I loved my visit to Beaches Turks and Caicos!

See PART ONE with videos 1-4 here.

Enjoy video 5 -8 below and click here for

 all my videos of my adventures at Beaches Resorts

Video: My day at Beaches Turks and Caicos April 28 2019

Are you looking for a beach paradise for your next vacation? When you arrive at Beaches Resorts, they tell you WELCOME HOME! There are over twenty restaurants included where you can eat buffet, a la carte or with your toes in the sand! I love the diving, the sharks, the turtles—the only thing extra you need here is more days to enjoy all the pools, water sports! I loved my view of the pool in Italian village. See my other videos about our scuba dives.

My butlers, Jomo and Harrold, left me afternoon treats and after dinner desserts and towel animal creations!
I just loved walking along the beach at sunset. It is so beautiful at Beaches Turks and Caicos. I could stay here forever!

For dinner, I ate at Sky restaurant with an incredible view of the sunset and the sea! My butler, Harrold, brought me a rose and walked me to dinner. I felt like a bachelorette on the TV show! Thank you to the team at SKY including Vioulande, Marlon, Jennaiah, Chef Brian, Marjorie (who carried dessert on her head!), Chef Jeremiah, Susan and ONeil for a great evening and to the entire team at Beaches Resort for an amazing stay.
Beaches Turks and Caicos April 28 2019

Video: Meet me underwater at Beaches Turks and Caicos

I absolutely love diving in Turks and Caicos with Beaches Resorts.
Thank you so much to the entire dive team for taking such great care of me!
Thank you to Roldson, Mitchum, Leon, Mark, Marco, Captain Lancelot and Captain Abner.

I never went on the snorkel boat or the glass bottom boat but if you do not want to scuba dive you could go on those too!You could also take a scuba class at Beaches and LEARN to dive and meet me underwater!

We went to Pinnacles in Grace Bay which is about a ten minute boat ride.

We saw a GIANT green moray eel, a large grouper, barracuda, angel fish, file fish, box fish, trumpet fish and hog fish. The many types of coral are vibrant and there were many schools of fish. We saw two four or five foot black tip reef sharks and I was able to film a turtle eating. What an amazing day!
Beaches Diving April 28 2019 Turks and Caicos

Lisa Niver diving at Beaches Turks and Caicos

Video: LUXURY INCLUDED at Beaches Turks and Caicos

Filmed at Beaches Turks and Caicos April 29 2019
Join me at Beaches Turks and Caicos where you can swim, snorkel and sail and it is all included! I loved scuba diving every day with the friendly and professional dive team. Can you believe it? The diving is INCLUDED too! On our boat ride to the dive site, we saw dolphins and then we were in the water with sharks, turtles and rays. It was truly fantastic. Afterwards, I loved eating lunch with a view at Neptunes. You can dine indoors, outdoors, a la carte or buffet and it is all included.
Your children will love spending time with Camp Sesame. They have their own pool, play yard, strollers and many Sesame friends.

I had a selfie with Grover at the afternoon cocktail party. You might want to have breakfast with a character or two!
I had towel animals in my room created by my butlers Jomo and Harrold along with afternoon snacks.

One night, we dined at Kimono’s! I loved the spirit of the whole team. The chef cooks right in front of you, sings and the food was so fresh and tasty. I even got to have a photo with the chef.

Make sure to see a show on stage. I saw Sesame Street and a Reggae show. There is a chocolate buffet and the bar called Turtles for adults only. Honestly, there is so much to see and do, I am not sure you can explore it all in one visit!

At night, the pools are light up with a rainbow of colors. I sat on my balcony and enjoyed the sights!

Video: Meet Me Underwater To Scuba Dive With Sharks

Beaches Turks and Caicos
April 29 2019 3rd day of diving

We took a 45minute boat ride from Beaches Turks and Caicos to Northwest point. We saw dolphins on the way out and back!

I loved diving at Eel Garden and Two step. You should be diving with me! We saw so many sharks! We did a wall dive with no current. A shark swam right past me and towards my buddies. I love this video—it reminds me what a great time we had!

We say a sting ray burying itself in the sand. It was fascinating to watch. We saw a southern ray swimming, garden eels, horse eyed jacks, puffer fish, angel fish and Nassau grouper. There are so many fish and beautiful corals. I loved diving at Turks and Caicos. I already cannot wait to go back!
Thank you to the entire dive team especially Chef, Jere, Oats, Leon, Shandy, Mitchum, Jacques, Edwin and Captain Rick.

See PART ONE with videos 1-4 here and click here for

 all my videos of my adventures at Beaches Resorts!

Join me as I travel to Beaches Turks and Caicos!

The water is turquoise  and the palm trees are waving in the breeze! 

Please enjoy all my videos of my adventures at Beaches Resorts:

Video: Welcome to Beaches Turks and Caicos!

I ate Italian lunch at Marios where you can order linguini alfredo off the menu or sample the buffet. At Beaches Resorts, you can dine with your Sesame Street friends and watch them dance in the show at night!
Make sure to eat at least one meal at Barefoot with your toes in the sand!
Everything at Beaches Resorts is included! You can have your wedding, enjoy scuba diving, kayak, paddle board and eat at any of the twenty restaurants. The drinks are included and there is no tipping!

While I was there, Chef Phil Vickery was filming for his show so I got to have a selfie with him and watch their production team!

My butler, Jomo, brought me to my suite. I loved my home away from home almost as much as the greeting when I arrived. When you check in at Beaches Resorts, they tell you: “Welcome home!”

My balcony overlooked the pool at Italian village. I loved having a desk, dining table, living room and kitchen. My favorite part was the afternoon snacks and evening dessert treats left by Jomo and Harrold.

There are many programs for kids of all ages and many Sandals and Beaches Resorts to consider.

As the sun set, I wandered over to the Beach party! Please see my next video for the Sesame Street party with Zoe and her friends!

This resort is beautiful and has so many villages to explore. I cannot wait to try the restaurants and watch more live shows. This is my first time at a Beaches resort. I went to my first Sandals Resort in Montego Bay in February 2019.

Elanor and I loved dining at Le Petit Chateau for fine French cuisine! Remember you have over twenty dining options, eat by a pool, in your room, at a buffet or at an adults’ only restaurant. The choice is yours and it is ALL included!

Video: Sesame Street Beach Party at Treasure Beach

Join me at Treasure Beach for the Sesame Street Beach Party at Beaches Turks and Caicos April 26 2019!

On Friday nights, watch all your favorite characters dance on stage, do the limbo and come into the crowd for hugs!

Sesame Street characters can be found at breakfast, the Manager’s cocktail party and at special events at Camp Sesame! I loved having my photo with Zoe! Who do you want a picture with?

I like the way that Grover dances! Who is your favorite?

Video: 3 What is there to do at Beaches Turks and Caicos?

What activities will you choose at Beaches Turks and Caicos?
I love Scuba diving! I went on the 8am two tank boat to Grace Bay. Please see my other videos of our dives!

What can you do in the water? At Beaches, it is all included: the pools, non motorized water sports like sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding, 2 dives a day and the Waterpark! Take a ride on the glass bottom boat or on the catamaran!

Do you want to take a class? When you are ten years old you can learn to dive! There is also discover scuba diving and Snuba!

For lunch, I went to Key West Village and ate at Bayside which had a buffet. Next door is Neptune’s where you order off a menu. Upstairs is Sky Rooftop Restaurant which is open for breakfast and dinner. The resort is beautifully maintained and I loved watching them make my sushi at Bayside!

There are hammocks, beach chairs and so many pools! Where will you begin?

Jomo, my butler, made me a reservation and escorted me to Bombay for Indian food. If you eat there during the day, it is Dino’s pizzeria which is very tasty too. I loved having Nan bread and curries. After dinner, I stopped at Cricketer’s where you can eat pub food and play pool. Outside of Sky restaurant, there is live music at night under the stars.

When I got back to my room, I had towel animals and dessert waiting for me on my dining room table. I am having the best time at Beaches Turks and Caicos and cannot wait to go diving again!

Video: Diving Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos with Beaches Resorts

I loved diving at Grace Bay with Beaches Turks and Caicos. Captain Lancelot and Divemaster Mark both gave briefings that were very complete and it was clear that safety is a priority on all Beaches Resorts dives! It is only about a ten minute boat ride and the conditions were great! I wore a shortie dive suit and I was very comfortable.

At Cathedral, we saw sharks, porcupine fish, only 2 lion fish, several angel fish, trumpet fish and a really big shark twice. We also saw box fish. I just LOVED being in the water! They have a dive master for every ten divers and they were training a team member on our boat. I was very impressed with all of the dive staff.

Our second dive was at Piranaha cove, we saw more sharks, a turtle with three fins and a gigantic barracuda. I saw a golden spotted moray eel and at least five nudibranchs. I definitely did not want to get out of the water! Diving Beaches Turks and Caicos April 27 2019

Please see all of my video adventures at Beaches Turks and Caicos: Part 2 and Part 3

June News 2019 with We Said Go Travel:

Sunrise at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Photo by Lisa Niver

Happy Summer! Are you looking for your next retreat?

Watch me on KTLA live or on livestream

on the 11am news TOMORROW, Friday, June 28

and text to win a trip to Scottsdale, Arizona!

Want to see more about Scottsdale? Watch my videos from my adventures!

Help me get to ONE MILLION VIEWS on my YouTube channel:

I have less than 25,000 views to go. 

I am over 975,000 views on the channel!

Subscribe, like, comment at We Said Go Travel

Lisa Niver is a finalist for the Southern California Journalism Awards

Thank you to Los Angeles Press Club. I am honored to a be a finalist for the SoCal Journalism Awards for the 3rd year in a row.

I am a finalist in category I-10 Lifestyle feature for Television or Film Broadcast, including online and cable TV, produced in Southern California:

* Lisa Niver, KTLA, “Money Smart: Ogden Ski Getaway Giveaway Package”

NEW ARTICLES BY LISA NIVER

Lisa Niver is a contributor to TODAY.com

Thank you to TODAY.com, the website of the TODAY SHOW, for publishing my two articles:

• Growing Up Diving: A Childhood Passion Becomes A Career

• Tips for an out-of-this-world family experience at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

• Is your family waiting to see the new ride Millennium Falcon (video)?

Thank you Carmen Rios and Ms Magazine for publishing my article: “The Moment of Lift We Need for Father’s Day“

Thank you #travel1k Top 1000+ Travel Blogs! I am honored to be ranked as #3 for the 3rd time in 2019! To see more We Said Go Travel articles, TV segments, videos and social media: CLICK HERE

Lisa and Jen hiking with our Super Hero Capes at Tom’s Thumb in Scottsdale, Arizona

Thank you to everyone who entered our 2018 Travel Photo Award.

I am publishing the fantastic photos once a day! Click here to see the most recently published entries. Once all the entries are published in July 2019, I will announce the finalists. I expect to announce the winners in September 2019.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have over 975,000 views on YouTube! Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 2,198 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe!

Videos coming soon from speaking at Metro Women’s Leadership Summit, presented at Ms. Magazine about #IamRemarkable, , IPW Anaheim 2019  and my trip to Miami for the LE MIAMI conference.

Lisa and Ben as super heros kayaking Salt River

Thank you for watching my videos, reading my stories, following along on social media and asking me about booking your travels!

Where do you want to wander? Find more information about me and my luxury travel advising as an independent affiliate of CRUISE and RESORT, Inc with Virtuoso Luxury Travel Network on my new microsite!

My fortune cookies said:

“You have the ability to undertake and complete anything you desire.”

and “Your kindness will lead you to success.”

Lisa in a floating bean bag chair in the spa pool on the roof at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Thank you for your all of your support. Lisa

Discover more on my social media accounts:  Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, and at LisaNiver.com. My social media following is now over 150,000 and I am verified on both Twitter and Facebook.

