Royally Blended Travel Blog

  Planning a destination wedding is a dream come true—but it doesn’t have to become a budgeting nightmare. With a little foresight and the right strategy, you can have a stunning celebration in paradise without draining your savings. Here’s how to stay on budget while planning your big day abroad, from hidden costs to smart savings and everything in between. 1. Start with a Realistic Budget Before booking anything, sit down and determine how much you’re willing—and able—to spend. Include: Travel (flights, accommodations for you and key guests) Ceremony & reception costs Decor and floral arrangements Photographer/videographer Officiant and licensing Meals and drinks Entertainment Travel insurance and legal fees Use a free wedding budget tracker to keep everything organized. 2. Choose a Budget-Friendly Destination Not all paradise locations are created equal. Look for countries where your dollar stretches further: Jamaica & the Dominican Republic ...

  Why You Should Book Your Family All-Inclusive Vacation Early   Dreaming of the perfect family getaway? Whether you're craving sunny beaches, epic adventures, or quality downtime together, booking early is your ticket to a stress-free, memory-making vacation. As a mom and travel advisor, I’ve seen firsthand how early planning leads to better deals, more choices, and happier family memories. Here’s why you should lock in your family’s all-inclusive vacation now — and how to make the most of it! Score the Best Prices and Exclusive Deals When it comes to travel, early birds really do catch the best savings ! Resorts and cruise lines often offer early booking incentives that disappear fast as rooms fill up. For example, Explora Journeys currently has up to 40% off select sailings plus up to €1000 in destination experience credits. Looking for even more deals? View the latest travel offers here . Get First Pick of the Best Rooms and Resorts Want that oceanfront family s...

  🌺 Dream Beyond the Beach: Unexpected Destination Wedding Ideas for 2025 When most people think of destination weddings, they picture sandy shores and turquoise waters—and while we love a good beach bash, there’s a world of romantic possibilities beyond the waves. If you’re a couple looking to stand out and create an unforgettable experience for your guests, consider one of these unexpected destination wedding ideas for 2025. These spots are packed with character, charm, and cultural flair—perfect for couples who want something a little different. ✨ 1. A Castle Wedding in Portugal Fairytales come to life in Portugal, where historic castles and charming vineyards provide the perfect backdrop for your vows. Why we love it: Historic architecture, golden light, and intimate ambiance Affordable compared to Western Europe’s castle venues Combine it with a honeymoon along the Douro Valley 📌 Explore unique stays at Monsieur George Hotel & Spa 📌 Get inspired by the P...

  Think luxury travel is out of reach? Think again. With a bit of strategy and some insider tips, you can sip champagne in a suite, relax in a world-class spa, or explore the Amalfi Coast—all without draining your savings. Luxury isn’t always about spending more—it’s about spending smart. Here’s how to indulge in five-star experiences for a fraction of the cost. 💎 1. Travel During Shoulder Season Avoid peak prices by booking during shoulder seasons (typically spring and fall). You’ll still enjoy great weather, fewer crowds, and significantly lower rates at luxury resorts and hotels. Pro Tip: Book a Mediterranean escape in late April or October for half the summer price—without sacrificing the scenery. 📌 Explore off-season luxury escapes 💼 2. Leverage Travel Loyalty Programs Use your airline, hotel, and credit card loyalty points to unlock upgrades, free nights, or exclusive VIP access. Even one luxury travel credit card can provide benefits like: Lounge access Com...

Cruising is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways for families of all shapes and sizes to travel together. From toddlers to teens, parents to grandparents, there’s something onboard for everyone—plus plenty of ways to enjoy quality time and personal space. If you’re planning a multi-generational getaway—or even a “skip-gen” trip with grandparents and grandkids—here’s your go-to guide for sailing smoothly and making the most of your cruise vacation. 📌 Request a Custom Cruise Quote to get started. Why Cruises Are Ideal for Multi-Gen Travel A cruise combines the fun of a floating resort with the simplicity of inclusive planning. Accommodations, dining, entertainment, and daily activities are all wrapped into one experience—making it easier to budget and even easier to please every traveler. Families can come together for dinner and shows, then split off for age-appropriate fun—giving everyone their ideal vacation, without anyone feeling left out. 📌 Explore Norwegian’s Hot Cruise D...

  Turn Every Trip into Perks, Points, and VIP Experiences Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a luxury cruise enthusiast, or a family vacationer, travel loyalty programs are your secret weapon to saving more and experiencing better in 2025. But with so many programs and changes rolling out each year, it can be hard to know how to make the most of your points and perks. This guide will help you maximize your travel rewards , boost your status faster, and unlock insider benefits across airlines, hotels, cruises, and tour providers—so you can travel smarter, not harder . 🏨 Hotel Loyalty Programs: Stay More, Get More Hotel brands like Marriott Bonvoy , Hilton Honors , and Hyatt World of Hyatt continue to reward loyal guests with free nights, upgrades, and VIP treatment. Here’s how to make it work for you: 💡 Tips: Stick to one brand family (e.g., Marriott includes Westin, Ritz-Carlton, and Sheraton) to accumulate points faster. Use co-branded credit cards to earn bonus poin...