I am very excited to share with you that I am leading a social travel group tour at the end of May 2023 to explore the breathtaking beauty of Northern Michigan. This is the perfect gift “experience” to give yourself and your loved ones.
From the charming town of Traverse City to the historic Mackinac Island that National Geographic named one of the top 10 most beautiful islands in the world, there’s no shortage of amazing sights and experiences you’ll enjoy on our trip to this wonderful region.
Download the itinerary and land tour details below.
Join me! I know you will enjoy the sites, the scenery, the experiences and the adventure! But…don’t delay as we have 14 of the 32 spots already claimed! It’s sure to sell out quickly!
Michigan is home to the nation’s longest freshwater coastline with more than 11,000 lakes, forested state parks, spectacular gardens and vibrant urban landscapes that set a scene of both peaceful tranquility and adventure. Northern Michigan is a summer destination like no other. Below I’ll expand on a few of the highlights we’ll experience during our tour.
Sleeping Bear Dunes, Pierce Stocking Drive and Glen Arbor
A few years ago, this area was voted the “Most beautiful place in America” on Good Morning America. You can clearly see why. This area is incredible, featuring the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for amazing dune and Lake Michigan views, offering plenty of opportunities to climb the dune at select Dune Climb areas.
On our way back to Traverse City, we’ll visit Glen Arbor with its stunning lake views and downtown shopping, where you can check out Cherry Republic, selling all things cherry related.
Traverse City
Traverse City is a charming town known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, vibrant art scene, its famous National Cherry Festival and for the numerous local wineries, especially the world-renowned Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn.
We’ll enjoy a delicious multi-course wine pairing dinner prepared fresh with local produce by their in-house Executive Chef, Chris Mushall C.E.C. Not only is the food incredible but the views are spectacular! You are in for quite the experience!
Charlevoix
Moving north, we’ll stop in Charlevoix, known as “Charlevoix the Beautiful”, a lakefront town where we’ll tour the city’s famous “Mushroom Houses”, 24 unique thatched homes constructed with limestone, fieldstone and Michigan timber between 1919 and 1970.
From there we’ll visit Castle Farms which was built in 1918 as a working dairy farm. The main house and grounds have been lovingly restored and feature Michigan’s largest outdoor model railroad, an enchanted garden full of gnomes, an enormous hedge maze, and many ponds where you can feed the resident ducks and fish.
Petoskey and Harbor Springs
Continuing north to Petoskey, one of the most beautiful cities in the state, we’ll tour the “Painted Ladies”, a collection of colorful Victorian homes and cottages. We’ll also stop and look for the famous “Petoskey Stones” along the beach.
Continuing north on our way to Harbor Springs, we’ll meander through the “Tunnel of Trees”, a 28-mile stretch where the trees grow so close to, and over the road, that they form a natural tree tunnel in many places.
Harbor Springs is next on our journey…a quaint waterfront community that offers an array of art galleries, culinary attractions, and the deepest freshwater harbor in the Great Lakes. It’s also home to the world-famous Tom’s Mom’s Cookies, where they’ve been baking cookies with their award-winning recipe for more than 38 years. We will certainly be stopping by to taste of few of their delights! :>
Mackinac Island
As we arrive at the island on the famous Shepler’s Ferry, we leave the 21st century behind and enter the magical time warp on Mackinac Island. The streets are filled with the sounds of horses and the clippity-clop of their hooves. Our luggage will be loaded on a horse-drawn cart and carried off to our hotel. Visitors and locals will come and go on horse-drawn carriages or on bicycles, ringing their bike bells as they pedal along the streets. Visiting Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time.
Mackinac Island is a throwback to old-timey seaside leisure, from the candy-colored facades of downtown shops to the impressive (record-breaking, in fact) front porch of the Victorian-era Grand Hotel.
Mackinac is world-famous for its homemade fudge, available in every flavor imaginable. You may want to work off your sugar high with a bike ride along a seaside trail. I’ve biked this trail many times and I love stopping along the way to take in the beautiful views of the coastline. It’s also fun to explore the limestone bluffs of Mackinac Island State Park or visit historic Fort Mackinac, which offers a fascinating look into the island’s rich history.
Once you visit, you’ll know why National Geographic ranked it “One of the Top 10 most beautiful islands in the world!”
I can’t wait to go, and I hope you’ll join us as it’s…“Better to see something once, than hear about it a thousand times!” – Asian Proverb!
Follow along on my social media where I post highlights of my adventures.
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Are you ready to join me in experiencing Northern Michigan? I know you will love this adventure. I used to live in Michigan, and I’ve been to all of these locations several times and I LOVE THEM ALL!
If the answer is YES…then let’s do it! I believe, whole-heartedly, that YOU would enjoy a journey to Michigan that wows you every step of the way. Just send me an email ([email protected]) that you are ready to explore with me!
Let’s pursue a new adventure together! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
Happy Fall, Everyone! If you live in any area where foliage changes with the seasons, you know how exciting and beautiful autumn can be. I love fall and the colors of the changing leaves especially when they turn a vibrant orange, yellow and red! The fall foliage in our area is absolutely stunning right now.
This beautiful display brings back fond memories of our recent trip across the Canadian Rockies a few weeks ago. On our “Journey through the Clouds”, we saw the larch needles turn to gold and the aspen trees turn into shimmering wonders as their leaves became a brilliant yellow.
One of the best parts of the trip was sharing this beautiful country with friends…friends from near and far, some who have known each other for years and others who met for the first time. This is the beauty of “Social Travel”, the topic of my last newsletter.
“Social Travel” is about bringing travelers together from all over, many who will meet for the first time, go on an adventure, discover new cultures and cool experiences and enjoy a new part of the world…TOGETHER! Life is better when we do it together! 😊
Social travel = MOMENTS you won’t forget! In PLACES you won’t forget. With PEOPLE you won’t forget!
I’m excited to share about our train adventure with you. There were so many amazing highlights that it was hard to narrow it down. For additional inspiration, take a look at my Facebook and Instagram pages where I captured some breathtaking scenery and moments of our journey. And I posted our trip itinerary on my website for you to follow along. This adventure was truly magical in every way!
So read on as I share about our “Journey Through the Clouds”……
Vancouver
Our adventure began in Vancouver, a city that is surrounded by majestic mountains, sparkling ocean waters, rainforests, and beautiful foliage throughout all four seasons. And of course, with all these natural beauties, this makes Vancouver one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
We explored the city, learned about the history through a food walking tour, visited Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, shopped at Granville Market and learned about the Chinese influence in the community by going on a “wok” around Chinatown.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden was named as the world’s top city garden by National Geographic. It opened in 1986 and is the first Chinese or ‘Scholars Garden’ built outside of China.
The jade green pond, koi fish, and the collection of 150-year-old trees plus the Tai Hi rock imported from China, are a few of the delights in the garden. It took 53 master craftsmen from China and 950 crates of traditional material using 14th century methods – no screws, glue or power tools to build. It’s a beautiful, peaceful garden, especially in the early morning before most visitors come to enjoy.
A “Wok” Around Chinatown
Established in the 1890s, Vancouver’s Chinatown has been humming busily for more than a century with vivid colors, exotic cuisine, and a vibrant culture. Rich in history and architecture, this area east of downtown boasts North America’s third-largest Chinatown after New York and San Francisco.
We had a fabulous time on our “wok” around Chinatown with “Chef Robert”. We visited the markets, a tea shop, tasted a variety of Chinese specialties like barbequed meat, delicate pastries, herbal products and ended our “wok” with a delicious Dim Sum lunch.
Life was meant for great adventures and good friends!
Next, we joined the Legendary Gastown Food tour that took us through the cobbled stone streets of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood. We enjoyed local craft beer, Japanese Kar-age style chicken, freshly made Sicilian Tortellini with local wine, crispy sweet & chili cauliflower, smooth soft serve ice cream, Vancouver’s award winning cheesecake and delicious lemon bars! Our guide shared some fascinating and funny little-known stories about Vancouver and its “Wild West” history that dates back 150 years. There’s nothing better than learning about the history of a city than through food. So delicious and very interesting!
Granville Island
The Granville Island Public Market is the jewel in the island’s crown and a MUST visit. This large indoor market features a fascinating assortment of colorful food and produce stores, showcasing handcrafted products and the very finest in unique gifts. The area is packed with theaters, market stalls, art studios, restaurants, bars and bookstores. It’s a great place for unique souvenirs, for tasting fresh seafood caught just offshore and for a freshly baked scone from the local bakery! So tasty! 😋
Sea to Sky Adventure
We ended our visit in Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Highway, a legendary route from Vancouver to Whistler. It’s a gorgeous drive along the side of Howe Sound, an ocean fjord, and then up through the mountains to the Whistler ski village.
There are many fun stops along the way, including the Sea to Sky Gondola, waterfalls, cultural points of interest and historic sites. This highway links together the regions’ three main centers – Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton. It’s a beautiful drive along the coast! 🏔☀️😍
Our first stop along the route was to the Sea to Sky Gondola🚠 and the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. These suspension bridges always make me a little nervous but with a “little help from my friend” Terri, we did it!
Our last stop was in Whistler, home to Blackcomb, one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Besides skiing and snowboarding, the area offers snowshoeing, tobogganing and ski jumping at the Olympic Park, a venue for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. The village is beautiful in the summer but I bet it is spectacular in the winter when it is blanketed with several feet of freshly fallen snow! ❄️
An Adventure by Rail
🚂 And now…for the star of the show…the Rocky Mountaineer train! All Aboard! 🚂
On the fourth day, we boarded the train early in the morning to experience the “Journey through the Clouds”. We certainly had a “room with a view”! Our seats were in the bi-level glass domed coaches which was ideal for viewing the incredible landscapes and the abundant wildlife. And when it was a bit too sunny, the hosts flicked a button and the glare disappeared. Every now and again we would jump across the aisle so we could gaze at the stunning landscape that was before our eyes.
Each row of seating was very spacious and had a lot of legroom. Our seats were very comfortable, reclined, and had seat warmers for the chilly mornings.
Embarking on new adventures is a million times better with close pals.
A Feast for our Senses
Our taste for adventure wasn’t the only thing we indulged in on our journey. Traveling between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, what we found on our plate was just as impressive as to what we saw outside the glass-dome windows. We dined on multi-course breakfasts and lunches that were served on board the train and created by the Rocky Mountaineer professional culinary team. Truly delicious!
Spectacular Scenery
The Canadian Rocky Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site. They are filled with rugged mountain peaks, ice fields and glaciers, alpine meadows, beautiful blue-green lakes, waterfalls, extensive karst cave systems, thermal springs, wildlife and deeply incised canyons.
Some of the best-known mountain scenery on Earth is concentrated in a set of seven parks in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. And the beauty of traveling by train, is the opportunity to see this scenery all throughout the journey. No matter which direction you look…left, right or through a Vista Dome roof, you will see so much more compared to when you travel by plane.
Remember to enjoy the journey and the scenery along the way! — Katrina Mayer
We traveled on the Rocky Mountaineer train during the day and spent the nights at beautiful properties in the major cities like Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was my favorite and a hotel that I longed to see in person since I was a teenager. When I walked into my room and over to the window, I was in awe of my view of Lake Louise and Mount Victoria! Breathtaking for sure!
Although the train portion of our trip was 2 full days, the next 6 days were spent exploring Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff National Parks. The scenery was breathtaking, the air was crisp and fresh, the adventure was a blast and our memories will last a lifetime.
Next week I will share more about our visits to these National Parks. So get ready for some truly visually mind-blowing pictures! It does not come as a surprise that the Canadian Rockies is a bucket list destination every traveler wants to visit at least once in a lifetime.
Our “Journey Through the Clouds” was magical in every way, but nothing beats traveling with friends. One of the best things about “Social Travel” is that your experiences are heightened when they are shared with travelers around the world. You’ll soon feel like you made lifelong friends with many of them. What a great reward!
It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey.
Are you ready to join me in experiencing a journey to Greece? I know you will love this adventure as much as I did last year! It’s magical (and a whole lot of blue and white) in every way!
If the answer is YES…then let’s do it! I believe, whole-heartedly, that YOU would enjoy a journey to Greece that wows you every step of the way. Just send me an email ([email protected]) that you are ready to explore the Greek Isles with me!
Let’s pursue a new adventure together! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
Another friendly reminder…we have a fun group that is exploring Egypt in February! I have 2 spots left. If you’d like to join us, let me know! It’s a fabulous destination with so much enrichment for all!!
The latest travel trend is “Social Travel”. It’s group travel for today’s traveler! When you go, you may or may not know some of the people in the group. It’s all about bringing travelers together from all over the world to go on an adventure and discover new cultures, while the tour takes the hassle out of travel. The appeal is simple: You + other travelers + cool experiences + a new part of the world = Social Travel.
On September 24th I am leading a Social Travel tour on a “Journey Through the Clouds” with the acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer. This will be my second tour with Rocky Mountaineer and I’m even more excited to go knowing how much fun it will be. To get a sneak peak of our adventure, take a look at some of the highlights from my first tour here – The Spectacular Canadian Rockies!
While I am traveling through the Canadian Rockies, I’ll be posting many pictures on my Facebook and Instagram pages. So, follow along and you’ll see why Social Travel is such a fun and exciting way to go!
Discover just a few of the many advantages or Social Travel with XOOM Tours…
It’s hassle-free as all of the details are already planned!
With XOOM Tours, Social Travel means inclusive tour packages that have been curated for travelers who like to take advantage of trips that are prearranged, prepaid, include everything from knowledgeable guides to transportation to accommodations, to meals, attractions, tours and admission fees and often personalized group experiences not available to the standard traveler. As the traveler, all you must do is wake up on-time, sit back, relax and enjoy the adventure!
Local area experts have already planned for you to see the Best of the Best!
Want to know where the best Pisco Sours are in Peru? Want to go off the beaten path and experience something cool? Are you a foodie that wants to learn how to make pasta in Florence? Or croissants in Paris? Or chocolate bars in St. Lucia?
You’ll visit many of the iconic locations in each destination, but it’s the unexpected experiences that you’ll always talk about after the trip that take Social Travel to the next level. Expert local guides are with you sharing the history, insider knowledge and experiences one can only get locally. They are your personal travel guru!
You have free time to do your own thing and explore on your own!
While Social Travel means spending time with the group, you’re not joined at the hip 24/7. There is plenty of free time planned into the schedule so you can set out on your own and explore your personal passions.
Have an interest in fine art, cooking, old books, cave dwelling or shopping? Want to arrive early to settle in or leave later to explore further? Then adding on a few additional days to extend your tour is also an option. Whatever it is, you can enjoy many activities with the group and tailor the tour with experiences that appeal specifically to you. It’s a win/win for everyone!
If you’re a single traveler, there is safety in numbers!
These days more and more travelers want to go out and see the world but can’t always find a travel buddy. Some don’t feel safe going alone or often don’t have the confidence to manage the many changing details like air, train, and taxi transportation, accommodations, meals, attractions / tours, directions, language, and more. Or the destination may be one where even two or three female friends may not feel comfortable traveling. In all of these cases, joining a Social Travel tour is ideal.
The trips are often more affordable!
Social Travel is often more affordable because the trips are put together with “buying power”. XOOM Tours and our global partners have a lot of negotiating clout with accommodations, transportation and in destination partners. We can often include special amenities or promotions not available to the public including room upgrades (subject to availability), daily breakfast for two, food & beverage credit or Hotel/Resort credit or Spa credits, early check-in/late checkout (subject to availability) and more.
It’s a great way to meet new people!
It seems the more digital our world becomes as we work, shop, order food, and entertain ourselves without having to leave home, the more isolated we’ve become. One of the best things about Social Travel is making new friends from around the world. You’ll soon feel like you made lifelong friends with some of them. I have many friends around the world that I’ve met on a trip, and we still keep in touch. Several of us also continue to Socially Travel together. It’s an easy way to meet people and make new friends!
Experience, Experience, Experience!
XOOM Tours has been championing Social Travel for many years. I have been a travel professional for the past 16 years and have escorted more than 75 domestic and international Social Tours while participating as a traveler in many more.
I’ve made filling up my passport a top priority. I love the smell of a famous local dish simmering over the stove, the heady, exotic spices perfuming the air in the local markets and the off-the-beaten path experiences that my in-destination partners plan for us!
I love the cultural quirks of a new destination (or, sometimes, how similar they are to our own). And I love the warmth of the people who open their hearts and their homes to us visitors, who usher us over their thresholds with smiles and make us feel as welcome as family.
I love Social Traveling!
Are you ready to discover a different way to travel? What’s on your bucket list?
Let’s explore a way to fill that bucket together!
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through our exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
I use inside information to arrange behind the scenes tours, secure access into exclusive events, have your tours and excursions scheduled at the best times, provide upgrades and amenities when available and more.
