might go along with those colors well, mostly every other color of the rainbow, just make sure that you pack 1 outfit per day for going out. Do not forget your loungewear or pajamas so that you can relax when you get back to your hotel room or wherever you are staying.  It would be a good idea to pack at least 3 pairs of shoes including the ones you wear to leave and one should be a business or dress shoe and the other a shoe for handling rugged terrain.  Grupo Mayan experts recommend wearing your comfortable shoes until you get to your destination and you will probably find that you are wearing your comfortable shoes more than the other 2.  Make sure you take plenty of socks and hosiery, pack 2 pair for each day of the trip.  This might be too many but it’s better to have too many here and not enough and they are small and can be squeezed into pockets.

If you feel you must take some accessories, pack a small bag of your accessories such as scarves, inexpensive or costume jewelry, belts, etc.  You can also shove this into a pocket of your luggage, say the Grupo Mayan pros, instead of putting it in the main compartment where your clothes are.

Cosmetics and toiletries are also something to pack but this is an area of compromise.  If you are traveling to a place where you can easily purchase soaps, shampoo, conditioner, shaving items and lotion, leave that stuff at home.  The airlines have strict rules regarding this stuff now, say the Grupo Mayan experts, so why create yourself a headache you do not need.  Cosmetics are expensive so you would not want to purchase those again wherever you go, but once again you can put cosmetics into a small bag and put them in a compartment of a main piece of your luggage, or you can also put them in a Ziploc bag and put them in your purse or carry-on.

Medications, if any, are probably something you should carry with you at all times so make sure those are in your purse or carry-on luggage, say the Grupo Mayan experts.  Any other gear you might need should be able to be packed inside your main luggage bags and checked.

May 21

If you think about it, planning a vacation is great fun.  However, you can easily forget something important, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, when you are trying to leave.  So in order to avoid this, make a list.   Do not wait until the very last minute to decide what to put in your bags.  You will also nee to think about your pets and plants (who will take care of them while you are away).

When you have made up your mind on the dates you want to travel, start looking for the holiday package or the flights and accommodation you will need in order to grab a bargain.  Internet is a good source of great vacation packages, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals.

Once you have chosen your vacation dates, start making that list of all the things you will need for your days away from home.  Don’t forget to include in your list the smallest things (which are the easiest to forget) such as sun block cream, sunglasses, etc.  If you need to take medications either for you or your kids, try to prepare a special bag for them and keep them together and at hand, say the Grupo Mayan experts in traveling.

Next thing to do is to put all your family’s passports and insurance information together in one place.  If you are traveling to some tropical countries you may need immunization records.  If you need to revalidate your passport, make sure you do it with enough time in advance to avoid missing your flights due to late arrivals or any inconvenience that may arise, recommend the Grupo Mayan experts in traveling.

If your children are not coming with you because they are older, then leave all the relevant contact information at hand in case something comes up and they need to get in touch with you.  Make sure to include alternate contacts in case they cannot get in touch with you.  Some cell-phones do not work in other countries so do not rely only on it.  Tell your children what they have to do in case an emergency happens, although the best thing to do would be to have an adult to look after the children while you are away, say the Grupo Mayan experts within the traveling industry.

As mentioned before, the smaller things are the easiest to forget, so make sure you pack, bug spray, band-Aids and extra cash, say the Grupo Mayan experts.

May 13

While planning for your Grupo Mayan holiday, you should spend a bit of time planning what it is that you want to pack. Here are a few tips from the Grupo Mayan travel professionals regarding packing. If you follow these tips your pre- holiday planning will go smoothly.

