Wine & Dine: Gallo Pinto

Gallo Pinto

Gallo pinto is a traditional dish of Costa Rica and Nicaragua cuisines. It is considered the national dish of both countries although the two prepare it in a different manner, and is eaten as a part of a meal. Though many variations exist, the dish at its most basic is composed of pre-cooked rice and beans fried together with spices such as cilantro, onions and peppers.

I myself have cooked various versions of the gallo pinto. I have put gallo pinto in tortillas, and have served it with eggs, fish, and beefsteak. The beauty about this dish is that you can eat this for breakfast, lunch and dinner! I stopped at McDonalds here and you can order gallo pinto with scrambled eggs called the "McPinto Deluxe". A healthy and inexpensive way to eat in Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

The name gallo pinto means "painted roster". When the beans and rice are combined, the rice gets colored by the beans, and the mix results in a multi-colored or specked appearance. Nicaraguans usually prepare it with red beans while Costa Ricans prepare it with black beans.

There is a huge controversy on whether this famous dish originated in Costa Rica or Nicaragua. Regardless of its origin, this dish is an integral part of both their culture.

When visiting each of these countries, you must stop by the locals restaurant for a typical dish. Ask for an order of gallo pinto and enjoy!

Escape Break: St. James Club - Antigua

St. James Club

A breathtaking 100-acre private peninsula two dazzling white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, a variety of dining venues and guest accommodations (including 48 new Royal Suites), plus six swimming pools, full-service spa, dive center, fitness center, supervised children's programs, teen pavilion, tennis, non-motorized water sports all sure to keep everyone entertained.

St. James Club has completed its lavish $20 million renovation in 2010.

SPECIAL

From $130 All-Inclusive per person, per night, BUY 1 ROOM and GET 1 ROOM FREE, savings of 50% (2rooms/4adults) From $156 All-Inclusive per person, per night, savings of 40% (Double occupancy) including upgrades to Premium Room. Subject to availability at time of booking

Contact us today to book your St. James Club vacation in Antigua!

contact@agentivorytravel.com

Escape Break: FREE Sandals Destination Wedding

Free Sandals Destination Wedding





Sandals has partnered up with Martha Stewart to deliver an added touch of elegance and romance to its carefully selected destination wedding themes.


For a limited time, you can enjoy a free Beautiful Beginnings Wedding when you stay 7Days/6Nights or longer in a Concierge category room or higher.

The Beautiful Beginnings Wedding Package includes:

• Personal Wedding Consultant


• Pictueresque wedding location


• Marriage officiant


• Bouquet and boutonniere


• Two-tiered wedding cake


• Reception for the bride, groom and 2 guests


• One 5"x7" wedding photograph


• Honeymoon dinner for bride and groom


• Continental breakfast in bed


• Preparation of documentation


• Certified copy of marriage license


• Government/Administration fees

The Beautiful Beginnings wedding helps you celebrate your special day with elegance and simplicity. It includes a sweet magenta denddrobium orchid bouquet and boutonniere, as well as a table for four with crisp linens, a lovely centerpiece, and a charming white cake. It's the perfect choice for an intimate and memorable occasion.

Choose from beautiful locations in the Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Antigua.

Contact your Sandals Specialist today for more details: dsweddings@agentivorytravel.com

Escape Break: MFFL

Mexico Fan For Life!

Yes I love the Dallas Mavericks and Mark Cuban! My favorite two things that exist in the Big D but I am in love with Mexico! I am definitely a Mexico Fan For Life! They have many great tourist towns (that have never been or currently being affected by this so called drug war), beautiful beaches, friendly people and terrific food.

Here's four great must see cities to visit in Mexico.

Long before Cancun became a popular destination, Cozumel was well-known as a diving spot and home to the world famous Palancar Reef, which gives divers the opportunity to view thousands of brilliantly colored fish. Non-divers can kick back on a sun-drenched beach, or enjoy a number of seaside activities, such as shopping in colorful marketplaces or dining in an open-air cafe.

A seaside retreat located 40 kilometers north of Merida along the Gulf Coast of Mexico, Progreso is quickly becoming an important gateway for cruise ships and guests. Founded in 1872 by Juan Miguel Castro and heavily influenced by Mayan culture, Progreso enjoys a very simple and relaxed lifestyle. Its white-sand beaches, emerald green waters and cooling gulf breezes are a natural draw for vacationers from all over the world.

Championship golf courses, world class deep sea fishing and incredible diving opportunities have transformed Cabo San Lucas, a once sleepy fishing town located on the southern most tip of the Baja California Peninsula, into one of the most popular resort destinations in Mexico. Rolling San Dunes and hidden coves dot a countryside ringed by some of the most famous and often photographed rock formations in the world.