My goal is that you return from your vacation saying, “WOW! That was an amazing experience!”
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Hello everyone! I’m glad to be back in your inbox sharing travel inspiration. It’s hard to believe summer is coming to an end and fall is right around the corner. Where did the time go? I know for many of you, your children are back in school and the routine of packing lunches, homework, fall sports and carpooling is in full swing. I wish everyone a successful and memorable school year! For those of us that are empty nesters, I know you love the flexibility and opportunity to travel anytime and anywhere.
Here’s some great news! The demand for upcoming travel is “extraordinary”. It seems everyone is looking to make up for the last two years and the desire to travel is greater than ever. Combine this desire with most countries, cruise lines, and tour companies relaxing their COVID-19 policies – including the U.S. dropping its testing requirement for travelers in June – and we’ve seen travel come roaring back across the world.
And XOOM Tours travelers are leading the way. I love seeing everyone’s pictures and hearing their stories on how they are enriched by their adventures.
“The best education you will ever get is traveling. Nothing teaches you more than exploring the world and accumulating experiences.”
Take a look below at some of our recent XOOM Travelers touring Italy, Greece, France, Washington, D.C., Seaside, Florida, Costa Rica, Alaska, St. Croix, St. Lucia, New York City, Dominican Republic, Dubai, Spain, Portugal, and more…
Recently, Virtuoso, a network of agencies that specializes in experiential and luxury travel, conducted a survey and found that 45 percent of travelers are ready to travel now or within the next three months. Where do they want to travel? Some prefer to stay close to home. While others are ready to venture further to destinations such as Italy, Greece, Spain, and Ireland.
But with this surge in travel that will continue into the fall, comes limited availability, price increases, and less-flexible cancellation policies. Now more than ever, it’s important to partner with an advisor like me, who can help you navigate today’s travel landscape.
Here are the Top Five Travel Destinations for this Fall
According to industry booking data, these are the most in-demand destinations for fall travel:
Number 1: The United States
Some travelers prefer to stay close to home as they are not quite ready to travel internationally. For them, a classic road trip may fill their desires. Many share they can’t wait to explore more under-the-radar National Parks, while others are looking forward to the start of ski season in destinations such as Park City, Telluride and Vail. Others love the colorful leaves and the scenic drives through Maine, New Hampshire, Michigan, Georgia and New Mexico. And Hawaii is high on the list because it’s a picture-perfect destination any time of year.
Europe has been in demand all summer (seven of the top ten most popular travel destinations), and with the Euro being fairly equal to the U.S. dollar, it continues to drive demand. Of course, Italy is a fan favorite, consistently at the top of many people’s bucket list. Its long Mediterranean coastline and world-famous cities like Rome, Vatican City, Florence, Venice, and Milan, each dominated by majestic cathedrals and soaked in history, simply astound every traveler. If a grand Italian tour is on your bucket list, then you need to plan ahead because availability is becoming more limited.
There’s a lot to love about Mexico: With fabulous beaches, ancient ruins, alluring culture, dynamic cities, and mouthwatering cuisine, Mexico is truly a tropical treasure and a destination that has something special for everyone.
All this variety is a short flight away from many cities in North America, making it easy to get away.
Earlier this month, France lifted Covid travel restrictions for international travelers, making some of our favorite places even easier to return to. Fall river cruises down the Seine promise picturesque medieval villages and countless wine tasting opportunities. One of the highlights of river cruising is the opportunity to explore the charming, historical towns and cities in the various ports. In some areas, a river may even be the only access. This means that we as travelers get to travel directly into the heart of small villages and get an insider’s view of exotic locales otherwise hard to reach. Some of my most memorable traveling experiences are when I hung out with the locals and learned more about their culture and heritage through their eyes.
Turks & Caicos have some of the best beaches in the world! Pristine white sand and crystal-clear ocean water with turquoise and blue hues define the coasts. And I’m not talking about one or two beaches…every island has miles of wonderful secluded beaches. The crown jewel is the award winning Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales.
One trend I have seen this summer: lots of travelers are seeking out restorative wellness escapes. There aren’t many better places to tune out than in a cabana on a pristine stretch of beach, and the Turks and Caicos Islands are home to plenty of them. And one huge bonus…there are many quick, 90-minute direct flights from Miami to Turks. So within a few hours you can have your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand! Sounds inviting, doesn’t it?!! :>
“Take vacations, go as many places as you can. You can always make money, you can’t always make memories.”
It is so exciting to see everyone back traveling. It is an incredible feeling experiencing the sights and sounds of so many beautiful places. It’s hard to describe and something you need to experience yourself. So… on that note… where would you like to travel next?
The world is open and waiting for you! If it’s not the U.S., Italy, Mexico, France or Turks and Caicos, where would you like to go? How about Germany for Oktoberfest? Or the Canadian Rockies by train? Or an African Safari? Or a river cruise to see the Christmas Markets? In fact, anywhere sounds amazing to me!! How about you?
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through my exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Summer is in full swing which means spending time outdoors, creating unforgettable memories or going on vacation to amazing places. It’s also a busy time for families juggling schedules, taking the kids to camp or sport’s practices, and working on projects around the home.
Every now and again, adults need time away to rest, relax and refuel before returning to the hectic lifestyle. One way to recharge is to escape to an Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resort. These resorts offer you privacy, tranquility, and exclusivity for you and your loved one. They also provide the opportunity to hang out with friends, read a book, have fun without any stress, rekindle a romance, or meet other adults on vacation with the same purpose as you and your partner. These resorts include everything you need for a vacation in one place. If this sounds like what you are looking for, then an Adults-Only All-Inclusive resort is the way to go.
Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of North America, which makes it the perfect setting for luxury resorts. In addition to amazing accommodations, many resorts offer first-class restaurants, relaxing spas, sparkling pools, and a wide variety of entertainment.
If you are looking for some “fun in the sun”, then Cancun is a wonderful vacation destination. It has been popular with American travelers for quite some time. It’s not only a beautiful place with turquoise water, white sand beaches, and palm trees. It is also a fun place for a vacation.
Cancun Mexico: Know before you go…
Airport: Cancun International Airport (code: CUN)
Currency: Mexican Peso
Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some locals speaking Mayan.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Cancun — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans.
Electricity Socket: You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the U.S.
I recently traveled to Cancun where I had the opportunity to stay at several all-inclusive resorts. Some were for families but many were for adults (18 and older) only.
They had beautiful pools, were located on white sandy beaches, had spacious accommodations, spas with a wide variety of treatments, gyms with state-of-the-art equipment, wonderful restaurants with menus featuring international cuisine, entertainment around the activity pools, water sports, a welcoming and hospitable staff, and so much more.
One resort that captivated me was the brand-new Adult-Only All-Inclusive Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen. It’s a tropical resort oasis on the famed Riviera Maya with enhanced luxury suites, unlimited gourmet dining and drinks, a rooftop pool, a serene full-service spa and salon and nightly entertainment.
The resort is on a strip of white sandy beach and is about 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport. It’s also about 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen’s famous Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue).
All I can say is WOW!
The ambience and aesthetic of the hotel is beautiful and luxurious, and the location, views and vibe was very relaxing. THIS is a resort!
So, calling all adults 18 years or older! This resort is for you…honeymooners, solo travelers, girlfriends that want a fun getaway or any adults that want to escape from a hectic lifestyle or rekindle their romance…pack your bags and get ready for a WOW experience!
There are many amazing features of the new Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen I’m sure you’ll love!
Let’s start with the service.
Upon arrival, I received a friendly welcome by their staff, a cold wet towel to cool off from the relentless heat and a “traditional” welcome drink. The impressive greeting was only the beginning of the stay and it got better from there.
Secrets Resorts offers the option to upgrade to the Preferred Club which is an elevated level of service for an additional fee. I had the chance to experience the Preferred Club and it was worth it.
Here’s what is included in the Preferred Club level amenities:
Personalized check-in and checkout with concierge service.
Preferred Club suites in premium locations
Personal Concierge Service
Exclusive access to rooftop pool, bar and restaurant
Exclusive restaurant for breakfast
Afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres
Exquisite desserts and fine liquors
Private Preferred Club Lounge
Pillow menu
Complimentary computer access
Upgraded mini-bar
Upgraded bath amenities
“Take vacations, go as many places as you can. You can always make money; you can’t always make memories.”
Accommodations
There are 485 lavish suites that offer a contemporary experience with an earthy feel…neutral colors, natural fabrics and wood accent pieces. The rooms are decorated to pay tribute to the natural beauty of the Yucatan surroundings. Each room has a private furnished balcony or terrace, 24-hour room service, luxurious amenities, a mini bar that is refreshed daily, and a soaking tub. The beds had beautiful crisp white linens and were very cozy and comfortable. There’s nothing better than a great night’s sleep when you arrive at a new destination!
The Views
The views are spectacular from every angle. Whether you opt for an ocean front suite or a room that overlooks the gardens or pools, each one has wonderful views! One suggestion is to request a room on a higher floor. Then you’ll be able to look out onto the resort or the ocean and see all the beauty before your eyes.
The Pools & Cenotes
It was fun exploring the property because it seemed like every pathway lead from one beautiful garden to another or from one pool to another.
There are 8 pools and 3 man-made “Cenotes” or cave style pools for your pleasure. The pools are designed to incorporate many elements from the natural cenotes of the region.
My favorite one was the saltwater pool in the middle of the property. It was like having my own tropical oasis right outside my room door. It was delightful dipping my toes on two beaches, almost at the same time!
Exquisite Dining
Oh, man!! For those of you that wish to experience culinary masterpieces, look no further! Here’s your little slice of heaven!
There are multiple gourmet restaurants…seven à la carte restaurants (two of which are located on the beach), a buffet restaurant, a grill restaurant, and a café) in addition to 24-hour dining service for those of you that like to enjoy late night bites. You’ll also have free access to the Author’s Choice Signature Restaurant right next door at the Secrets Moxché Impression Playa del Carmen.
There are also 9 bars and lounges with an extensive range of premium spirits. Guests can join the Sip, Savor & See program, which grants you access to enjoy a complimentary dinner and live entertainment at one of their seventeen sister resorts.
World-Class Spa
I was glad I had a chance to experience The Secrets Spa by Pevonia. They offer a wide variety of treatments including rejuvenating body or facial treatments, soothing hydrotherapy, relaxing massages and pampering salons.
I enjoyed the hydrotherapy experience that began in the sauna, then to the cold tub (brrr!) followed by the hot tub and then for a swim in the pool. My experience ended with a wonderful hour-long deep tissue massage. I still feel relaxed when I think about my experience at the spa!
Entertainment & Activities
Secrets Resorts are recognized for knowing how to entertain their guests. Secrets Moxché has a two-story sports bar, a nightclub, a high-tech theatre featuring floor-to-ceiling led screens and wonderful performances every evening.
I saw their 80’s rock band and WOW could they perform. Everyone in the audience was on their feet, dancing and singing along with the band! Many of the songs reminded me of my high school days. 🙂
The property also offers an extensive range of activities within the hotel and its surroundings, ranging from water sports such as diving and snorkeling to yoga, archery, cocktail classes, golf simulator, and excursions to various tourist sites in the Playa del Carmen region.
What’s the best time to visit Cancun Mexico?
For the best weather: November to March are the ideal months to travel to Cancun. This is, of course, the high season or busy season in Cancun, so expect higher price tags and larger crowds.
Cancun Shoulder Season: March to May is the shoulder season in Cancun — a magical time when the weather is still nice, and the prices are still low.
For the best value: May to September will get you the most bang for your buck! However, know these months can be rainy, hot, humid and buggy.
However, I was just in Cancun and the weather was beautiful! I’m so glad I had a chance to visit this summer and would definitely return at this time of year!
“No man is brave that has never walked a hundred miles. If you want to know the truth of who you are, walk until not a person knows your name. Travel is the great leveler, the great teacher, bitter as medicine, crueler than mirror-glass. A long stretch of road will teach you more about yourself than a hundred years of quiet.”
– Patrick Rothfuss
Raise your hand if you are ready for some rest and relaxation and all that Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen has to offer! It was a 10/10 for me and I am ready to go back again! Are you?
Summer is here! Cancun is a perfect destination and is a hop, skip and a jump…well…OK…a short flight from most US cities!
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen is waiting for you!
I’m here to craft an amazing journey that’s seamlessly organized just for you. Just go! You will be glad you did!
And remember the rest of the world is open for travel. If it’s not Cancun, where would you like to go? How about Italy, Greece, Germany, Scotland, Canada, Africa, Costa Rica, or Turks & Caicos? In fact, anywhere sounds amazing to me!! How about you? :>
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through my exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Summer is my favorite season. I love being outdoors, even on the hottest days, and soaking in the sunshine and blue sky! Summer with your kids should be fun, exciting, and unforgettable and one way to create memories is to travel together as a family.
Do you recall that one summer vacation or that one family trip as a child that was etched into your mind as one of your best memories ever? I remember going to Spain…with our first stop in Madrid where we visited the Prada Museum, tasted paella and Bocadillos, walked through Plaza Mayor de Madrid, visited the local markets and watched the street performers. I was excited to be in a foreign country and was eager to learn about their customs and traditions.
Our family vacations were a time to create lifelong memories, to break away from the usual routine, open our minds to new experiences, cultures, food and traditions and were good for our health.
The best part is that summer vacations come in all forms — and all of them are awesome!
“A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in.”
If you are looking for some “fun in the sun”, then Cancun, Mexico is a wonderful vacation destination. It has been popular with American travelers for quite some time. It’s not only a beautiful place with turquoise water, white sand beaches, and palm trees. It is also a fun place for a summer vacation.
Cancun Mexico: Know before you go…
Airport: Cancun International Airport (code: CUN)
Currency: Mexican Peso
Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some locals speaking Maya.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Cancun — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans.
Electricity Socket: You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the U.S.
I recently returned from Cancun where I had the opportunity to check out several resorts. Some were for adults only and others were for families. They were all-inclusive, had many beautiful pools and beaches, spacious accommodations, a spa with a wide variety of treatments, a gym with state of the art equipment, wonderful restaurants with menus featuring various international cuisine, kids’ clubs, entertainment around the activity pools, water sports, a welcoming and hospitable staff, and so much more.
One family friendly resort was Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. There were so many great features that I can’t wait to take my family there for our next vacation.
The resort is on its own dedicated beach area within a gated community. It’s located 10 miles north of vibrant downtown Cancun and a short drive from Cancun International Airport. There are over 65,000 square feet of swimming pools, an on-site water park, live entertainment, world-class golf greens, soothing spas, oversized luxurious suites, and an interactive Dolphin Habitat.
Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort has a total of 502 luxurious non-smoking suites and with a private terrace or balcony. The staff will refresh your mini-bar daily. There is a rain shower which is a great way to cool off after spending the day in the sun. They also have a “Dreams Box” for private 24-hour room service delivery. The “box” is right at your front door and easily accessible if you prefer to have your meals and snacks delivered to your room.
Another wonderful feature are the “swim out pools”. If you prefer to wake up, step out on your terrace and jump right in the water, then this is for you! It’s not only perfect for couples that want privacy but it’s also great for kids who are excited to head to the pool right away.
The resort also features a Preferred Club that has two-bedroom villas with a lazy river and Paramount Suites with an ocean view terrace—perfect for private wedding ceremonies.
There’s no better place to enjoy some “family” time. There are so many fun things to do!
Beach and pool volleyball
Archery
Tennis
Table games
Classes: Caribbean dance and Spanish
Non-motorized water sports
Wave runners and jet skis (additional fee)
Scuba diving and deep-sea fishing (additional fee)
And for those who love to cool off in the water, there are many options!
Two infinity pools
Two children’s pools
Six outdoor hot tubs
Interactive Dolphin habitat*
Waterpark with waterslides
Lazy River (exclusive to Preferred Club Guests)
What’s the best time to visit Cancun Mexico?
For the best weather: November to March are the ideal months to travel to Cancun. This is, of course, the high season or busy season in Cancun, so expect higher price tags and larger crowds.
Cancun Shoulder Season: March to May is the shoulder season in Cancun — a magical time when the weather is still nice, and the prices are still low.
For the best value: May to September will get you the most bang for your buck! However, know these months can be rainy, hot, humid and buggy.
However, I was just in Cancun and the weather was beautiful! I’m so glad I had a chance to visit this summer and would definitely return at this time of year!
A break from everything is much needed every once in a while!
Summer is here! Cancun is a perfect destination and is a hop, skip and a jump…well…OK…a short flight from most US cities!
Are you ready to explore this beautiful destination? I’m here to craft an amazing journey that’s seamlessly organized just for you. Just go! You will be glad you did!