View from hiking at Tom’s Thumb in Scottsdale by Lisa Niver

Happy Summer!
Are you looking for your next retreat?

Watch me on KTLA live or on livestream

on the 11am news this Friday, June 28

and text to win a trip to Scottsdale, Arizona!

This summer I visited Scottsdale, Arizona to learn how to make the most of the heat and take advantage of the amazing deals. Check out itsthathot.com to explore the great deals at resorts and the summer activities.

Where did I stay in Scottsdale?

I loved my adventures in Arizona and my stunning room with a balcony with a view of Sunset Beach at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Sunset Beach has over 800 tons of fluffy,  white sand and is the sixth and largest of the resort’s pools at 7,000 sq. ft., with zero-depth entry and a splash pad!

Video: A Super Hero Summer at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

What to see and do in Scottsdale?

My first afternoon we stayed cool by going to see the immersive art exhibits at Wonderspaces Arizona.

Video: Let’s Wander at WonderSpaces Arizona, “Point of View”

Point of View at Wonderspaces Arizona features thirteen extraordinary installations from artists around the world. This is an interactive art show that welcomes all ages. Through their art, these artists play with the definition of perspective, flip its rules, and present abstract and literal forms. It takes approximately eighty-minutes to experience the 16,000 square feet. Be ready for immersive virtual reality and literally jumping into some of the exhibits. Point of View is the first in a series of shows at Wonderspaces Arizona.

Where to eat in Scottsdale?

This visit, I dined at La Hacienda. Your toughest choice will be which tequila to choose tonight! With 240 to choose from, come thirsty!

At the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess chose from:

Bourbon Steak – Acclaimed Chef Michael Mina presents an upscale, contemporary American steak house like no other inviting guests to indulge in a tantalizing menu featuring the finest cuts of beef and poultry slow- poached in butter, grilled and finished over seasoned wood-fueled flames

Dinner at La Hacienda at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

La Hacienda – Fine Mexican dining with a fresh, contemporary twist by renowned Chef Richard Sandoval, known as the “Father of modern Mexican cuisine”
Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar – By Richard Sandoval located at the TPC Scottsdale clubhouse overlooking the 18th green features Pan Latin fare available for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ironwood American Kitchen – Overlooking the Princess Pool, this informal cafe serves all-day fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a warm and inviting atmosphere
The Plaza Bar – With a unique indoor/outdoor setting, this lounge infuses Scottsdale nightlife with cutting- edge design, signature cocktails and a dash of glamour

Dinner at Starlite BBQ

I loved my dinner at Starlight BBQ and my healthy lunches at Flower Child, Kale and Clover and Farm and Craft.

Video:  Join me for dinner at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

 

See below for more about  my hike at Tom’s Thumb, kayaking on Salt River and my divine singing bowls treatment at Mind & Body.

Are you wondering how to beat the heat this summer?
Here are my tips:

Sunrise at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Photo by Lisa Niver

1. Wake up early, watch the sunrise and get going
Video: Sunrise at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

2. Hike EARLY

Lisa and Jen hiking with our Super Hero Capes at Tom’s Thumb

Video: Jen and Lisa hiking at Tom’s Thumb

Tom’s Thumb in McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a challenging but rewarding hike, with switchbacks that earn you your cardio for the morning, and amazing views of the Sonoran Desert at the top! It’s 2 miles UP, and 2 miles back down.

Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve includes the beautiful McDowell Mountains, more than 30,500 contiguous acres and more than 200 miles of trails. The Preserve is open from sunrise to sunset and there is no charge for parking or access. It is the largest urban park or preserve in the United States.

3. Kayak EARLY

Lisa and Ben as super heros kayaking Salt River

Jen and I kayaked on the Lower Salt River with Ben, a guide from AOA.
It was beautiful and relaxing. I loved being on the water.

Video: Kayaking the Lower Salt River

This is the tour description: “Float down the Lower Salt River on our guided rafting trips and discover a scenic and relaxing desert oasis just outside Phoenix. Swim and water fight or just relax on the river and soak in the scenery ‐ our most family friendly activity has options to please everyone. This tour is NOT white water rafting but rather a casual float trip that provides an unique perspective on the Sonoran Desert. A little paddling is required, but your guide will steer the boat and provide fascinating information about the surrounding Sonoran Desert. A reliable source of water, the Salt River attracts a variety of wildlife, making it common for us to enjoy close encounters with animals in their natural habitat.”

In the afternoon, sit by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment at Well & Being or visit Wonderspaces Arizona!

Video: Well & Being Spa at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Treat yourself to a Spa treatment at Well & Being Spa at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess! Make sure to enjoy the adults only rooftop pool before your spa session. The bean bag floating chairs in the pool are the best. I loved my singing bowls treatment with Danielle. The sounds impact your cells and can help you heal from many issues. I highly recommend it.

SINGING BOWL THERAPY – 60 MIN

This ancient sound healing and massage practice harnesses the body’s own vibrational and material properties on a cellular level. The subtler effects can include regulating energy flow in the astral body. The bowls can be used to activate the chakras and remove energy blocks to promote good health. The mind is centered and focused on the sound.

Lisa in a floating bean bag chair in the spa pool on the roof at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

More about Well & Being Spa:

“The Well & Being Spa has captured the essence and elegance of its surroundings, the 44,000 square-foot Well & Being Spa is a luxurious retreat. From its distinctive design with river-rocked tile, Sedona sandstone interiors and waterfalls inspired by the Grand Canyon’s Havasupai Falls to the serenity of 27 soothing treatment rooms, Well & Being Spa offers an unparalleled experience inspiring greater vitality, plus an inhalation room, dry/wet saunas, Swiss shower, whirlpool, cold plunge, atrium cafe, boutique, therapeutic waterfall grotto and scenic rooftop pool.”

See you in Scottsdale!

61st SoCal Journalism Awards Gala

Congratulations to the SoCal Finalists!

“Our judges evaluated more than 1,700 entries, and they’ve selected the finalists for the SoCal Journalism Awards! This year, more journalists entered than ever before, breaking old records and setting new, higher standards! On June 30, we celebrate the journalists pushing our industry forward.”

I am a finalist in category I-10 Lifestyle feature for Television or Film Broadcast, including online and cable TV, produced in Southern California:

* Lisa Niver, KTLA, “Money Smart: Ogden Ski Getaway Giveaway Package”

* Zoe Buck, Rosey Alvero, Bijan Rezvani, Justin Cram and Juan Devis, KCET, “SoCal Wanderer – Anacapa to Ojai”
* Juan Devis, Antonio Diaz, Stef Ferrari, Ben Hunter and Jacqueline Reyno, KCET, “The Migrant Kitchen”
* Victoria McKillop, Francine Nazario, Ryan Heraly, Vince Patrick and Minh Bui, The Hollywood Reporter, “Where Hollywood Eats: New Orleans – Compere Lapin”

* Gina Pollack, Andy Viner, Michael Ray, Tori Edgar and Helki Frantzen, KCET, “Under the Influence”

Lisa Niver and Kimberly Cornell at 2018 Press Club Awards

Thank you to everyone at KTLA and especially my producer, Kimberly Cornell!

 

Click here to see our segment:

Money Smart: Ogden Ski Getaway Giveaway Package

Valentine’s Day is around the corner and KTLA wants to share the love with a winter ski package for two in Utah! Travel Expert Lisa Niver of WeSaidGoTravel tells us why Ogden is the ultimate ski destination! This contest ends on 2/8/18.

Learn more about Ogden in this article: click here! We went skiing and threw axes!

This is my 3rd year to be nominated as a finalist:

2018 Finalist for three categories of Southern California Journalism Awards:

• SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY REPORTING: Smithsonian 

• TRAVEL REPORTING: Popsugar Fitness

• PERSONALITY PROFILE: Saturday Evening Post

2017 2nd place winner for Southern California Journalism Award Print Column and finalist for Travel Reporting.

“The Southern California Journalism Awards were born during the Cold War, when Los Angeles journalism was dominated by the city’s many newspapers. Television was in its infancy. Developments like all-news radio were still years away. Women journalists were rare in mainstream media. Minorities, even rarer.

Today we see greater diversity in the newsroom and in the ways we provide information. The Press Club has been striving to embrace Internet journalists and bloggers–clearly the wave of the future.

The Southern California Journalism Awards, now celebrating 61 years of recognizing high-caliber journalism, continues to call attention to the Los Angeles area’s fine journalists while promoting excellence in new and emerging media.”

Here are my 2019 KTLA Travel TV segments:

• KTLA Spring into Summer with Rocky Mountaineer

• KTLA Oscars: “Countdown to Gold!”

• KTLA President’s Day: Visit Historic Philadelphia

• KTLA Critics Choice Awards: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills Star Treatment

 

Filming at the Waldorf Beverly Hills for Critics Choice!

Filming at Kimpton La Peer for the Oscars

Thank you #travel1k Top 1000+ Travel Blogs! I am honored to be ranked as #3!

Well done to this week’s top three Charles McCool (McCool Travel), Julie McCool (Fun In Fairfax VA), and Lisa Ellen Niver.

The 29 May 2019 update of #travel1k Top 1000+ Travel Blogs is out. Look up top #travel #bloggers at https://t.co/SeKwXB9BVk via @risedotglobal. pic.twitter.com/haFDeohKj7

— Riseboarders (@riseboarders) May 29, 2019

In March 2019, I was #3 and the top female travel blogger:

Who is the TOP FEMALE Travel Blogger on the top 1000 list?

The Metro Women’s Leadership Summit is committed to celebrate our diversity, teaching us how to unify our message and empower all that attends. This full-day program will enlighten you on the most current challenges we face as women, highlighting real solutions to put into action steps.

I hope to see you at Workshop #10: Wonder Woman Needs To Wander Also!

Why Travel Is So Important For Females

Want to know more about BFF (BEACHES FRIENDS FOREVER)?

BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS HOSTS FIRST BFF GETAWAY TRIP OF 2019

~The Luxury Included® resort company celebrated 10 years of BFF get-togethers with girls-only vacation~

(Seaside yoga at Beaches Turks & Caicos)

For the past 10 years, Beaches® Resorts has created the perfect BFF get-together experience, allowing friends to get away and experience a Luxury Included® vacation with some of the most special women in their lives. This year was no exception, as Beaches invited guests to grab their best girlfriends and experience the ultimate BFF Girls Getaway weekend at the award-winning, Luxury Included® Beaches Turks & Caicos from May 2-6, 2019.

With daily Seaside Meditation and Yoga to start the day, an interactive skincare workshop, a jewelry and wine soiree, a private catamaran cruise excursion, Red Lane® Spa massages and more, guests enjoyed a luxurious, all-inclusive vacation with their BFF.

BFF guests also enjoyed listening to a lineup of inspirational speakers including Susan Hassett (founder of the footwear brand Cocktail Sneakers, which elegantly encourages strong women to chase everything they’re after – all with a sense of humor and grace) and Colleen Kelly & Catie Keogh (Executive Producer of the popular Emmy-nominated National PBS Television Series, “Family Travel with Colleen Kelly” and Emmy Award Winning Host, Executive Producer and the creator of 24/7 City Streets, respectfully. Together, the sisters are co-creators and co-hosts of their newest series “Trip Sisters,” which is a radio show and national podcast on WLS-AM 890 and iTunes.) The Trip Sisters are taking over Travel + Leisure’s Instagram to give followers an inside look at Beaches Turks & Caicos and this year’s first BFF event – so be sure to follow along today!

Even with a jam-packed schedule, attendees and sponsors alike such as Red Lane® Spa, Sanitas Skincare, Farmhouse Fresh, NuFACE, COOLA and Tia Crystal had plenty of leisure time to enjoy the beautiful Beaches Turks & Caicos and its Luxury Included® offerings. From its renowned 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining experience, complete with unlimited dining and drinks at 21 different restaurants and 15 bars, to its incredible accommodations – this BFF Girls Getaway trip was one for the books.

