Destination Wedding Highlight

Whether it be on a secluded beach, a chapel overlooking Cinderella’s castle or a high-end hotel in Las Vegas, destination weddings are becoming more and more popular with brides and grooms nationwide.  One of the benefits of having a destination wedding is getting everyone together in a unique place. Not only is the environment picturesque, but it can also cost less than a conventional wedding if planned properly.  Here are some of our most popular wedding destinations:

A Mexican Fiesta
Weddings in Mexico have become increasingly popular. Not only is the scenery perfect for a dream beach wedding, but it’s also an economical option. Competitive airfare options, all-inclusive packages and great hotel rates will make your dream wedding stress free.  Many resorts offer onsite wedding coordinators as well to help you with all of your planning and necessary paperwork. Riviera Maya and Cancun are popular for wedding parties with guests of all ages, while Los Cabos and Cozumel are more appropriate for a quiet, romantic escape. Puerto Vallarta is ideal for sophisticated couples who delight in beautiful architecture and a thriving art scene.

Weddings “Caribbean Style”
With its turquoise waters, constant warm weather and idyllic settings, there’s no wonder why the Caribbean is the most popular wedding locale outside the U.S. The local governments are much more accommodating to non-residents looking to get married than some other destinations. Couples who fill out their paperwork in advance can get married as soon as the next day on some islands.  Jamaica, St.Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas are the top islands couples visit to tie the knot. The Sandals and Beaches Resorts offer ultimate luxury-included packages, which in most cases can include your wedding. They also have exclusive Preston Bailey wedding packages available at an upgrade that will make your wedding everything you imagined and more.

Say “I Do” in Hawaii
Hawaii is one of the top places for a destination wedding because it combines the convenience of being in the states with the exotic beauty of the South Pacific. There are no waiting periods or tests required to get married here. Since it is such a popular destination for weddings, most hotels have onsite wedding coordinators to make sure your special day goes smoothly. The endless beaches and lush landscape are also top reasons to make Hawaii your destination choice. You can get married next to a magnificent waterfall, botanical garden, quaint chapel, secluded beach or even a seaside cliff. Classic Hawaiian touches such as flower leis, tiki torches and hula dancers will add a unique touch to your wedding.

Closer to Home
A desitnation wedding  doesn’t have to involve a long flight across the ocean. Las Vegas, America’s wedding capital, hosts hundreds of weddings a day. Here you can keep it as simple as an intimate gathering in one of the many chapels or host an all-out bash in one of the city’s prestigious hotels. Almost anything is possible here. For a more “fairytale” setting, exchange vows in a chapel overlooking  Cinderella’s castle at Orlando’s Walt Disney World® Resort or walk down the aisle at any of the three Disneyland® Resort Hotels in Southern California followed by a reception at Disney’s California Adventure® Park.

Though a destination wedding can be a great way to start your lives together, be prepared to have all the necessary documents ready in advance. Each destination will have different requirements and paperwork that will need to be completed before you can be eligible for marriage. Check ahead to see what you will need to provide to the local government.

Get Away Today will make your destination wedding a reality. Book online or call (866)FUN-TRIP (386-8747) to start planning the wedding of your dreams.

Check Out Our New Website

If you thought www.getawaytoday.com was cool before... wait until you see it now!  We've updated our site with a completely new look, new features, and more information than ever before!  We hope you'll enjoy exploring our site with a fun feel, more information about our company, and, of course, new travel information on all of our hot destinations like the Disneyland® Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, SeaWorld San Diego, Hawaii, and more.  Take a few minutes and play around.  You may just end up booking your next Get Away Today vacation!

Holiday Gift Ideas That Are Sure to Delight

With the holidays right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning your holiday vacation. This holiday season give your loved ones something truly unforgettable… the gift of quality time and experiences together!  Get Away Today offers vacation packages to the most popular vacation destinations guaranteed to bring your family together.

Take your family to experience Holidays at the Disneyland® Resort for memories that will last a lifetime!  Enchantment and wonder abound at the Merriest Celebration on Earth taking place November 21, 2008 through January 4, 2009.  Seasonal events and attractions are available only at this most magical time of the year.  We offer FREE night specials, amazing savings on Disneyland® Resort Park Hopper® Tickets and two Magic Morning early entries with each 3-Day or longer Disneyland® Resort Park Hopper® Ticket purchased!

San Diego is a perfect family destination with beautiful weather, fantastic accommodations, and countless attractions for families of all ages and interests.  SeaWorld and other local attractions provide special festivities only available during holiday season.  Two night packages start at just $289* and already include 2 adult 1-Day SeaWorld Tickets!

Mele Kalikimaka really is the thing to say this holiday season!  Imagine spending your holidays on white sand instead of shoveling white snow with a family vacation to Hawaii.  Get Away Today’s hot deals to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island make your Hawaiian vacation affordable.

