Where To Travel in 2016

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

“Buy experiences, not things.” While you may have heard this quote before, research does in fact show that experiential purchases (money spent on doing) tend to provide more enduring happiness than material purchases (money spent on having). The biggest effect on happiness? Anticipation.

With that in mind, stay true to your "travel more" resolution this year. Here are some places you should plan to check out in 2016:

A photo posted by Adventure Culture (@adventure_culture) on Jan 6, 2016 at 5:36pm PST

Iceland - The land of fire and ice, its visual splendor can be enjoyed in all seasons. Spend a day at the famous Blue Lagoon, chase the Northern Lights, or take in the numerous cultural activities available in Reykjavik. Plus, with Icelandair’s Stopover option, you’ll be able to spend up to seven nights in Iceland either en route to or home from your European destination for no additional airfare. 

Costa Rica -  With January marking the start of the dry season, the first half of the month typically brings a lot of tourism. If you’d prefer less crowds, the second half of January through March is certainly one of the best times for a Costa Rica vacation. Explore some travel websites for deals and packages. Groupon, for example, has an 8-day Jewels of Costa Rica Tour ($1,499 - 1,899) and a 5-8 day adventure tour ($999-$1,874), among others!

National Parks - This year is the 100th anniversary of America’s National Parks system. To celebrate its centennial anniversary, the National Park Service is offering 16 days of free admission to 127 parks including the Everglades, Yellowstone, Crater Lake, Alaska’s Denali National Park and Joshua Tree National Park in California (all of which have admission fees). And if you happen to have a fourth grader in your family, your entrance will be free to ALL national parks ALL year thanks to the 100th anniversary program, Every Kid in a Park. But don’t worry, there are still 282 national parks around the country that always offer free admission. So get out, and enjoy nature!

If you find yourself falling into the post holiday blues this month, filling up a blank calendar is one quick way to remedy the situation. Give yourself something to look forward to, start planning - now!

No matter where your 2016 travel plans take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. From all of us to you, we wish you a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

How To Keep Your 2016 Travel Resolutions

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

According to a study conducted by Harris Interactive, only 51% of US employees take advantage of their paid time off. Even worse - 61% who DO use vacation time end up working while away.

You’ve heard time and time again just how important taking a break from the office is to maintaining a healthy work life balance. Not only to spend quality time with loved ones, but also to reduce stress and reboot & recharge for increased productivity upon return.

So vow to make 2016 the year of no unused vacation days! Here’s how.

First - prioritize travel over material things.

Remember, traveling is a choice. Much like purchasing new clothes or enjoying an expensive meal with friends is also a choice. After paying your bills each month and buying what is necessary to survive (i.e.: daily groceries), take the rest of your disposable income and start your travel fund. 

Then - figure how much time you can take and commit to traveling.

When it comes to travel, you don’t always need a lengthy 2 week long vacation period. Perhaps an extended weekend could prove successful for your intended destination. Otherwise, when it comes to longer, week long trips, look at traveling over holidays and weekends to help get more travel days in for less time away from work. Rule out when you absolutely cannot go away and then identify at least 3 periods of time that would be most convenient for your vacation.

Now - do your research.

Make a list of a few key places you’ve always wanted to go. Got it? Great. Now think back to the previous step and look at the time periods you’ve chosen for travel. Once you have these basics, the answers to your next questions are quite literally at your fingertips. Read up on travel blogs, conduct google searches, and monitor airfare. Start keeping a record on the estimated costs for each trip - this excel spreadsheet idea from Peanuts or Pretzels is a great example: 

Afterwards - book it!

Your research is done, the prices are all there, the dates align with when you can take off - time to request off from work and book. The longer you wait, the more stress and anxiety you’ll feel. As long as you can afford your trip (or have a plan on how to) and have the approval from your company - don’t let stress hold you back. After all, do you know many people who have said “I wish I never booked that trip to Italy?"

Something to consider when traveling abroad - immerse yourself in their culture. 

Consider signing up for a language course or take advantage of free mobile apps like Duolingo to teach you some key words and phrases of the spoken language at your destination. See if any local restaurants serve that cuisine to start getting a taste of where you'll be. This will help excite you for the trip while equally making it a richer one once you arrive. 

But also - don’t be afraid to explore your own backyard!

On the opposite end of our last point, don’t overlook your home state or region that has some worthy sights to see. Remember, National Parks across the country are beautiful - and free! Perhaps a road trip across the US is more up your alley.

No matter where your 2016 travel plans take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. From all of us to you, we wish you a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

FREE Things to Do in NYC

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

   

If you’re one of the lucky ones with time off from work or school this week and plan to get in your last sights to the Rockefeller Center Tree, why not make a full day of it? Even if the holidays took a toll on your wallet, you’re in luck. There are plenty of sights you can visit in New York City all for $Free.99.

The Museum at FIT: The most fashionable museum in New York City is absolutely free. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays (Closed New Years Day) you’ll have three galleries in the museum to explore; the lower level devoted to special exhibitions, the Fashion and Textile History Gallery (current exhibition: Denim: Fashion’s Frontier) on the main floor, and Gallery FIT also on the main floor dedicated to student and faculty exhibitions.  

