Learning Made Better 2024

January 14 - 20, 2024

Join us for Learning Made Better 2024, a vacation event designed specifically for Realty Professionals! (sponsored by Travel Made Better in partnership with MN Realty School)

For 2024, we're returning to Royal Caribbean and headed to Jamaica and Grand Cayman!  And once again, with our tradition of showcasing new and innovative ships, Learning Made Better 2024 will be sailing on the amazing ODYSSEY OF THE SEAS.  This ship features fun everywhere you look with exciting and unique options such as the North Star, FlowRider Surf Simulator, bumper cars and don't miss the VR games in the SeaPlex.  Dine together at multiple excellent options and be entertained in the modern theater.  Come enjoy the camaraderie of fellow realtors, visit some new tropical destinations [in the middle of winter] and experience all that is Learning Made Better 2024!

GROUP ITINERARY

Date Location Arrive Depart
Sunday, January 14 Fort Lauderdale - Embarkation Day 5:00 PM
Monday, January 15 At Sea - CE Sessions I, II 8:00 AM 3:00 PM
Tuesday, January 16 Falmouth, Jamaica - most popular excursion is the Dunn's River Falls Climb 9:00 AM 6:00 PM
Wednesday, January 17 George Town, Grand Cayman - most popular excursion is Swimming with the Stingrays 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
Thursday, January 18 At Sea - CE Sessions III, IV 8:00 AM 3:00 PM
Friday, January 19 Perfect Day at CocoCay - Royal Caribbean's incredible private island experience 8:00 AM 5:00 PM
Saturday, January 20 Fort Lauderdale - return flights 7:00 AM

Per Person Group pricing INCLUDES taxes, drink package, internet package and cruise gratuities! This is an added value of $1200 per stateroom which is not included for public bookings. NOTE: ONBOARD CE is an ADDED COST as noted in trip details.
(Based on double occupancy)

Accommodation Category Type Per Person
JUNIOR SUITE WITH LARGE BALCONY - dbl/tpl/quad occy available with 3rd/4th guests at lower rate - Aft-Facing! (2 left) J1 $2502
OCEAN VIEW BALCONY - dbl/tpl/quad occy available with 3rd/4th guests at lower rate (4 left) 1D $1796
INTERIOR STATEROOM - max. double occupancy and located on Deck 12 (2 left) 4V $1350
NOTE: Onboard CE is added $300 pp (our past guests will receive a $100 discount as a thank you for your continued support)
3rd/4th guests (21+) in Categories J1 and 1D only J1/1D $1286
3rd/4th guests (under 21) in Categories J1 and 1D only J1/1D $1095

DEADLINES, DETAILS & DEPOSIT

REGISTRATION FINAL DEADLINE:  Royal Caribbean has allowed us to extend our group deadline once again for one additional month (until October 30).  Know that rates will increase after this date. 

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ADDED PERKS TO ENHANCE YOUR CRUISE:

All new reservations will receive the following group amenities package:

  1. DRINKS - Deluxe Beverage Package for all guests in stateroom - value of $892 per stateroom (onboard purchase price of $63 per person per day + 18% service charge).  Minors to receive soda package.

  2. WIFI - Surf & Stream Voom Internet Package - value of $108 per stateroom (onboard purchase price)

  3. GRATUITIES - Prepaid Gratuities for both guests - minimum value of $192 per stateroom (based on $16.00 per person per day).  If applicable, gratuities are also included for 3rd/4th guests in categories J1 and 1D.

TOTAL MINIMUM GROUP PERKS - $1200 per stateroom!

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WHAT IS INCLUDED THIS YEAR?

  • Excellent opportunity to network with other real estate professionals

  • CE classroom instruction from a leading instructor in the business ($300/person added cost)

  • 6 nights deluxe accommodations on one of Royal Caribbean's newest ships (debuted in July 2021)

  • Nightly fine dining as well as many alternative specialty restaurants and buffets throughout your cruise

  • Complimentary beverages also include coffee, teas, juices (breakfast) and fruit punch/lemonade (buffet).  Guests will receive the 'Deluxe Beverage Package' as part of our group package.

  • Prepaid Gratuities
  • Voom Internet Package
  • Numerous onboard daily activities/entertainment

  • Evening entertainment in the main theater as well as in many smaller venues throughout the ship

  • Full gym with many of the latest fitness machines plus exercise/nutrition classes

  • Full spa services available, but these are all at an additional cost (look for discounts onboard!).  

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AWESOME WESTERN CARIBBEAN ITINERARY WITH THESE PORT STOPS...

Perfect Day at CocoCay - this is Royal Caribbean's Private Island in The Bahamas.  Basically a complimentary beach day/bbq with additional purchase options such as the tallest water slides in the Caribbean, beach cabanas, jet skis, etc.

