Jamaica Review from our guest

I just wanted to write and give my sincerest appreciation for making
my wife and my 15 year anniversary a memorable event. HaveTravel made
everything so easy throughout the entire process it kept the fun and
excitement of traveling alive.

In discussion of what to do for our anniversary the HaveTravel staff
was just an invaluable resource of the different things we could do
whether it was a cruise, leasing a beachfront home, or vacationing to
an all inclusive resort. Given I am not the seasoned traveler they put
me at ease with their ability to answer my questions and make
recommendations.After talking to them the decision was easy. We elected to visit the
all inclusive Sandals Resort in Jamaica (Grande Ocho Rios).

We had a beautiful oceanfront room with a private balcony. The only thing that
beat the sunset was the sunrise (For some odd reason I was up early
the first day). The food and drinks were phenomenal and with the
variety of different styles of cooking (Asian, Caribbean, Italian,
etc.) you were never bored. There were plenty of activities or just
great places to relax. We spent some time at the spa for a couple’s
massage (got to keep the romance alive) – for guys that aren’t into
massages there is a great golf course not far from the resort. A
challenging hilly course with “optical illusion” type greens; I
couldn’t get a read but luckily my caddy was able to set me straight.
Just watch out for the mangos.

The scenery was incredible. Take a moment to look up at the trees,
plants, and architecture. One of the most beautiful things was all the
butterflies; you just wouldn’t believe it. It just added to the
surreal experience. For our visit the weather was near perfect.

I cannot express out thanks to HaveTravel for everything they did to
make our 15 year anniversary our best yet. We will definitely be
talking to you about our next vacation.

Sincerely,

Tony and Jo El Armand

Vision and Southwest air to Fort Walton Beach and Panama City

Posted on Thursday, December 02, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell
Panama City Beach, FL (Dec. 16, 2009) - Southwest Airlines celebrates the announcement of their Panama City Beach fares and flights. The airline's announcement included a special fare offer and flight schedule details for the carrier's previous announcement of service from Panama City Beach to begin May 2010.

There will be non-stop service to Panama City from Baltimore/Washington, Nashville, Houston Hobby & Orlando beginning May 23, 2010. Introductory one-way fares from $49 & $69 only through December. 18, 2009 and only at www.southwest.com. Panama City Beach will be the 69th destination to join the network of the nation's as largest domestic airlines. Each year, nearly 100 million Customers enjoy Southwest's low-fares, all Boeing 737 jet fleet, Boeing 737 jet fleet, and high value Customer Service.Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV), based in Dallas, is the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned. Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.

Fright Night 2010

Posted on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell
Destin is such a wonderful place.  Not just in the spring and summer, which is naturally what one would think, but all year round.  Take Halloween for instance.  I do believe there was a party or gathering at every public point.  This city knows how to party!  I chose to go to Seaside and what a great choice it was.  Seaside is such a quaint little spot with the waves within ear shot, with shops and restaurants all about.  They all opened their doors and had candy galore.  Everywhere I looked people were dressed up.....not only kids, mind you, but adults as well.  It was a great time for all and I must admit I got quite a kick out of some of the costumes.
 

JoDell's Review of the Broadway Musical "WICKED"

Posted on Thursday, October 28, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell
They say the Boston Opera House is one of the most beautiful opera houses in this country.  Since I have not seen very many opera houses all I can say is this one was breathtakingly ornate and quite spectacular.  It was a full house the night we went.  The stage settings, special effects, costumes, orchestra and talent were all worth the horrific Boston traffic and the GPS that didn’t know about the famous Opera House.  Thank you Jared for driving us girls, it was almost as entertaining watching and listening to you get us there as it was watching the play! 
For those of you who don’t know the background of this production, WICKED tells the story of two of the most famous witches we all know and love.  Elphaba and Galinda, you know… from the Wizard of Oz?    The play opens with the death of the “Wicked Witch of the East”, Elphaba and the arrival of the “Good Witch”,  Galinda upon the scene.   It then goes on to tell the story of both witches long before the “OZ”  incident.  WICKED explores the tale with twists and turns and a variety of surprises, emotions and morals through music and dance. 
Author Gregory Maguire enthusiastically embraced the adaptation of his book even though the big budget musical evolved through several cycles to get where it is now.  I noticed in my travels through numerous airports this year many of my fellow travelers were reading “ Wicked” and they seemed to be quite transfixed.   I intend to join the club.  If you have the chance to see this amazing production I strongly recommend you take it.  You won’t be disappointed.  This play is perfect for older kids if not early teens on up. 
Your  travel consultant
JoDell

Everyone loves good food

Posted on Monday, October 25, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell

This week is Restaurant week in Destin. I had a number of choices but chose Tommy Bahama’s because I have never eaten there. Shocker huh? I have heard that they are known for their coconut shrimp and oh how I love coconut shrimp. First of all let me say that the staff was very friendly and accommodating from the moment I walked in. I was seated outside (my choice of course) overlooking the terrace at Grand Boulevard. I started with the coconut shrimp….luscious and plump shrimp, sweet dipping sauce and this amazing signature Asian slaw made and mixed fresh for each plate it is served on. Next, I chose the fish tacos recommended by management. Wow! So tasty…. the best fish tacos I have ever eaten.’  Kudos to Tommy Bahama’s. They have Island Time from 4pm to 7 pm. You can order smaller portion appetizers for $5.00. Go with friends, order a few and share. I was too full to try their signature dessert, Pina Colada Cake but I heard it is wonderful…..I say we go to Island Time and try that too. 