New York City Public Library: New York’s most famous library is also the second largest public library in the United States. The library welcomes millions of visitors each year from across the globe who find inspiration in its majestic public spaces, unparalleled research collections, and vibrant programs and exhibitions. Take a free, docent-led tour of the building at 11am or 2pm Monday through Saturday. Or, take a look at the event calendar to plan your visit. 

MoMA The Museum of Modern Art: For kids under 16, the MoMA is free daily. Otherwise adults can take advantage of Free Friday Nights every Friday evening from 4pm - 8pm. Catch a special nighttime screening of the museum’s Modern “Matinees,” with films like Underworld (1927), Little Caesar (1931), and Mountains May Depart (2015) on New Year’s Day. 

The Grand Tour: The Grand Central Partnership offers a free, weekly, no-reservations-required, award-winning 90 minute guided walking tour of the Grand Central neighborhood, including such sights as the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal, itself and Pershing Square.The tour will be meeting this Friday, New Year’s Day at 12:30pm in the sculpture court at 120 Park Avenue. 

While your city trip may not be entirely free when you factor in transportation and meals - you’ll still be paying considerably less than you may have first imagined. Take it one step further and reserve your transportation with us! 

Hear us out - by booking a Dynasty Limo vehicle into the city for you and your group for the day, you’ll be able to skip the hassle and costs of the LIRR, taxis or Ubers. You’ll have somewhere to store your belongings safely if you plan to pick up souvenirs and you can even bring a packed lunch or snacks to help fuel you through the day. If this sounds of interest, give us a call and we'll discuss your options: (631) 587-8500.

Where to Ring in 2016 on Long Island

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

 

Still struggling to make New Year’s Eve plans? You’re not alone. Thankfully, we’re here to help. See what is happening around Long Island in time for 2016:

K Pacho’s New Year’s Eve Extravaganza - New Hyde Park
For $70 per person, take advantage of a 5 hour open bar, premium buffet in the restaurant’s capacious lower level, live DJ performance in the main room, and some festive party favors for the NYE countdown. For $125 upgrade to a VIP packaged which includes roped off seating and bottle service (bottle of Ketel One and mini Patron tequila per four people). Call for tickets 516.358.2222.

Library Cafe - Farmingdale
Ring in the New Year with a complimentary champagne toast, an open bar from 9pm - 1am, alongside a hot and cold dinner buffet all for $50 per person. But wait, there’s more! Pricing also includes a breakfast buffet that will be served at 2am. #Winning.

Monsoon Steak & Sushi - Babylon
For $150 per person, you’ll have a four course prix-fixe menu and open bar. Menu items include Crispy Calamari, Montauk Roll, Black Angus Filet Mignon, Lobster Cantonese, and Tellers’ Creme Brûlée to name a few. For open bar only, tickets cost $100 (11pm - 1am).

Irish Times Pub - Holbrook
Enjoy a 4 hour top shelf open bar with a buffet dinner (including Marinated Steak, Irish Whiskey Chicken, Shrimp Scampi, Penne ala Vodka, Apple Crisp ala Mode & a Champagne Toast!) for $75 per person ($85 at the door). Be sure to dress to impress!
 

If you plan on taking advantage of the open bar at the above places, allow Dynasty Limousine to bring you home safely. Whether you are attending a local party or spending the night out in the city, arrive in style!  Could you think of a more glamorous way to start 2016? We can't either! Call us today (631) 587-8500! 

2016 Travel Trends

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

 

While the economy may have encouraged more stay-cations in previous years, it’s safe to say the travel bug is hitting Americans again.  With increased travel spending in 2015, this trend is certainly anticipated to continue. See what else is trending in travel for the New Year»

 

 
Home rentals are surging. Partially due to increased hotel prices and partially due to the rise of AirBnB- vacation rentals are becoming the norm. Travelers are enjoying the additional space and amenities that rentals can provide. 

 
Better deals on transportation. With gas prices low, more travelers are hitting the roads to their destinations. Airlines too have lower prices on some routes due to decreased jet fuel costs. 

 
People are traveling for “wellness” reasons. According to TripBarometer - the world’s largest traveler and accommodation survey - travelers are spending far more than they have in the past. The reason? Because they believe themselves, or their families, deserve it. Others feel travel is important for their health and well-being. Travelers are shifting their mindset to visit locations they believe will add to their mental and/or physical well being.

 
The want for local experiences. Travelers and travel companies alike are shifting their focus to unique experiences. More and more, travelers are looking to experience a destination through the eyes of a local - in addition or over visiting tourist attractions. Travel start ups like EatWith.com and OneFineStay.com hope to satisfy more of this need.

 
Pop culture tourism. TV and movies are playing a larger role in traveler’s destination choices. Whether it’s visiting Norway to imagine Disney’s Frozen in real life; Northern Ireland, Croatia, and Iceland to see Game of Thrones’ Westeros; or a pilgrimage to New Zealand to follow the Hobbit Trail - European travel is increasing. With the dollar still relatively strong against the continent’s currency and some great layover travel options (looking at you, Icelandair), we expect this trend to continue.