George Town, Grand Cayman - Ideal stop for water-based excursions (snorkeling, catamaran, swimming with the Stingrays, Atlantis submarine).  On land, visit Seven Mile Beach, shopping or even go to Hell (literally a place here LOL).

Falmouth, Jamaica - enjoy the unique vibe of this Caribbean favorite for many.  Excellent port for adventures such as climbing Dunn's River Falls, riding the Jamaican Bobsled (coaster), ziplines, tubing and much more.

 

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GENERAL NOTES ABOUT THE PRICING

  • Most all rates are based upon double occupancy, meaning 2 guests sharing the same stateroom.

  • 3rd/4th guest pricing for J1 and 1D categories at $1297 per adult or $1106 per minor (drink package, internet and gratuities included).
  • Gov't taxes/port fees of $174 per person are INCLUDED in the rates shown.

  • As mentioned, cruise gratuities are INCLUDED as one of your perks. These go toward your room stewards, plus bar and dining room staff. Value is $16 per person per day.

  • Cruise protection can also be added to your booking and is strongly encouraged for peace of mind. Cost is based upon category chosen.

  • Group rooms are limited and subject to availability at time of booking.

  • All guests must place their bookings through Travel Made Better in order to take the CE at SEA class sessions and/or participate in the bonus programs.

Want one of the fantastic Suites or another category not shown in our group allotment?  Simply let us know - we will offer you the absolute best available rates and include your booking in the group.  Some suites also include butler service.  This is the place to be if you want a more exclusive and luxurious experience!

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IMPORTANT NOTES SPECIFIC TO THE REALTOR C.E. PRICING

As noted above, this year's rates DO NOT INCLUDE the cost of the Continuing Education classes:

$300 for the standard rate - includes your annual certification from MN Realty School

$200 for past guests of our CE cruises

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ANY SPECIALS FOR PAST GUESTS?

Absolutely - we love our return guests!  Your enthusiasm is what makes Learning Made Better such a special event.

If you are a past guest of our previous cruises (Norwegian Bliss 2019, Symphony of the Seas 2020, Celebrity Apex 2022 or Celebrity Beyond 2023), MN Realty School is offering $100 OFF the CE portion of this cruise.

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WHAT ABOUT A TEAM/GROUP THAT WANTS TO COME TOGETHER?

Perfect - that's what this is all about.  We have several offices that have multiple team members on our cruise events.  If you are a broker/owner/manager that is interested in bringing a team, you may qualify for a special offer with 4+ rooms booked.  Reach out to Nathan Harvey at (614) 402-1586 for more details.

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DEPOSIT AMOUNT

At time of initial booking, you will be charged the following in 2 separate payments:

  1. Cruise deposit of $500 total per stateroom (payable to Royal Caribbean) --PLUS--

  2. Applicable cost for each person taking the onboard CE instruction (payable to MN Realty School)

Example #1:  If there are 2 guests sharing a stateroom and only 1 is taking the CE sessions, then your total deposit will be $800 ($500 to Royal Caribbean + $300 to MN Realty School).

Example #2:  If there are 2 guests sharing a stateroom and both are taking the CE sessions, then your total deposit will be $1100 ($500 to Royal Caribbean + $600 to MN Realty School).

Major credit cards only as inputted directly into your reservation form.  Payments are applied by Nathan Harvey, Owner/Travel Agent with Travel Made Better LLC and made directly to Royal Caribbean and MN Realty School (CE portion). 

You will be emailed a receipt of both transactions upon booking, as well as an official cruise-only confirmation from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line.

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WHEN IS THE FINAL PAYMENT DUE AND HOW IS IT PAID?

Final payment is officially due anytime before November 1, 2023.

You would receive emailed notice of final payment in late September.

After payment is completed, you will be emailed an official Royal Caribbean PAID confirmation from Travel Made Better.

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HOW DO I REGISTER?

All guests must pre-register for Learning Made Better 2024  through this form.  Simply click on the 'RESERVE TODAY' button to send your information directly to the travel agent.  This is the best way to get complete and accurate information needed to make your cruise reservation.  Nathan Harvey (owner of Travel Made Better) is the only person that will receive or have access to this information!  It is safe on a military-grade security platform built into the technology.  If you have questions, feel free to email (nathan@travelmadebetter.com) or call/text (614) 402-1586.

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STATEROOM DESCRIPTIONS

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, interactive TV, safe, phone, and hairdryer.

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(J4) Junior Suite with Large Balcony - Double Occupancy - Decks 11 or 12 Midship

Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. One double sofa bed. Bedroom area and sitting area with sofa. One bathroom with tub. Up to 4 guests. Stateroom: 301 sq. ft. Balcony: 81 sq. ft.

