Give Me the Green Light

One of the practical necessities of working as a travel professional is learning about the myriad of products, resorts, and destinations that exist, along with building relationships with travel agent peers and industry representatives. Honestly – so much of our effectiveness comes from these relationships, so they need to be cultivated and nurtured.

Last night was a prime example of cultivating and nurturing, with alcohol and lots of dancing, lol. (No one said it has to be BORING). A small group of travel agents from the Tampa Bay area were hosted by Travel Impressions (a tour operator) and AIC Hotel Group for their Green Light Tour: a night of fun, education and product updates. AIC Hotel Group owns the Hard Rock All-Inclusive Hotels located in Punta Cana, Cancun, Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and coming soon to Los Cabos, Mexico. They also own Unico 20 87 (a resort I’m dying to get to), Nobu Miami and Eden Roc Miami. Needless to say, these folks know how to have a great time.

I’m appreciative of these events, because they expose me to brands that I haven’t traditionally referred in the past. I’ve actually been to a Hard Rock resort, when I toured Punta Cana back in 2013. There’s no blog post/review because…I’m raggedy…but I loved the property during that experience. The whole vibe was full of energy and youthfulness, even though there were guests of all age groups at the resort. I remember Hard Rock Punta Cana being HUGE – just massive – which makes it a great spot for destination weddings or large groups.

The Green Light event let us know about the innovative Limitless program at Hard Rock, which entitles guests to unlimited access to the spa, golf and excursions and all you have to pay is the service fee. What?

We learned about amazing adults only Unico 20 87 and how far above the rest they are with their culinary options and mixology.

We were updated on the upcoming opening of Hard Rock Los Cabos, which is going to be an upscale/luxury family resort option for those traveling to the Mexican Riviera.

The event included a music trivia singalong, during which I almost lost my voice after singing Whitney Houston at the top of my lungs. We danced (Wobble baby!) and were treated by a whole “Single Ladies” routine by our regional Business Development Manager Dan. I mean, what is life? Is this my job?

I’m writing this whole thing to give a shout out to FUN – events like this are memorable and make my job all the more exciting!