If you like Mexican food, Tiffany has a place for you. Cantina Laredo at Grand Boulevard.   While in town a couple of weeks ago she and friends enjoyed an evening there. The chips were light and crisp, just perfect. Fresh guacamole was made right at the table and they were able to choose the ingredients. How awesome is that? Sounds yummy!

Tiffany had the Cantina Laredo Platter.  It has 5 different items.  Tamale, Enchilada, Chile Rellenos, Beef Taco & Rice.  She came from Reno Nevada where Mexican is on every corner and her families favorite. This, by far, is her favorite Gourmet Mexican meal and she would recommend it to everyone. Well I’m sure going to be trying it out!

  

Our staff has a few other restaurants to recommend. Jodell says, hands down, the fries at Buffalo Jacks are the BEST. She also loves Floyd's Shrimp house, Dewy Destin’s, La Famiglia. For the best Italian, Jordano’s Pizza. Best Barbeque is Jim and Nicks and for fine dinning Jodell loves Marlin Grill at Baytowne. I personally love Papano Joes. I love that it’s on the beach and you can sit, looking out at the water. They have great coconut shrimp as well. (I told you I love coconut shrimp. : )  I’ve also heard their tuna melt is to die for. But don’t just take our word for it. Come see for yourself!

Sandestin Hilton Fire

Posted on Tuesday, October 05, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell
It was Sunday, October 3rd at about 12:15 am.  Sirens could be heard and a blaze could be seen from miles down the beach.  Someone made a call to see where the fire was.  They were told it was the Hilton at Sandestin which indeed was true.  The worst was feared as the flames lept higher and the smoke rose.  But thanks to the quick response of the Destin Fire department the fire was estinguished before reaching the Hilton towers. It did, however, destroy the pool house and the restaurant, Barefoots, where it was said to have originated only leaving soot on one end of the tower itself.  All guest were evacuated and safe.  No one was hurt.  For that we are thankful!


Before the fire



And after the fire

Ghost Hunting

Posted on Sunday, September 26, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell
It's Autumn.  The Season we all look forward to with it's cooler temperatures and changing leaves.  We drag out the sweaters, hoodies and sweats and pack up the summer duds.  With Autumn comes the holiday that some dislike yet others love.  Halloween.  That is what  lead Jodell and Jason Haverfield to the Emerald Coast Ghost Tours.  Armed with flashlights and an Electromagnetic Fields Detector they boarded the bus and headed to a number of cemeteries where the locals claim spirits still remain.



Look closely at this picture.  It appears there is a man on the left side.  Do you see him?  Perhaps he is watching over the graves?

Although they didn't actually see a ghost, they did have a few chilling moments.  They will go back for more.  Are you brave enough to join them?

The Smiling Fish

Posted on Wednesday, September 01, 2010 by Cherie Caldwell
It was a beautiful August day at the beach.  The water was tranquil and amazingly clear.  After a while of sun bathing and light summer reading I realized I was getting hungry.  I needed something cool and refreshing.  Being new to the area I decided to head across the street to Gulf Place and see what struck my fancy!  As I rounded a corner I was faced with a smiling fish.  The Smiling Fish Cafe that is.  I figured if the fish were smiling it had to be good. 

I was greeted at the door by the friendly wait staff.  They were sure to let me know about the great special of the day they were offering.  After I perused the menu I honed in on the chicken salad with cashews.  And may I say "Yummy"!  I certainly made the right choice. 

From start to finish, the friendly staff made it perfect.  They do however have one requirement of their guests. Be nice or leave.  ; )

Achieved Certified Sandals Specialists

Posted on Tuesday, May 11, 2010

JoDell Haverfield is now Cerfified Sandals Specialists!  On Wednesday, May 5th, JoDell attended a Sandals workshop held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Panama City, Florida.  She learned intricate details of 22 properties spanning over 6 Caribbean Islands and is now an expert on all resorts under the Sandals Umbrella!  These resorts include the highly publized Sandals Resort, Beaches, Royal Plantation and Grand Pineapple.  When asked what the most suprising aspect of the workshop was, Scott responded, "Most people think all Sandals resorts are just for couples, and that's not the case at all!  They have BFF group trips where women can get in on a group rate, family oriented resorts, high-end luxury resorts, and morde!  There really is something for everyone!"  If you would like help planning your exquisitly designed Martha Stewart Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, Family Reunion, or family vacation, give HTMV a call today!