Welcome to Royal Suite Class

Royal Suite Class is an elevated onboard experience for suite guests, combining the unmatched range of innovative Royal Caribbean suite-category accommodations with superior service, exclusive access and personalization of guests’ cruise experiences. Within its three tiers — Star, Sky and Sea — this program offers exclusive access to lounges and dining venues while onboard, attentive services and additional stateroom amenities.

Sea Class Amenities

You can rest and recharge between adventures in a spacious suite where every detail has been carefully considered with you in mind. From luxury pillow top mattresses to bath amenities selected to make you feel at home. The indulgence extends beyond your room with evening dining at Coastal Kitchen.

  • Dinner at Coastal Kitchen, based upon availability*.
  • Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes for Use Onboard
  • Luxury Pillow Top Mattress
  • Luxury Bathroom Amenities
  • Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

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(J1) Junior Suite with Large Balcony - Triple/Quad Occupancy only - Decks 10-12

Reserved for families only!

Same Royal Suite Class amenities as above

Stateroom Size 276 SQ FT

Balcony Size 161FT SF

Spectacular aft-facing views!

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(1D) Ocean View Balcony Stateroom - Triple/Quad Occupancy only - Decks 12 Forward

Reserved for families only and located very close to Adventure Ocean Kids Club

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. Vanity and sitting area and one double sofa bed. Up to 4 guests. Stateroom: 198 sq. ft. Balcony: 55 sq. ft.

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(4D) Ocean View Balcony Stateroom-SOLD OUT

Decks 11 and 12

Double occupancy

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. Vanity and sitting area and one double sofa bed. Up to 4 guests. Stateroom: 198 sq. ft. Balcony: 55 sq. ft. 

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(4V) Interior Stateroom - Deck 12 Aft

Double Occupancy

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. Vanity and sitting area with one double sofa. Up to 4 guests. Stateroom: 166 sq. ft.

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HOW ABOUT ADDITIONAL ROOMS FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

Yes - absolutely. 

Our group rates are available on a limited basis for any guests of realtors taking the CE courses.  If you have friends and family interested in joining you for this cruise, please feel free to send them this website for info/registration.  We would be glad to service them as well at no additional fee!

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AIRFARE TO/FROM FORT LAUDERDALE

Roundtrip flights are NOT INCLUDED in the cruise package.  Please see below for important notes regarding allowable flight times. 

Airport Code for Fort Lauderdale:  FLL

Flights must arrive no later than 12:00 Noon on Sunday, January 14.

Flights must depart no earlier than 12:00 Noon on Saturday, January 20.

IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you arrive the day prior to embarkation due to potential winter conditions and/or unexpected flight delays.

NOTE:  Unlike the Port of Miami, Fort Lauderdale International Airport and Port Everglades (cruise port) are located very close to each other.  There are also many hotels located in the general area.

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DOCUMENTATION NEEDED

Passport books are recommended for all guests regardless of age.  If you do not have a passport, these can be obtained through your local post office (please allow up to 12 weeks for process completion).  Information is available online at travel.state.gov.  Passports must not expire within 6 months of our dates of travel (22 JUL 2024).

If you are not using a passport, you must provide BOTH an original birth certificate AND your government-issued drivers license. 

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CANCELLATION GUIDELINES

(updated by Royal Caribbean on 5/20/2023)

From time of booking until November 1, 2023 ... space may be cancelled without a charge.

From November 2, 2023 - December 15, 2023 ... there is a $250 per person charge by the cruise line for cancellation.

From December 16, 2023 - January 6, 2024 ... there is a 50 % penalty per guest charged by the cruise line for cancellation.

From January 7, 2024 to sailing ... there is a 100% penalty per guest charged by the cruise line for cancellation.

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CE SESSIONS INSTRUCTOR

Mike Brennan​, MN Realty School

Mike was licensed from May 1995 until February 2012. Mike taught at Kaplan for 11 years. He has taught pre-license and continuing education classes since 2003 in Minnesota, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, Florida and Wisconsin. Mike's energy and enthusiasm keeps students engaged and alert. Mike became an investment property owner in 1993, which sparked his interest in real estate. Since then, Mike has worked in restoring/reselling houses, rentals and sales. Mike is involved with the Minnesota Board of REALTORS® and has volunteered for many committees, including Professional Standards, Nominating, Executive and the Board of Directors for the State Association of REALTORS®. Mike lives in St. Paul in an older Victorian house with his wife, their children, and two dogs.  

Mike Brennan was a finalist for "Most Influential Real Estate Voices in the US" by Inman News. 

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YOUR TRAVEL AGENT PARTNERS

Travel Made Better LLC  has been in partnership with MN Realty School since 2017.  We have grown to know many of you personally and are excited to be joining you on the Odyssey of the Seas again this year.  We strive to be both professional and personal in all we do, so please feel free to contact us at any time with your questions.  We will do our very best to respond within 24-48 hours.