If your're ready to experience some of the finest sailing and sport fishing available, then you're ready for Mazatlan. This is an exquisite seaside resort by anyone's standards. Of course, you don't have to partake in the world-class water sports to enjoy in Mazatlan. You can relax on one of its soft-sand beaches caressed by trade winds that are even softer. Or shop for silver jewelry and Mexican crafts in the shops of "The Golden Zone," where you can also celebrate your purchases at one of the area's lively cantinas.

Mexico is wanting you to become a Fan today.

Contact Agent Ivory Travel for more information about all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.

contact@agentivorytravel.com

Wine and Dine: Coconut Coffee

Wine and Dine: Coconut Coffee

Sipped my first cup of coconut coffee at Cafe Nasau in Costa Rica. It took a minute for me to get acquired to the taste but after the third sip I was in love!

Coconut Coffee is refreshing to say the least. Top it off with sugar and whip cream and you have yourself a cup of serenity! You will immediately feel like you are on a beautiful secluded beach inhabited by only you!

Below are the ingredients and steps needed to take to make your personal cup of serenity.

Ingredients:
1/4 Cup of Bold Coffee
1/4 Cup of Milk
2 cups of Coconut cream
2 tbsp of Sugar
Whip cream

Directions:
1. Brew the coffee as normal in a coffee pot
2. Place skillet on medium and pour in the coffee, milk, coconut cream, and sugar.
3. The mixture should be a creamy brown.
4. The mixture should also be sweet and with a high coconut flavor. If not pour in more coconut
cream.
5. Pour mix into a beautiful coffee cup.
6. Top it off with whip cream

This exotic morning cup of Joe is sure to give you the energy you need to complete your day!

Enjoy!

Escape Break: On Location - St. Lucia

On Location: St. Lucia

St. Lucia is the sort of island that travellers to the Caribbean dream about - a small, lush tropical gem that is still relatively unknown. One of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, it is located midway down the Eastern Caribbean chain, between Martinique and St. Vincent, and north of Barbados.

St. Lucia is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, with a shape that is aid to resemble either a mango or an avocado (depending on your taste). The Atlantic Ocean kisses its eastern shore, while the beaches of the west coast owe their beauty to the calm Caribbean Sea.

Lush green hills, black sand beaches, tranquil blue lagoons and pink melting sunsets. This rainbow of colors can only be found on the unspoiled tropical retreat that is St. Lucia. Visitors are always awed by the array of hues offered by nature. Of course, there's equal grandeur in its magnificent coastline and famous twins mountains known as the Pitons.

For more information on booking a trip to St. Lucia, contact Agent Ivory Travel at info@agentivorytravel.com

Escape Break: On Location - Puerto Rico

On Location: Puerto Rico

As one of the oldest and most diversified cultures in the world, Puerto Rico is a vibrant, modern, bilingual, multicultural society, one that has been molded by Spanish, African, Indian, and U.S. influences.

21st century conveniences in an alluring 16th historical setting....both ultra modern and bewitchingly exotic, Puerto Rico is truly the Island of Enchantment.

Historic San Juan, once nothing more than cobblestone streets and the distinctive architecture of the Spanish who founded it, is now a modern world capital. Among the peaceful shaded courtyards and commanding colonial fortresses of El Morro and San Cristobal, you'll find a cosmopolitan city of wide boulevards, lively cafes, highly regarded galleries and designer boutiques. This is where the old world meets the new - and you can enjoy them both.

Other exciting tours and restaurants in the area worth checking out are:

Restaurante Raices

http://www.restauranteraices.com/English/index.html

The Barcardi Rum Factory http://www.casabacardi.org/

Fort San Felipe del Morro http://www.nps.gov/saju

Fort San Cristobal http://www.nps.gov/saju

El Yunque Rainforest http://www.elyunque.com/

More information on Puerto Rico can be found by contacting

Agent Ivory Travel at info@agentivorytravel.com

Escape Break: Princess Cruises 3-Day Sale Begins Today!

Princess Cruises

3-Day Sale Begins Today!

Limited Cruise Booking Dates: July 21 - 23, 2010

Take advantage of Princess Cruises low cruise rates for three days only!

Do you need to escape completely from it all?

Enjoy exciting 7, 8, and 14 day cruises to

Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean Destinations.

Prices starting from $399 per person!

These great rates will not last long.

Contact Agent Ivory Travel today to receive your custom

Princess Escape travel package at contact@agentivorytravel.com

Escape Break: Group Cruising is Simple as 1-2-3!

Group Cruising is Simple as 1-2-3

1. Organize Group

Let Agent Ivory Travel help plan the perfect cruise for your group. Whether your group is an appreciation for your clients and employees or a group with family and friends, Agent Ivory Travel will ensure your group is well organized and well informed about their group cruise throughout the entire transaction.