 

What travel trends to you see on the horizon? Let us know on our Facebook page!

 
No matter where your 2016 travel plans take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We are available for pickups and drop offs at all of the major New York Airports including, JFK, La Guardia, Mac Arthur Airport and for most private airports including Farmingdale Executive Airport. Dynasty Limousines has competitive rates for Airport and Ground Transportation in the New York area. Call and request a quote today (631) 587-8500!

#TL_Chat Recap

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

Heading out of town for the holidays this year? Make sure you leave your hover boards at home. Yesterday, Travel + Leisure hosted a Twitter chat with the TSA to talk all things airport and security. Including what tech gadget is giving security the biggest headache, if wrapped presents are a no-no, and if you can bring your favorite baked pie to Christmas dinner.

Check out our recap below:

Q1: What are your tips for getting through security as fast as possible, especially during holiday travel? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/1j6tvz1yMd

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A1: Arrive in plenty of time, follow our 3-1-1 guidance for liquids, and check your bag for prohibited items B4 the checkpoint #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q2: Fill in the blank: The most expensive thing ever found at the checkpoint by the TSA is _____________. #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/Qu1dzQA13H

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A2: Most items left behind are small, but a $100K Cartier watch was left in May. It was successfully reunited with its owner. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q3: Quiz time! You lost your ID—can you still fly? How? #TL_Chat, has this happened to you? pic.twitter.com/ZX7LcIkHHU

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A3: Yes! You'll complete a form + be asked questions to confirm your identity. You may also be subject to additional screening. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q4: What does the TSA do with all the confiscated items? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/8b6WtI1Bj2

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A4: Most unclaimed & surrendered items are sent to state-run surplus auctions. Guns are turned over to law-enforcement agencies. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q5: True or False: You can bring wrapped presents on the plane with you. #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/jbUNxMhkoq

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A5: Allowed, but not encouraged; If there’s something in the gift that needs to be inspected, we may have to unwrap it. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q6:This year, the one tech item you’ll most likely have trouble getting through security w/ is_________. #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/myPaPqxoR3

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A6: Most airlines have banned hover boards completely; check with your air carrier. For other tech toys, tweet to @AskTSA for an answer!

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q7:Inflight pastimes, which of these is not allowed: Knitting needles, nail clippers, or video game console?#TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/g45ouIeb2o

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A7: Trick question! Any of these items would be allowed on board your flight. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q8: Pies, jams and hams: How do you decide which holiday foods can get through security? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/uC2GXSqfVA

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A8: Meats and baked items are fine. Liquids (like gravy and sauces) must be checked. If in doubt, tweet to @AskTSA for an answer! #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

Q9: What’s the strangest thing someone has tried to get through security? #TL_Chat, any guesses? #TL_Chat pic.twitter.com/wcQ5NLy48Q

— Travel + Leisure (@TravelLeisure) December 15, 2015

A9: People sneaking eels & snakes in their pants comes to mind! Check out https://t.co/J2anB3Qn4t to see more items we’ve found. #TL_Chat

— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2015

And there you have it. Keep the above in mind on your future air travels and remember to tweet @AskTSA if you have any specific security questions. 

Remember, wherever your 2015 or 2016 travel plans may take you, Dynasty Limousine will be there to handle your transportation needs. We offer competitive rates for Airport and Ground Transportation in the New York area. Call and request a quote today (631) 587-8500!

Reasons To Book a Car Service for Your Holiday Guests

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

 

As you begin readying your home for this year’s influx of holiday guests, you may also want to start considering transportation options for any out-of-town relatives. Instead of assuming the role of taxi driver all week, reserve your guests a ride with us! 

Here are 4 reasons you should book a car service with Dynasty Limo for your family this holiday season:

1. Customer Service - While we hope this doesn’t happen, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that if anything does go wrong you have a point of contact. Is there a flight delay and you need to make changes to your reservation? No problem. At Dynasty Limousine, we operate 24/7 and have a team available to answer all of your questions.

2. Safety -  When it comes to other transportation options - hailing a cab, requesting an Uber or Lyft - you don’t always know what you are stepping into. Don’t leave your family’s safety to chance. Our dedication to safety and attention to service is the number one reason our clients say they return to us and recommend us regularly to their family, friends, and associates. We have professional, experienced, and knowledgeable drivers with a top of the line fleet of vehicles. 

3. Convenience - Is Aunt Carol, Uncle Jim, and the three kids flying into town? With large groups, having a car to fit them plus their luggage comfortably is important. Airport transportation aside, if the whole family is planning a night out - avoid the hassle of splitting into multiple cars. At Dynasty Limousine, we have a vehicle sure to fit your party’s needs.
 

4. Reliability - Holidays are a busy time for travel and passengers can easily be subject to fare hikes due to high demand. When you hire a professional car service, you have your vehicle when you need it at the price you reserved.

Dynasty Limousine is Long Island’s premier limousine and luxury car service. Since 1988 we have been providing the highest level of luxury, customer service, and safety in the industry. Whatever the occasion may be - airport travel or just a night out on the town - let us handle getting your family around safely this holiday season. Reserve Your Car Today 631-587-8500