And remember the rest of the world is open for travel. If it’s not Cancun, where would you like to go? How about Italy, Greece, Germany, Scotland, Canada, Africa, Croatia, Costa Rica, or Turks & Caicos! In fact, anywhere sounds amazing to me!! How about you? :>
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through my exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
If Alaska is on your “bucket list”, then you’re not alone – thousands flock to this state every year between spring and fall to see the breathtaking natural landscapes and impromptu encounters with a myriad of wildlife.
Often referred to as “The Last Frontier”, Alaska was admitted into the union as the 49th state, but it certainly jumps close to #1 in terms of its amazing beauty. This state is an outdoor mecca for anyone looking to experience some of the most beautiful, untouched land in all the world.
I visited Alaska last month and can attest that this is one spectacular state. It is definitely worth a second trip.
Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty. -John Ruskin
Alaska is the biggest, wildest state in the U.S. It’s rugged, stark, mysterious and jaw-droppingly gorgeous. With no shortage of wild mountain landscapes, beautiful glaciers, and abundant wildlife Alaska will pull you in with its beauty and refuse to let you go from its icy grip.
Take a look at a map and the first thing that jumps out are the vast tracts of wilderness and the complete lack of roads. Alaska has millions of acres of untouched nature and some of the largest national parks in the country.
Since it was my first time visiting, I thought it would be fun to tour Alaska by cruising through the Inside Passage on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas. We began our “7-Night Alaska Glacier” adventure in Seattle and then sailed north with stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, and Victoria, BC. We also visited Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier.
First port of call…Seattle
Seattle, my embarkation port, is more than cloudy weather and the iconic Starbucks coffee. It’s a young, vibrant city. There are hip, trendy neighborhoods and old and historic landmarks. There’s plenty more to the Emerald City than you’ve heard about.
My first stop was Pikes Place Market the oldest farmers market in the country. It was buzzing with shoppers weaving in and out of the stalls, picking up fresh produce and tasting local specialties. Talk about a “foodie” city…I tasted many of their specialties and they were so delicious!
There were rows of brightly colored fresh flowers that blanketed the corridors. Many shoppers had a bouquet or two bundled with white paper…a perfect gift for someone special since it was Mother’s Day weekend.
I also stopped by the seafood counter so I could witness the classic scene of fish tossing and chanting after one of the customers bought the latest catch. Yes, the tradition lives on!!
My visit to Seattle wasn’t complete until I visited a few other iconic spots …the original Starbucks, the Gum Wall, the Troll in the Fremont neighborhood, the Great Seattle Wheel, the Space Needle, Pier 57, Discovery Park, my aunt and uncle and my longtime friend Mary and her daughter Charlotte.
It was a whirlwind of a weekend! I am excited to go back to visit some of the museums and other hot spots that I missed.
And now for the main attraction…my Alaskan cruise!
Next up…Ketchikan
After leaving Seattle, we sailed north toward the Inside Passage to Ketchikan.
Ketchikan is the southernmost entrance to Alaska’s famed Inside Passage – a network of waterways that snake through some of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful wilderness in the world. It’s home to abundant wildlife including black bears, wolves, and bald eagles.
Ketchikan is Alaska’s rainiest town and the weather changes rapidly, adding a forever chill in the air with sudden cold winds and fog blanketing the hilly town. The fresh air from the mountains and the surrounding Misty Fiords, makes it an unbelievable once in a lifetime experience.
Did you know that Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World”? That’s a pretty big title and rightly so. From September through December, this place is the breeding ground for salmon.
As I walked through the town, I came upon a “fish ladder”, a structure that helps to facilitate the natural migration as well as movements of the fish. I’m sure it would be interesting to watch the salmon “climb” the ladder! One of the locals told me it’s quite smelly during spawning season!
A Stop in Sitka
Sitka, our second port of call, is located on Baranof Island, on the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Like most Southeast Alaska communities, Sitka is accessible only by air and by sea. Its small-town appeal stems from a unique blend of Russian, Tlingit Indian and American history.
We met up with a native who took us on a historical tour of the city. He was proud to share that his brother was commissioned to build the totem pole that is now standing in front of the Sitka National Historical Park Visitor’s Center.
The park was established in 1890 and is the oldest federally designated park in Alaska. It’s home to the authentic Tlingit and Haida Totem Poles that are nestled in a rainforest of giant Sitka spruce trees. The totem poles are unique, colorful and intricate. To give you an idea of the size, I stood next to one of them by the park entrance.
Sitka is also home to “Fortress of the Bear”, a facility that protects and cares for orphaned brown and black bears. The caretakers shared how they rescued the bears and what they are doing to keep them healthy and thriving. Look at how close I was able to get to the brown bears. :>!
Off to Juneau
Next up…Juneau…the capital of Alaska. Juneau is surrounded by beauty—mountains, rivers, ocean, and ice all collide in a beautiful and wild way. Although Juneau is located on a peninsula, it feels very much like an island, as it’s only accessible by plane or boat.
Juneau was the highlight of my trip…or shall I say Mendenhall Glacier was the highlight! It’s by far the most iconic and popular attraction in Juneau, and for good reason. The glacier is only about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, which makes it one of the most accessible in the entire state. It’s part of the Tongass National Forest and is one of many in the Juneau Icefield, which altogether encompasses a massive 1,500 square miles.
After getting all ‘geared up”, we boarded a helicopter and headed up and over the mountain and on top of the glacier…taking in the views high above Mendenhall Lake! I was surprised by the design of the glacier, layer after layer of flowing ice that created a spectacular jagged but ripple effect.
Once we arrived and climbed out of the helicopter, I stood there in awe at how beautiful and peaceful it was on top of the glacier. Our group walked over to base camp and the guides helped us put on our crampons. Then off we went with the sound of ice crunching beneath our feet.
We meandered past deep crevices and over little hills. Every now and again I would stop to take it all in…the sites and sounds that were before my eyes. It was so peaceful!
At one point I came to a meltwater pool and bent down to fill my water bottle with fresh, icy cold glacier water. It was so tasty and refreshing!
We continued our hike back around the pools until we reached the base camp. And then we jumped back on the helicopter and flew over another section of the glacier before we headed back to the heliport.
What a WOW factor of an experience and one that I will remember for a long time!
Land really is the best art! –Andy Warhol
Last Port – Victoria, British Columbia
Our final port was Victoria, British Columbia. I visited the Abkhazi Garden and Tea House. The garden was created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi. It is a heritage garden famous for its majestic trees, rocky landscape, colorful flowers, and unique shrubs.
We also enjoyed afternoon tea in the original home. The Teahouse showcases traditional home cooking using fresh local ingredients. The scones and tea sandwiches were very tasty along with the mini desserts. We felt like we were personal friends of the Abkhazis.
It was a perfect way to end our adventure!
Alaska has been on my “bucket list” for as long as I can remember. Now I can see why so many people rave about it and go back time and time again.
If you haven’t visited yet, let’s start planning! There are so many ways to explore this magnificent state by cruising from one port to the next or by exploring on land by car or train through the vast wilderness. The options are endless! Either way…I’m here to craft an amazing journey that’s seamlessly organized just for you. Just go! You will be glad you did!
And remember the rest of the world is open for travel. If it’s not Alaska, where would you like to go? How about Italy, Greece, Germany, Scotland, Canada, Africa, Croatia, Costa Rica, or Turks & Caicos! In fact, anywhere sounds amazing to me!! How about you? :>
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through my exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Washington, DC has a special place in my heart. It was the first city I lived and worked in right out of college. Every weekend I would hop on the metro near Old Town Alexandria and ride into the city to see what was going on. There were always cultural events to attend, 5K’s or marathons happening along Independence or Constitution Ave, food trucks parked bumper to bumper, people walking or biking on the Mall, and visitors from all over the world out site seeing.
“A journey well shared is a journey well enjoyed!”
Washington DC is well known as the capital of the United States. Named for George Washington, the country’s first president, and the seat of the U.S. federal government, the city functions as an important world capital. It is also one of the most visited cities in the United States, often seeing over 20 million visitors per year.
Anytime I have the opportunity to return to DC, I not only get super excited but I count down the days until I go!
Recently I took a group of 8th graders back to my old stomping ground…our Nation’s Capital. It was another great experience because it brought back memories of when I lived there and it also reminded me of my class trips when I was in middle and high school.
Overnight field trips were some of the most exciting times of my school experience. There’s something uniquely special about being at school before the crack of dawn and loading up the buses with a hundred or more of your friends. It’s a great feeling! Everyone is tired, but the excitement of the coming adventure really ramps up your adrenaline. What makes it even better now that I’m a parent, is there’s still a lot of learning going on.
www.xoomtours.com
Did you know that my first tour to Washington, DC was 14 years ago and this is what led me to creating XOOM Tours? I am passionate about taking students “on the road” so they can engage in life and learning experiences beyond the classroom.
Over the past 14 years, I have organized and led more than 60 successful student group tours with Iredell-Statesville School District and Mecklenburg County School District. As an insatiably curious traveler myself, I believe that travel not only opens eyes – but it opens hearts as well.
One of the keys to successful student travel are the teachers who do a masterful job of integrating what is taught in the classroom with real world experiences. The history books come alive in the Smithsonian’s, at the war memorials and presidential monuments or when we lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown soldier. You can see the “a-ha” moments from the looks on the kids’ faces. It’s exciting to watch them connect their lessons to their real-life experiences. It’s just as rewarding for the teachers too because they see firsthand how their students benefit from these opportunities.
The U.S. Travel Association conducted a study of 400 adults balanced for gender, age, race and income – half of which had taken a learning field trip, and the other half which had not — to determine the importance of field trips. The study found regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, those who take field trips have better grades (59%), higher graduation rates from high school (95%) and college (63%) and greater income (12% higher annually). In fact, 89% said educational field trips had a positive lasting impact because the field trips made them more engaged, intellectually curious, and interested in experiences in and out of school.
We live in a global society, and if you don’t experience life outside the neighborhood you grow up in, the world will pass you by.
Margy Natalie, the onsite learning manager at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum notes: “Field trips give students the opportunity to learn in a natural environment and experience things first-hand and from primary resources, rather than texts; real objects rather than photos.”
Carylann Assante, executive director Student & Youth Travel Association says exploration outside the classroom bolsters students critical thinking skills. “Today’s students are visual learners, and a field trip lets them touch, feel and listen to what they’re learning about, which helps them build on classroom instruction, gain a better understanding of topics, build cultural understanding and tolerance, and expose them to worlds outside their own.”
How does XOOM Tours make it all happen?
Each tour is an all-inclusive experience for the individual students and parent chaperones. I personally accompany and lead each tour as the Group Tour Director. Also included – Group travel insurance, hotel accommodations, luxury motor coach, three meals a day, snacks and bottled water, admission fees, privately guided on-site tours, customized trip tee shirts, and all taxes and gratuities.
Additionally, to prepare for each trip, I host parent, student and chaperone “prepare to go” meetings, gather and disseminate all trip details including updates and ongoing parent communications, provide chaperone packets, group photos and real-time updates using the REMIND mobile app.
And when we are on the trip, I am working behind the scenes to ensure a smooth trip from start to finish, communicating and coordinating with our drivers, hotel, tour guides and more to ensure a seamless experience that goes off without a hitch. Everything is taken care of so all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the immersive experience.
Washington, D.C. Trip Highlights!
From the celebrated symbols of patriotism, the workings of the U.S. Government as seen in the White House, U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the world-acclaimed inspiring monuments and museums, the sights and sounds of Washington, D.C., the Nation’s Capital, inspires millions of students every year.
Here are my favorite trip experiences!
The White House, U.S. Capitol, U.S. Supreme Court & Library of Congress
Arlington National Cemetery…Wreath Ceremony at the Tomb of Unknown Soldiers
Outdoor Monuments
National Museums
George Washington’s – Mount Vernon
I put the same amount of passion and energy into every individual or small group trip that I plan. From Educational Group Tours to family getaways to just-for-two couple’s escapes, I’m here to craft an amazing journey that’s seamlessly organized just for you.
The world is open for travel. Where would you like to go? I have a few destinations in mind…Italy, Greece, France, Germany, Scotland, Canada, Austria, Slovenia, Morocco, Maldives, Africa, Croatia, Costa Rica, Argentina or Turks & Caicos! In fact, anywhere sounds amazing right about now!! :>
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through my exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Many of us are traveling again after two years of Covid-19 lockdowns. And based on my bookings, the demand for international travel has risen significantly. This summer I have travelers going to Japan, France, Italy, Germany, Austria, Greece, Canada, Turkey, Croatia, and Costa Rica just to name a few. And the one thing all these trips have in common – they require a valid passport.
Very Important!
Not only do passports expire, but there are other very important conditions that may make your passport invalid.
This is much more common than you think. In the past month alone, I’ve had three different clients with either an expired passport or one that was not valid for travel to one of the countries they planned to visit.
In one case, they were hoping to leave in 10 days, but their passport had expired. In another case, they didn’t think it would be a problem since they’d be back in the U.S. before it ‘officially expired’. Unfortunately, the countries they wanted to travel to, like most countries, require passports to be valid 6 months BEYOND your dates of travel to guarantee entry.
The good news is I do have contacts to assist you in getting a new one issued, even in a few days if necessary. But it is best to know well in advance and plan accordingly.
Four very important things to confirm on your passport!
Six-Month Validity Requirement – Let’s take a closer look at this detail. What is your passport’s “Date of Expiration”? Most countries require a passport to have six months of validity, BEYOND the dates of your travel. Also, many airlines will not let you board if you don’t meet this requirement. You can renew at any time, but it is recommended you do it nine months to a year before it expires.
Blank Pages – Many countries like Canada, Mexico, Peru, the United Kingdom, Italy and Iceland require at least one blank passport page for valid entry. Several others like China, Belgium, Norway, Portugal, and India require two full blank pages. If you show up without the required empty pages, you can literally be turned away. Keep in mind the last two pages of a U.S. Passport do not qualify as visa pages. So, if you need a visa, make sure you have an empty page with “visa” at the top.
New Passport, New Visa – When your passport expires, even if your visa is still valid, many countries won’t recognize a valid visa in an expired passport. China, India, Saudi Arabia and Brazil are the exceptions, but you’ll have to carry both the new and expired passports.
Face Tattoo or Face Surgery – This applies if someone has been in an accident resulting in major facial surgery that alters their appearance, or those that may have added facial tattoos or piercings that significantly alter their appearance. You’ll need to renew your passport and passport photo.
Did you know your passport has a tiny microchip inside?
Most people are surprised to learn there’s a tiny microchip in their passport. The chip is embedded inside the cover of all U.S. Passports issued since 2007. It holds a copy of your personal contact information found on the photo page of your passport. It’s used by an immigration official to read the data and confirm it matches with the information that’s inside. The purpose of the chip is to prevent someone from altering the picture or forging any of the information.
Other fun facts about passports!
Most of the world’s passport covers are RED. There are many different shades, but red is the most common for passports. Other common colors are blue, green, and black.
Citizens of the Vatican state in Italy (smallest country in the world) have their own country passport. You will not be able to have your passport stamped there because they do not have immigration or border control points.
There was once an Iranian man who lived in an airport in France for 17 years due to failing to present a passport to French immigration officials. This story was the inspiration for the Steven Spielberg film, The Terminal.
The only person in the world who is not required to carry a passport when traveling abroad is Queen Elizabeth II. The British Passport is issued by ‘Her Majesty’, the Queen. Therefore, the Queen does not carry one that otherwise would have to be issued to herself! All other members of the Royal Family, however, have passports.
Even though passports are valid for ten years, the time can go by quickly, and you may find your passport is expired when you need it most. If you’d like to travel but discovered your passport is expiring or expired, I can help.
The world is open for travel. Where would you like to go? I have a few destinations in mind…Italy, Greece, France, Germany, Scotland, Canada, Austria, Slovenia, Morocco, Maldives, Africa, Croatia, Costa Rica, Argentina or Turks & Caicos! In fact, anywhere sounds amazing right about now!! :>
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through my exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
The fastest growing cruise market, river cruising, is getting bigger, better, more popular and more luxurious. Once only a hobby held by the upper-class looking for a cultured look at Europe and Asia’s important cities, now anyone can sail up or down rivers all around the world in style and comfort.
If you’ve ever been on a river cruise then you already know what to expect…immaculate ships, a friendly atmosphere, delicious food, and incredible excursions. But for those of you yet to sail, come along with me as I explore river cruising right here in our own backyard…on the Mighty Mississippi River!
You read that right! You can travel on a luxurious steamboat with a preeminent river cruise company and experience the history, culture, traditions, and American authenticity that can only be found along the shores of the Mississippi River. You can also river cruise from New Orleans to Minneapolis, St. Paul, or Pittsburgh and major cities along the way like St. Louis, Memphis, Louisville, and Cincinnati.