  • Grupo Mayan travel experts agree that you should place all of the heavy items that you pack on the bottom of your suitcase. Light items should be placed on the very top, slacks and tops should be placed in the middle, and heavy items such as jeans, shoes, and jackets need to be packed on the very bottom with the weight evenly distributed.
  • Grupo Mayan travel professionals say that using separate plastic zip lock baggies for medicine, toiletries, and other items should help keep travel items organized. After all, do you want to sit and dig around for the a tampon or bar of soap?
  • Rolling your clothes will allow them to wrinkle less and it takes up even less room in your suitcase.
  • An extra pair of plastic bags will be great for you to carry your dirty laundry in. When you seal them according to Grupo Mayan travel experts, odors will not be able to seep onto the other clean clothes that you have in the same suitcase. If you put dryer sheets in your suitcase it will smell like clean fresh laundry for your entire trip.
  • Grupo Mayan travel representatives suggest keeping a packing list. First make a list of everything that you need to bring with you. Marking things off as you pack them is an excellent way to keep yourself organized, especially if you are packing for the entire family.
  • You want to make sure that you add all of the chargers that you are going to need to your packing list. This includes chargers for your cell phone, digital camera battery charger, camcorder, or any other electronic that you will more than likely bring on your trip.
  • Depending on how long you plan on staying at the Grupo Mayan Mexican resort, you may need to speak with your doctor about getting an extra prescription to carry with you to the resort. In order to get through customs in Mexico you will have to make sure that everything is in the original bottles with the original labels.

Once you are packed and safely in the air, it won’t be much longer until you are landed in Mexico and being pampered at the luxurious Grupo Mayan resort.

May 11

Grupo Mayan experts believe that whenever you’re packing your clothing that as a woman, if you don’t have the intention of wearing it more than once or twice, don’t pack it. The clothing that you bring should have a complementary usage. Here are some tips that Grupo Mayan travel consultants suggest for women traveling.

Tops: Only bring two t-shirts, two long- sleeved shirts, two short- sleeved shirts. You can hand wash silk garments because it is lightweight and dries quickly.

Shorts and Pants: Dark colors do not show dirt and wrinkles as much as lighter colored material. Grupo Mayan fashion experts recommend getting pants with zip off legs that can convert into shorts. One pair of regular shorts will more than likely be enough. Women in many other cultures do not wear shorts so you might want to grab a pair of Capri pants instead.

Skirts: Grupo Mayan professionals recommend bringing two skirts instead of shorts because they are just as cool and breathable. A lightweight skirt will pack compactly. Anything can go with a skirt, they can be dressed up with heels and a blouse or down with a t-shirt and tennis shoes.

Shoes: Grupo Mayan experts recommend that you bring at least one pair of comfortable tennis shoes. You’ll definitely be walking a lot, especially if this is your first time visiting. For your second pair of shoes consider sandals if it’s in the summer or dark colored flats in the winter. Make sure that before you leave home that you walk a mile or two in new shoes to make sure that they are good and broken in to avoid blisters and discomfort for your entire trip.

Undergarments: Grupo Mayan representatives suggest bringing two bras. Whenever you wear a sports bra, it can double as a small top. Make sure that you pack breathable underwear. You can try silk or stretchy lacey materials that dry much faster than cotton.

Jackets: A neutral colored jacket will match almost anything. Grupo Mayan fashion experts suggest bringing a waterproof jacket as well. These are quite easy to find.

Toiletries: Feminine products are sold everywhere throughout the world, but Grupo Mayan representatives suggest that you figure out how many that you might need to bring with you. If you take time-dosage pills make sure that you consider the time difference. If you’re supposed to take your pills with breakfast remember to take it with lunch or supper instead.

Grupo Mayan experts feel that these tips will help every woman whenever it comes to packing for a trip. They will ease your mind so you’re not worried about your wardrobe but enjoying your holiday.

May 5

Grupo Mayan travel representatives suggest to never be without a pocket-sized spiral-bound notebook and something to write with when you travel in a country that is not English speaking. If you do not understand something that is being said you can always ask someone to write it down, than find an English speaking person to translate for you. This works well whenever you do not understand the price of something or you cannot explain where or what you are looking for.

Grupo Mayan travel experts agree that having music with you can help ease some of your anxieties about travel. An MP3 player is a great thing to have when traveling. This allows you to have you own music in your own language at your fingertips at all times. An MP3 player doesn’t skip when you bounce and there are no moving parts. You can also download multiple books from the Internet to help you sleep on the airplane ride to and from your destination.

Something strange that most people don’t think to pack is a few tea-light candles. After all, you never know what is going to happen. If you travel to Grupo Mayan Mexican resorts, there is always a possibility of the electricity going out in August or September, which is better known as hurricane season. Candles also provide a romantic ambiance.