Beaches Resorts is hosting its second BFF Girls Getaway at Beaches Turks & Caicos from October 24-28, 2019, so more guests can take advantage of the ultimate all-inclusive, girls-only vacation.

To learn more about Beaches Resorts BFF Girls Getaway, click here!

May News 2019 with We Said Go Travel:

Thank you Carmen Rios and Ms Magazine for publishing my article: “What Growing Up X Taught Ilyasah Shabazz About Feminism“

Come to Metro Women’s Leadership Summit with Travel Media Showcase and hear both Ilyasah Shabazz and I speak June 7, 2019.

Use code: WSGT2019 for discounted tickets. Click here to register.

2019 Metro Women’s Leadership Summit, Photo Collage by Melody Pittman

Want to know more about Jamaica? Enjoy my two photo slideshows in USA Today 10best!

“These are the most fun and unique water activities in Jamaica“

“Things to do in Jamaica if you’re afraid of the water“

Thank you to USA Today for inviting me to help curate seven of their 10best Readers Choice Awards for Adventure Travel!

I loved writing about robots and artificial intelligence for enRoute, the print magazine for Air Canada.

I went to my University of Pennsylvania 1989 reunion and my latest article for Wharton Magazine came out the same weekend!
Thank you to Wharton Magazine for publishing: 4 Women Founders Share Their Origin Stories

Thank you to Hawkins PR in NYC for inviting me for their Visiting Journalist Series!

I also went to visit at The Female Quotient and Hudson Yards.

To see more We Said Go Travel articles, TV segments, videos and social media: CLICK HERE

Please enjoy my video from Miami Carillon Wellness Resort

Thank you to everyone who entered our 2018 Travel Photo Award.

I am publishing the fantastic photos once a day! Click here to see the most recently published entries. Once all the entries are published in July 2019, I will announce the finalists. I expect to announce the winners in September 2019.

Miami Carillon by Lisa Niver

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have over 950,000 views on YouTube!

NEXT STOP ONE MILLION VIEWS!

Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 2,143 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe!

Thank you for watching my videos, reading my stories, following along on social media and asking me about booking your travels!

Where do you want to wander? Find more information about me and my luxury travel advising as an independent affiliate of CRUISE and RESORT, Inc with Virtuoso Luxury Travel Network on my new microsite!

View from my room at Miami Carillon by Lisa Niver

My fortune cookies said:

“Good things come to those who wait. Be patient!”

This fortune cookie reminds me of one of my favorite moments on Shark Tank. Robert Herjavec said it takes 8 to 10 years to become an “overnight success.” I have always wondered when do you start the clock on the 8-10 years. So far in 2019, I have created four KTLA TV segments and had print stories for enRoute Magazine (Air Canada,) Ms. Magazine, Hemispheres (United Airlines) and American Airlines! I have had many digital stories and this month did an instagram takeover with PENN Alumni for University of Pennsylvania. I cannot wait to see what my patience brings NEXT!

The fifth month of 2019 is ending! Have you been taking steps to turn your wishes into realities? I am so excited with all that I have created so far this year. Thank you for your all of your support. Lisa

Discover more on my social media accounts:  Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, and at LisaNiver.com. My social media following is now over 150,000 and I am verified on both Twitter and Facebook.

Lisa Niver will be speaking at Metro Womens Leadership Summit June 7, 2019

Are you looking for your home away from home in Miami? I absolutely loved the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort! Not only are there white sand beaches, South Florida’s most comprehensive spa, but there are also spacious luxury apartments! You can live here forever. 

The resort features 150 spacious one- and two-bedroom suites, ranging in size from 720 – 1,200 sq. ft. An array of recreational activities are at guests’ fingertips, with over 20+ fitness classes offered daily, access to the resort’s two-story indoor rock wall and four pools located throughout the property: the Sunrise Pool, Cabana Pool, Sunset Pool and the adult-only rooftop Atlantic Pool. Serving fresh, locally-sourced, cuisine, the resort features three dining venues including The Strand Bar & Grill, Seaglass Cafe and Corner Store. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort promotes a path to discovery and provides tools for a healthier lifestyle extending beyond each guest’s stay. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

My living room at Miami Carillon

ABOUT THE SPA AND WELLNESS
If your focus is on fitness, they have that too! There are so many classes to try out for guests, residents and locals.They also offer holistic healing treatments, Oriental medicine by Acupuncture Physician, Dr. Turovskiy and luxury salon treatments from local specialist, Rocco Donna Hair and Beauty Art.

One of four pools at Miami Carillon

“Wellness has always been at the core of our resort, and we are pleased to debut the next phase of The Spa at Carillon Miami with these new experiences,” said Tammy Pahel, Vice President of Spa Operations, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. “The wellness industry continues to grow and evolve, and we are proud to be changing with it – continuing to be the top wellness resort in South Florida, providing unmatched options for health, well-being and beauty.”

Here are a few of the treatments you can experience:

• Lemi: State of the Art Spa and Wellness Technology: Carillon Miami has partnered with Italian wellness brand, Lemi, to outfit the spa with the latest technology to offer guests cutting-edge services. Through this strategic collaboration guests can now experience innovative treatments utilizing the award winning AEMOTIO SPA with features including color therapy, steam bath with aromatherapy, Vichy shower with six jets, water-enhanced vibromassage, and a height adjustable water bed. In addition, the spa has introduced the Spa Dream Crystal Quartz Massage Bed which features spherical quartz and color therapy to support in energizing and promoting balance throughout the body for a deeper therapeutic experience. All massage tables at the spa are now equipped with Lemi’s EXTRA COMFORT memory foam mattress, with a few table featuring the HBS armrest system to further enhance the relaxation experience.
• [comfort zone]: Global Rituals + Signature Services: Embark on an international wellness journey with new Global Rituals and Signature Treatments developed by Italian skin care brand, [comfort zone]. A leader in international beauty and skincare, the treatments take inspiration from different cultures blending together the richest ingredients, technology and therapeutic methods to provide one-of-a-kind services that deliver impactful results. Highlights from the menu include: The Detox Mud-ssage (50 min/$179); The Mediterranean Global Ritual (50 min/$179); TranquilityTM Pro Sleep Ritual (50 min/$179).
• emerginC: Organic & Raw Beauty: Discover the powers of organic and raw skincare with new treatments from leading natural skincare brand, emerginC. Utilizing active botanicals, marine extracts, and clinically-proven cosmeceutical and medical-grade ingredients, the treatments incorporate the latest advancements in natural skincare to instantly rejuvenate, nourish, and soothe the skin. Highlights from the menu include: Kombucha Radiance Facial (50 min/$170); Raw Hydra-Boost Facial (50 min/$170); and the Ginger-Coconut-Argan Sugar Glow (50 min/$170).
• Jacqueline Piotaz Switzerland: Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care: Jacqueline Piotaz Switzerland is an innovator in Swiss skin care through the brand’s groundbreaking plant stem cells technology that infuses nutrients from rare and exotic plants into their treatments. The first and only Miami spa to offer Piotaz treatments, guests can now discover the brand’s distinctive, results-driven approach to anti-aging that is non-invasive, natural and sustainable to the environment. Highlights from the menu include: Advanced Repair & Lifting Facial (80 min/$289); Pollution Defense and Anti-Stress Facial (50 min/$179); and The Timeless Tailor Made Facial for Men (50 min/$160).
• Shankara: Ayurvedic Wellness: A pioneer in Ayurvedic, Shankara has unveiled a selection of new services at Carillon Miami. Unwind the mind, body and spirit through body treatments that incorporate Ayurvedic techniques and the high quality products of Shankara. Highlights from the menu include: Ayurvedic Rose Quartz (50 min/$170); Shankara Serenity Salt Stone Treatment (50 min/$180); and the Zekhara Shankara Ayurvedic Shirodara Treatment (50 min/$180).

Want to see all that the spa has to offer? The menu is 51 pages! Click here to peruse!

This time I chose a hot stone massage but next time I am trying this treatment:  Ginger-Coconut- Argan Sugar Glow part of the Organic Rejuvenation Body Treatments, “this dazzling natural treatment begins with a lively citrus-kombucha body wash followed by the vibrant aromas of our ginger-lime sugar scrub. warm, nourishing coconut and argan oil infused with avocado oil, apricot oil, rose hip, and vitamin e is slowly drizzled on to the body for superior hydration, nourishment, and total body relaxation. this treatment is featured in our aemotio spa.”

Miami Carillon by Lisa Niver

 

My stay at Sandals Montego Bay was superb! See my first part of this article at “What will you LOVE?” Please watch my journey through my videos!

Video #4 : I love SCUBA diving at Sandals Montego Bay

I love diving at Sandals Montego Bay! We saw green moray eels, spotted drum, flounder, porcupine fish and so much more. I loved my dive buddies and all the gear. The dive standards are very high at Sandals Resorts. The boat was in top condition and the dive masters and captain were all very professional and helpful. I highly recommend diving at Sandals! When are you meeting me underwater?

I loved my swim-up suite at Sandals! Check out my walk from the pool into my gorgeous room! Enjoy your adults only all inclusive trip!

Video #5 What is there to do at Sandals Montego Bay?

What can you do at Sandals Montego Bay?
I loved my hot stone massage at Red Lane Spa!

Weddings are included! The bridal party has the most beautiful area to get ready together with a mirror that has indoor, outdoor and night time settings. The spa can come to you right next the chapel or you can get married on the beach!

There is an over the water wedding chapel and an over the water bar called Latitudes!
You can participate in Aquatic fitness classes or go scuba diving every day which was my favorite thing at Sandals Montego Bay!
Have you always wanted to learn to Scuba dive? Try discover scuba diving or take a full PADI certification class.

You can stay at one and play at three! Enjoy 21 restaurants at Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean and The Inn at Sandals. There is a complementary shuttle between the properties.

I loved the Jerk Shack with Jamaican jerk chicken.
There are so many rooms with views of the sea or you can stay in a swim-up suite like I did right at the edge of the pool.

At Sandals Royal Caribbean, I loved the over the water bungalows! They look like the ones from Bora Bora in French Polynesia but they are the first ever over the water bungalows in the Caribbean! It is a vacation paradise. They are in the shape of a heart and right near the Thai restaurant! YUM!

Back at Sandals Montego Bay, we had a sushi demo and spoke with the chefs at SOY! It is 5 star global gourmet where you can savour the world and it is all-inclusive!

Video #6 What is there to do at Sandals Montego Bay

I loved my time at Sandals Montego Bay especially when I was underwater diving! Thank you to the entire dive team for taking such great care of me. I absolutely loved the diving! We saw so many amazing creatures like sharks, rays, eels, turtles, flounders, barracudas, corals and all types of fish. Thank you again to my dive buddies and all of the crew.

I also enjoyed having Dino’s pizza on the patio of my swim up suite with my feet in the water.

We went to Butch’s for dinner which is a brand new steak and seafood restaurant at Sandals Montego Bay. My first Sandals Resorts experience has been fantastic! I wonder which property I will see NEXT!?!?

Video #7: YES I DID love my adventures at Sandals Montego Bay!

I loved Sandals Montego Bay whether I was walking on the beach, watching sunset or going scuba diving!
 Have you always wanted to try diving? They offer many PADI courses on the property!
On my last morning, I had a superb hot stone massage at Red Lane. A great way to relax before my flight back to Los Angeles.
I was sad to leave but I had a fantastic time!

See my first article for more of my adventures at Sandals Montego Bay!
Want to learn more about the 10th anniversary of the Sandals Foundation? Click here to read my article in the Jewish Journal.

I also wrote two articles for USA Today 10Best about Jamaica IN THE WATER and OUT OF THE WATER!

Look for my new videos of scuba diving at Beaches Turks and Caicos! The diving is included there too!

I loved my stay at Sandals Montego Bay! You can watch my journey with my videos! I will share some of them here and hope you get to visit and see the property yourself!