In March, I boarded The American Queen, a steam-powered paddle wheel riverboat that carries on the tradition of the elegant 19th century steamboat travel to see what all the excitement was about.
What makes the American Queen different from most of the river boats in existence today is that a true steam engine is used to drive the paddle wheel. This steam engine is the same as engines of the past century. The stern is powered by four steam cylinders. 28,000 pounds of steam is generated each hour to power the boat. There is a team of officers and crew licensed by the US Coast Guard that operate the ship 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
With the knowledge and efforts of these dedicated steam boaters, overnight paddlewheel passenger adventures continue to glide along on America’s rivers.
The American Queen is the largest steamboat ever built. It holds 417 passengers and 172 crew. It’s 420 feet long and has 6 decks. The river ship staterooms are a little smaller than their ocean ship counterparts, but they’re not short on luxury comforts.
Here’s a look at my stateroom. It was located on the 4th deck and had French doors that opened out to the veranda. I enjoyed sitting on the deck, watching the many tugboats and other ships pass us along the river. It was also a great spot to see the beautiful sunsets each evening.
Fun Fact: The American Queen is the only ship in their fleet that has a calliope. It is powered by steam. They tend to be very loud and can be heard for miles.
Since the pitch of each note is largely affected by the temperature of the steam, accurate tuning is nearly impossible; however, the off-pitch notes (particularly in the upper register) have become something of a trademark of the steam calliope.
As we left each port, the pianist played various tunes on the keyboard! I loved hearing the sounds of the calliope, so I would go to the back of the ship to listen as we headed out on our journey.
One of the most interesting aspects of river cruising is that it’s similar to a land tour. When you wake each morning, you can open your door to the veranda, and walk out to get a glimpse of the scenery on both sides of the river. And because the ships are smaller, they dock in small towns and the local tour will begin just a few steps away from the ship.
Our first stop was Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, Louisiana. The house is Greek revival and was built for John Randolph in 1859. It’s the largest antebellum house in the south with 53,000 square feet of space. The mansion’s massive white columns and grand balconies stand guard over the Mississippi River, while on the north side, the spectacular three-story Rotunda overlooks sweeping, oak-draped lawns.
We were greeted by this couple dressed in period clothing who gave us a guided tour of the home. There are many original furnishings and artwork throughout. It was quite impressive!
Today Nottoway Plantation is a bed and breakfast and a venue for events like weddings.
In the afternoon, we sailed further up the Mississippi River to meet our crew for a Cajun Swamp Tour. Our native captain, Ben, was the real deal…homegrown in the Bayous of Southern Louisiana. With his thick cajun accent and slapstick humor, he took us back to the early days of the Louisiana bayou by telling us stories about life on and around the Manchac Swamp.
We sailed under moss-draped cypress trees and through lush vegetation. We also saw many American Alligators😳 swimming alongside our boat. We even came upon a small graveyard from years ago.
Fun Fact: Alligators like marshmallows. 😂
Our next stop was Natchez, Mississippi. Founded in 1716, this charming town is one of southeastern USA’s hidden gems and is the oldest city on the Mississippi River.
It was first inhabited by the Natchez Indians and French Explorers who shared the land. By the 19th century, it was home to a bustling river port and more millionaires than any other city in the nation. With such a long, rich history, it should come as no surprise that Natchez is home to more than 1,000 structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including homes dating to the late 1700’s.
St. Mary’s Cathedral is one of these historic structures. It was built in 1842 and is the only cathedral in the state of Mississippi. Look at the altar and ceiling! It’s stunning!
The city is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history, which can be found on every street corner throughout the town.
We enjoyed visiting some of their antebellum homes, churches, museums and meeting the locals! There’s no other town in the Magnolia State that compares to Natchez.
While in Natchez, we met Regina Charboneau, renowned chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author. She is also the new culinary ambassador for American Queen voyages.
Regina is best known as the “Biscuit Queen of Natchez”. People travel long distances to taste her biscuits.
She mixes traditional French culinary training with tricks passed on through generations of Southern bakers to create a layered, rich biscuit that is better frozen first to be at its flaky best.
The dough will seem rough and the butter too chunky at first, but that’s one of her secrets. She uses a tea towel to move and manage the dough until it rolls out smoothly.
We enjoyed her “Biscuit 101” class and WOW…they were so delicious!!😋😋
Fun Fact: Regina has been cooking professionally for over 4 decades. She’s owned and operated several restaurants around the US (Biscuits & Blues in San Francisco), King’s Tavern and Twin Oaks Bed & Breakfast. They also run Charboneau Rum Distillery. She really enjoys connecting with her guests so she recently opened the cooking school in Natchez.
As the American Queen culinary ambassador, she will be on several sailings hosting cooking classes that spotlight local cuisine! How about joining her? What a fun addition to any sailing!
After learning how to make biscuits from Regina, the “Biscuit Queen of Natchez”, my son and I decided to try them ourselves!
These are a culinary delight! The best! 😋 Layer after layer of mouthwatering goodness!!! 😋😍
Regina, thanks for teaching me about your specialty. I know you would love mine!😍😋
After our “Biscuit 101 Class”, we headed out to explore Stanton Hall, another historic home in Natchez. When you first get a glimpse of Stanton Hall, it will boggle your mind to know that builder, Frederick Stanton, paid $83,000 to build this opulent, Greek Revival-style home, which occupies an entire city block.
Stanton was an Irish immigrant and had originally named the house Belfast. Stanton was a wealthy planter and cotton merchant. The house was built in 1857 and is noted for its scale, outstanding marble mantles, and large pier mirrors that give the double parlors infinite appeal. For a brief time, the house was home to Stanton College for young ladies and the name was then changed to Stanton Hall. Today the house is owned and maintained by the Pilgrimage Garden Club.
We ended our visit in Natchez with a quick stop at the award winning restaurant known as Fat Mama’s Tamales to of course try one of their specialties…a tamale. Pretty tasty! It’s worth a stop if you are in Natchez!
Next week, I’ll share a little bit more about the other cities and towns that I visited along the Mississippi River. Stay tuned for part 2!
Week in and week out I bring to life exciting travel destinations and provide interesting travel tips to inspire you to explore our world. And while this newsletter is not going to do that, it is a NECESSARY one if you travel domestically by air and don’t know about the upcoming REAL ID requirements that take effect on May 3, 2023.
If you’ve been to an airport recently, I’m sure you have seen the signs declaring “ID Requirements Are Changing.” In fact, Allan was transiting through the Dallas airport this weekend and look what he saw at his departure date.
What is REAL ID, and why should I care?
REAL ID legislation was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to 9/11 to provide increased security on driver’s licenses and other forms of government photo ID. But as it is with many big government programs, the implementation was delayed and extended several times, and was set to be implemented October 1, 2020. But COVID delayed it again. However, the new deadline is May 3, 2023, when you MUST have a REAL ID compliant credential to board a commercial flight within the United States.
In 48 of the 50 states, including North Carolina, REAL ID is also a compliant driver license that looks and acts just like a traditional license but has a star at the top. Driver licenses and IDs without a gold star are now noted with “Not for Federal Identification.”
Is REAL ID Mandatory?
No, REAL ID is completely optional. You do not need a REAL ID driver license or identification card to do any of the following:
Drive
Vote
Apply for or receive federal benefits (e.g., Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, etc.)
Enter a federal facility that does not require an ID (e.g., a post office)
Access a hospital or receive life-saving services
Participate in law enforcement proceedings or investigations (e.g., serve on a federal jury, testify in federal court, etc.)
However, a REAL ID will be helpful for anyone who:
Boards a commercial airplane
Visits nuclear sites
Visits military bases
Visits federal courthouses, federal prisons or other federal facilities
An individual without a REAL ID or U.S. passport may still be able to board flights or make visits to the facilities mentioned above, but they will have to provide additional documentation along with their traditional license or ID.
One document (with full name) proving identity and date of birth
One document (with full name and full Social Security Number) confirming Social Security number
Two documents (with current physical address) proving North Carolina residency
For non-U.S. citizens, one document (with full name) proving legal presence/lawful status
If applicable, one or more documents verifying any name change
With just over a year to go before the REAL ID Act is enforced nationwide for air travel, the deadline will arrive before you know it. This time next year people will be rushing to get their REAL ID, and there will be a processing backlog with long wait times. Don’t be caught in the crunch and have it impact your travel.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. -Lao Tzu
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through our exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
I’ll use inside information to arrange behind the scenes tours, secure access into exclusive events, have your tours and excursions scheduled at the best times, provide upgrades and amenities when available and more.
My goal is that you return from your vacation saying, “WOW! That was an amazing experience!”
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Greetings from New Orleans otherwise known as the “Big Easy” or the “Crescent City”! I am so excited for the week ahead as I explore New Orleans today and tomorrow, and then I jump on the American Queen Steamboat for a river cruise up to Memphis, Tennessee. It’s always fun to experience destinations firsthand so I can answer any questions that may arise from my clients.
I will be posting pictures and videos to my Facebook and Instagram accounts. Follow-me and enjoy the incredible sights and sounds as I experience the history, culture, and enlightenment of the Mississippi River.
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American Queen Steamboat Company River Routes
Over the past few years, I’ve had many clients ask about river cruising since it is becoming very popular. Many are surprised when I tell them we have a preeminent river cruise company right here in middle America. Yes, you heard that right. Did you know you can river cruise from New Orleans to Minneapolis, St. Paul, or Pittsburgh and major cities along the way like St. Louis, Memphis, Louisville, and Cincinnati?
The first stop on my trip is New Orleans, my river cruise embarkation point. I have 1 full day to tour this soulful city that abounds with rich history, mouth-watering Cajun and Creole cuisine, and a spirited French Quarter still buzzing from Mardi Gras celebrations.
Before jumping on my cruise I thought I’d share my “Best of New Orleans in 1 Day Itinerary!”
New Orleans is one of those over-the-top experiences for the senses, a city filled with vibrantly colored streets, soul-filled rhythm and blues, and memorable flavors. No visit to the Deep South is complete without at least one day here. Famous for its annual Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans is one of the most-visited travel destinations in the USA.
New Orleans is the biggest city in the state of Louisiana, and it boasts over 300 years of history. Of course, with only 1 day to explore, you can’t possibly experience it all. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a great taste of NOLA.
Here’s the best of the best!
Café du Monde
Start your day in the French Quarter and fuel up with a breakfast of coffee & beignets at Café du Monde. Dating back to 1862, the historic café is world famous for its chicory coffee and beignets. These pillowy, sugar-topped doughnuts will wake you up quickly and get you off to a fast start.
Open daily 7:30am – 10pm.
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
Walk around Jackson Square where the heart of New Orleans’s French Quarter beats. This famous square dates back to 1721, just a few years after the city’s founding. Throughout the day, Jackson Square attracts a variety of artists, musicians, and street performers. Historical landmarks in the French Quarter include the Cabildo (where the Louisiana Purchase was signed in 1803) and St. Louis Cathedral, which is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the USA.
Decatur Street
When you leave Jackson Square, go southeast to Decatur Street. This waterfront avenue is one of the French Quarter’s most historic thoroughfares, loaded with souvenir shops, boutiques, cafés, and some of the best restaurants in New Orleans. A fun spot is the Shops of the Colonnade.
As you walk around, check out some of the finest colonial architecture featuring wrought-iron balconies and colorfully painted homes with hanging flowers and the sights and sounds of the quarter pouring out of them.
Johnny’s Po-Boys & Commander’s Palace
About this time you’ve built up an appetite and are probably ready for lunch. One great place is Johnny’s Po-Boys on St. Louis Street. Operating since 1950, this popular joint serves up Creole dishes and some of NOLA’s finest po’boys. One of Louisiana’s signature dishes, the po’boy, is fried seafood, often shrimp, crawfish, oysters or crab served on a French bread roll with its crisp crust and fluffy soft center.
Another favorite of mine is to have lunch at Commander’s Palace. Since 1880, Commander’s Palace has been one of the most famous restaurants in New Orleans. They serve traditional creole food, including New Orleans style seafood dishes and Louisiana alligator grillades. They’ve also got an adorable “Instagram picture” exterior. Because it is a famous restaurant, you will need a reservation. Typically during the week, you can walk in for lunch without one. Just make sure to dress nicely as everyone gets dressed to the 9’s!
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
After lunch it’s time to walk it off by wandering down Magazine Street. This famous avenue connects the French Quarter to the heart of the Garden District. Strolling along the Southern mansions and leafy oak-lined neighborhoods, you’ll come across the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 which was founded in 1833 and still in use today. With almost 500 wall vaults, the cemetery has a rich history of the first settlers from Ireland and Germany and is known for it’s spectacular architecture.
Ride a New Orleans Streetcar
The New Orleans Streetcar has been operating since 1835, making it one of the oldest transportation systems in the USA. There are 4 lines traveling to popular neighborhoods in the city, but most tourists opt for the Riverfront line. This 2-mile route travels along the Mississippi River and stops at landmarks such as the French Quarter, Riverwalk Marketplace, Jackson Brewery, and French Market.
Dooky Chase’s & Mother’s Restaurant
Dooky Chase’s—and chef Leah Chase—are New Orleans icons. The restaurant is known for its role in the Civil Rights movement, when many leaders used it as a meeting spot for shared meals. The walls are adorned with an impressive collection of African American art and, of course, the food contributes to the fame: some of the best fried chicken in town, a menu of Creole classics and an impressive lunch buffet are must-tries. President’s George Bush and Barack Obama are fans!
Another famous choice would be Mother’s Restaurant. Mother’s is known for its baked ham and the Ferdi po’boy featuring ham, roast beef and debris (bits of meat in au jus gravy). Mother’s has always been popular for breakfast, meat-and-threes and po’boys, but gained a huge boost of notoriety when Beyonce visited and told millions of her social media followers how great it the food is here.
Bourbon Street
End the day on Bourbon Street – Bourbon Street is known for being just about as New Orleans as it gets. Located right in the heart of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street is the “Must Stop” for visitors exploring the city on their inaugural visit. No matter the time of day, Bourbon Street is the place to go for a great time.
A short 10-minute walk away, is a completely different scene where visitors and the locals go . . . Frenchmen Street. This popular stretch of road in the Marigny is famous for its jazz clubs and live music venues. Settle down to enjoy a relaxing evening sipping craft cocktails and watching jazz musicians jam out. It’s a wonderful alternative to Bourbon Street’s chaos. There are talented local musicians, southern flavors as well as multicultural dining, PLUS locally-made souvenirs.
Frenchmen Street may not be wilder than Bourbon Street, but it’s definitely worth the short journey to discover a side of French New Orleans nightlife you don’t see in the movies.
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
The best time to visit New Orleans is between February and May, where the temperatures are mild, and the flowers and foliage are in full bloom. If attending the world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations, now’s the time to book for next year. Like other Gulf Coast destinations, hurricane season is between June and November and the weather in July and August can be uncomfortably hot & muggy.
Next up – Embarkation Day on the American Queen River Cruise.
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through our exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
I’ll use inside information to arrange behind the scenes tours, secure access into exclusive events, have your tours and excursions scheduled at the best times, provide upgrades and amenities when available and more.
My goal is that you return from your vacation saying, “WOW! That was an amazing experience!”
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
Yes, the title may seem a bit bold since I book travel for a living, but I have a strong case and I know you’re not getting the best deal when you book direct.
Read on to learn why . . . .
XOOM Tours Travel Perks and Programs
It’s so much fun having clients travel all over the world enjoying incredible and unforgettable experiences tailored to their specific interests that they didn’t even know were possible. And there’s nothing better than when I surprise them with travel perks like a complimentary room upgrade upon arrival, early check-in or late check-out, complimentary daily breakfast, complimentary WIFI, spa or food and beverage credits, or exclusive travel experiences with VIP access. These are a few amenities that are not available when booking direct.
That is why all your hotel bookings should be through XOOM Tours, whether it’s a small domestic weekend trip, five nights in Mexico, or a bucket list tour through Europe, Asia or beyond. I can offer you wonderful free upgrades, additional amenities, VIP gifts, and more at most luxury hotels around the world.
Sofitel Munich Bayerpost InterContinental Bora Bora Resort
Velaa Private Island, Noonu Atoll, Maldives
Membership has its Privileges!
Our host agency, Gifted Travel Network (GTN), as a Virtuoso member enables us to offer additional Virtuoso exclusive amenities with 1,800+ of the world’s best hotels, cruise lines and tour operators. And over the past 18 months, GTN has added several preferred partner hotel programs available only by invitation to top performing travel agencies. Even if you are at the highest level in a hotel’s respective loyalty program, we offer you even more value during your stay and for the same pricing. You will continue to earn your loyalty points, and you’ll have us available to service your needs. Now that’s a true WIN-WIN.