Grupo Mayan health experts recommend bringing a pedometer that you can clip onto your belt. You will be amazed with how much walking you actually do. These are inexpensive and comfortable. If you walk that much on vacation when it is supposed to be a trip of rest, try to maintain or beat your record once you come home.

Grupo Mayan travel experts recommend bringing along a small empty spray bottle. Whenever you reach the resort and are unpacking your baggage lightly spray your clothing with water and run your hands over the material. This will get out wrinkles and is much cheaper than buying those spray on wrinkle removers. You can use this same method whenever you’re not traveling as well. The spray bottle can double as instant air conditioner in hot climates by just spraying your face and body.

Last but not least if you have baggage that you plan on checking, bring a corkscrew. It is much cheaper to buy a bottle of wine and spend a romantic evening in (remember the candles) than going to the Grupo Mayan Mexican resort restaurant and drinking glass after glass.

May 4

Grupo Mayan travel experts feel that if your goal is to travel lightly, you need to limit yourself to only one twenty pound carry on bag. This will be able to fit underneath your airplane seat. With only one bag, you are able to continue to be mobile and in control. Grupo Mayan travel consultants realize that the concept of only packing a 9”x22”x14” bag is a radical one, but they also want you to realize that you’re going to walk more than you think with your luggage. After you learn the joy of freedom with your mobility, you’ll be thankful of the Grupo Mayan travel expert’s advice and never pack more than one bag again.

Grupo Mayan travel representatives know that if you are carrying your own luggage, the chances of it getting broken, stolen, or lost are much less than if you get it checked. After all, how many times have you heard horror stories about luggage being sent to the wrong airport across the country?

Grupo Mayan travel experts feel that your small carry on can sit under the seat or in your lap on the airplane, tax, or bus so you don’t have to worry about it. Isn’t that a good feeling? Instead of having to wait on your luggage, you can already be halfway to your hotel, possibly several hours before the rest of the crew.

Grupo Mayan knows that these days carrying your own bag can also save you money. Now a day some airlines will charge you up to fifty dollars if you decide to check more than one bag.

Pack smart and pack light. Grupo Mayan travel experts want to remind you that you are not allowed to bring anything that could be considered dangerous including: box cutters, knives or lighters. If you bring any of these things you will end up having to check your bag. Carry-ons are continually being tightened in their restrictions and people are more than likely to check their bags.

Grupo Mayan traveling experts say that packing light isn’t just about packing an overnight bag, it’s all about your traveling lifestyle. Grupo Mayan professionals suggest that you practice by carrying your luggage around the block. If it’s too much of a struggle, go back home and lighten the load. Remember, the goal is to be in control while you’re mobile.

Apr 17

The Internet and the use of computers have definitely provided a significant boost to the travel industry, just like what we experience here in Grupo Mayan resorts. On top of the corporate websites that resorts, hotels and travel destinations have, online travel agencies and travel companies abound.

According to Grupo Mayan travel experts, these online sources provide online bookings that can make availing travel packages as convenient as possible. These resources also provide information regarding travel destinations that could be of great value to travelers searching for the best deals.

While booking online is one of the most convenient ways of getting the best vacation travel deals at the click of a button, waiting until the last minute before booking can give you more savings. According to Grupo Mayan experts, discounted rates are offered during this last minute bookings, and these discounts can even be more substantial during weekdays than availing them on weekends. There are several websites and online travel companies that provide amazing offers with last minute travel deals. Doing a little bit of searching online can lead you to several travel treasures and plenty of options.

Why are these last minute travel deals cheap?

According to our Grupo Mayan experts, the reason for this is that airlines and even hotels wants to fill up all available vacancies and would be willing to offer discounts when taken during the last minute. The discounts they provide would work well for them, instead of letting the spare capacity and vacancies go to waste.

Are these last minute travel deals always economic?

While most last minute travel offers offer big discounts, some offers remain expensive. Deals that provide the biggest discounts are on resorts and destinations with a large spare capacity. Other places that are hot destinations and have little spare places are always expensive.

The season is also a factor, according to Grupo Mayan experts. Booking last minute deals before New Year will not give you cheap deals. Several other travelers like you are also waiting in line and are eager to grab any opening regardless of price. Such last minute deals may even be more expensive than discounted.