Remember there are 21 restaurants so this all-inclusive does not mean you are going to buffet after buffet. Actually, you never have to eat at a buffet at all. You can order your favorite treats all day long! The drinks and the activities are included too! My favorite thing was going Scuba diving and watching the stunning sunsets!

VIDEO #1: Welcome to Sandals Montego Bay Jamaica Feb 23, 2019

I flew from Los Angeles to Miami and then into Montego Bay, Jamaica and the jewel toned water of the Caribbean was gorgeous. I went to the Sandals Resorts Lounge at the airport, made a few new friends and had a welcome drink. I was transported by private car a short distance to Sandals Montego Bay. I ate at the Jamaican Jerk Shack with a view of the water and a breeze in my hair. Remember at Sandals Resorts everything is included and it is adults only! The food, drinks, activities are included. There is no tipping allowed. Get ready to RELAX! I loved my swim-up suite. There is a giant soaking tub on my patio and my lounge chairs are literally in the pool! The mini bar has full size bottles and they are refilled daily.

Video #2: Join me in Sandals Montego Bay Jamaica

I loved my first day at Sandals Montego Bay!I had sunset drinks at Latitudes Over-the-water bar and decided to eat at Tokyo Jo’s! There are so many restaurants to eat it. You can stay at one resort but play at three and eat at over twenty different restaurants with Sandals Royal Caribbean and The Inn at Sandals. It is beautiful, it is relaxing and Sandals is waiting for you!You can have your photo taken at sunset and then eat with your toes in the sand at Dino’s pizza and Stewfish. Play basketball, swim in the pool, stroll along the water, sit in a hammock over the water! How will you choose? You can have a candle light dinner by the sea or work out in the fitness center. Float in the pool on a raft or go scuba diving. It is adults only and all of the restaurants, drinks and activities are included. There is no tipping at Sandals. I loved my dinner at Tokyo Jo’s so much I ate there two nights in a row! There is live music at night and you can have dessert at Cafe de Paris!

Sherine and Lisa at lunch at The Jerk Shack, Sandals Montego Bay

Video #3: My day at Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica

There are so many choices here.
Over twenty restaurants and so many activities!
Today I ate at Bayside for breakfast and got ready to go SCUBA diving!
Can you believe that the diving in INCLUDED!
I loved the dive boat and my buddies. See my next video for the underwater footage.
You can go on a catamaran or a paddle board, play basketball, buy art, have a massage or sit in the pool.
What will you do?
I loved walking on the beach and meeting the friendly team members!
Latitudes is an over-water bar and has a gorgeous view for your sunset cocktails. We ate at Tokyo Jo’s which is only at Sandals Montego Bay!

See my next article for more of my part 2 of adventures at Sandals Montego Bay!
Want to learn more about the 10th anniversary of the Sandals Foundation? Click here to read my article in the Jewish Journal.

I also wrote two articles for USA Today 10best about best activities in Jamaica IN THE WATER and OUT OF THE WATER! Enjoy!

Metro Women’s Leadership Summit to deliver

star-studded slate of speakers on June 7

2019 Metro Women’s Leadership Summit, Photo Collage by Melody Pittman

The 2019 Metro Women’s Leadership Summit scheduled for June 7 at Newark Airport Marriott Hotel  will feature a star-studded slate of speakers, including keynote Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of Malcom X, and health, beauty and travel experts who have vaulted to national and international prominence via social media.

The theme of the summit is “Diversity is Our Strength, Unity is Our Power…Embrace Who You Are.”

“We are going to have speakers who experienced discrimination of some kind – either gender- or race-based – and who learned from it to make their future positive,” said Joanne Vero of Travel Media Showcase, the event producer. “Some were in a situation where they needed to get their lives on track, roll up their sleeves and build a business by developing trusted relationships with their audiences.”

Speakers include:

Ilyasah Shabazz – The third daughter of civil rights activist Malcom X, Shabazz is an author, community organizer, social activist and motivational speaker. She also is an adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City. 

Debbie-Ann White – Senior vice president of public relations and promotions at Unique Vacations, Inc., an affiliate of the worldwide representatives for Sandals Resorts International and its properties, who recently was named to “EBONY” magazine’s 2018 Power 100 list and who will speak about the benefits of female friends vacations.

Carli Bybel – Iconic beauty and fashion guru and pioneer of the makeup tutorial genre on YouTube, amassing more than 6 million subscribers on her BeautyBybel YouTube channel.

Dr. Carol Ash – Chief medical officer at RWJUH and sleep medicine expert who frequently appears on national television shows such as “The TODAY Show,” “Good Morning America” and “Fox and Friends” and has been featured in national media outlets such as “The New York Times” and HuffPost.

Dana Vento – One-woman multimedia powerhouse influencer and TripAdvisor ambassador featured on countless national television stations and magazines.

Dallitza Perez – Renowned fitness and nutrition guru who has appeared on numerous magazine covers, including “Muscle & Fitness,” and is followed nationally on social media.

Lena Piccininni – Celebrity barber, hairdresser, makeup artist and educator who leveraged social media to reach national stardom in a male-dominated industry.

Dr. Nancy Mezey – Associate dean and sociology professor at Monmouth University and author who is nationally known for her studies in family sociology, gender, the sociology of sexualities and race-class-gender relations.

Manya Saaraswat – Miss New Jersey 2019.

and Lisa Niver, Television Host, Travel Journalist, We Said Go Travel

Lisa Niver will be speaking at Metro Womens Leadership Summit June 7, 2019

Yet the summit will offer much more than speeches, according to Vero.

“Our goal is to celebrate diversity of women in both presentations and within the audience,” she said. “I want our audience to walk away with action steps. This is not just about listening to how our speakers did what they did but how the audience can do it, as well. What are the five or so steps each attendee can take to achieve their own goals?”

Sponsors of the event include PSEG, with its commitment to furthering diversity, and Sandals Resorts International, which will raffle off a trip to one of its properties.

Click here to register and come see me at Workshop #10!

April News 2019 with We Said Go Travel:

I loved being live on KTLA TV on the Sunday Morning News!

Click here to watch me on “Spring into Summer”

with Rocky Mountaineer on KTLA TV

This was my 4th segment in 2019.

Watch the first three KTLA segments this year here:

• KTLA Oscars: “Countdown to Gold!” Feb 24, 2019

• KTLA President’s Day: Visit Historic Philadelphia Feb 18, 2019

• KTLA Star Treatment: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and Glamsquad

In my March news for Women’s History Month, I shared many of my stories about women and have a new page for them all: LisaNiver.com/Women.

More recent stories:

Ms. Magazine: The Power of Being Picked

Jewish Journal: Happy 85th Birthday Jane Goodall

Earth Day: Saving our Reefs from invasive Lionfish

We Said Go Travel was listed in the top 50 Most Amazing Travel Blogs!

To see more of We Said Go Travel videos, articles, social: CLICK HERE

Lisa Niver will be speaking at Metro Womens Leadership Summit June 7, 2019

Thank you to Metro Women’s Leadership Summit and Travel Media Showcase for inviting me to speak June 7, 2019. I hope to see you there!

Lisa Niver and Wyland on the NCL BLISS

I was asked to share about my inaugural sailing on the NCL Bliss May 2018 from Long Beach, California:

“Wyland, the artist who painted the hull, was on board and painted in the atrium. It was amazing to meet him in person and see the new features of the ship like the two-level electric-car race track, the tandem Aqua Racer slide and an open-air laser tag course, themed like an abandoned space station.”

Lisa told us why it is the perfect family ship: “The Norwegian Bliss is great for families because they have so many new activities onboard like the race cars, water slides and laser course, but it is also a top choice for luxury cruisers with the Haven area and the high-end spa with the snow room, salt room and sauna. The fantastic choices for food include dessert at Coco’s and Japanese hibachi at Teppanyaki. The live entertainment was outstanding and included the Tony Award-winning musical Jersey Boys, and The Cavern Club, where a Beatles cover band brings the magic of Liverpool to the sea. I think there is something for everyone on Norwegian’s newest ship.”

Watch Lisa’s video below to see more of her experience:

Find me in the news and at events:

• Alliance of Women in Media Speed Networking is an annual event and I met the greatest people. I am so excited to see what will happen next!

• I will be at my PENN 30 year reunion in May! Here are Cara and I in the Penn Gazette about our project together to promote Philadelphia on KTLA!

• 

  Lisa Niver and Cara Schneider class of 1989 in the Penn Gazette 2019

Please enjoy my videos from Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica!

Sandals Montego Bay Sunset photo by Lisa Niver

Thank you to everyone who entered our 2018 Travel Photo Award.

I am publishing the fantastic photos once a day! Click here to see the most recently published entries. Once all the entries are published in July 2019, I will announce the finalists. I expect to announce the winners in September 2019.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have 933,965 views on YouTube! Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 2,101 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe!

Thank you for watching my videos, reading my stories, following along on social media and asking me about booking your travels!

Where do you want to wander? Find more information about me and my luxury travel advising as an independent affiliate of CRUISE and RESORT, Inc with Virtuoso Luxury Travel Network on my new microsite!

My fortune cookies said:

“You are always entertaining and delightful!”

“In being kind to others, you receive kindness back.”

“Fortune knocks at least once at everyone’s door. Be sure to answer.”

I hope your Spring celebrations of Easter, Passover and Earth Day were fantastic and you are making your 2019 dreams blossom into realities! Thank you for your all of your support. Lisa

Discover more on my social media accounts:  Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, and at LisaNiver.com. My social media following is now over 150,000 and I am verified on both Twitter and Facebook.

 

Sandals Montego Bay Sunset photo by Lisa Niver

Every year I like to visit new places and go to new conferences. In January 2019, I went to the New York Times Travel Show for the first time.

Who did I meet? Where do I want to go?
Watch my video to find out!

VIDEO: Where to explore in 2019?

As the show says: “Set your wanderlust free, with over 550 exhibitors representing more than 170 destinations. Travel smarter, with globe-trottting tips from a huge variety of experts. Watch unforgettable cultural performances, savor tastes from the world’s most delicious destinations. And make yourself comfortable, anywhere you roam.”

Thank you again #NYTTS I loved media and trade day!

Thank you Visit California for the lovely luncheon.

I enjoyed the speakers, keynotes and having time to reconnect with good friends.
I look forward to traveling to many new places in 2019.

Who did I see? #NYTTravelShow

Aggressor Adventures: did you know they have a dive boat in Oman and a safari expedition in Sri Lanka?

One Ocean Expeditions to explore the Arctic and Antarctic

PADI: Do you scuba dive? I love to go scuba diving!

DK EyeWitness Travel books: I used many of their books in my classroom. I love their maps and beautiful color photos. I cannot wait to go back to Portugal.

Curacoa: I met Miss Curacoa and learning to say bye-bye Papiamento which is the creole language spoken in the Dutch Caribbean.
There are so many destinations at this show! I loved wandering the aisles to dream of where to go next.

Quark Expeditions: I want to travel to Greenland and Antarctica for the first time. I have never been to either place. Have you been yet?

Sandals Resorts: all inclusive resorts in the Caribbean! I am going to JAMAICA IN Feb 2019 to check it out!

Chernobyl Tour: Would you do it?

Bhutan! This country with a focus on happiness is on the top of my bucket list. I have not been yet but I hope to go sometime soon!

Azores: Another location that is on my list! I have not been yet.

Tahiti: I love the beautiful islands of French Polynesia. I hiked in Moorea and went diving in Bora Bora. There are so many more islands to explore.

Brazil: One of the few places in South America that I have not yet seen. I want to see the beaches, the cities and the samba!

G Adventures: small group adventures all over the planet. I want to go to Uzbekistan and Iceland. Two countries I have not been to YET!

