Question 1

How does Next Stop Getaways work?

Accepted Answer

It's simple — you reach out with your travel ideas, and Sergio personally builds a custom itinerary for you. No call centres, no automated systems. You get one dedicated advisor who handles everything from flights and hotels to activities and transfers.

Question 2

Is there a fee for your travel planning service?

Accepted Answer

Our trip planning consultation is completely free. We earn a commission from our travel partners — airlines, resorts, and cruise lines — so you get expert planning at no extra cost to you.

Question 3

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Just fill out the trip inquiry form on our Contact page. Tell us where you want to go, when, and how many travellers. Sergio will follow up within 24 hours with a personalised proposal.

Question 4

Can you help if I have no idea where I want to go?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — that's one of our favourite challenges. Tell us your budget, travel style, and what kind of experience you're after (beach, culture, adventure, romance), and Sergio will suggest destinations you'll love.

Question 5

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

For peak travel seasons (December–January, March Break, summer), we recommend booking 3–6 months in advance to secure the best availability and pricing. For off-peak travel, 4–8 weeks is usually sufficient — though earlier is always better.

Question 6

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards, e-transfer, and bank transfers. A deposit is typically required at booking, with the balance due 60–90 days before departure depending on the supplier.

Question 7

Are prices per person or per package?

Accepted Answer

All prices shown on our site are per person based on double occupancy (two adults sharing a room). Solo travellers, families, and groups may have different pricing — contact us for an accurate quote.

Question 8

Can I make changes to my booking after it's confirmed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases. Change fees vary by supplier and how close to departure you are. We always try to accommodate changes and will clearly communicate any fees before proceeding.

Question 9

What's typically included in an all-inclusive package?

Accepted Answer

Most all-inclusive packages include accommodation, all meals and snacks, unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), non-motorised water sports, entertainment, and access to resort pools and beaches. Premium activities, spa services, and off-resort excursions are usually extra.

Question 10

Which Caribbean destinations are best for families?

Accepted Answer

Cancún, Punta Cana, and the Riviera Maya are all excellent for families — they offer calm waters, large resort complexes with kids' clubs, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Cuba is also a great budget-friendly option.

Question 11

What's the difference between a 4-star and 5-star all-inclusive?

Accepted Answer

Five-star resorts typically offer more dining options (à la carte restaurants vs. buffet-only), higher-end room finishes, butler service, premium liquor brands, and more attentive service ratios. For many travellers, a well-rated 4-star delivers excellent value.

Question 12

Is a cruise right for me if I've never cruised before?

Accepted Answer

Cruises are one of the most beginner-friendly ways to travel — you unpack once and wake up in a new destination each day. Modern cruise ships are essentially floating resorts with restaurants, entertainment, pools, and activities. Most first-timers become repeat cruisers.

Question 13

What's included in a cruise package?

Accepted Answer

Cruise packages include your cabin, most onboard meals (main dining room and buffet), entertainment, and access to ship amenities. Specialty restaurants, shore excursions, drinks packages, and gratuities are typically extra — though we can bundle these for you.

Question 14

Caribbean vs. Mediterranean cruise — which should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Caribbean cruises are ideal for beach lovers, warm weather, and relaxation — best from November to April. Mediterranean cruises are perfect for history, culture, food, and architecture — best from May to October. Both are spectacular; it comes down to your travel style.

Question 15

Do I need a passport for a cruise?

Accepted Answer

Canadian citizens need a valid passport for all international cruises. Even for closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same Canadian or US port), a passport is strongly recommended in case of emergencies requiring air travel home.

Question 16

Do I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend it — and in some cases it's required. Travel insurance covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies abroad, lost luggage, and flight delays. Without it, a medical emergency in the US or Caribbean can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We can help you find the right coverage.

Question 17

Do Canadians need a visa for popular destinations?

Accepted Answer

Most Caribbean destinations (Cancún, Punta Cana, Cuba, Jamaica) are visa-free for Canadians. European destinations like Greece (Santorini) and Italy (Amalfi Coast) are also visa-free for stays under 90 days. Dubai requires a visa on arrival for Canadians. We always confirm entry requirements for your specific trip.

Question 18

What's the best time of year to travel to the Caribbean?

Accepted Answer

The peak season is mid-December through April — dry, sunny, and warm. The shoulder season (May and November) offers good weather at lower prices. Hurricane season runs June through November, with September and October being the highest-risk months. Travel insurance is especially important during this period.

Question 19

Can you arrange airport transfers and excursions?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we can arrange private or shared airport transfers, day trips, snorkelling excursions, city tours, and more. Booking through us ensures vetted, reliable operators and seamless coordination with your overall itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still Have Questions?