Availability is limited and specials are going quickly!  Book your family’s gift today!  Get Away Today also offers gift certificates in any amount to be used towards any of our fabulous vacation destinations!  They make the perfect holiday gift!

*Package price is for Days Hotel Hotel Circle during non-peak season dates and does not include $20 handling fee.  Limited availability.  Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply.

Get Away Today's Summer Party

Get Away Today's office will be closing a little early today so all of our employees can celebrate a great summer at our company party.  Our office will be closing at 5:30pm MST, but our website is up and running to help you book your next vacation!  Check out our specials to the Disneyland® Resort, San Diego, Hawaii, Mexico, and more at www.getawaytoday.com.

Important Dates for 2008...Don't Be Late!

Here are some important dates for 2008 to help you plan your Get Away Today vacation!

September 1:  Labor Day

September 26-November 2:  Disney’s HalloweenTime at the Disneyland Resort

October 3-31:  Mickey’s Trick or Treat Party (select nights in Disney's California Adventure)

October 13:  Columbus Day

October 31:  Halloween

November 11: Veterans Day

November 21-January 4, 2009:  Holidays at the Disneyland® Resort

November 27:  Thanksgiving

December 21:  Hanukkah begins at sundown

December 25:  Christmas

Top Five Reasons to Book Your Vacation with Get Away Today

In just 18 years, Get Away Today has helped over 2 million people enjoy vacations to Disneyland® and beyond.  Almost like magic, we’ve become one of the world’s leading providers of Disney vacations, family vacations, discount vacation packages, and adventure vacations.  But it’s really not magic.  Here are the top five reasons why you should book your next vacation with Get Away Today.

1.  Customer Service - Here at Get Away Today we pride ourselves on customer service.  Our knowledgeable reservation agents have visited many of the attractions and hotels offered through Get Away Today and are happy to give you personalized recommendations.  If you book your dream vacation, and it does not meet your expectations, call us.  We promise to make it right!  We have a Get Away Today Vacation Guarantee which is:

• Commitment to Low Price – As a family owned and operated company, we work hard to save you money!  More than 2 million satisfied customers trust us for their family vacations.
• Commitment to Customer Care – With over 18 years of experience, we promise to do everything possible to make your vacation magical.
• Commitment to Community – A portion of each vacation purchased is donated back to your community.  Over $1.5 million has been raised to help kids so far. 

With Get Away Today you can book your vacation with CONFIDENCE, because you know that we are looking out for YOU!

2.  Price - Booking with Get Away Today can save you 20% to 50% on your next vacation!  Because we have great relationships with hotels and attractions, we secure the lowest prices possible.  We pass along volume discounts and keep overhead low.  That’s how we save you 20% to 50% per vacation.  We also have specials EXCLUSIVE to Get Away Today customers.  To find out more about these specials, go to our website getawaytoday.com, and on the top of the homepage there is a box labeled “FREE: Last Minute Travel Alerts!”  Simply enter your email address, and we will send you our specials!! 

3.  Great Destinations - Get Away Today provides extensive vacation options!  Our most popular destinations are Disneyland and San Diego, but we offer so much more!  We save you money on vacations to Universal Studios, Hawaii, Orlando, Mexico, Beaches Resorts (for families), Sandals Resorts (for couples), Las Vegas, Arizona, and more.   Get Away Today will help you get anywhere you want to go!  Get Away Today also offers airfare.   Visit getawaytoday.com to check out our great prices!

4.  Payment Plans - Get Away Today is one of the only travel companies that gives you the option of having an interest free payment plan!  This convenient service allows you to pay off your vacation month to month.  You can set this payment plan up as early as one year in advance, and make as many payments as you would like.  This is a great way for families that are on a budget to still be able to afford to go on that vacation of a lifetime!  To get more information about our payment plan call us toll free at (866) FUN-TRIP.      

5.  We Give Money Back - We have raised over $1.5 MILLION so far to help kids!  When you book a vacation, a portion of the package price is donated to local schools, children’s hospitals, and other charities.  With your help we can donate even more! 

There are two ways that you can book your next vacation with Get Away Today, online at getawaytoday.com, or by calling one of our friendly reservation agents at (866) FUN-TRIP.  We look forward to serving you!

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Ten Ways To Travel With Your Family - And Still Have Fun!

Are you feeling anxious about going on vacation with your family?  Follow these simple steps and you'll know exactly what to do to book a fun family vacation through Get Away Today.  Preparing beforehand can take the stress out of traveling and give you and your family more time for creating memories that will last a lifetime!  The pictures in this post are of families that have booked with Get Away Today that have sent us pictures of their magical vacations!