Thank you NEW YORK TIMES TRAVEL SHOW 2019 #NYTTravelshow

Lisa Niver diving at Salt Pier in Bonaire. Photo by Aalia Udawala

I love to SCUBA dive and learn about our seas. When I went to Bonaire for the first time in Nov 2016, I learned about the Lionfish issues and tasted my first tasty meal made from this invasive species. At VIP diving, they informed me about their Lionfish Hunting Specialty course that I could come back and take.

MarthaWatkins Gilkes and Alex Fogg from Lionfish University filleting lionfish after the assessment dives

Lionfish University

We are a group dedicated to preserving our oceans’ reefs and native fish populations, which are threatened in the western Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico by the invasive lionfish. We formed this non-profit to share information and resources relating to the infestation of this invasive species.

Our goal is to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining these fragile ecosystems in the global community, and to fund efforts to mitigate the devastating effects of this invasive species.

Lionfish University recently was invited by private donors from the Mill Reef Club on Antigua to make an exploratory trip to assess the state of the marine ecosystem of the island, due to concern about declining health of their reefs. A team of five Lionfish University volunteers headed by Dr. Steve Gittings, chief scientist of the NOAA Marine Sanctuary System, completed a survey of the reefs focused on damage due to the lionfish invasion. A general stakeholders’ meeting was held to gauge the level of knowledge and possible participation on the part of fishermen, artisans, chefs, restaurants, the Fisheries Department and others. Dr. Gittings will be preparing a report of the findings and suggested control methods. If a return visit is requested the Lionfish University group may possibly teach islanders to put on a derby/festival as well as workshops in trap building, jewelry making and culling techniques, among others. The team was interviewed by a local TV station, radio station and newspaper, and did a presentation to a local community group to raise awareness about the lionfish invasion, and steps that can be taken to help restore reef health. Every individual’s effort makes a difference!

L to R Crew member, Alex Fogg, Mehgan Heaney-Grier, Dr Steve Gittings from NOAA on fishing boat off of Antigua. Alex speared 45 invasive lionfish in 20 min of bottom time while Mehgan and Dr Gittings did an assessment of reef health.

Visit St. Lucia and learn about Lionfish

Do you want to cull Lionfish?

Texas Lionfish Control Unit is ready to help you help the planet!

Texas Lionfish control Unit Brady Hale and Lisa Niver

Want to learn more about Lionfish Derbies?

Why are Derbies important?

DEMA Lionfish Update

Join a Lionfish Eco-Tour

Want to build your own Traps?  NOAA can help

DEMA SUMMIT 2018:

Join esteemed panelists to discuss the latest invasive lionfish issues, including innovations driving future directions for the dive industry, fishing communities and markets.  Brief presentations by panelists will be followed by an open question and answer session and discussion. Discussions will focus on how to continue to engage divers and the public in participating in removal efforts, derbies and what information managers and scientist can provide to help improve these efforts.

Presented by:

Brian Asher; Coast Watch Alliance; Lionfish Northern Gulf of Mexico and LRAD

Alli Candelmo, PhD; Reef Environmental Education Foundation; Derbies and Research

Alex Fogg; Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners; Emerald Cost Convention Center and Visitors Bureau, Commercial Lionfish Fishing

Stacy Frank; Lionfish University; Summary from Field Reporters, Outreach

Steve Gittings, PhD; NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries; Lionfish FADs and Traps

Stephanie Green, PhD; University of Alberta, Lionfish Research: Learn more about The Green Lab

Bob Harris; DEMA Legislative Consultant; Messer Caparello, PA, Diver Involvement

Jay Maly; Scuba St. Lucia; Ecotourism, St. Lucia Spearing and Trapping Efforts

Georgi Merlusca; Scuba St. Lucia; Ecotourism, St. Lucia Spearing and Trapping Efforts

Lionfish Summit at DEMA Nov 2018

Learn more in this article from Dive Training by Grant Currin: US VS. THEM: AN UPDATE ON CONTROLLING INVASIVE LIONFISH IN THE CARIBBEAN

 

What happens at IMM in NYC?

Thank you to IMM (International Media Marketplace) NYC 2019. This was my first time at your conference and I loved it. Please see my video below to experience the one day event.

VIDEO: International Media Marketplace

“The International Media Marketplace [IMM] Program has played host to over 2,500 international media and 1,425 exhibiting companies, since 2013.
To date the event has facilitated over 50,000 one-on-one appointments between international media and travel and tourism brands across 15 IMM events.”

Photos from Facebook:

I started my morning by finding friends from the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Did you know the entire state of Indiana has unique places to visit. I have not been yet and I cannot wait to go!

I saw so many of my favorite travel writing friends and PR teams. It was like a travel college reunion!

Who did I meet with?
Jekyll Island Club Resort – Rachel Morrison
Marriott International – Caribbean & Latin America – Tavia Robb
Visit California – Angie Pappas
Choose Chicago | DQMPR – Stephanie D’Adamo
Visit Phoenix – Douglas MacKenzie
Visit Tucson Dan Gibson
Fairmont Whistler – Lynn Gervais Henderson
Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau – Tim Zahner
LDPR for Sydney/Destination New South Wales – Laura Davidson
Fairmont Waterfront – Kristyna Vogel
Visit Santa Rosa – Chris Vomvolakis
Visit Philadelphia Cara Schneider
Visit South Africa
Visit KC (Kansas City, MO) – Toni Alexander
CityPASS – Deborah Wakefield
Wyndham Destinations – Juliette Gebken-Mayi
Parks Canada – Guy Thériault
G Adventures – Kim McCabe
Silversea Cruises – Brad Ball
Destination Quebec, Canada | DQMPR – Yves Gentil
Tourism Vancouver: Saschie Maclean
Rocky Mountaineer: Jina and Nicole
Carnival Cruise Lines: Vance Gulliksen
Princess Cruises – Gabriella McNamara
Fairmont Banff Springs- Angela Moore
Churchill Wild — Vanessa Desorcy

Thank you to Nick Wayland and the entire IMM team for an incredible day of networking.

From IMM:

“IMM is now established as the industry’s leading event for the media to meet travel and tourism brands.

Exhibitors each enjoy a dedicated branded table where they can meet top travel journalists, editors and broadcasters to discuss their news, events and developments.

As a single-day networking and relationship-building opportunity for journalists and travel & tourism brands, IMM is unrivaled.”

Travel Advisor Lisa Niver on KTLA TV with Lynette Romero and Mark Mester. Spring into Summer Travel with Rocky Mountaineer

Thank you KTLA, Lynette Romero, Mark Mester, Ashley Adams-Regan, Angel Kim, Kimberly Cornell  and the entire news team for welcoming me back to KTLA.

I loved sharing RockyMountaineer train travel with you. Thank CHOO!

Lynette Romero, Lisa Niver and Mark Mester on KTLA TV March 31. 2019

Did you see us on TV yesterday? Watch it now: Click here

Lisa Niver at KTLA TV March 31 2019

What was the KTLA Spring into Summer Giveaway? First Passage to the West Classic for two people in Rocky Mountaineer’s Goldleaf Service.

Get your Rocky Mountaineer Questions answered here in my post that answers all of my “dumb” questions. Having worked for years on a cruise ship, when I started to think about my first Canadian Rockies train journey, I realized I had many questions.  I thought you might appreciate the answers here and let me know any other questions you have.

Special Hotel Night Promotion book by June 28, 2019: First Passage to the West Classic

“Available for guests traveling in 2019 season, blackout dates apply. Guests booking qualifying packages of five days (four nights) or more receive one free hotel night in Seattle, Vancouver, Calgary or Victoria. The free hotel can be applied as a credit within the package (to one of the four nights – however, Victoria is excluded from this), OR it can be applied at the beginning or end of the package to extend the journey by one night. Bookings can be made by contacting Rocky Mountaineer or your local travel agent.”

This was my fourth time on KTLA in 2019.

Learn more about my earlier segments:

Critics Choice Awards with Waldorf Astoria and Glamsquad

President’s Day Founding Fathers and Mothers Giveaway in Philadelphia with Visit Philly

Lisa Niver on KTLA with Lu Parker and Glen Walker

Oscars Countdown to Gold with Kimpton La Peer and Glamsquad

and from 2018

Thrill and Chill in Palm Springs

Lisa Niver Live on KTLA with Lu Parker, Mark Mester, Kaj Goldberg.

Valentine’s Giveaway to Ogden

Thanksgiving Giveaway Getaway to Napa Valley

Happy Birthday Dr. Jane Goodall and Thank you!

Dr. Jane Goodall turns 85 today and she has changed the way we understand primates on our planet with her 50 years of love and research in Africa and around the world.

When she was a little girl, her mother “supported her love of animals that she was born with.” She brought earthworms to her bed to investigate them when she was one and a half and her mother helped her bring them back to the garden so they would live. When she was four and a half, she was on a family holiday in the country and went to visit the hens in the henhouse for four hours. Her parents were so worried the police were called but when she was found, her mother patiently listened to her observations about the animals.

Video: Dr. Jane Goodall at LA Zoo in celebration of United Nations International Day of Peace on September 23, 2018

Goodall explained to a group at the LA Zoo in celebration of United Nations International Day of Peace on September 23, 2018 about how her time in the henhouse is how we create scientists: “be curious, ask questions, search for the right answer, decide to find out for yourself, make mistakes, not give up and learning patience.”

Goodall wanted to learn more about animals and read books in the library and saved her pocket money to buy books at the second hand bookshop. When she was ten years old, she bought the book, “Tarzan of the Apes.” She told the crowd that she “fell passionately in love with the lord of jungle but he married the wrong Jane.”

Lisa Niver and Dr. Jane Goodall

She told us, “That was when my dream began. I will go to Africa when I grow up, I will live with wild animals and I will write books about them.” As with many dreamers who dream great dreams, Goodall told us, “Everybody laughed at me. They said, ‘Jane how will you go to Africa? You don’t have any money. The dark continent is far away.” Goodall explained that: “Girls did not have opportunities like that back then.”

Dr. Jane Goodall speaking at the LA ZOO for UN International Peace Day

But her mother said: “Jane, if you really want to do this thing, you are going to have to work really hard, take advantage of all opportunities but don’t give up.” And Goodall explained that “I have taken that message to young people all around the world particularly to children in deprived communities. I wish my mom knew how many children and people have come up to me and said: Jane you have taught me that since you did it, that I can do it too.”

Goodall stayed in school until she was eighteen but did not have enough money to go to college. When a school friend invited her to Africa, she worked for six months as a waitress to get enough money to go to Kenya by boat. There were no tourist planes at that time.

While in Kenya, she was introduced to Louis Leakey, the curator of the Natural History Museum, who spent his life searching for our earliest ancestors. Leakey offered her a job and suddenly she was surrounded by people who could answer all her questions about plants, birds, animals and insects. It was Leakey who decided Goodall was the person he had been looking for to study the animal most like us —the chimpanzee. She made the observation that a chimpanzee is capable of using a piece of grass to fish termites from their nest that he is capable of modifying an object by picking a leafy twig and stripping the leaves which is the beginning of tool making. At the time, it was believed that only humans used tools. This observation allowed Leaky to go to National Geographic Society and they agreed to provide money to carry on with the study with photographer, Hugo Van Larete to document their work. The recent Geographic Documentary called Jane, Making Use is footage from their work together.

Celebrating Roots and Shoots at the LA ZOO

Leaky arranged for Goodall to go Cambridge and work to receive aPhD in animal behavior. She told us her days at the research station were the best of her life. She spent hours every day in the rainforest understanding the interrelatedness of all living things.

In 1986, at a conference at the Chicago Academy of Science, there were people studying chimpanzees in 6 parts of Africa. Goodall learned about chimpanzees being treated badly in circuses, about research facilities doing painful procedures on chimpanzees and about forests disappearing. Goodall said she “went as a scientist planing to continue my wonderful life, but left as an activist and knew I had to do something.”

