Travel Tips
Frontier Airlines - Fees and possible issues
Frontier operates most of the non-stop exclusive vacation flights to Mexico and the D.R. This page is to make our clients aware of the extra charges and possible issues with flying Frontier. As a disclaimer this is being written as our experiences flying out of St. Louis. Flight times and fees will vary by departure city.
- Bags - While most airlines charge baggage fees, Frontier is definitely more expensive and comes with a 40lb weight limit. Most airlines do allow a free carry-on, not Frontier. While bag fees vary by flight, they are typically $60-$70 per bag (carry-on or checked). Compare that to average of $30-$40 on other airlines. Add another $25 if you want to check in your bag with an agent at the airport.
- Seats - The upfront cost of a Frontier flight does not include seat selection. Want to pick your seat, add another $15 or more each person, each way. While this may not be a necessity for some, most people traveling with a family want to be able to sit together.
- Flight times - The Frontier exclusive vacation flights usually leave early in the morning getting you to your destination in time for a quick lunch before hitting the beach. However, sometimes it may be a late morning or afternoon departure with a late afternoon or evening arrival. Yes, you flew non-stop, but you also wasted a half day of your vacation. The other issue that comes with a later departure is that you are depending on your plane arriving to your city on-time. If you're flight is delayed or cancelled, it's almost impossible to get on another flight. We personally would rather stop in Dallas or Charlotte and avoid these issues.
- In-flight - After years of flying Frontier we tried an American flight. Even sitting in coach felt like first class compared to Frontier. Frontier does not offer Wi-Fi, power outlets, in-flight entertainment, or complimentary beverages and snacks. Again, this may not be a big deal to most, we just prefer a higher level of service.
We don't completely discourage people from flying Frontier, we just want to make you aware of these details. All airlines and flights can experience issues and delays. Typically, Frontier is cheaper than other airlines, but this may not be the case when you add all the extras. Be prepared to add at least $300 a couple and $600 for a family of four to your total vacation price. We strongly encourage travelers to purchase a bundled package that includes seats and bags. As always, we will work with you to get the best flight option for your needs.
Packing Tips on what and what not to bring
Information regarding flying in and out of Montego Bay, Jamaica
Tips while staying at the resort.
Information regarding flying in and out of Tulum
Information regarding traveling in and out of Punta Cana
Information regarding flying in and out of Cabo San Lucas
Information regarding flying in and out of Cancun International Airport.
Resort Dining
Choosing a room category
Most resorts state that gratuities are not required. While this is true, we always recommend tipping. The average resort employee makes less than $10 a day so you can see what a few dollars here and there can mean to them. Below is a general guide for when we tip and the general amounts. Transfer driver - $20-40 depending on the total distance of the drive and driver courtesy. (each way) Bellman - $5-10 Breakfast - $2-3 Lunch - $3-5 Dinner - $10-20 depending on the type of dinner and service. Bartenders/Servers - While we don't tip on every drink, a dollar here and there is appreciated. Consider laying down a five or ten if you plan on being at a bar for a couple hours or more. Pool attendant/concierge - Not all resorts have these but tipping them can be crucial if you want prime real estate at the pool. $10-20 on the first day may secure your chairs for the week! Housekeeping - $2-3 per day. Be sure to leave this on the bed. Butler/Concierge - If a resort provides this service, then tip on the service provided. If they only introduce themselves and you never see them again, don't tip at all. If they have gone all out, leave a hefty one on departure. I've never done more than $100 though. Airport baggage porters - $5-10. At the airport you might be approached by porters wanting to take your bags. We used to think this was a scam but have recently realized it's well worth the tip. They will help you navigate your way through the airport chaos and will help you find your driver on arrival or check in to your flight faster when leaving. Here's some other pointers regarding tipping For a seven night trip we recommend bringing $500 in cash broken up by denomination. $150 in ones, $150 in fives, $100 in tens and $100 in twenties. We always come back with spare money but it's best to have more than not enough. ATM's come with hefty fees abroad. Not all tips have to be money. Consider leaving items for staff if you think they would like or need them. For example, the people in the Dominican Republic are huge baseball fans. Leaving them a cup with an MLB logo on it can mean a lot to them or their children. Also mentioning by them by name in a review can get them rewarded by the resort. Carry a cheap wallet for cash in your beach bag, leave the real one in your safe. Slipping a few dollars in your waterproof phone case is also helpful while at the swim up bar.