1.  Fly, don't drive! Long car rides make everyone irritable.  Flying is always an adventure and can ease frazzled nerves.  Travel Monday through Thursday, if possible, for the best rates. Also, if possible, be flexible. Normally the more flexible you are, the better fares you'll get. Make sure to check FAA regulations at www.faa.gov before going.  Get Away Today now offers airfare!  Visit our website getawaytoday.com to get a price quote.

2.  Don't expect, just dream! Don't go expecting your trip to turn out perfect; it will just make you frustrated when your plans don't work out as you envisioned.  Dream. You should have an idea of what you want your trip to be.  Begin your planning with your dreams in mind.

3.  Choose a hotel with a complimentary breakfast.  This allows everyone in the family to sleep-in and still get a good morning meal, plus it saves you money! Be sure to clarify what your breakfast includes before booking your hotel.  Some hotels such as the Embassy Suites include a full buffet with cook-to-order stations, while other hotels may just offer juice and pastries. Everyone is happier when they've been fed.  f you need some suggestions of hotels that offes a complimentary breakfast, call Get Away Today so we can give you some ideas.  Our phone number is (866) FUN-TRIP.

4.  Eat good, healthy meals.  Do you ever feel like you have gained ten pounds on vacation or feel sick from eating unhealthy foods? Pack plenty of healthy snacks in case you get hungry.  This way you won't be tempted to buy all the sugary and fattening snacks. Granola bars, dried fruit, and nuts all make great options. Getting a room with a kitchenette is a viable option that allows you to cook your own healthy meals and save your family money.

5.  Give your teen(s) some space.  When choosing a hotel, consider booking a separate or connecting room for teens. They will feel more independent and the extra space will make it feel more like a get away for them as well.

6.  Choose a destination that has something for everyone.  Disneyland is a great place to go because it has activities for all ages.  Mexico or Hawaii are other great destinations.  All ages love to play on the beach, and older kids can go snorkeling.

7.  Travel during the week. Weekdays generally aren't as busy for tourist destinations, so you'll be more likely to fit in everything that everyone in the family wants to do. 

8.  Never enough money when traveling with the family? Book early to get the best rate on a hotel room. Paying for your trip before you go allows you to save up for souvenirs and other fun stuff while waiting for your trip.

9.  Everyone loves to swim! Choose a hotel with a luxurious pool and hot tub. It provides easy entertainment for the whole family. 

10.  Last, but not least, relax!  Have a blast and leave all your worries and cares at home! Remember, this is your vacation and that's always an opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Get Away Today really believes fun family vacations!  If you follow these easy steps, your entire family will have a truly great vacation.

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Top Ten Reasons to Visit Oahu

Oahu’s magnificent scenery, exhilarating activities, and rich history make it one of the world’s top vacation destinations. Narrowing the activity options down to fit your schedule can be a bit daunting. Below are the top sites you don’t want to miss! Whatever your tastes, the diverse array of experiences Oahu holds for you will create vacation memories to last a lifetime.

1. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Polynesian Cultural Center! Learn the culture of Polynesia firsthand at Hawaii’s #1 paid tourist attraction. Enjoy the excitement of the long-canoe pageant, the tantalizing buffet dinners, and the beauty of the Horizons night show which culminates in the Samoan fire-knife dance!

2. Explore the excitement of world famous Waikiki Beach! Splash in the warm waters and sink your toes into the soft sand of this two-mile stretch of paradise! Rent a surfboard, bodyboard, or canoe for an adventure-filled afternoon. World class shopping and dining are just footsteps away!

3. Grab your mask and snorkel in Hanauma Bay! Dazzling exotic fish, mysterious eels, and spectacular coral surround you as you explore the wonder of underwater Hawaii! Shark’s Cove on the North Shore also offers an excellent snorkeling environment. Turtles frequent this area which can only be accessed during calm weather.

4. Pay respect to America’s fallen sailors at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Step back in time as you feel the hushed reverence of this significant monument where World War II began for the United States. Minutes away is the USS Missouri noted for being the place where WWII came to an end.

5. Experience the breathtaking views atop Diamond Head, the world’s most famous volcanic crater! Once you have completed the short hike to the crater’s rim, the view of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean is unparalleled.

6. Meander through the tropical gardens of the stunning Byodo-In Temple at the Valley of the Temples. This replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan is situated against the gorgeous green cliffs of the Koolau Mountains and is one of the most peaceful places on the island. Koi ponds dot the gardens and the rich sound of the peace bell can be heard resonating throughout the grounds.

7. Discover the vibrant history of Honolulu. Hawaii’s past comes alive at Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States. After touring the historic palace, catch a glimpse of the beautiful architecture of Ali'iolani Hale where Hawaii’s Supreme Court congregates and see the famed gold-plated King Kamehameha Statue.