2. Select Cruise

With so many exciting cruises to choose from, Agent Ivory Travel will help you select the Cruise Line, Ship, Itinerary, and Sail Dates, that reflect your group's needs and price points.

From the Carnival "Fun Ships" to Holland Cruises "Ultimate Luxury" ships, your group is sure to enjoy their cruising experience onboard the ship and in the many exotic ports of call.

Caribbean * Mediterranean * Alaskan * Mexican Rivera

3. Start Cruising

Enjoy your well deserved 4, 5, 7, 14, or even 131 day cruise. Don't forget to attend the many onboard plays and shows, relaxing spa, state of the art fitness centers, 5 star restaurant, casino's, and karaoke bar. Your ports of call have hidden treasures awaiting to be discovered.

Snorkeling, scuba, parasailing, shopping tours, museums, nature walks, sun tanning, or just being an all out beach bum awaits you on shore. Have Fun!

Contact us today at: groups@agentivorytravel.com

Escape Break: Summer Romance at Coconut Bay Resort & Spa

As seen on the television show "The Bachleor", Coconut Bay Resort is offering Bachelor fans the chance to create their own fantasy vacation with four affordable Red Rose Romance packages when staying seven nights or longer. Choose from the four packages.

1. "Rendezvous" package includes:
Champagne Check in with a Red Rose for the Lady
7 night All-Inclusive Accomodations
Bubbles in Bed (Champagne turn down service)
Couples only Beachfront Dinner
Intro to Kite Surfing
$250 Weekly Resort Credit
$1,568.00 per couple

2. "One-on-One" package includes:
"Rendezvous" package plus
Private Couples Beach Picnic
Private Chauffeured Island Tour
1/2 Hour Photo Shoot with a Keepsake Photo
$1,868.00 per couple

3. "St. Lucia Fantasy" package includes:
"One-on-One" package plus
Private Caterman Piton snorkling cruise with lunch onboard
$2,468.00 per couple

4. "Wings of Love" package includes:
"St. Lucia Fantasty" package plus
Helicopter Island Tour
$2,768.00 per couple

Enjoy Coconut Bay Resort & Spa's Harmony's adults only wing offering the perfect setting for a tranquil escape. Featuring a palm shaded pool and bar, chaises and hammocks, intimate cabana beds, the oceanfront Kai Mer Spa and long stretches of beach, each day is yours to be as active or relaxed as you like.

Travel dates and restrictions apply.

Contact Agent Ivory Travel today for more information: contact@agentivorytravel.com

Press Release: Agent Ivory Travel is on Twitter!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Agent Ivory Travel is on Twitter


Dallas, TX - July 6, 2010 - Agent Ivory Travel continues to keep up with the latest technology trends its clients use on a daily basis. One of its technology mediums that its users use is Twitter. AIT provides its clients with udpated daily information on important news about our company, the travel industry and events around the world. Follow us on Twitter today at: http://twitter.com/AgentIvoryTrav

About Agent Ivory Travel
Since 2004, Agent Ivory Travel (AIT) has dedicated itself to providing excellent group travel related services to exotic destinations aroudn the world; expanding consumer knowledge on cultural and international affairs; and uniting the human race through the exciting world of travel.

Agent Ivory Travel is a staunch supporter in the communty. It is a proud member of Global Mindshift whose purpose is to "discover, live, and communicate what is needed to build a better world that functions for the benefit of life". AIT gives annually to United Way and prides itself for being apart of Leadership Societies.
Agent Ivory Travel also mentors and empowers young girls to achieve excellance through the Girls of Virture Organization.

More information about Agent Ivory Travel can be found by visiting http://www.agentivorytravel.com/

Agent Ivory Travel
contact@agentivorytravel.com
(866) 346-4664
3102 Maple Avenue
4th FL
Dallas, TX 75201


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Escape Break: The 30th Dynasty Birthday Cruise 2010

Join The 30th Dynasty Birthday Cruise 2010
7 Day Southern Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico

October 24-31, 2010

Carnival Victory

HOT Destinations

Puerto Rico * St. Thomas/St. John * Dominica * Barbados * St. Lucia * St. Kitts * St. Maarten

Celebrate your 30th birthday with other vibrant professionals from around the United States.

Onboard Activities include (but not limited to):

Networking Mixer

Spa Retreat

Sunrise Fitness

Miniture Golf

Basketball Finals at Sea Tournament

Dynasty Gala

Captain Mixer and Dinner

Casino

Las Vegas Style Shows

Karoake

and much more!

Register today at http://www.agentivory.com/ Travel Groups/Singles & Couples/30th Dynasty Birthday Cruise

Bring in your 30's in style!!

Press Release: AITs Launches its New Honeymoon Registry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Agent Ivory Travel Launches its New Honeymoon Registry

Dallas, TX - July 13, 2010 - The new honeymoon registry website allows soon to be brides and those celebrating life time anniversaries the opportunity to have the honeymoon they have always wanted.

