Our Story and Dedication
Trust Built On Expertise
A Heritage of Trusted Caribbean Expertise
Family Roots, Lasting Commitment
For more than 30 years, Rapka Travel has been dedicated solely to luxury Sandals and Beaches vacations, serving as a family-run agency founded on passion and personal service. Across generations, our roots have always grounded us in providing attentive guidance and genuine hospitality for every client. We have maintained a consistent and unwavering focus on one thing: curating remarkable escapes exclusively to Sandals and Beaches Resorts. Each year, our certified specialists embark on training at the latest properties, ensuring our advice is always rooted in current, firsthand knowledge.
This commitment allows us to offer a unique, up-to-date perspective on every resort's evolving amenities, room styles, and signature experiences. Over decades, we have built lasting relationships with resort staff and management, which translates to exclusive perks and insights for those placing their dreams in our care. At Rapka Travel, clients receive the benefit of in-depth specialization in all-inclusive Caribbean travel - delivered with the genuine warmth and meticulous attention you would expect from a proud family business. This foundation continues to inspire our approach, making every vacation journey feel personal, streamlined, and truly unforgettable.
Expertise for Your Perfect Getaway
Personalized service is the heart of everything we do. Our deep specialization in Sandals and Beaches Resorts means we are uniquely positioned to understand the nuances of each location and how they fit your vision - whether you are planning a milestone celebration, a romantic honeymoon, or a cherished family trip. Clients come to us for guidance they can trust, knowing we have visited every property and remain up to date on the latest amenities, activities, and special offerings through ongoing training and site visits. With every consultation, we listen attentively, then tailor our recommendations to match your style, budget, and unique preferences.
Our Elite Advisor status unlocks exclusive resort benefits for our clients, such as resort credits, upgraded experiences, or priority reservations that elevate each stay. We handle every detail - from resort selection and room category guidance to arranging Island Routes adventures and VIP airport lounges in Jamaica. Our goal is to remove stress, provide inspiring options, and ensure you receive unmatched value and care at every step. Trust in our expertise to make your getaway as seamless and memorable as possible.
Meet Our Team
Walter Rapkia Jr
As President and a Certified Travel Counselor, Walter brings decades of experience and unwavering commitment to every journey. Walter holds Elite Status with Sandals Resorts, offers specialist guidance, and stays current with annual resort visits and direct training.
Marlene W. Rapka
Marlene manages both the office and each client's planning process with exceptional attention to detail. With Elite Advisor status by Sandals Resorts and extensive hands-on knowledge, Marlene provides personalized service for seamless travel arrangements and confident decision-making.
The Founder's Vision
Legacy of Excellence
When Rapka Travel first opened its doors in 1996, founder Walter Rapkia Jr was inspired by a belief that expert, personal service could transform the way people experience Caribbean travel. Guided by values of honesty, care, and family tradition, Walter set out to build not just a business but a relationship-driven agency where every traveler's dream could be crafted with genuine attention. Earning recognition as a Certified Travel Counselor and Elite Advisor with Sandals Resorts, Walter leads by example - completing annual hands-on training and visiting each resort to ensure advice is always up to date.
This dedication extends to every member of the team, creating a culture rooted in education, integrity, and authentic hospitality. Walter's vision endures: to welcome every guest as part of the Rapka Travel family, providing tailored recommendations and seamless arrangements so you can embark on extraordinary vacations with complete confidence.