She visited medical research labs and saw the conditions, went to some of the bad zoos and led to a campaign to release all chimps into sanctuaries. She learned about the plight of African people living in and around chimpanzee habitats with crippling poverty, lack of good health and education facilities and very often the ethnic violence. She wanted to save the chimpanzees and the local villages. In 1994, they started programs with twelve villages and worked to restore fertility to farmland, create youth education programs, add more health facilities, create water management programs, develop microcredit for an environmental sustainable program, scholarships to keep girls in school after puberty and information about family planning. It was so successful that now 72 villages are involved and it has spread to 7 other African countries.

Goodall said that “people have become our partners in preserving the environment for future of their own children and not just to save the chimpanzees but to save the future of our environment for all.”

In 1991, Roots and Shoots began with 12 students in Goodall’s home in Dar El Salem, Tanzania. The students told her: “they were not just worried about wildlife, also worried about homeless children with no where to live, illegal dynamite fishing that was destroying the coral reefs, some were worried about the poaching in the national parks and why wasn’t the government prosecuting the poachers.”

Dr. Jane Goodall speaking at the LA Zoo

Her main message has been: “Every single one of us makes an impact on this planet every single day. We all have a choice as to what kind of impact we are going to make. Are we going to leave the world a little better after today or don’t we care?”

Goodall explained that she does have hope for the future. There are now young people participating in Roots and shoots in 80 countries, with 150,000 active groups and it is growing all the time. There are 2,000 groups in China, and it is growing fast in Canada, Latin America, across Europe and in many African countries. The first groups have just started in the Middle East. She continued: “Young people who are so passionate and so determined to make change and so empowered and you cannot help but have hope. It gives me my greatest reason for hope. We are not the only beings with personalities, minds and emotions. It is changing how we think and act each day.”

Dr. Jane Goodall speaking at the LA Zoo

Goodall told us “if we get together, if we each realize that each day we make a difference, and collectively we make a huge difference, if we realize at least in democracies, we can influence the government and as purchasers we can influence business in the way it conducts its business, there is a lot of hope in the future but only if we all get together. The young people and Roots and Shoots that is our great hope for the future, the young people, their parents and their teachers. We can make this a better world.”

Happy Birthday Dr. Jane Goodall and

thank you for all you have done to change the world.

Lisa Niver at the LA Zoo to hear Dr. Jane Goodall

I heard Dr. Jane Goodall speak at the LA ZOO for UN International Day of Peace on September 23, 2018.

March News 2019 with We Said Go Travel:

Look for me on March 31st at 9:45am on KTLA TV with my 4th segment so far in 2019.

Watch the first three here:

• KTLA Oscars: “Countdown to Gold!” Feb 24, 2019

• KTLA President’s Day: Visit Historic Philadelphia Feb 18, 2019

• KTLA Star Treatment: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and Glamsquad

For Women’s History Month, I had many new stories!

• Thank you to Ms. Magazine for my story on Google International Women’s Day.

• Thank you to The Female Quotient for publishing my article about Ruth Bader Ginsburg on her birthday.

• Happy 85th Birthday to Gloria Steinem. I wrote about her book, My Life on the Road.

• Thank you to Saturday Evening Post for publishing my article about 12 Female Founders and PR Mavens and their bucket lists!

Find me in the news:

• I am a SCUBA Dive expert on Mic

• I was in the PARK RECORD with Patricia, Wayne and my dad!

• I was interviewed on Travel Writer’s Radio about my 50 Things Before 50 Project.

• I was Influencer Interview #50 on Intellifluence 

Thank you to Rise Global! In March, We Said Go Travel and I are AGAIN #3 on the top 1000 Travel Blog list! AND I am the TOP FEMALE TRAVEL BLOGGER! Yahoo! #travel1k

I loved being in NYC with my family and going to International Media Marketplace as well as the New York Times Travel Show. Please enjoy the videos of my time at the conferences. I also went to the Los Angeles Travel Show.

VIDEO: Travel Conferences in Los Angeles and New York City

Learn more about my writing and see all my latest outlets with this pdf.

Thank you to everyone who entered our 2018 Travel Photo Award.

I am publishing the fantastic photos once a day! Click here to see the most recently published entries. Once all the entries are published in July 2019, I will announce the finalists. I expect to announce the winners in September 2019.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have 917,691 views on YouTube! Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 2064 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe!

Are you wondering who is the TOP FEMALE Travel

Blogger on the top 1000 list?

Wonder no more! It is ME!

I have been listed as the top female in 2018, Feb 2019

and now in March 2019 again!

Thank you for your support!

And #3 on the top 1000 list!

Thank you to everyone who has supported me on

my journey with We Said GO Travel!

I am so honored that this happened during Women’s History Month!

Did you see me on TV?

BROADCAST: 

• KTLA Oscars: “Countdown to Gold!” Feb 24, 2019

• KTLA President’s Day: Visit Historic Philadelphia Feb 18, 2019
  • 5.8 million impressions on Twitter. social links
• KTLA Star Treatment: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills for award season
  • 2.9 Million impressions on Twitter Jan 19, 2019

• KTLA Travel Smart: Chill and Thrill in Palm Springs Aug 30, 2018
• KTLA Valentine’s Giveaway Getaway to Ogden Utah, Feb 2018
  • 7.3 million impressions on Twitter
• KTLA Money Smart segment on Napa Valley Travel, Nov 2017
  • 2 million impressions on Twitter

Lisa’s bio:

See all my videos, TV segments, articles and social: Click Here!

Lisa Niver on KTLA with Lu Parker and Glen Walker

Recently I was able to visit the Flanker Resource Centre in Montego Bay which is supported by Sandals Montego Bay and the Sandals Foundation. The after-school program provides children with hot meals and many resources including a computer center and an X-BOX room. I was thrilled to learn that over the last decade, Sandals Foundation has assisted nearly one million people in the Caribbean.

Guests at Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts can donate in support of a particular project, or participate in the Pack for a Purpose® program and bring needed supplies to local schools, purchase merchandise and items from Caribbean Artisan Collections available in the Sandals and Beaches Resort Shops or get hands on through unique voluntourism excursions, such as the Reading Road Trip, that take them directly into local communities.

Sandals Foundation is  “the philanthropic arm of Sandals and Beaches Resorts which is committed to investments that create a positive and sustainable impact on the people’s lives, their communities and the environment.  Founded in 2009, the Foundation focuses on programs and initiatives in the areas of Education, Community and the Environment and 100% of donations goes directly to support the people and communities we support in the Caribbean.”

Some key examples of the Foundation’s projects to-date include:

• Education: Worked with 578 schools across the region providing capacity building for teachers, awards scholarships to deserving students, initiatives to promote literacy and technological advancement in schools.
• Environment: In partnership with CLEAR Caribbean, established restoration programs inside Saint Lucia’s Soufriere Marine Management Area and trained local stakeholders to build, install and monitor two coral nurseries. So far, over 2000 corals have been propagated.
• Community: Launched the Women Helping Others Achieve (WHOA) program, an initiative aimed at positively impacting marginalized women across the Caribbean and helping them find the inspiration to transform their lives through vocational training, counseling, agricultural programs and more.

Across the 19 Sandals and Beaches Resorts, they support hundreds of different projects. I wanted to share 10 of them here in honor of the 10th birthday of the Foundation. The sustainable projects include school improvements, restoration and conservation of marine habitats as well as  training and community development programs across Antigua, the Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Turks & Caicos.

Sandals Foundation Projects

Flanker Resource Centre (Montego Bay, Jamaica)

The Flanker Resource Centre aims to increase the level of awareness of residents of the Flanker community through education, life skills, parenting and skill training and increase the literacy and numeracy levels of residents to aid in reducing unemployment. The Sandals Foundation has been supporting the centre for several years, investing in the centre’s After-school Care and Extended Support (ACES) Programme which provides a safe, structured environment in which at-risk youths from the community can benefit from dedicated counselling and mentorship, guided support with their school work and assignments, and participation in supervised afternoon activities which encourage positive social behaviour.  The Foundation has also supported the Flanker Marching Band, providing them with instruments, theory books, stipends for the band coordinator and teachers, uniforms for performances and payment for music exams. The Sandals Foundation also constructed and outfitted the second floor of the centre which has offices, recreational space, a kitchen and has an Xbox room which serves as an incentive for the kids that participate in the Centre’s programs.

West End Infant School (Negril, Jamaica)

The Sandals Foundation, in partnership with Ministry of Education, Youth & Information (MOE) and The CHASE Fund constructed and opened the state of the art West End Infant School in 2017, providing 160 children between the ages of 3-6 from Negril and neighbouring communities with a new and conducive learning environment. The institution graduated its first cohort of students in June 2018. This is the third Early Childhood Institute constructed by the Sandals Foundation.

Sandals Foundation: West End Infant School

Providing Access to Continued Education (PACE) (Nassau, Bahamas)

PACE is a programme for teen mothers to ensure that they have the opportunity to complete high school, reduce the incidence of repeat pregnancy among teen mothers, improve the quality of life for the mothers and their babies and ensure that teens are fully educated on the negative impact of repeat teen pregnancies. The Sandals Foundation, over several years, organized major fundraisers and brought on significant partners such as Coca Cola to construct a multi – purpose building to provide the teen moms with a conducive space to continue their education. The Foundation has also donated computers and funded skills training programmes for the teen mothers.

Grenrop “Women in Agriculture” (Grenada)

This program is a partnership with the Grenrop Group which supports women farmers to expand their business and become competitive participants in the value chain. The Foundation has provided capacity building for these female farmers through training, purchase of seeds and equipment, construction of a shade house and assistance for  the farmers to develop successful and sustainable agricultural enterprises supporting the local industry and improving their quality of life. The Foundation helps to create linkages for the farmers with the hotel sector as a means of creating a sustainale market for their products.

Sandals Foundation Project: Grenrop “Women in Agriculture”

Hurricane Relief (Turks and Caicos)

The Sandals Foundation invested over $200,000 in the renovation of three Turks and Caicos schools damaged by the passage of hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Repairs to the Enid Capron Primary school included roofing, electrical work and other infrastructural improvements to the Stubbs which houses the school’s sick bay, the school kitchen, the computer room and teacher resource room. Construction of the new library at Clement Howell High School, funded by the Sandals Foundation was well underway when the hurricanes hit in September 2017 and the newly refurbished structure suffered some damage. The school also suffered damage to its canteen. The Sandals Foundation completed construction of the state of the art library and made the repairs to the school’s canteen which included replacing the roof, patio, doors and windows. Ianthe Pratt Primary School received repairs to their kitchen, library, hallways, classrooms and had a new stage constructed for their performing arts area.

Sick Kids/ Sandals Foundation Partnership

In 2017, the Sandals Foundation became a Catalyst Donor to the Sick Kids vs Limits campaign, committing to donate US$600,000 to the programme over five years. The Sandals Foundation had already donated US$400,000 to the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative which seeks to build local capacity to advance the study, diagnosis and treatment of paediatric cancer and serious blood disorders across the region. The Foundation funded a two year fellowship for Barbadian Dr. Chantelle Browne-Farmer who became the second paediatric haematologist/oncologist in the Eastern Caribbean. Funding from the foundation also provided training for nurses from the Caribbean in paediatric oncology. In 2015 Sandals Foundation and SickKids also came together to open a Telemedicine Room at the Victoria Hospital in St. Lucia part of a program to link Paediatric Oncologists throughout the Caribbean to each other as well as to the Sick Kids Hospital.

Mount St. John’s Medical Centre Paediatric Ward (Antigua)

Pre-term babies born in Antigua were given a greater fighting chance following the gift of two comprehensive Infant Care Centres from the Sandals Foundation. The units valued at almost US$20,000, provide critical care such as temperature control, monitoring of vitals, weighing and respiratory assistance, to preterm babies when the need arises. To date, 397 preterm babies have utilized the machines. In 2018 the foundation made a second donation of medical equipment to the paediatric ward. This donation included vital sign monitors, electronic scales, paediatric beds, hand held pulse oximeters and cardiac monitors and is set to benefit almost 1000 children per year.