Agent Ivory Travel has launched its new honeymoon registry website at
http://www.agentivory.honeymoonwishes.com/

This beautiful website offers couples the ability to:

• Set up a free honeymoon registry


• Add items to their honeymoon wedding registry or personalize their own


• Use announcements and emails to inform friends and family about registry


• Allow guests to purchase items from the honeymoon wedding registry


• Collect wedding gifts and have the honeymoon of their dreams!

Couples can list anything they wish to along with any excursions that them may wish to participate in on their honeymoon. Guests can then purchase a part of their dream honeymoon as a wedding present.

The registry is easy to use and is a great stress free tool for both the couple and their guests. It creates a stress and hassle free way to give. With Agent Ivory Travels new honeymoon registry website, the wedding couple can say good bye to receiving a surplus of toasters, glasses, and photo albums.

Insider Tips: Top 10 Reasons for Choosing a Destination Wedding

Top 10 Reasons for Choosing a Destination Wedding

1. You get to choose the weather for your special day.
2. You get more out of your wedding dollars.
3. You get a vacation and a wedding planning team.
4. You get to decide the scenery of your wedding.
5. If you are a creative type, a destination wedding package is perfect for a theme wedding.
6. You allow your guests to celebrate your special day and enjoy a unique vacation at the same time!
7. Destination Weddings are less stressful than traditional weddings which means the bride and groom look extra beautiful on their special day!
8. Many destination options to choose from whether you would like your destination wedding at an exotic tropical island to a snowy capped mountain. Decide to do an all-inclusive resort or cruise. The choice is yours!
9. Destination weddings make for a unique and memorable wedding.
10. Destination weddings are the perfect place to become one!!

Contact us today at DSWeddings@agentivorytravel.com to start planning the wedding of your dreams!

Insider Tips: Tamarindo - Hated It!

Tamarindo is not my first choice for great cities in Costa Rica. Costa Rica has many more great beaches to visit that can replace Tamarindo on your itinerary. Skip it! It is a surfer's town I will admit. They have plenty of surf schools in the area along with bars and nightclubs. This is gringo country. Tons of Americans live here so there is no real tico culture here.

Agent Ivory Travel Tip

Bring boots here. The roads are unpaved. It gets extremely muddy during the rainy season which makes it unpleasant to walk around. Also, the mosquito's are mas grande problemo here. Wear long sleeves, pants, hats, socks and repellent! Or better yet, just visit another city!

Insider Tips: Volcan Arenal

The city of La Fortuna is next to the city of Arenal. I recommend doing the $44 g tour combo that can be booked through the La Fortuna Hostel called Arenal Backpackers. The tour includes hiking, waterfalls, the Arenal Observatory Deck, buffet dinner at Baldi Hot Springs and round trip transportation. On this tour, I was able to see Arenal Volcano erupt. John our tour guide was awesome! He has climbed Arenal eight times and is pretty well known in his industry. He also has a volcano documentary which he created on sale for $20 bucks that gives you a very good of the 1968 volcano eruption.

Enjoy your walk on the streets of La Fortuna. I visited a soda shop nearby and watched the World Cup soccer games with the locals. Good times.

Agent Ivory Travel Insider Tip

The $44 tour combo is the best deal around.

Insider Tip:Yo Amor Manuel Antonio

This is definitely my favorite city in Costa Rica thus far. It has a great nightlife, beautiful beaches, hot Ticos and plenty of nature. The upscale restaurants in the area are great. Restaurante El Negro Gato is a nice place to relax and enjoy the evening. El Avion has great views of the coastline but terrible service. They make up for this by making their restaurant out of plane which you can go in and take pictures.

Parque Nacional manuel Antonio deserves four stars natural beauty and expansive ecological system that is there. It has plenty of wildlife, twisting nature trails, four beautiful beaches, and high cliffs great enough to get a panoromic view of the Pacific Ocean and and Manuel Antonio

Agent Ivory Travel Insider Tip

The chairs on the beach rent out for 2,000 colones ($4). They are not free and you cannot just sit on them. You must pay the Tico who brought the chair to the beach.

Insider Tips: Monteverde is Above the Rest

Monteverde sits high above the rest of the cities in Costa Rica! Its great location gives you beautiful arenal shots of the cloud forest and lush valleys below. You will be intrigued to stop numerous times on your way up the mountain as you see endless mountains in the horizon.

Maravilla Restaurant has an affordable menu. I recommend the beefsteak plate with rice, beans, plantains and salad. Top it off with a pina refresco to drink. Hiking and zip lining along with the Tarzan swing are some of the highlights in this great city. If you love nature, than you will love Monteverde.

Agent Ivory Travel Insider Tip
Pack your poncho and patience as you travel up the bumpy roads to Monteverde.