Let’s look at the highlights of these exclusive programs.
Aman-i-Khas, Sawai Madhopur, India
If WOW is what you’re looking for, XOOM Tours will make it EXTRAORDINARY!
Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua (Maui, Hawaii)
Marriott Stars and Luminous Programs
Marriott has 30 brands worldwide and XOOM Tours is a member of their exclusive Stars (luxury+ hotels) and Luminous (premium hotels) programs.
Stars includes: BVLGARI, EDITION, Luxury Collection properties, Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis.
Book any of these properties through us at the regular rate you’d pay direct and receive:
Complimentary full or continental breakfast daily for up to two people per room
Personalized welcome amenity and note
Hotel credit valued at $100 once per stay
Complimentary basic Wi-Fi daily
In-person welcome
Your full allocation of Bonvoy points
Complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability at check-in
Luminous includes: Autograph Collection, JW Marriott, Le Meridien, Marriott, Renaissance, Tribute Portfolio, W Hotels and Westin (many hotels in these various portfolios qualify)
Book these properties through us at the regular rate you’d pay direct and receive:
Complimentary basic Wi-Fi daily
Early check-in & late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability at check-in
Local welcome amenity and note
Hotel credit valued at $100 once per stay (at select hotels)
Your full allocation of Bonvoy points
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Hyatt Privé Program
Hyatt Privé is an exclusive program with elite perks and amenities, again only available through a Hyatt Privé invited travel advisor such as XOOM Tours. There are currently over 200 properties globally that are part of the program, including all Park Hyatt, Andaz, and Miraval properties, as well as select Alila, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Centric, Hyatt Regency, JdV by Hyatt, Thompson, and The Unbound Collection properties.
Here are the exclusive benefits for booking at the regular rate you’d pay direct:
Daily breakfast for 2 in the hotel’s restaurant (not the club lounge)
A one-category upgrade (room-to-room or suite-to-suite) confirmed within 24 hours of booking, based on availability at the time of booking
A $50 to $100 property credit per room per stay (hotel dependent)
Early check-in (as early as 9 a.m.), subject to availability
A welcome gift and note
Full allocation of your World of Hyatt loyalty points
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain BayFour Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Four Seasons Preferred Partner Program
Four Seasons doesn’t have a traditional loyalty program. Ultimately, the brand’s selling point is the Four Seasons experience, which is clearly enough as they have droves of travelers preferring to stay at their properties. However, as we are now recognized as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, it’s possible to enjoy elite benefits on Four Seasons stays. If you have ever stayed at a Four Seasons then you know the value of these perks is quite significant. While the benefits may vary slightly by property, most are consistent.
Daily full breakfast for 2 people per bedroom, served in a hotel restaurant or through In-Room Dining
Hotel or resort credit of $100 to $200 per stay (guest rooms receive $100 while suites, specialty suites, and private retreats receive $200)
Upgrade of one category (based on availability at ime of check-in)
Complimentary standard Wi-Fi in all guest rooms and premium Wi-Fi in all suites
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Canada
Accor Step Program
Very few people are aware of the program, but once you see the luxury hotel brands under the Accor umbrella, you’ll be impressed. As a member of Accor’s preferred partner program, STEP (Special Travel Experience Program), XOOM Tours clients can access exclusive amenities and benefits in more than 170 hotels worldwide including brands like Fairmont, Banyan Tree, Raffles, MGallery, Pullman, SO/, Movenpick, Rixos, SLS, Swissotel, 21C Museum and Sofitel.
Exclusive benefits for booking at the regular rate you’d pay direct:
Daily complimentary breakfast for two
Credit to be spent during stay ($50 or $100 depending on hotel)
Early check-in and late check-out, if available
Upgrade at time of booking or check-in, if available
A VIP welcome (greeting & amenity)
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire
Belmond Bellini Club Program
Belmond joined LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton in April 2019, reinforcing their place among the international leaders in luxury. As a XOOM Tours client, you’ll be eligible to receive unique value-added benefits and VIP status as part of your stay at Belmond Hotels & Resorts around the globe.
Benefits include:
Room upgrade (priority for room upgrades at check-in)
Daily complimentary breakfast for 2 guests per day
Property Credit (varies by property, up to $200)
VIP Recognition by property management and staff
Special In-Room Welcome Amenity
Free Wifi
A $500 gift voucher when you spend $5,000+, applicable towards a future Belmond experience of $2,500+
Priority for early check-in and late check-out (if available)
Priority for connecting rooms (if available)
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan, Egypt
Virtuoso Program
Virtuoso includes…intimate retreats, sustainable safari camps, gorgeous beach resorts … and so much more. There’s a world of dream stays to discover within Virtuoso’s curated collection of more than 1,400 hotels, resorts, lodges, villas, camps, and private islands. The properties in this portfolio have some overlap with the programs above and when the property is available in both programs, we have the luxury to make the decision as to which benefits work best for you.
Again as reviewed above, the key is that you are better off booking any Virtuoso property through XOOM Tours rather than booking direct with the hotel. Pricing will be in line with direct, but you will receive the following additional benefits with some variation depending on the property:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom
Up to $100 Resort or Spa Credit per booking
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Many hotels also offer an on-site exclusive experience e.g. Pisco Sour mixology class.
Vidago Palace, Vidago, Portugal
Capella Ubud, Bali
As your Travel Advisor, I make sure you don’t miss out on extraordinary experiences that you may not be aware of or cannot get on your own, as they are only available through our exclusive global network of travel partners and suppliers.
I’ll use inside information to arrange behind the scene tours, secure access into exclusive events, have your tours and excursions scheduled at the best times, provide upgrades and amenities when available and more.
My goal is that you return from your vacation saying, “WOW! That was an amazing experience!”
If WOW is what you’re looking for, let’s get started!
If you’ve been following me, you know I’ve been traveling to many places over the past year researching destinations for my clients. A couple of months ago I went to Bermuda for a week and had a fantastic time exploring…. from breathtaking views, shipwrecks, underwater caves, a variety of coral and marine life, abundant water activities, pink sandy beaches, and historic UNESCO sites…it’s a must visit destination!
It is clear why Condé Nast Traveler readers have voted Bermuda “Best Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic” 18 times since 1994. And Outside magazine recently named Bermuda “Best Island“ out of 30 top destinations for outdoor adventure. Intrigued?
Here are my insider insights, including when to go, what to do and where to stay.
A SMALL ISLAND PACKING A BIG PUNCH!
The attraction to Bermuda is obvious. Don’t be fooled by its small size; this 21-square-mile Atlantic Island is full of UNESCO historical sites ambience, reef-fringed clear blue waters, pink-sand beaches, and an array of adventurous activities, such as golfing, aquatic shipwreck scuba diving, cliff jumping, whale watching, deep-sea fishing, and cycling.
On land you’ll find an eclectic island culture with unique architecture in vibrant neighborhoods, brightly colored shorts and delicious fish chowder. It’s a destination known for its cuisine and bright preppy clothing….Bermuda shorts, of course! And no visit would be complete without trying “The Rum Swizzle“ and the “Dark ‘n Stormy“ which are their national drinks.
WHY BERMUDA
Pristine landscape
Friendly locals
Rich in Culture Heritage and History.
Thanks to its unique blend of Caribbean, British, and African American roots, Bermuda offers a world of experiences to all who visit.
Easy to get around the island
Easy to get there. Less than 90 minutes from New York and less than a two-hour direct flight from most East coast cities.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the sand is made from tiny invertebrates that live on the coral reefs along Bermuda’s coastline and that’s why it’s pink?
BEST TIME TO GO!
Anytime is a great time to visit Bermuda, but one of the best times is in March, April or May, when the temperatures become nice for beach bathing (maybe not warm enough for swimming), the island is not crowded, and the hotel prices aren’t as high as they are in Bermuda’s peak season from end of May through October.
March is great for whale watching. The annual humpback whale migration brings nearly 10,000 humpback whales to Bermuda’s waters. You can usually see the whales breaching just offshore from the beach, but you can also take a boat trip to witness these mammoth creatures up close. Just be prepared to get wet if you do. 😎
April brings Easter festivities. The island buzzes with hot cross buns and pastel-colored piles of tissue paper lining the storefronts. One fun tradition would be to join the locals and make a colorful kite to fly on Good Friday.
As the weather continues to get warmer, May ushers in the beginning of the summer high season. Outdoor activities abound and Hamilton’s Harbor Nights kick off, with stalls and live entertainment every Wednesday evening on Front Street. May 24th is Bermuda Day, which is the official start of summer for the locals.
IT’S THE PEOPLE THAT YOU MEET…
It’s amazing how the people you met can really shape your experience when in destination. Larry Rogers, our private guide and driver, was that special person in Bermuda. He was born and raised there and it didn’t take long to notice that he is proud of his country and everything about it. Larry not only helped us see, hear and taste the island like an insider, he also became a friend along the way.
When he arrived to pick us up each day, he greeted us with a big smile saying, “Good Morning, Angels!” He was so happy to be with us. He brought special treats (the best carrot cake, peanut brittle and cinnamon buns I have ever tasted) that were made by his wife, Kathi, and his daughter, Katiah.
The best part was that Larry enjoyed sharing about the culture, history, cuisine, favorite beach spots and fun facts about Bermuda. Larry is one of a kind and certainly showed us the true hospitality of the Bermudian people. You can clearly see that he is proud to be Bermudian and loved sharing it with us.
TOP THINGS TO DO
There are so many fun things to do on this picture perfect island. Here are a few I know you’ll love!
Pink Sand Beaches – Horseshoe Bay Beach is the most photographed (and famous) beach in Bermuda, one of the top 10 beaches in the world. No one can resist the blush pink sand and the clear blue waters or the numerous activities and cave exploring there is to enjoy!
Horseshoe is a great spot for a romantic stroll along the sand. And if you’re in town during Easter you have to make a special trip to Horseshoe to see the beautiful handmade Bermudian kites flying high on Good Friday.
The historic Town of St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage site, joined the elite group of recognized world treasures that includes the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall of China and the Great Pyramids of Egypt. Steeped in history, the Town of St. George is the oldest continuously inhabited town of English origin in the New World. The fortifications first constructed in 1612, includes a near complete collection of British fortifications and artillery.
The Crystal and Fantasy Caves of Bermuda are an otherworldly network of caves and subterranean lakes, first discovered in 1907 by two you Bermudian boys. What they discovered is one of Bermuda’s true hidden treasures – a cavernous, watery world, complete with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites, with a 55-foot-deep crystal-clear lake illuminated by spotlights so you can see straight-down to the bottom.
Feel the City of Hamilton’s urban energy and international vibe with a walk down Front Street. You’ll love walking along this waterfront promenade with colorful, colonial buildings on the north side of the street and the sparkling harbor on the south. While exploring, stop into a boutique to shop, sit down for lunch at one of the many restaurants or just people-watch as the locals head to and from work. When the sun sets, this area becomes a hot spot for nightlife and entertainment.
The Royal Naval Dockyard is the most visited site in Bermuda and a fun place to explore the island’s rich maritime history. It is also home to the National Museum of Bermuda providing a fascinating journey through Bermuda’s history, from shipwrecks and whaling to the first flying boats.
For a panoramic view of the island, visit Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse – the tallest cast-iron lighthouse ever built. It was built in 1844 to warn sailors of the treacherous coral reefs extending as far as 16 miles offshore. Today it is still an operating lighthouse but for those able to walk up the 185 steps, it provides some of the best vistas in Bermuda. You can read plaques about the lighthouse’s history on the way up and down.
Walk, hike, or bike the Bermuda Railway Trail National Park, an 18-mile historic path that stretches from one end of Bermuda to the other. Originally a railroad that transported Bermudians around the island, the route today serves as a hiking and biking path where travelers and locals alike take in panoramic ocean views, uncover secluded beaches, traverse old bridges, and explore the lush terrain. The trail is made up of nine sections, and there are access points sprinkled throughout.
WHERE TO STAY
There are many places to choose from in Bermuda, including a few all-inclusive resorts. Below I am only highlighting 3 as I stayed in one, visited the others and they are all part of Virtuoso of which I’m a member and therefore can offer you exclusive amenities including:
Preferred rates and availability
Room upgrades (if available)
Breakfast daily for two
Dining, resort, or hotel credits
Early check-in and late checkout (if available)
Exclusive amenities and experiences
Rosewood Bermuda
This is the hotel I stayed in during my visit and I can tell you it’s spectacular. Recently renovated, this is the centerpiece of Tucker’s Point Club, Bermuda’s premier resort, golf club, and residential community. Gracing 240 beautiful coastal acres on the island, the award-winning tropical hideaway neighbors the estates of Tucker’s Town and offers breathtaking vistas of the ocean and sound. With 88 rooms and suites, you’ll feel a part of the elite club, with access to private pink-sand beaches, as well as the island’s finest amenities. You can golf, sail the ocean blue, dive to shipwrecks, play a friendly game of tennis, or “spa” to your heart’s delight.
How about the sunset that I captured from my balcony! SO BEAUTIFUL!
Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, A Fairmont Hotel
Hamilton Princess, fondly known as the “Pink Palace,” has been transformed into a modern, urban resort. Updated features include an exclusive private beach club; three brand-new restaurants, including celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson’s signature venue, Marcus’ Bermuda; reimagined rooms, suites, and public spaces; and an extensive marina that accommodates any size of boat or yacht – all located within walking distance of downtown Hamilton. New as of 2016 is Exhale, the mind-body spa and fitness facility; fabulous retail space; and updated Gold Rooms and lounge.
The St. Regis Bermuda Resort
The resort features 120 elegant guestrooms, including 21 suites and ultra-luxury residential suites located at The Residences at The St. Regis Bermuda. Each accommodation features a private balcony and is designed to immediately draw the eye to expansive ocean views, reflecting the palette, movement, and life of the ocean. Ideal when traveling with the family or larger groups, guests staying in the residential suites will indulge in the perfect blend of residences comfort along with the services and amenities of a luxury resort.
Whether you only want to spend a weekend in Bermuda, a week or even longer, there are so many things to do. It’s such a gorgeous little island and I completely fell in love with it. I know you will, too!
Want to learn more?
If the answer is YES…then I believe it’s time for a travel journey that wows you every step of the way.
I’m here to design that, just for you. Let’s do it! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
Believe it or not, spring break is right around the corner. And based on early travel bookings and pent-up demand after sitting out the past two spring breaks, it’s going to be one of the biggest for travel in years.
While there are many more vacation options than in 2021, demand is going to outstrip availability and the time to act is now. I know many think they’ll snag a last-minute deal with great value, but that’s not the case for spring break this year. If you’re looking to travel you need to book as soon as possible to find reasonably priced airfare and accommodations.
In need of a little inspiration? I’ve got you covered with these direct flight destinations below that are just a few short hours away from many major East Coast cities.
Dominican Republic
This is one of the top destinations for spring break and I was there just two weeks ago. I stayed at both the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. Both properties are awesome with different twists which I will showcase below. I truly hated to leave and cannot wait to go back. If you are remotely interested, give me a call and let’s go through each in detail to select the one that would be the best fit for you.
The Dominican Republic is a destination that features a cool Caribbean vibe, astounding nature and a rich culture. It is the second largest and most diverse Caribbean country and is situated two hours south of Miami and less than four hours from New York. There are many direct flights making it easily accessible. The island is beautiful and clean, the beaches are amazing, and the people were very friendly and contagiously hospitable.
Hyatt Zilara and Ziva Cap Cana
The first resort I stayed at was the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana. It is a newer all-inclusive adult only resort about 15 minutes from the Punta Cana airport in the gated community of Cap Cana. The sister resort is the Hyatt Ziva which is for families located right next door as the two share the same property and many of the amenities. As an adult guest you can enjoy everything both resorts have to offer. However, if you are staying at the Ziva resort, only the adults and children over the age of 18 can enjoy the Zilara resort.
Ziva is the resort at the top of the picture and Zilara is at the bottom.
From the moment we walked into the resort, we were wowed by the expansive and impressive open-air lobbies. We were immediately greeted by the warm and welcoming staff who took our luggage and offered us comfortable seating and refreshments while they took care of the check-in process.
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda
The second resort is my favorite, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. It’s a newer hidden gem of the Dominican Republic made unique by its untouched beauty. The ride to the resort takes 90 minutes from Punta Cana and showcases the beautiful island countryside as you travel to paradise on a smooth paved two-lane highway in new air conditioned vans with free high speed internet.