Sandals Foundation: Mount St. John’s Medical Centre Paediatric Ward

Great Shape! Inc./ Sandals Foundation EyeCare and Dental Programmes

Since 2009, the Sandals Foundation and Great Shape! Inc. have provided free eye care and dental services to over 240,000 people in Jamaica, St. Lucia, Grenada and Turks Caicos. Sandals Resorts and Sandals Foundation provide accommodation, funding for transportation/clinics and on the ground logistics for iCare and 1000 smiles. Through the iCARE programme, Great Shape! Inc. has provided prescription, reading and sunglasses, free cataract surgeries, and laser surgery to save the sight of patients with open angle glaucoma and PRP diabetic retinopathy. Through the 1000 Smiles dental programme, they have provided dental services of sealants, dentures, extractions, fillings and blood pressure screenings,  Oral education in schools is also promoted through the distribution of toothpaste and toothbrushes and teaching children how to properly care for their teeth. The program also aims to build the capacity of local dental students and help outfit rural clinics with equipment and supplies making ongoing dental care possible.

Marine Sanctuaries/Coral Nurseries

The Sandals Foundation manages two marine sanctuaries and supports an additional four in Jamaica, helping to protect the islands’ depleting fish stocks and strengthen the resilience of their coral reefs. In 2017, The Boscobel Marine Sanctuary became Jamaica’s first rotating fish sanctuary, which allows for sections to be open periodically throughout the year, increasing the benefit of the sanctuary to the surrounding community by not only expanding its boundaries, but also allowing fishermen to benefit from the increase in fish biomass. The Sanctuaries in Jamaica  also contain coral nurseries, helping to replenish the coral reefs.  Investment in Coral Nurseries has now expanded to St.Lucia in a 3 year partnership with CLEAR Caribbean to increase coral health and train locals in coral restoration. To date, 6000 pieces of corals have been planted.

Youth in Sports

The Sandals Foundation has proven that engaging youths through structured sporting activities is an effective way of teaching life skills and providing opportunities for the young people to secure a better future. Through its Care for Kids Junior Golf Programme in Jamaica, Game Changer Football and Basketball Programs in Barbados, Grenada and St.Lucia, Swalings Football Partnership in Antigua and Tiger Tennis in school program in St. Lucia, the Foundation has engaged hundreds of young people across the Caribbean, providing opportunities for international exposure, providing and securing tertiary scholarships and improving the capacity of local coaches to effectively train and guide the youngsters.

Remember, “the Caribbean Sea connects more than 700 islands and coastlines, which is a source of livelihood for thousands of people. The role we all play in supporting protected areas and teaching the next generation the importance of caring for their precious environment is crucial now more than ever,” said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation. “The Sandals Group of companies and Sandals Foundation have intensified our efforts by reducing plastic pollution through our operations and in our communities as well as ensuring we engage all the key stakeholders in our efforts.”

Last year, in partnership with Oceanic Global, a non-profit focused on providing solutions to issues impacting our oceans, all 19 Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts eliminated the 21,490,800 single-use plastic straws and stirrers used across the resorts each year, along with plastic laundry bags and plastic bags throughout gift shops. As of February 1, 2019, all resorts have eliminated Styrofoam. The company is currently exploring opportunities to eliminate other plastic across its resorts by September 2019.

For more information on the Sandals Foundation, including how to donate to any of its programs and projects, please visit www.sandalsfoundation.org. To view the Foundation’s latest annual report, please visit  https://sandalsfoundation.org/Sandals-Foundation-201-Annual-Report.pdf.

I loved my visit to Sandals Montego Bay and cannot wait to visit another one of their beautiful resorts and see more of the Sandals Foundation projects.

Thank You!

I am the Top Female Travel Blogger

on the #Travel1k Top 1000 Travel Blog list!

And #3 on the top 1000 list!

Thank you to everyone who has supported me on my journey with We Said GO Travel!

I am so honored that this happened during Women’s History Month!

Did you see me on TV?

BROADCAST: 

• KTLA Oscars: “Countdown to Gold!” Feb 24, 2019
  • 5.2 million impressions

• KTLA President’s Day: Visit Historic Philadelphia Feb 18, 2019
  • 5.8 million impressions on Twitter. social links
• KTLA Star Treatment: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills for award season
  • 2.9 Million impressions on Twitter Jan 19, 2019

• KTLA Travel Smart: Chill and Thrill in Palm Springs Aug 30, 2018
• KTLA Valentine’s Giveaway Getaway to Ogden Utah, Feb 2018
  • 7.3 million impressions on Twitter
• KTLA Money Smart segment on Napa Valley Travel, Nov 2017
  • 2 million impressions on Twitter

Lisa’s bio:

The 27 Feb 2019 update of #travel1k Top 1000+ Travel Blogs is out. Look up top #travel #bloggers at https://t.co/3JGZJartfU via @risedotglobal. pic.twitter.com/Hr1souEFmn

— Riseboarders (@riseboarders) February 28, 2019

Are you subscribed to me on YOUTUBE?

I now have over 900,000 views!

Lisa Niver on KTLA with Lu Parker and Glen Walker

Feb News 2019 with We Said Go Travel:

In 2019, I have been honored to share THREE segments on KTLA TV in Los Angeles for Critics Choice Awards, President’s Day and most recently on “Countdown to GOLD!” as part of the Oscars! Watch them all here:

• KTLA Oscars: “Countdown to Gold!” Feb 24, 2019

• KTLA President’s Day: Visit Historic Philadelphia Feb 18, 2019

• KTLA Star Treatment: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and Glamsquad

Thank you to Rise Global! We Said Go Travel and I are #3 on the top 1000 Travel Blog list! AND I am the TOP FEMALE TRAVEL BLOGGER! Yahoo! #travel1k

Lisa Niver is #3 on the TOP 1000 Travel Blog list #Travel1K

Thank you to Ms. Magazine for publishing my story about a women’s economic development project in Zambia in their Winter PRINT issue, “A Bicycle Built for Many,” and my article about social media and loneliness, “Unfiltered: Why Jessica Abo’s Book is the Perfect Galentine’s Day Pick!”

I have written for USA Today 10best since I returned to the USA in 2014 but in January, I had my first photo slideshow about my trips to Africa, Canada and Mongolia! Enjoy “Clear your mind in these open spaces made for exploring.”

Thank you to Hannah Lott-Schwartz for featuring me as a travel and cruise expert in her Travel and Leisure article, “10 Amazing Ways to See the U.S. by Cruise Ship!

As part of my interview on GRIT for Thrive Global, I was featured in Buzz Feed as well!

Thank you for following my travels! Here is part two of our adventures in London and my first ILTM conference in Cannes in December.

From Cannes:

Thank you to everyone who entered our 2018 Travel Photo Award. I am publishing the fantastic photos once a day! Click here to see the most recently published entries. Once all the entries are published in July 2019, I will announce the finalists. I expect to announce the winners in September 2019.

Thank you to Patricia Schultz for being our Travel Influencer Interview #100! I hope you get to see 1000 Places Before You Die!

Thank you TEAM ILTM 2018!

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have 899,320 views on YouTube! Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 2031 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe!

Are you ready to “Countdown to Gold?”

Kimpton La Peer Pool by Lisa Niver

What will you win?

• Get all glammed up by Glamsquad and receive their new Glamsquad hair products

• Dinner for two at Viale dei Romani

• Stay two nights at Kimpton La Peer Hotel

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” Eleanor Roosevelt

Thank you to everyone who believed in their dreams and magic and created films we wanted to watch.

Getting Glammed up by Glamsquad for the Oscars

GLAM SQUAD

Glamsquad is a must-have for award season. Whether you are on the red carpet or watching from home, Glamsquad’s beauty pro’s will get you ready. Winner will receive a Glam blowout + makeup applications as well as their brand new Glamsquad hair products.

What is GlamSquad? Glamsquad is a beauty services company that offers hair, makeup and nails in NYC, LA, Miami, DC, Boston and San Francisco/Bay Area. Glamsquad services are easily booked through the Glamsquad app or website. Their mission as a next generation beauty and lifestyle brand is to connect like-minded beauty enthusiasts through personalized in-home experiences. Glamsquad’s talented and trusted beauty professionals are hand-selected and rigorously vetted to guarantee consistent, high quality results. Using our intelligent, data-driven technology, we expertly match our professionals and clients to ensure an elevated and customized experience with every appointment.

Kimpton La Peer is “A Modern California Hotel in West Hollywood!’

High-design & style seamlessly blend together for an inviting experience at Kimpton La Peer Hotel in West Hollywood. Enjoy a thoughtful oasis in one of 105 distinctive hotel guest rooms and suites or be a part of the action at one of our lively community spaces.

Where to eat? 

Which movies do you want to win?

Happy #Oscars Week!
Did you love @RBGmovie? #nominated for Best #Documentary #Feature! #OscarsWSGT ⁰Learn @Notorious_RBG_ @skirball_la #RBG #notoriousRBG More #photos: https://t.co/Kl2ywjlScy Watch #KTLA Sat & Sun for your chance to win a #WeHo #Travel Giveaway. @KTLA pic.twitter.com/PfVCOTeoMA

— Lisa Niver ✈️ (@wesaidgotravel) February 21, 2019

Getting Ready for Oscars Season

View this post on Instagram

It is #Oscars Season! Carmen and I loved being at  the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences at Samuel Goldwyn Theater for a presentation by the teams from Best Documentary Feature and Best Documentary Short Subject on Feb. 19, 2019 during Oscar Week. #OscarsWSGT @MsMagazine Thank you to all the film makers for bringing these important films and issues to life. Best Documentary Feature: “Free Solo,” Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi “Hale County This Morning, This Evening,” RaMell Ross “Minding the Gap,” Bing Liu “Of Fathers and Sons,” Talal Derki “RBG,” Betsy West, Julie Cohen Best Documentary Short Subject: “Black Sheep,” Ed Perkins “End Game,” Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman “Lifeboat,” Skye Fitzgerald “A Night at the Garden,” Marshall Curry “Period. End of Sentence.,” Rayka Zehtabchi Look for me on #KTLA "Countdown to Gold: Getting Ready" Sat 2/23 4:30pm and Sun 2/24 12:30pm and 3:30pm for your chance to win a #WeHo #Travel Giveaway. My favorites are #rbg And #periodendofsentence

A post shared by Lisa Niver ✈️ (@wesaidgotravel) on Feb 20, 2019 at 3:41pm PST

I went to college at University of Pennsylvania and for four years Philadelphia was my home. It definitely seemed very cold to me in the winter compared to Los Angeles but I loved living there. I made some lifetime friends and want to share some of the great things about this incredible city.  I love exploring more of the historic area of the City of Brotherly Love. Benjamin Franklin was a founding father of our country and my University (1749)!

Watch my videos from my recent visit:

WHAT TO DO:

*Betsy Ross House

*National Constitution Center

*Museum of the American Revolution

I also loved my tour at City Hall and the Mayor’s reception room. I spent the afternoon at Penn Museum or The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology which is an archaeology and anthropology museum that is part of the University of Pennsylvania and on Penn campus. I saw one of the recently renovated exhibits and the other exhibits will be renovated and open in 2020.

Lisa Niver in the Mayor’s Reception Hall at City Hall, Philadelphia

WHERE DID I STAY?

Loews Philadelphia Hotel

This historic building was the first modern skyscraper in America and is a National Historic Landmark. It was originally the Philadelphia Saving Fund Society (PSFS) building and has a bank vault in lobby. The custom designed Cartier clocks are still on every floor! Built in 1932, it had no dome or ornamentation. The steel construction with a T shaped tower allowed for more natural light and rentable space! This design allowed for the skylines of NYC and Chicago to happen. The PSFS is still on the side of the building.