8. Escape to the north shore and experience the laid back atmosphere of Haleiwa. This quiet surf town is home to a variety of fun shops, art galleries, and the North Shore Cultural and Surf Museum. Be sure to grab a shave ice with ice cream and azuki beans at Matsumotos, unanimously voted the best shave ice on the island .

9. Make your way up to the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Here you will learn how pineapples are grown and harvested, and have a chance to wander through the world’s largest maze. Cool down in the extensive gift shop, and be sure to savor the famous “pineapple whips.”

10. Challenge yourself to a round of golf at Turtle Bay. This renowned resort houses both the Arnold Palmer Course and the George Fazio Course. Each is encircled with tropical gardens and boast spectacular ocean views.

© Darcy Yung, Get Away Today Vacations

What You Need To Know Before You Go On Vacation!

Traveling can be adventurous and exciting for families, but without careful planning, your trip can become stressful.  Here are some tips to help make your pre-trip organization more effective:

Weather

Before you go on any vacation, be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination. There’s nothing worse than not being prepared for the weather on your trip. Also, whatever time of year you travel, be sure to pack a jacket. Even the nicer days can turn into cooler nights.

Outstanding Organization

You can never be too prepared for your vacation. To keep your home safe while you’re away call the post office to have your mail stopped, contact your paper-boy to hold your newspaper, and put some lights at your home on timers. When you leave, be sure to grab all the paperwork that you’ll need. Make sure you have all of your confirmation slips, ticket vouchers, maps, and ID’s so your vacation can go as smoothly as possible. Also, if you’re traveling with children under two on your lap, airlines require the child’s birth certificate to prove his or her age. When you get to the airport, be sure to write down where you parked so yours isn’t one of the many sad families who lose their car!

Perfect Packing

Make your packing list and check it twice, and when you’re finished packing, check it again. You don’t want to leave things behind. If you’re traveling by air, pack all of your medications and essentials in your carry-on in case your bags don’t follow you to your destination. Be sure to pack clothing that is appropriate for the weather, and don’t forget your toothbrush!

Remember Regulations

Strict air travel regulations mean more time at the airport. Because of long security lines, arriving at the airport two hours before your flight is highly recommended. Remember, the TSA enforces strict rules regarding what you can bring onto the aircraft. Know what you can and can’t bring aboard. Stay up-to-date on the latest regulations by visiting www.tsa.gov before your trip.

Charming Children

The more you can do to keep your children entertained on the way to your destination, the better. If you’re driving, consider using a portable DVD player, playing travel games, or singing songs. (Watch Disney Movies to get your children Excited) DVD players, MP3 players and other electronic devices are also great on long flights. Don’t forget books! You can find children’s books at your local library or bookstore that teach your kids about your destination and keep them entertained on the way.

Familiarize

While traveling to a new place can be an adventure, you want to be fairly familiar with the area to avoid driving in circles. Reading travel books, looking at area websites, and mapping out your locations will keep stress levels low. To save on dead time, call restaurants before you leave to make reservations. Many restaurants take reservations a couple of weeks in advance or more, and some even let you make your reservation online.

Explore, Experience, Excite!

Finally, when you’ve booked your vacation and you’re ready to tell the whole family, do something fun to get them excited! Explore the area through pictures, cook your family regional cuisine from the area, or have the kids do a fun art project. Anything you can do to make the experience even better for your family will enhance your trip!

© 2007 Nathan Alexander, Get Away Today Vacations

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Top 10 Places To Visit While You're In Orlando

1. Visit the Magic Kingdom® at The Walt Disney World® Resort where magic abounds and dreams come true! 

2. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Park you can climb aboard a jeep and venture out on a safari to see exotic animals roam the grounds!

3. Disney’s Epcot® Center is a place to experience different cultural foods and diverse activities. 

4. Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, formerly known as MGM Studios, offers fun attractions and many entertaining shows. 

5. Visit Sea World Orlando and swim with the dolphins!  This is an activity for everyone, but make sure you book ahead. 

6. Immerse yourself in movie magic at the Universal Orlando® Resort which offers some of the most thrilling rides for grown-ups and younger children.

7. Visit Cocoa Beach! Ron Jon’s is one of the best surf shops in the country and is open 24-hours a day. 

8. With so many shops and recreational activities the Downtown Disney® Marketplace  is the place for one-stop shopping! 

9. Golf at the Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge which has been rated the best place to golf in Orlando from 1999-2007 by Golf Digest.

10. Experience Cirque du Soleil, a mind-boggling circus act that is held in right inside the Walt Disney World® Resort. 

You can visit our website Get Away Today.com to see the ticket prices!  Through Get Away Today we have some great package deals that can save you up to 40% on your next vacation to Walt Disney World®!

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