Set along one of the most pristine beaches, where crystal clear water meets 93 acres of untouched rainforest paradise, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is an eco-chic luxury environmentally friendly all-inclusive resort. There are four distinct boutique-villages providing different room categories based on your individual needs, making it a truly customized experience. There’s the “Explorer Cove” for families, “Caribbean Paradise” for guests that prefer an active holiday, the “Emerald Jungle” which is geared toward wellness and an “Archipelago” that is ideal for couples. They all are truly spectacular!
The resort also has a BREEMAM certificate which means it performs under the Green Globe certification to meet the highest standards of sustainability. A favorite concept is they have a no plastic initiative to remove all single use plastic from the resort. Upon arrival you are provided with glass water bottles recycled and made on site. Additionally, all of the clothing and a majority of the furniture on the property is made from recycled ocean plastic. I found it quite amazing! Oh, and since it’s all-inclusive you can enjoy bottomless champagne and snacks all day long.
You’ll love the “Gracious Organizers.” The staff here are called G.O.s — short for “gracious organizers” — and they are truly the heart of the Club Med experience. They come from all over the world, are very friendly and fun to talk with. During meals, the G.O’s sit and eat with the guests, so not only can you ask them all about the resort and what it’s like to live and work there, but you can also ask them about their home country and so much more.
The G.O’s are also part of the daily and evening entertainment teams, and you won’t believe how talented they are. I’ve never had so much fun watching them perform and dance as they showcased the latest moves! They were so energetic and enthusiastic! They had all the guests dancing and singing along. What a blast!
Another thing I love about this destination is the variety of activities that are fun for all ages. It’s truly a kids’ paradise with an incredible kids’ program. Everyone will feel like a kid again enjoying the on-site (all-inclusive) activities including the flying trapeze (yes you read that correctly), paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, electric jetboarding, pickleball, tennis, archery, Yoga, snorkeling and more. There’s even a “Chocolate Speakeasy” that’s not to be missed.
And for the grown-ups, they have an awesome Spa and an adults-only Zen Oasis complex (which feels like a hotel-within-a-hotel and features its own pool with a swim-up bar and lush greenery). To top off the evening, they have a lively and energetic nightlife scene!! There’s something for everyone at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. All you need to do is get out and explore.
And finally, the food. Often the food at an all-inclusive is good, but here the food was amazing. Yes, they have a buffet (and everything is included, so feel free to eat as much as you want) but don’t expect powdered eggs or frozen meat. Instead, you’ll find delicacies like crab legs, fresh fruit, made-to-order pasta, fresh fish, grilled meats, and more. There are so many healthy options too and there are happy to accommodate those with food sensitivities or allergies. Even the pickiest eater will find something to eat here.
As you can tell, I’m a big fan of Club Med Michès.
St. John
I spent a glorious week on St. John last May and the untouched natural beauty of this island clearly makes it a Top 10 spring destination.
It may be the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, but St. John is filled with everything you need for a postcard-perfect spring break. One of the most photographed beaches in the world, Trunk Bay, is the epitome of a Caribbean beach, with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. It’s about hiking, snorkeling, relaxing, and soaking up the sun exploring spectacular beaches with ocean water so blue you won’t believe it.
And in the evening, there is a small-town called Cruz Bay where there are excellent restaurants to enjoy with fresh seafood galore! This is one island everyone must experience.
Costa Rica
I have fond memories of my 2 trips to Costa Rica. The jungles are incredible. The beaches are sparkly. The forests are lush. The waterfalls cascade through the cliffs and mountains. The volcanoes are active, and biodiversity is spectacular.
Costa Rica has an astonishing diversity of unreal places to visit. This beautiful country is a traveler’s eco-touristic paradise, where sloths s-l-o-w-l-y make their way through forest canopies and monkeys swing through trees. BEWARE…LOL!
National Geographic describes Costa Rica as ‘the most biologically intense place on the planet’.
Food in Costa Rica is second only to the country’s beauty. Known for its use of fresh ingredients, like fruits and vegetables, the cuisine is generally on the milder side. Exotic fruits are grown locally in the tropical environment, so there is always something that makes the food exciting. Meals in Costa Rica often contain both rice and black beans, or at least one or the other.
It’s not hard to fall in love with Costa Rica’s relaxed Pura Vida philosophy. It’s not just a catchphrase, it’s a way of life.
Are you ready to experience some Costa Rican Pura Vida?!
Orlando, Florida
Here’s a fan favorite and definitely a top destination…Disney World, also known as the “Happiest Place on Earth”, is celebrating its’ 50th Anniversary. Disney is in the business of creating oodles of happy memories and making your dreams come true. They have an exciting lineup of new attractions and events, including the launch of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser attraction and the opening of the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, along with enhanced new technology throughout the parks. VERY EXCITING!
It’s so easy to think that all there is to do in Orlando is the wonderful worlds of Disney or Universal Orlando, which is why most go, but don’t miss all that downtown Orlando has to offer — lovely tree-lined neighborhoods; a rich performing arts and museum scene; several fantastic gardens and nature preserves; fabulous cuisine; great craft cocktails; and a delightfully slower pace devoid of manic crowds.
So, enjoy the theme parks and the sparkles, nostalgia and adrenaline-pumped fantasy there, but also take time to ‘Find Orlando’. You may be surprised to find that you’ll enjoy the theme parks all that much more as a result.
HOW ABOUT JOINING US ON A LUXURY ADVENTURE TO EGYPT?
February 17-26, 2023
10-Day, 9-Night, Fully Escorted Small Group Tour of Egypt
I am leading a 10-day inclusive custom luxury group tour, including a 4-night luxury Nile River cruise February 17-26, 2023, for the unbelievable price of $4,325 per person double occupancy, $6,225 per person single occupancy. Check out the Egypt Tour Itinerary, Egypt Tour Website and the Egypt Tour Blog by clicking below.
We have 18 people already registered and would like a few more to complete our group. If you are single, we have a single also registered looking to share a double room.
If Egypt is on your “bucket list” and you’d like to join our group for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and see this amazing destination with family and friends, register soon! If you have any questions, or just want to talk through it, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Are you ready to disconnect and recharge, learn about another culture, taste some local cuisine, gather a bit of history, create memories, meet new friends, broaden your horizons, get out of your comfort zone or add a little spice to your life?
If the answer is YES…then I believe it’s time for a travel journey that wows you every step of the way.
I’m here to design that, just for you. Let’s do it! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
Our family used to live in upstate New York where the winters were long and the snow seemed to never end. So mid-winter we escaped the cold and headed south to Florida to enjoy the sun and sand. We loved the warm temperatures, the sound of the waves, swimming in the ocean, walking on the beach and getting our daily dose of vitamin sea! A beach vacation was what our family needed to make it through another New York winter. One of the key factors to making this happen was taking the time to plan our family vacation.
It just so happens that this Tuesday, January 25, 2022 is National Plan for Vacation Day! Who knew there was such a day! It’s been celebrated on the last Tuesday of January since 2017 when a study commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association found the average American left 33% of their paid time off on the table.
In 2020, this amounted to 768 million vacation days that were unused. WOAH! That’s an incredible number! So, on this day, I’m encouraging you to set aside the time and start planning how you will use your hard-earned time off and where you will travel.
A good plan is like a road map: it shows the final destination and usually the best way to get there. – H. Stanley Judd
After two years of living through the pandemic, most of us are feeling burned out and ready for a change of scenery. I’m encouraging my clients to plan ALL OF THEIR DAYS OFF for the year now so that you have something to look forward to!
Here are some tips on how to get started:
1. Gather your family together and make a list of the places you wish to visit. What’s on your “bucket list”
2. Calculate Your PTO Days.
3. Start Blocking off Days on Your Calendar.
4. Let me know your interests and we will work together to make this adventure come alive!
In case you need a little nudge, I thought I’d start off by sharing some vacation inspiration, so check out the hottest destinations for 2022!
Planning is bringing the future to the present so you can do something about it now. – Alan Lakein
Africa
Africa is one AMAZING destination and there’s no better time to visit than now. Nowhere else on earth will you find exotic wildlife in their natural habitat, magnificent scenery, and happy, hospitable people as in Africa. There is a truly magical quality and indescribable energy about Africa, which you’ll feel as soon as you step onto its soil.
My first trip to Africa (Uganda…the pearl of Africa!) offered so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences and chimpanzee and gorilla trekking were two of them. Spending time with our closest genetic relatives was a truly humbling experience, and it was so much more special because of the hard work involved in getting there. Since this was my first-time seeing chimpanzees and gorillas in their natural habitat, I can honestly say it was so fascinating observing these species in the wild.
Africa is a destination to see more than once so I ventured back in November with a group of friends and we visited South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. We encountered an abundance of wildlife (the Big 5 – lions, leopards, elephants, African buffalo, and rhinoceroses), visited the winelands in Cape Town, learned about the penguins at Boulders Beach, climbed Table Mountain, saw the majestic Victoria Falls and tasted incredible cuisine.
Africa is a perfect destination because you are outside soaking up all the beauty and wildlife that surrounds you! It’s definitely a MUST visit!
Orlando, Florida
Here’s a fan favorite and definitely a top destination…Disney World, also known as the “Happiest Place on Earth”, is celebrating its’ 50th Anniversary. Disney is in the business of creating oodles of happy memories and making your dreams come true. They have an exciting lineup of new attractions and events, including the launch of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser attraction and the opening of the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, along with enhanced new technology throughout the parks. VERY EXCITING!
It’s so easy to think that all there is to do in Orlando is the wonderful worlds of Disney or Universal Orlando, which is why most go, but don’t miss all that downtown Orlando has to offer — lovely tree-lined neighborhoods; a rich performing arts and museum scene; several fantastic gardens and nature preserves; fabulous cuisine; great craft cocktails; and a delightfully slower pace devoid of manic crowds.
So, enjoy the theme parks and the sparkles, nostalgia and adrenaline-pumped fantasy there, but also take time to ‘Find Orlando’. You may be surprised to find that you’ll enjoy the theme parks all that much more as a result.
Wyoming
Whether it’s visiting the state’s legendary landmarks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks or enjoying a rodeo in Cody, there’s never a shortage of things to do.
Wyoming is home to some of the most dramatic mountains, most diverse wildlife and most unique geology. This state also has a friendly, welcoming culture with a Western flair that is evident from the luxury of Jackson Hole to its historic small towns.
From big skies, cowboy culture and American Indian powwows to five-star food, sumptuous spas and a lively craft beer scene, Wyoming offers an invigorating view into authentic Western life.
In 2022, Yellowstone – the country’s first national park – will celebrate its 150th anniversary. Yellowstone National Park is the wild, free flowing, beating heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem with showstopping geysers and hot springs – nature’s crowd-pleasers – but at every turn this land of fire and brimstone breathes, belches and bubbles like a giant kettle on the boil. The park’s highways traverse these geysers, through meadows and forests, past roadside herds of bison and campsites aromatic with pine needles and family campfires.
Dubai
Visiting Dubai on its’ own is spectacular. Visiting Dubai before the end of March 2022 while the World Expo is open is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Expo 2020 Dubai is a celebration of human brilliance and achievement. It’s an opportunity for people to connect from different corners of the world, to experience the best of art, culture, geography, science, technology, innovation and invention and to set into motion millions of new thoughts and ideas that will make a lasting impact in our lives.
The beauty of Dubai knows no bounds and has long been home to record-holding structures like the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and Miracle Garden. “In Dubai, we don’t wait for things to happen. We make them happen.”
Some of my clients went to Dubai, explored around the country and attended the World Expo. Their experience was nothing short of extraordinary!
Antarctica
No place on Earth compares to this vast white wilderness of elemental forces: snow, ice, water, rock. Antarctica is simply stunning! Adventure Antarctica’s surreal remoteness, extreme cold, enormous ice shelves and mountain ranges, and myriad exotic life forms invariably challenge you to embrace life fully.
Everyone – scientist, support worker, government official and tourist – who comes to this isolated continent, must ‘earn’ it, whether by sea voyage or flight. Ice and weather, not clocks and calendars, determine the itinerary and the timetable of all travel here.
There’s a brand-new luxury cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages that charters flights directly from Orlando to Ushuaia, Argentina, where its vessel, World Navigator, embarks. Once you arrive, you’ll be joined by an expedition team of experts in their field who will guide and educate you through the journey. They will help you experience the continent to the fullest and will bring your voyage to an extraordinary level by sharing their knowledge and experience.
Italy
Italy is another fan favorite and is one of the most visited destinations in Europe. With all it has to offer, it’s easy to understand why. Home to many of the world’s greatest works of art, architecture and gastronomy, Italy elates, inspires and moves like no other.
It’s here that you’ll stand in the presence of Michelangelo’s David and Sistine Chapel frescoes, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera and da Vinci’s The Last Supper. In fact, Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites than any other country on Earth.
And OMG…the Italian cuisine is oh so good!! Prepare to loosen your belt. As you walk through the streets of any village, town or city you will most likely smell the amazing scents that are classic to Italy – garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, pasta, wine and more. From delicate tagliatelle al ragù (pasta ribbons in a meat-based sauce) to velvety cannoli (crisp pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta), every bite can feel like a revelation. Get ready to experience some of the world’s top fine-dining, from San Pellegrino ‘World’s Best 50’ hot spots to Michelin-starred musts.
Italy…I can’t wait to come back for a visit!
Click on any image below to check out more Inspiring Destinations!
I’m sure you will agree that the world is an amazing place and it’s ready and waiting for you to come and explore all it has to offer!
We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.
Are you ready to disconnect and recharge, learn about another culture, taste some local cuisine, gather a bit of history, create memories, meet new friends, broaden your horizons, get out of your comfort zone or add a little spice to your life?
If the answer is YES…then I believe it’s time for a travel journey that wows you every step of the way.
I’m here to design that, just for you. Let’s do it! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
For those of us that live in the southeastern United States, there’s nothing better than waking up in the morning and finding the ground covered in snow! Many children (and adults too) rush to find their warm weather gear, grab a sled or two and head outside looking for the perfect hill for sledding.
A snowy day brings great joy to us because it doesn’t happen very often. In this case, my grandson wanted to build a snowman, create snow angels and dash through the snow in his open sleigh (ok sled). What a blast!
Want to be the Family Superhero? Read on…..
As the sun starts to set and the temperatures continue to drop, this is the perfect time to put on your family Superhero hat and create a fun “Family Movie Night”. Here’s how to do it:
Create the “hunker down” movie viewing spot by piling up layers of pillows and blankets next to a warm fireplace. The bigger the family, the bigger the pile!
Pop a big bowl of movie style popcorn and add some butter! YUM! If you happen to have a bag of red licorice, bring that out too.
Next, dim the lights to create the perfect winter movie theater setting. By now everyone will know you are up to something quite unusual!
Gather the family and have them settle in for a great movie. Keep the suspense until it starts.
Time to pop in the perfect family movie and you’re off to a legendary night your family will be talking about for days to come.
Of course, it does require finding the right movie. And since I am so passionate about families and travel, I happen to have a few recommendations below that I know you will love! Many of these will have youDREAMING about your next vacation or adventure.
As you look over the list, you will also find a few newer ones that are “snow themed” which are perfect for our current blustery weather in the southeast.
Family…small moments in time, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Mamma Mia (2008) & Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again (2018) – based on the wildly successful Broadway musical with a score from ABBA, this story tracks the lovely story of Donna and her daughter Sophie as they both grow and learn from the past
Eat, Pray, Love (2010) – A married woman realizes how unhappy her marriage really is, and that her life needs to go in a different direction. After a painful divorce, she takes off on a round-the-world journey to “find herself” in Italy, India & Bali.
P.S., I Love You (2007) – A young widow discovers that her late husband has left her messages intended to help ease her pain and start a new life. Ireland is the star!
Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) – Based on the book by Frances Mayes, the film is about a recently divorced writer who buys a villa in Tuscany on a whim, hoping it will lead to a change in her life. The beauty of Cortona and the Italian people are featured.
Letters to Juliet (2010) – traveling to Verona, Italy with her busy fiancé, a young American journalist gets involved in an adventure based on a love letter a tourist left at the monument to Romeo & Juliet’s unrequited love.
The Way (2010) – An American father takes the journey on the Camino del Santiago to understand what happened with his son, who died while attempting the journey himself. The beauty of France and Spain is prominently featured.
National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)Just for giggles, follow the Griswold family through their comedic adventures in France, Italy & Germany. Because we all need a laugh!
Titanic (1997)An epic, action-packed romance set against the ill-fated maiden voyage of the R.M.S. Titanic; the pride and joy of the White Star Line and, at the time, the largest moving object ever built.
And now some great options for the kids (but parents will like these too!):
Snow Day – An unexpected overnight snowfall has made the roads impassable. And that means a no-school, no-rules snow day! For fifteen year-old Hal, it’s a chance to win the heart of popular Claire – or totally embarrass himself.