In addition, last minute travel deals are usually accorded to tourist destinations that are not hot spots, and you may end up in a place that no one goes to visit. Well, it you like solitude and privacy this deal may be the ideal vacation. However, if you are after quality vacation inclusive of amenities, the best in food and accommodation just like what we have here in Grupo Mayan resorts, ending up with a last minute travel deal like this may not be for you.

When going on vacation travels, particularly of you availed of last minute deals, our Grupo Mayan staff recommends proper preparation for medication and health related items be addressed. Visit your doctors prior to leaving. Prepare travelerís checks and credit cards and be ready to pack your bags, which can be pulled out in the last minute.

Mar 20

Chances are you may have passed when offered travel insurance in the past. However, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, this type of insurance makes sense, especially in today´s world. Travel insurance offers both trip cancellation insurance and assistance in case there is an emergency. The Grupo Mayan travel professionals have some quick tips on determining the best type of travel insurance for your needs.

The first step, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, is to see what you already have. Look at the insurance coverage you already have to see if it covers medical emergencies while you are traveling, lost luggage, or cancelled flights.

According to the Grupo Mayan travel professionals you should also consider the type of travel insurance you need. This is mostly determined by where you will be traveling. If you are traveling to an unstable area you may feel that you need terrorism insurance or you may need insurance that covers emergency medical evacuations for trips to remote locations. Each different type of coverage you add will affect the cost of the policy. Consider your age, your state of health, and other pertinent factors when determining the type of coverage you need for your trip.

Once you have decided on a policy make sure it includes everything you have deemed necessary before purchasing. You can either have a travel agent purchase a policy for you or you can shop for coverage online say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals. The Internet has a great variety of travel insurance companies to satisfy all of your needs. Most Internet web sites that offer travel insurance policies will have you covered in as fast as 24 hours.

The Grupo Mayan travel professionals warn you to make sure the policy you purchase comes with a 24 hour, person operated, and emergency hotline. In case of an emergency you want to be able to talk to a real person and get answers fast.

There are several basic kinds of travel insurance for you to choose from. According to the Grupo Mayan pros the most effective types of insurance are:

  • Lost baggage insurance
  • Medical insurance for international locations
  • Medical evacuations
  • Accidental death and dismemberment
  • Remains return
  • Travel benefits for the entire family

A good travel insurance policy will help you rest better say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals. Enjoy your vacation without having to sweat the small stuff by purchasing insurance for your next holiday.

Mar 18

The Grupo Mayan Mexican resorts offer guests hundreds of activities to choose from. Daily activities include water sports, horseback riding, fishing, and touring the local area and ruins. Nighttime fun includes elegant or casual dinners and entertainment. Packing for all of these activities can be overwhelming. The Grupo Mayan travel professionals have some great packing tips for packing a lot into one suitcase.

Current airline regulations have cut down the number of bags each passenger is allowed to carry. Packing smartly is more important than ever. According to the Grupo Mayan travel professionals whether you are going away for a quick weekend trip or a longer holiday you will always want to pack more than your suitcase can hold. Learning how to pack efficiently will make your packing easier and less stressful.

There are two basic packing methods suggested by the Grupo Mayan travel professionals. The first method involves rolling your clothing. To begin, lay your clothing out on a flat surface. For items with sleeves or legs you should fold them into the garment so they do not hang out when rolled. Fold the item of clothing in two lengthwise.  For large items you can fold them into thirds.

After you folded the item, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, start at one end and roll the garment up away from you. The Grupo Mayan travel experts urge you to roll the garment as tight as possible as this will allow more room for packing other items.

Continue rolling each item of clothing. Once you are done, place the tightly rolled garments in your suitcase. It will be incredible, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, how much you will be able to fit in your suitcase.

The second packing method suggested by the Grupo Mayan travel experts is the bag method. For this method you will need either plastic bags or Space Bags. To pack using regular plastic bags you will place your garments in the bag and seal. Leave a small opening at one end of the seal. Insert a straw and remove any air in the bag. This trick, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, will remove excess air from the bag and make it smaller for packing.

To use a space bag, say the Grupo Mayan travel professionals, you will use the same procedure. Space bags come with a valve where you can attach a vacuum to suck the air out. Using space bags is the most efficient way to pack.

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