WHERE DID I EAT?

Vernick Coffee Bar

James Beard award-winning Chef Greg Vernick partners with Four Seasons Hotel at Comcast Center to deliver a modern coffee bar with fantastic breakfast and lunch. The cafe is open to the public from 7am to 5pm. There is art in the lobby: Jenny Holzer’s digital art installation called, For Philadelphia, and Conrad Shawcross’s sculpture, Exploded Paradigm.

Thank you to everyone who participated in our

KTLA President’s Day Giveaway!
The winner received:

HOTEL

• Two nights hotel accommodations at Loews Philadelphia Hotel (based on availability)
• Hotel breakfast and parking daily

FLIGHTS:

• Roundtrip, coach airline ticket Los Angeles/Philadelphia/Los Angeles from VISIT PHILADELPHIA.

MEAL:

• Vernick Coffee Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center

ACTIVITIES

• 2 Tickets to each of these three museums:
  • National Constitution Center
  • Betsy Ross House
  • Museum of the American Revolution

Lisa Niver at her Alma Mater, University of Pennsylvania

Travel Journalists on the VIP Media Program had interactions with many incredible hotel brands.

Our first media luncheon was at Relais & Châteaux property Bruno Oger La villa Archange in Cannes. I recently stayed at Auberge Saint-Antoine Relais & Châteaux in Québec City. 

I was able to meet with the General Managers and top executives as well as re-connect with travel friends like Mark Ellwood from Condé Nast Traveler and Bloomberg. I met editors like Zhu Tong from Condé Nast China, Steven Bond from Destinations of the World News Dubai and Hill Choi Lee from South China Morning Post.

VIDEO: WHAT HAPPENS AT ILTM IN CANNES?

Walking the red carpet into the venue for the ILTM Global Forum – “The Year of Health and Wellness” in the Grand Auditorium at Palais des Festivals et des Congrès was magical. We went to the ILTM Welcome Reception at the Ambassadors Suite, Palais de Festivals which was sponsored by The Italian Tourist Board and had photo booth specials with the gorgeous Italian countryside.

Over the course of the conference, I went to many rooftop and penthouse parties where I learned even more about the top brands. At the Shangri-La Hotels event, I was able to see the team from Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London. 

We finished our evening at San Telmo with Lucy Clifton and her team from Spotlight Communications who made my first experience at ITLM a dream. Their attention to detail was legendary and I was well prepared and organized to make the most of my time in Cannes at the conference.

Media Dinner at ILTM Dec 2018 Cannes

Day Two, December 4, 2018 started with breakfast by Hilton Luxury & Lifestyle Group at Restaurant Mantel (Table 22) 22 Rue Saint Antoine, 06400 Cannes where we learned about the new Waldorf Astoria and Aston Martin partnership as well about the underwater Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and many other new and exciting properties. I cooked with a chef at the Conrad in Miami and recently filmed at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. 

Each morning at the ILTM Media Centre, we had ‘In Conversation with’ or press conferences with big brands and destinations with top-line stories. There were five minute presentations by senior board directors, CEOs and/or Presidents with 15 minutes of questions from the floor.

Walking the floors of the conference halls I saw many travel friends in their booths and was able to make appointments to learn about the happenings with various brands.

Good Morning from Cannes by Lisa Niver

We had glorious weather and enjoyed our luscious lunch hosted by Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts outdoors at the penthouse of Résidence 67 Croisette with live music and lively conversations. I recently had a hard hat tour of Four Seasons Philadelphia at Comcast Tower.

Our Afternoon Tea Networking sessions where in the First Floor Restaurant at the Palais des Festivals and were very valuable. I was able to meet with many hotels and brands in a short amount of time and learn about new stories in many locations. I meet with Edwardian Hotels, Sweet Bocas, Jumeirah Vittaveli and more.

Sunset in Cannes by Lisa Niver

As the sun set and the sky was full of magical colors, my journalism friends and I were able to participate in several cocktail parties and events including cocktails hosted by Cheval Blanc in the Majestic Suite, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, Cannes. We experienced VOGA Vogue Yoga with PROUD Experiences NYC. We went on Mabruk III for the Visit California yacht party. We had drinks with IHG lifestyle and design and I loved that every event in Cannes had live music.

Sunset in Cannes by Lisa Niver

Where did I stay in Cannes? Hôtel Martinez Cannes by Hyatt. See part TWO of my video for more of my ILTM VIP MEDIA experience!

Thank you to Lucy Clifton, the entire team at Spotlight Communications and everyone at ILTM for including me in the International Luxury Travel Mart Cannes 2018.

Watch all my conference videos and look for ILTM Part 2 for more of what happened in Cannes Dec 2018.

What Happened at ILTM Cannes 2018? 

Read about Part One here:
To watch Part One: Click HERE.

PART TWO:

I loved the International Luxury Travel Mart conference!
We started with breakfast with Marriott International Luxury Brands at theJW Marriott on Boulevard de la Croisette. Jennie Benzaquen shared exciting new developments throughout the brands and I even got to take a photo with the chefs! It was another beautiful December day in Cannes and we started at the conference with ‘In Conversation with’ press conferences with many top luxury brands.

Walking the floors of the conference, I spoke with many luxury brands about upcoming hotel openings, story ideas and possible adventures.

VIDEO: What Happened at ILTM Cannes 2018? Part TWO

At lunch, we had Press Roundtables in the First Floor Restaurant at the Palais des Festivals.

For Afternoon Tea, we met with a selection of exhibitors during a dedicated session at the Palais des Festivals.

Hill Choi Lee and Lisa Niver at VOGA party ILTM

In the evening, I attended the MILUX beach house cocktail party, VOGA Vogue Yoga event, Jumeirah Hotels yacht party, Nobu Hotels party.

Journalists at VOGA ILTM party

One of the best things was to reconnect with journalism friends from around the world and to make new connections.

I stayed at the Martinez Hotel and when we returned, we went to the Hyatt party which was at our hotel!

Party with MILUX at ILTM

December 6 started with breakfast at Martinez Hotel before our final set of ‘In Conversation with’  at the ILTM Media Centre. I had many one on one chats about future stories and being at the conference was superb.

Nobu Hotels Party at ILTM

The Kudadoo Maldives Lunch was held at the Majestic Hotel. I enjoyed going to all of the area hotels for our different events. At the end of the day, we went to the MILUX party and the Four Seasons Party before the final party at Hotel Martinez with the famous revolving dance floor.

Journalists at Final Party at ILTM 2018

A giant thank you to the ILTM team for including me at the Cannes 2018 event.

Thank you TEAM ILTM 2018!

Click here to see all of my conference videos!

More about ILTM Conference: “The ultimate global meeting in the annual luxury travel calendar!”

Thank you to Julie and Nancy, my dive and travel buddies from Princess Cruises, for joining me in London at Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard. See the first part of our journey here.

Julie, Lisa and Nancy at Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London

What were our Adventures?

Video: What to do near Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London?

Where did we go?

Shakespeare’s Globe Theater

Tate Modern

and the Modern Couples Exhibit at the Barbican Museum.

Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London even had a special map for us with points of interest on our walk to the Barbican.

Borough Market was fully decorated for the Christmas holidays during our trip Dec 1-3, 2018.

Nancy Lisa and Julie on Millennium bridge in London.

Make sure to stop for a photo at the wall of hearts and love!

At Tate Modern, I saw an exhibit of Jenny Holzer’s work which I had recently seen at the new Comcast Tower in Philadelphia.

On our walk to the Barbican, I loved seeing the old city wall of London. Walking in London you can feel the history of the city. From Shakespeare’s Globe Theater to the old city walls, it is such a different perspective than walking around a young city like Los Angeles

We lunched around the corner from the museum at The Coriander. Spending time with Julie and Nancy was special to me because I worked with both of them onboard Princess Cruises. I feel fortunate to have fantastic supportive friends like them who are willing to travel with me.

Nancy, Julie and Lisa at lunch in London!

As we walked back, we wandered through St. Paul’s Churchyard and walked across the Millennium Footbridge.

At night, we walked across Tower Bridge and enjoyed the views of Tower Bridge from our stunning hotel.

We loved the views from Shangri-La Hotel,  At the Shard, London. See more in the next video all about the property with my gorgeous suite, the highest sky pool in all of Western Europe and GONG the Sky Bar.

Have you always wanted to stay in a sky hotel? Visit Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London with me.

Video: Have You Always Wanted To Stay In A Sky Hotel?

The rooms are stunning and the view is beautiful.

I loved watching the ships in the water go under Tower Bridge.

Shangri-la Hotel, At the Shard, London by Lisa Niver

Julie and I loved the view so much we had a picnic in our room in our robes.

Pick your robe: a white terry cloth robe or a Japanese yukata robe. I wore a yukata to the 52nd floor to visit the Sky Pool, GONG the sky bar and work out at the fitness center with a view.. This is the highest pool in Western Europe!

Our picnic at Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London

We ate breakfast at TING and tried almost all the choices on the buffet. There are Asian, English and American specialities!

Our room at Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London by Lisa Niver

Click here for more info about Shangri-La Hotel, At the Shard, London.

Read about our adventures in London PART ONE and click here for all of our London videos. After London, I flew to France for my first ILTM conference in Cannes.

On my way to my first ILTM conference in Cannes, I decided to visit London. I was lucky that my friend, Julie, decided to join me.

Do you want flying to be fun again? My first stop was at The Private Suite at LAX. 
My bags were checked in for me, I went through security in their private area and I had my own suite to relax in. I ordered lunch, watched TV and even played outside.

There are drinks, sweets, and amenities galore. I highly recommend it if you want to feel like a V-VIP—a very very important person. There is a toy menu for kids of all ages so no matter your age you will be entertained. I loved traveling directly to the terminal by private car (2018 BMW 750). It is a truly luxurious experience.

The Private Suite was the perfect way to start my adventures in London!

VIDEO: Will You Love the Private Suite at LAX?

What did we do in London?

Thank you to The Rubens at the Palace for a fantastic stay. Our address was literally Buckingham Palace Road and we were steps from the Palace where the Queen was in residence. We saw the Palace at daytime and night time. We walked through Hyde Park and saw the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. We loved afternoon tea at Egerton House Hotel which is also part of Red Carnation Hotels. In the evening, we saw COMPANY at the Gielgud Theater. The show is a twist on the original with Bobbie as a female bachelor this time. I visited Harrods for the first time and loved all the holiday decorations in the store and around the town.

VIDEO: Do You Want To Explore London With Me?

We found a changing of the guard: 

“The Four ‘O’ Clock Parade, also known as the Dismounting Ceremony and Punishment Parade takes place at 16:00 hours in the courtyard in front of the Horse Guards building.(Facing Whitehall).

The guards are inspected by an Officer and then the mounted guards take the horses back to the stables for the night.

Two dismounted sentries will then guard the entrance until 20:00 when the gates to Horse Guards are closed and then one sentry will remain on duty until 07:00 when the gates re-open.

The 4 ‘o’ Clock Parade started in 1894 when Queen Victoria found the entire guard drinking and gambling while on duty.

As a punishment, she said they had to be inspected every day at 4pm by an officer for the next 100 years!

The 100 years finished in 1994. However, the reigning Queen wanted the parade to continue as a tradition.” 

VIDEO: Did You See The Punishment Inspection?

Lisa and Julie at The Rubens at the Palace

Lisa and Julie at High Tea at the Egerton House Hotel

The Rubens at the Palace at night

Is there anywhere better than London at Christmas? Thanks for featuring our wonderful properties, looks like you had a blast!

— Red Carnation Hotels (@red_carnation) January 17, 2019

Fantastic vlog!! 😍 @rubenshotel @red_carnation @wesaidgotravel @SurfnSunshine https://t.co/Ja0AAOo8ol

— Egerton House Hotel (@Egerton_Hotel) January 18, 2019