The Snowy Day – Based on the award-winning book by Ezra Jack Keats. Peter gores on a magical, snowy walk to his Nana’s house to bring home their Christmas Eve dinner.
Brave (Disney) – A great adventure story based in Scotland that also teaches girls that they don’t need that handsome prince to be awesome.
Moana (Disney) – The young daughter of the village chief discovers her calling and purpose by rescuing her Hawaiian island from an angry goddess, with the entertaining help of the demigod Maui.
Ratatouille (Disney) – In Paris, a rat name Remy longs to become a French chef. He befriends a young restaurant worker, Linguini, and “mentors” his human friend in the ways of preparing fine cuisine.
The Sound of Music– Need I say more? The adventures of the Von Trapp family and their nanny, Maria, set in pre-WW II Austria. A classic!
Madeline: Lost in Paris – A young schoolgirl in Paris embarks on many misadventures that cause her fellow students and teachers many headaches. Based on the book series.
Travel leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.
Wouldn’t it be fun to travel to a destination featured in one of the movies? Imagine exploring Northern Ireland and visiting the Titanic Museum in Belfast. I was amazed at all the artifacts on display. It’s an incredible place that captures all the “ins and outs” of the Titanic!
Or how about visiting Austria and the various sites where they filmed “The Sound of Music”. It’s truly a magical country.
I hope you enjoyed your “snow day” especially for those of you that are in the southeast. It’s here today, but will melt away in no time! Cherish these memories! They go by so quickly!
Follow along on my social media where I post highlights of my adventures.
Are you ready to disconnect and recharge, learn about another culture, taste some local cuisine, gather a bit of history, create memories, meet new friends, broaden your horizons, get out of your comfort zone or add a little spice to your life?
If the answer is YES…then I believe it’s time for a travel journey that wows you every step of the way.
I’m here to design that, just for you. Let’s do it! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
Three cheers for a New Year! Pop the champagne! Light the sparklers, blow your horns, throw the confetti high into the air and CELEBRATE! It’s the beginning of a new chapter and the opportunity for a fresh start. Whether you’re ready to break an old habit, learn a fun TikTok dance (LOL!), or explore a new and exciting destination, 2022 is going to be YOUR year.
As I flipped the last page of my calendar from 2021 to 2022, I couldn’t help but look back on all the wonderful adventures during the past year, as well as the exciting adventures I created for many of you. All of them were fun-filled and awe-inspiring!
There are so many life changing places to visit in the world. Some are magical, some are ancient, and some are downright gorgeous. All will have you dreaming of them before you arrive. After you visit them, they become a part of you, forming lifelong memories and altering the way you see the world.
With that in mind, here are myTop 10 WOW’sand I hope they inspire you as much as they did me!
Panama – Trekking to the top of Volcán Barú
What an adventure! We woke up at 3:30am, gathered our day packs and ventured to the base of Volcán Barú. From there, we went off-roading in a jeep, trekking up STEEP hills and over volcanic rock to the top ofthe volcano to see the sun rise! At over 11,000 feet, Volcán Barú is the tallest mountain in Panama.
We had a clear picture-perfect morning. The views of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts were gorgeous.
I loved our simple “top of the volcano” breakfast of steamy hot chocolate, fresh brewed coffee, pastries, grilled cheese, fruit and other snacks! What I will remember most is the tasty hot chocolate in a green thermos. I had 3 cups. Not because the temperature was quite cold at 11,400 feet, but because Boquete is known for its chocolate products and Melissa, our guide, brought us only the best ingredients to make the perfect cup!
Bermuda – Crystal Caves
Here’s a secret treasure in Bermuda…Crystal Caves. They are a natural wonder.
Formed over a million years ago, these caves feature stunning azure underground pools and incredible formations of every size and shape imaginable.
As we peered into the water, we could see spectacular formations that seemed to be inches from the surface. But they are actually 50 feet below the surface, a testimony to the incredible clarity of the lake.
Above us were pristine white stalactites covered with crystalized soda straws that are affixed to the roof of the cave.
What a fascinating out of the ordinary adventure!
Egypt – The Temple of Karnak
We visited the Temple of Karnak which is the largest religious complex that was ever built. It’s a city of temples built over 2,000 years. The temple was dedicated to the god Amon Ra, the chief creator god in Egypt. Karnak Temple must have been awe-inspiring in its day! It is massive! The pillars touch the sky…ok…it sure seemed that way!
Turks & Caicos – WOW!! This water!
Turks and Caicos is a tropical paradise and is known for its stunning beaches with white powdery sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s the ultimate spot for divers, snorkelers, and beach lovers. This dreamy tropical destination is a part of the British Overseas Territory in the West Indies. It consists of two distinct islands 一Turks Islands and Caicos Islands. The archipelago has 40 islands and a number of small cays, but only 8 are inhabited.
It has some of the most beautiful waters I have seen in all of my travels! The weather is pleasant year-round with average temperatures in the 80’s but these islands do experience a rainy season from June to November. Despite traveling to many other Caribbean islands, it holds steady as one of my favorite beach destinations.
Morocco – The shimmer of the Sahara Desert
Visiting Morocco has always been a dream of mine. As soon as I landed in Casablanca, it was easy to notice that I was on the continent of Africa! From the golden-yellow sunsets to the dusty roads, to the delicious food, beautiful buildings and colorful tiles, Morocco was amazing!
I’ve always wanted to ride a camel in the shimmering Sahara Desert, explore maze-like souks, drink tea with Berbers and taste the country’s mouthwatering cuisine! And the fact that it is so close — just an eight-hour direct flight from New York City to Casablanca makes it a convenient destination to explore.
One of the highlights of our trip was spending an evening at Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp amid the dunes themselves. This was the perfect place to relax and gaze at the ever-changing colors of the desert.
We arrived just in time to ride the camels at dusk. As I sat on top of mine, I looked around and could not grasp with my mind the surreal landscape that surrounded us. I had never seen anything so magnificent. The color of the sand was a gorgeous golden yellow. The silence in the Sahara is like nothing else…with views of seemingly endless dunes from every angle.
Morocco is an incredible country to explore and a destination with many unforgettable experiences.
Canada – Lake Louise & Banff…SPECTACULAR!
It’s hard to find a more majestic and awe-inspiring place in the world than Lake Louise. It’s the crown jewel of Banff National Park. The lake is flanked by large mountains and has a spectacular backdrop with Mount Victoria topped by a massive glacier. Its natural beauty is breathtaking!
The lake can attribute its brilliant blue color to glacier waters full of rock flour (fine particle of rock) that refracts the light. There’s a short window of opportunity to see the brilliant turquoise water because it is frozen a majority of the year. I was lucky enough to see this picturesque lake in October and it really lived up to its hype!
South Africa, Zimbabwe & Zambia – Off to spot the BIG 5!
“There is no greater beauty or charm than what we can find in nature.” – Todd Romano
Africa offers so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Nowhere else in the world will you have the best wildlife viewing than here. Few experiences can beat the sheer thrill of a face-to-face encounter one of the BIG 5: Africa’s most dangerous animals – Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and the ever-elusive Leopard.
On our recent trip to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia we traveled across unique landscapes, saw spectacular wildlife, shared a meal at the home of a family in one of the villages, visited the winelands, rode in a gondola to the top of Table Mountain, hiked through Kruger National Park, saw and heard the power of Victoria Falls, made it to Cape of Good Hope, enjoyed beautiful sunrises and sunsets and so much more!
By going to Africa, you will embark on the adventure of a lifetime, as you explore this faraway place, surrounded by unique landscape and spectacular wildlife.
Dubai – An Innovative Experience at EXPO 2020
Visiting Dubai on its’ own is spectacular. Visiting Dubai while the World Expo is open is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am sure the Eleazer family would agree. I’ve coordinated several trips recently for clients to visit and their experiences have been nothing short of extraordinary.
Last October, Dubai kicked off the World’s Greatest Show. Expo 2020 is a celebration of human brilliance and achievement to experience the best of art, culture, geography, science, technology, innovation and invention and to set into motion millions of new thoughts and ideas that will make a lasting impact in our lives. They are maintaining the year 2020 in the name as a nod to history and the Expo delay due to Covid.
Dubai has invested billions of dollars to create Expo 2020. There is something for everyone, and it is very family friendly. Think Disney World Epcot Center on steroids.
Sicily – Valley of the Temples
Look at that sunset! Perfect timing to visit The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento…one of Sicily’s oldest towns and an epicenter of ancient ruins. At the forefront of the ruins that dot the surrounding region is an outstanding example of ancient Greek architecture. The Temple of Concordia is one of the most well-preserved Doric temples in the world.
FUN FACT:Did you know that the façade of this temple was used to create the logo for UNESCO? The reason being…it is one of the only temples that is well preserved and intact.
Greece…Magical & Picture Perfect
Everyone knows that Greece equals culture and amazing scenery; where history and beauty blend together to form a marvelous, memorable experience. Greece is also a romantic and relaxing destination.
From the whitewashed buildings in Oia to the mosaics in Chios, Greece has a surprise at every turn. And the Greek cuisine is equally as famous! So are the sunsets, white sandy beaches and turquoise Mediterranean waters. Once you are there, you’ll never want to leave!
I loved meandering through the streets of Mykonos, Santorini, Lindos and Rhodes…looking at the colorful doors, shutters and windows! There were so many cute shops selling textiles, paintings, clothing and jewelry. And the beaches were oh so stunning!
Athens was a cultural mecca of food and history. We enjoyed a foodie walking tour with a chef and sampled many local specialties. We also trekked to the Acropolis which is an incredible site to see in person.
Greece – I will definitely be back…and soon! :>!!
HOW ABOUT JOINING US ON A LUXURY ADVENTURE TO EGYPT?
February 17-26, 2023
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
I’ll be hosting a Zoom call on Sunday, January 16th at 5:00pm EST to share more about this exciting itinerary!
If interested, please reply to this newsletter so I can send you the link.
Is Egypt on your bucket list?If yes, then this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this amazing destination with family and friends. Registration is already underway.
I will be hosting an exclusive small group to Egypt next year. You won’t want to miss this adventure, especially if you’ve always wanted to see the pyramids, the mummies, the temples (and so many other cool places) and sail down the Nile river on a luxury river cruise ship. The group will be limited to 16 travelers…couples and singles…are welcome. Come join us! If you think you want to go, sign up soon because there are only a handful of spots left.
Also, only $100 of the initial deposit is non-refundable so invite your friends to experience this life-changing trip with you!
I am so excited to be going back and and I hope you join me. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Below are some pictures from my trip to Egypt this past September that I hope inspire you as much as they do me. I am so excited to be going back and and I hope you join me. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our 10-Day Guided Tour will include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan plus a 4-night Nile Cruise, featuring all the best attractions of Egypt.
The Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, and The Egyptian Museum.
The ancient Necropolis of Saqqara and Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the oldest mosque in Cairo.
The ancient City of Thebes, where we’ll immerse ourselves in its magnificent wonders.
See the stunning colors while visiting The Valley of The Kings and The Tomb of King Tutankhamun.
Enjoy the Nefertari Tomb at the Valley of the Queens.
Ride in a hot-air balloon sunrise flight, the perfect way to experience the world’s largest open-air museum.
Sail up the Nile on a luxury cruise for 4 nights and enjoy the sunset in a private Felluca.
Visit to the magnificent Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel.
Here’s an overview of the itinerary and what it includes –
Arrivals and departures, we’ll be greeted and escorted by our local English-Speaking Egyptologist tour guides and Egypt Unlimited Tour Staff.
All meals are included (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner), with unlimited mineral water available during the entire tour.
First two nights in Cairo at the magnificent Marriott Mena House Hotel with awesome views of the Pyramids.
One night in Luxor at the Hilton Resort and Spa Luxor.
Four nights on the MX MayFair Luxury Nile Cruise Line.
Last two nights in Cairo at the Nile Ritz Carlton Hotel with views of the Nile.
Entry Fees to all venues / sites and temples included in the tour.
All transportation with Egypt, in a new air-conditioned bus.
Round trip domestic flights from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo.
All baggage transfers.
Free SIM Card with 10GB of included internet.
All Gratuities / Tipping.
All service charges and taxes.
Local support and 24-hour emergency hotline.
There’s so much to see and do!
Follow along on my social media where I post highlights of my adventures.
Throughout the year, but especially during the holidays, we think about what we are most thankful for. I am thankful for your support and the trust you give me to plan your travel experiences and for continuing to give me the opportunities to deliver the best vacations possible.
From my family to yours, I wish you and your loved ones much happiness, good health and a very happy holiday!
Look who we visited this week! Santa Claus (aka Mr. Christmas)…yes, that’s his REAL name and he’s the REAL deal! Our kids have visited him every December since we moved to this area in 2003.
Mr. Christmas is a legend in our community. He taught swim lessons for years at the YMCA…and everyone recognized him because he wore a red bathing suit. His wife, Shirley (aka Mrs. Claus) was a teacher assistant at our kids’ elementary school. Our grandson met him and couldn’t wait to tell him about his favorite toys…books about trucks and Thomas the Tank Engine!! Seeing THIS Santa and Mrs. Claus every December is one of our favorite holiday traditions!
Growing up, our family visited Santa every year at the shopping mall. One year we even caught Santa (aka Mr. Ortolano) delivering a bike! How about his mustache and beard made from cotton balls?! Pretty creative, don’t you think?
On Christmas Eve we went to church to celebrate the birth of Jesus. When we got home, we’d help my dad set up the luminaries along our sidewalk and down the driveway lighting the way for Christmas. My mom always made a beautiful spread of appetizers that we nibbled on as we exchanged gifts among family members. We’d end the evening with my dad reading “Twas the Night Before Christmas” a tradition that still takes place today.
Many yuletide traditions remain the same no matter where you live, like: singing carols, visiting Santa Claus, lighting candles, trimming the tree, baking cookies, opening presents and feasting on special holiday meals or treats that only appear once a year.
Many of us go on marathon shopping trips, both in store and online to find that perfect gift while listening to Christmas carols. Stockings are hung and people enjoy holiday parades, concerts and classic Christmas films with a glass of eggnog or mug of hot cocoa.
There are also lots of different and interesting Christmas traditions from around the world – let’s take a look at some of the more unusual ones. Who knows, you may even want to start some of these in your own home, or some of them, maybe not 🙂 !
Scandinavia – The Yule Goat
You’ve likely heard of the Yule log, but how about the Yule Goat? Throughout Scandinavia, especially Sweden, Norway and Finland, locals celebrate a variation of the Santa Claus legend, which involves him riding a goat instead of a sleigh pulled by reindeer. As such, it’s common to find goat ornaments everywhere.
In 1966, the town of Gävle began a tradition of building a larger-than-life straw goat in the town square that measures more than 42 feet high, 23 feet wide, and weighs 3.6 tons. The structure is meant to last from Advent until New Year’s Day.
But, this Swedish Christmas tradition has unwittingly led to another “tradition” of sorts – people trying to burn it down. Unfortunately, since 1966 the Goat has been successfully burned down 29 times despite the town’s attempt to protect their goat. They’ve had guards stationed, security cameras put up, fences raised, and the goat itself has been sprayed with water and flameproof chemicals.
Some years the goat even survives the whole holiday season! But most years…it doesn’t.
Wouldn’t it be fun to join in on the Scandinavian tradition and add a straw goat to your ornament collection?
Russia – A Visit from Ded Moroz
While much of the world’s Christian community embraces Santa Claus or St. Nick, Russians welcome Ded Moroz each year, an ancient figure from Slavic mythology. Also called Father Frost, the Santa-like character brings gifts to children, except he delivers them on New Year’s Eve.
Ded Moroz traditionally wears a full-length blue coat, so as not to be confused with Santa, and is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, or Snow Maiden. Even though it’s now more common for Ded Moroz to wear red, he maintains the tradition of carrying a staff and riding in a sleigh pulled by three white horses.
Iceland – 13 Days of Christmas
Similar to the 12 days of Christmas in the U.S., Iceland celebrates 13. Each night before Christmas, Icelandic children are visited by the 13 Yule Lads. After placing their shoes by the window, the little ones will head upstairs to bed. In the morning, they’ll either have received candy (if they’re good) or be greeted with shoes full of rotten potatoes if they’re bad. And you thought coal was a terrible gift!
Dario’s family also owns Tenuta Cavasecca, an organic olive oil farm. He taught us the process of how the oil is made from planting the olives to harvesting by hand, to transporting them to the mill so they can be washed, smashed, pressed, mixed and bottled into award winning olive oil. What a fun night of taste testing fresh olive oil and a homemade Sicilian meal! Delicious!
Japan – Celebrating with Colonel Santa Christmas
In Japan, a white-bearded man has become associated with Christmas, and it’s not Santa Claus. KFC’s Colonel Sanders makes an appearance at many Japanese Christmas dinners, with his smiling face on red buckets of fried chicken.
The story is that in the early 1970s, the manager of the first KFC in Japan began marketing a “party barrel” of fried chicken to be sold on Christmas, after it came to him in a dream. He was inspired after he overheard foreigners in his restaurant talk about how they missed having turkey for Christmas. He thought a dinner of fried chicken would make a great substitute, and began marketing it as a way to celebrate Christmas.
By 1974, KFC took the Christmas marketing plan national across Japan, and it took off. The fast food chain has maintained its yuletide popularity, causing some people to order their boxes months in advance or stand in two-hour-long lines to get their “finger lickin’ good” food.
Now, millions of Japanese families celebrate the Christmas holiday with a KFC dinner tradition. Imagine that!!
Venezuela
N
In the Venezuelan capital of Caracas, the city’s residents head to Christmas Eve church early in the morning on roller skates. The tradition is so well established that many of the city’s streets are closed to traffic from 8am, so that the skating congregation can get to church safely. It’s even said that children will sleep with one lace from their skates tied around their toe, the other skate dangling from the window so that their friends can wake them up with a friendly tug on the lace.
So how about pulling out your roller blades or skates, lace them up and skate to Christmas Eve Service! You’d arrive in style!
There is definitely a magical feeling around the holidays. It is a time of laughter, joy, hope and good cheer for those you love and who are around you. So spread some love, share a message of hope, laugh at the small things and be joyful!
It's also a time to gather together and share the traditions that you've established with your family and loved ones. If you don't have one, then how about starting a new one this holiday season!
COME WITH US ON A LUXURY EGYPT ADVENTURE
February 17-26, 2023
Is Egypt on your bucket list? If yes, then this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this amazing destination with family and friends. Registration is already underway.
I am limiting this to a small private group of 16 travelers…couples and singles…are welcomed. We already have some single travelers and some couples registered for this adventure. Come join us! If you think you want to go, sign up soon because this one will SELL OUT!!
Also, only $100 of the initial deposit is non-refundable so invite your friends to experience this life-changing trip with you!
I am so excited to be going back and and I hope you join me. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Below are some pictures from my trip to Egypt this past September that I hope inspire you as much as they do me. I am so excited to be going back and and I hope you join me. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our 10-Day Guided Tour will include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan plus a 4-night Nile Cruise, featuring all the best attractions of Egypt.
The Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, and The Egyptian Museum.
The ancient Necropolis of Saqqara and Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the oldest mosque in Cairo.
The ancient City of Thebes, where we’ll immerse ourselves in its magnificent wonders.
See the stunning colors while visiting The Valley of The Kings and The Tomb of King Tutankhamun.
Enjoy the Nefertari Tomb at the Valley of the Queens.
Ride in a hot-air balloon sunrise flight, the perfect way to experience the world’s largest open-air museum.
Sail up the Nile on a luxury cruise for 4 nights and enjoy the sunset in a private Felluca.
Visit to the magnificent Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel.
Here’s an overview of the itinerary and what it includes –
Arrivals and departures, we’ll be greeted and escorted by our local English-Speaking Egyptologist tour guides and Egypt Unlimited Tour Staff.
All meals are included (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner), with unlimited mineral water available during the entire tour.
First two nights in Cairo at the magnificent Marriott Mena House Hotel with awesome views of the Pyramids.
One night in Luxor at the Hilton Resort and Spa Luxor.
Four nights on the MX MayFair Luxury Nile Cruise Line.
Last two nights in Cairo at the Nile Ritz Carlton Hotel with views of the Nile.
Entry Fees to all venues / sites and temples included in the tour.
All transportation with Egypt, in a new air-conditioned bus.
Round trip domestic flights from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo.
All baggage transfers.
Free SIM Card with 10GB of included internet.
All Gratuities / Tipping.
All service charges and taxes.
Local support and 24-hour emergency hotline.
There’s so much to see and do!
Follow along on my social media where I post highlights of my adventures.
Throughout the year, but especially during the holidays, we think about what we are most thankful for. I am thankful for your support and the trust you give me to plan your travel experiences and for continuing to give me the opportunities to deliver the best vacations possible.
From my family to yours, I wish you and your loved ones much happiness, good health and a very happy holiday!
As the holidays are approaching and you find yourself struggling to figure out the perfect gift for your loved ones, think about giving them a life-changing experience they’ll remember forever. The gift of experiential travel and the special memories that will last a lifetime!
Over the past several months in my travel blog I’ve shared with you experiences from around the world, including an African Safari, Uganda, Morocco, Panama, Dubai, Croatia, Egypt, Canadian Rockies, Hawaii, Peru, Iceland,Charlestonand Thailand just to name a few. By sharing my stories and pictures, my goal is to engage your senses and take you beyond the iconic images of the most popular sites and have you imagine the feeling of an immersive travel experience into the heart and soul of these destinations through the eyes of the locals.
If the past two years has taught us anything, it is that life (and time) is precious, and that we have a burning desire to be connected to others. We are not here on this planet to close our eyes to the world. We are here to go out and experience its’ many wonders. Travel has the power to shape our world and make us whole again. Where do YOU want to go? Who do you want to take? Let’s talk!
To add to your travel destination holiday shopping list, below I’m excited to introduce you to the island of Sicily, Italy starting with Siracusa. In addition, I’ve also included a reminder below about the life-changing bucket list trip to Egypt on an EXCEPTIONAL 10-day/9-night Luxury Group Tour through the Cradle of Civilization, February 2023, that XOOM Tours is sponsoring. This private group tour is limited to 16 travelers! So if you want to join us on the adventure, sign up soon because it will SELL OUT! There is very little risk as only $100 of the deposit is non-refundable until final payment.
A TRIP AROUND SICILY!
First Stop…..Siracusa!
Oh, Sicily…thinking back on my time on this island brings a smile to my face. Although it’s often overlooked in favor of classic mainland destinations like Rome or Venice, Sicily is an amazing destination. The food, language, architecture, and people have all been influenced by the many civilizations that have dominated it over the years, and this unique fusion of cultures, along with the stunning landscapes, is what makes Sicily worthy of a visit.
How about a little bit of Pi…as in 3.14?
One of the biggest attractions in Sicily is the town of Siracusa and its historic center – Ortigia Island (spelled both Ortygia and Ortigia). Siracusa (or Syracuse) was built on Ortigia Island which is located near the southeastern corner of Sicily.
Ortigia was the site of an ancient Greek settlement founded by the Corinthians in 734 B.C. In the greatest period of economic prosperity, Siracusa had a population of 300,000.
The city was home to many ancient Greek personalities, including Archimedes – the most famous mathematician and inventor of all times. You can tell the locals are proud of Archimedes’ brilliance because you will find the symbol of Pi (3.14) carved into the homes, streets, walkways and buildings around town.
The Cathedral of Siracusa
Ortigia is also home to the marvelous Piazza Duomo, which dates back to the 5th century B.C. As I strolled through the narrow streets, taking in the sites, I suddenly found myself in this large square dominated by the Cathedral of Siracusa.
The Cathedral was actually built around the ancient Temple of Athena. You can still see the Doric columns of the Greek temple in the wall of this magnificent cathedral.
The Temple of Apollo
One of the oldest and most important Greek monuments in Sicily is the Temple of Apollo. It’s one of the first examples of Doric architecture on the island and dates back to the 6th Century B.C.
Throughout the years, there have been many uses of the temple…from a Byzantine Church, to an Islamic mosque, to a Norman church and finally to Spanish barracks.
As I walked along the pathway alongside the temple, I could see the rectangular foundation of the structure, much of the walls, and some of the ornate columns. It’s pretty impressive!
Sharing a Sicilian meal with Dario at Dimora Archimedea
And to end our wonderful visit in Siracusa, Dario and Sebiana Ficara hosted us at their 19th century estate – Dimora Archimedea for an authentic Sicilian dinner along with olive oil tasting. Their estate is an Archaeological Park and is the place where Cicero identified the legendary tomb of the mathematician Archimedes of Syracuse: the Grotticelle Necropolis which dates back to the 5th century BC. This is right in his backyard! Can you imagine the reaction of the archeologists when they discovered the tomb?! What a find! Fascinating!
Dario’s family also owns Tenuta Cavasecca, an organic olive oil farm. He taught us the process of how the oil is made from planting the olives to harvesting by hand, to transporting them to the mill so they can be washed, smashed, pressed, mixed and bottled into award winning olive oil. What a fun night of taste testing fresh olive oil and a homemade Sicilian meal! Delicious!
Siracusa is a charming historic city that has so much more to offer than I shared. It’s filled with ancient ruins and archeological sites, a wonderful market (yes, I stopped there to checkout some of the local specialties), exceptional restaurants, amazing landscape and tasty Sicilian desserts. It’s home to some of the best cannolis too!
Are you ready to explore Sicily? Let’s plan the adventure together! Stay tuned! I’ll be sharing more on Sicily in the coming weeks!
Below are some pictures from my trip to Egypt this past September that I hope inspire you as much as they do me. I am so excited to be going back and and I hope you join me. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our 10-Day Guided Tour will include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan plus a 4-night Nile Cruise, featuring all the best attractions of Egypt.
The Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, and The Egyptian Museum.
The ancient Necropolis of Saqqara and Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the oldest mosque in Cairo.
The ancient City of Thebes, where we’ll immerse ourselves in its magnificent wonders.
See the stunning colors while visiting The Valley of The Kings and The Tomb of King Tutankhamun.
Enjoy the Nefertari Tomb at the Valley of the Queens.
Ride in a hot-air balloon sunrise flight, the perfect way to experience the world’s largest open-air museum.
Sail up the Nile on a luxury cruise for 4 nights and enjoy the sunset in a private Felluca.
Visit to the magnificent Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel.
Here’s an overview of the itinerary and what it includes –
Arrivals and departures, we’ll be greeted and escorted by our local English-Speaking Egyptologist tour guides and Egypt Unlimited Tour Staff.
All meals are included (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner), with unlimited mineral water available during the entire tour.
First two nights in Cairo at the magnificent Marriott Mena House Hotel with awesome views of the Pyramids.
One night in Luxor at the Hilton Resort and Spa Luxor.
Four nights on the MX MayFair Luxury Nile Cruise Line.
Last two nights in Cairo at the Nile Ritz Carlton Hotel with views of the Nile.
Entry Fees to all venues / sites and temples included in the tour.
All transportation with Egypt, in a new air-conditioned bus.
Round trip domestic flights from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo.
All baggage transfers.
Free SIM Card with 10GB of included internet.
All Gratuities / Tipping.
All service charges and taxes.
Local support and 24-hour emergency hotline.
There’s so much to see and do!
Follow along on my social media where I post highlights of my adventures.
Are you interested in learning more? Is Sicily or Egypt on your bucket list? Do you dream of seeing archaeological sites, ancient cities or learning how olive oil is made? Or are you interested in seeing temples, tombs and pyramids in real life for yourself? Or how about sailing down the Nile and dining on traditional Egyptian food? Or seeing the golden death mask of King Tutankhamun? Well, either destination might be your next trip.
I believe, whole-heartedly, that YOU would enjoy Sicily or Egypt because they will WOW you every step of the way. As I mentioned above, the Egypt group is limited to 16 travelers and it is nothing short of FABULOUS!
If you’d like to join our group or want more information, let me know! It’s a fabulous destination with so much enrichment for all!!
This is even better than the pre-announcement! I am so excited to share with you the itinerary and pricing of the Luxury Egypt Group Adventure with XOOM Tours. This is the perfect gift “experience” to give yourself and your loved ones.
What could be better than memories that will last a lifetime? If the past couple of years has taught us anything, it is that time is precious, and the time is now!
This private group tour is limited to 16 travelers, so if you want to join us on the adventure, sign up soon because it will SELL OUT! There is very little risk as only $100 of the deposit is non-refundable until final payment.
Below are some pictures from my trip to Egypt this past September that I hope inspire you as much as they do me. I am so excited to be going back and and I hope you join me. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our 10-Day Guided Tour will include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan plus a 4-night Nile Cruise, featuring all the best attractions of Egypt.
The Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, and The Egyptian Museum.
The ancient Necropolis of Saqqara and Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the oldest mosque in Cairo.
The ancient City of Thebes, where we’ll immerse ourselves in its magnificent wonders.
See the stunning colors while visiting The Valley of The Kings and The Tomb of King Tutankhamun.
Enjoy the Nefertari Tomb at the Valley of the Queens.
Ride in a hot-air balloon sunrise flight, the perfect way to experience the world’s largest open-air museum.
Sail up the Nile on a luxury cruise for 4 nights and enjoy the sunset in a private Felluca.
Visit to the magnificent Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel.
Here’s an overview of the itinerary and what it includes –
Arrivals and departures, we’ll be greeted and escorted by our local English-Speaking Egyptologist tour guides and Egypt Unlimited Tour Staff.
All meals are included (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner), with unlimited mineral water available during the entire tour.
First two nights in Cairo at the magnificent Marriott Mena House Hotel with awesome views of the Pyramids.
One night in Luxor at the Hilton Resort and Spa Luxor.
Four nights on the MX MayFair Luxury Nile Cruise Line.
Last two nights in Cairo at the Nile Ritz Carlton Hotel with views of the Nile.
Entry Fees to all venues / sites and temples included in the tour.
All transportation with Egypt, in a new air-conditioned bus.
Round trip domestic flights from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo.
All baggage transfers.
Free SIM Card with 10GB of included internet.
All Gratuities / Tipping.
All service charges and taxes.
Local support and 24-hour emergency hotline.
There’s so much to see and do!
Follow along on my social media where I post highlights of my adventures.
Are you interested in learning more? Is Egypt on your bucket list? Do you dream of seeing the temples, tombs and pyramids in real life for yourself? Or sailing down the Nile, dining on traditional Egyptian food? Or seeing the golden death mask of King Tutankhamun? Well, this just might be your trip.
I believe, whole-heartedly, that YOU would enjoy Egypt because it will WOW you every step of the way. As I mentioned above, the group is limited to 16 travelers and it is nothing short of FABULOUS!
If you’d like to join our group or want more information, let me know! It’s a fabulous destination with so much enrichment for all!!
As you know from my blogs and social media, I’m a fan of exploring new frontiers. It’s always fun and educational. And right now I am in Sicily, Italy for the first time exploring and immersing myself in this wonderful destination, getting all the local insider insights so I can help my clients like you plan your next travel experience. When I return, I’ll share with you the highlights of this fantastic destination.
And while visiting new frontiers is exciting, going back to a great destination has unique advantages. Often the first visit is a whirlwind of new experiences, and you never quite see everything there is to see. So once isn’t enough. Going back a second time gives you joy and confidence with the comfort of familiarity allowing you to immerse yourself even deeper into the local experiences.
So as the world opens back up, where did you travel to that made you happy?Love at first site requires follow-up visits to truly cement the relationship 😊. And with that in mind, check out this wonderful article from my Virtuoso community –
8 Dream Destinations Worth Visiting More Than Once!
There’s nothing wrong with seeing the same place twice.
You can’t possibly see all of New Zealand in one two-week trip, for example, and we’re strong proponents of the annual Hawaiian jaunt or long weekend in Paris. With help from my fellow Virtuoso travel advisors, we’ve gathered eight repeat-worthy vacation destinations, plus some ideas for your first time and your next time in each place. (We won’t stop you from planning a third, fourth, or fifth visit, either.)
Machu Picchu + Peru
It may be Machu Picchu that carries Peru to the top of many wish lists – it’s this year’s Travel Dreams Tournament champion – but that’s just the beginning. “Very few places in the world rival Peru for sheer variety of landscapes and dramatically different regions,” says Geordie McDonald, a Virtuoso advisor. “There’s so much more to discover beyond those mist-shrouded peaks in the Andes.”
The world is opening back up. Where would you like to go?
Destinations all over the world are ready for you, including…Egypt, Peru, Greece, Bermuda, Canada, Colombia, South Africa, Italy, Uganda, Panama, Key West, St. John USVI, Slovenia, Morocco, Maldives, Croatia, Costa Rica, Argentina, Turks & Caicos and so many more!
Get ready to disconnect and recharge, taste some local cuisine, learn about another culture, gather a bit of history, create memories, meet new friends, broaden your horizons, get out of your comfort zone or add a little spice to your life! I believe, whole-heartedly, that YOU deserve a travel journey that wows you every step of the way.
I’m here to design just that, just for you. If you are ready to pursue a new adventure, let’s do it! Don’t wait! Life it too short!
Enjoy your week!!
Tired of Tourist Traps?
[FREE GUIDE] Top 10 Most Immersive Travel Experiences from a Travel Insider
Dive deep into your destination to discover the authentic cultural practices and natural wonders most tourists miss.
