Ahoy there, cruisers! Welcome to the fantastic world of cruising – where the sea breeze meets relaxation, and excitement is on the horizon. Let's set sail on a journey to unravel the mysteries of your first day aboard a cruise ship!

Embarking at Port: Picture this: You arrive at the port, filled with anticipation and a dash of pre-vacation jitters. The first step? You'll drop your checked luggage off with the porters (they'll appreciate a tip!), park your car, and then check your worries at the gangway and get ready for a maritime adventure.

Smooth Sailing through Check-In: Once you step foot inside the terminal, you'll encounter the check-in process. Think of it like getting your boarding pass at the airport or checking into a hotel, but with a nautical twist. Have your documents ready, and the friendly staff will guide you through the process. Pro tip: Do not pack your boarding pass in your checked luggage. Keep that boarding pass handy; it's your ticket to all the fun awaiting you onboard. Be on the lookout for your first photo op! This one is a great souvenir to purchase on board because it will have the ship name & date on the photo.

Muster – More than Just a Drill: Safety first, my sea-loving friends! Muster drill, mandatory by maritime law, is a safety exercise where you'll be briefed on the life jackets and emergency procedures. While it's essential, there's a certain camaraderie that comes with knowing everyone is in the same boat (pun intended). Pay attention, but feel free to crack a joke or two – laughter makes everything smoother. And the best part--most cruise lines now have a hybrid virtual muster, where you will watch the safety drill on your in-room tv and head to your muster station to check in. Listen for announcements about when you'll need to get this done. Most ships will not sail from port until everyone has checked in! Not sure which muster station to go to? Check the back of your cabin door or your ship card.

Welcome Aboard – Let the Adventure Begin: As you step onto the ship, take a deep breath and soak it in – you're officially in vacation mode! Staterooms might not be ready just yet, but fear not. Head to the Lido Deck, where the buffet awaits with open arms (and delicious food). Pro tip: You may be stuck with your carry on luggage until your room is ready, so pack light and make sure to put identification and your cabin number on the inside and outside of your bags. And speaking of carry ons, be sure to pack anything you may need for the next 24 hours, just in case your checked luggage is delayed. This includes sunscreen, swimsuit, medicines, and an outfit that would work for dinner.
Navigating the Waiting Game: Now, what to do while waiting for your stateroom oasis to be prepared? This is. a great time to explore the ship – it's like a floating city with a menu of activities. Hit up the spa, catch a comedy show, or participate in the sail-away party – the options are as vast as the ocean. Who said waiting couldn't be fun?

Dinner Delights – Your First Evening Onboard: As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, thoughts turn to dinner. Cruise dining is an experience in itself, and your first night sets the tone. Whether you opt for the main dining room or a specialty restaurant, expect a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds. Dress code is a little lax on the first night, because some travelers will still be waiting on their checked luggage. And what about after dinner? My favorite thing to do is grab an ice cream cone and head up to the top open deck to catch the moon reflecting off the ocean. Pro tip: Don't shy away from trying something new – it's part of the adventure!

Bedtime Bliss – Your Stateroom Sanctuary: After a day filled with excitement, it's time to retreat to your cozy haven. Your stateroom, now ready and waiting, is your sanctuary for the duration of the cruise. Unpack, unwind, and let the gentle rocking of the ship lull you into a serene slumber. Tomorrow holds more adventures, so rest up, my fellow cruisers!

And there you have it – the first day of your cruise, unwrapped and ready for enjoyment. So, grab your sea legs and get ready for a voyage filled with laughter, exploration, and maybe a bit of sun-soaked relaxation. Smooth sailing, adventurers! 🚢⚓️

Now, if you're itching to dive into the world of cruising but find the sea of options a tad overwhelming, fear not! As an avid cruise enthusiast and seasoned travel advisor, I'm here to be your compass in this ocean of possibilities. Let me take the helm and assist you in booking the perfect cruise tailored to your desires. From choosing the ideal ship & itinerary to securing the best cabins, my cruise booking and planning services are designed to make your journey as seamless as a gentle sea breeze. Embark on a stress-free adventure by entrusting your cruise dreams to my expertise. Together, let's turn those travel dreams into memories – because life's too short for landlocked adventures! ⚓️✨

So many places to explore, and only 365 days in a year! The world is a vast playground of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and exciting adventures waiting to be uncovered. But with such an abundance of choices, how do you narrow down the options and find the perfect destination for your next getaway? Fear not, fellow wanderer, for I have a few tricks up my sleeve to help you make that decision.

We all have different cravings when it comes to what our souls desire. Some yearn for peaceful retreats, while others crave the thrill of adventure. Take a moment to reflect on what's missing from your daily routine. Is it tranquility, excitement, or perhaps a bit of both? Maybe you need good food or deep cultural experiences. Your answer will guide you towards destinations that can fulfill your unique cravings.

Ah, the eternal struggle – the battle between travel dreams and time commitments. Assess your PTO days and figure out how to squeeze the most magic out of them. Whether it's a long weekend escape or a month-long expedition, understanding your time constraints will help you choose a destination that aligns perfectly with your available days.

Let's face it, our pockets aren't bottomless pits of gold. Budget considerations are crucial when deciding where to jet off to next. The answer to this question may also help you bring your expectations and areas where you are willing to compromise into focus. Be realistic about your financial situation, and explore destinations that offer a perfect balance between your desired experience and your wallet's well-being.

Do you love basking in the sun or do you prefer the cool embrace of winter? Weather can significantly impact your travel experience. Some thrive in the warmth of tropical paradises, while others find solace in the crisp air of mountainous escapes. Choose a climate that aligns with your happy place and ensures a blissful vacation.

Now that you've pondered these questions, don't keep the answers to yourself! Share them with me, and together we can embark on a brainstorming journey to unveil your ideal destination. Whether it's a secluded beach, a bustling cityscape, or a serene mountain retreat – your memory-making getaway awaits.
So, fellow travel enthusiast, let's turn the page on your travel adventure. Where will your next passport stamp take you? The world is your oyster, and I'm here to help you crack it open and savor the pearls of exploration. Bon voyage! 🌍✈️

Hey fellow travel enthusiasts! As you gear up for your next adventure, it's crucial to ensure your home is all set for your absence. Here are some pro tips to prep your space for a worry-free getaway:

Before you jet off, remember to put your mail on hold. Nobody wants a mailbox overflowing with letters and packages, signaling an empty house. Head over to your local post office or hop online to schedule a hold – easy-peasy! This not only prevents mail theft but also maintains the illusion of an occupied home, keeping it off the radar of potential mischief-makers.

Ensure your home security is in top-notch shape by notifying your monitoring service about your travel plans. Consider appointing someone local, a friend or neighbor, to keep an eye on things and be a contact for your monitoring service.. It's like having a guardian angel for your humble abode! Share your travel itinerary with them and provide spare keys if needed – an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Here's a gem of a tip: Before you bid adieu to your home, pour some Pine Sol down your drains. Trust me, this little trick keeps things fresh and ensures you return to a sweet-smelling sanctuary! The pine-scented goodness not only prevents stale, unpleasant odors but also helps keep those pesky bugs at bay.

Don't forget to unplug electronic devices and appliances. Not only does this save energy, but it also reduces the risk of electrical issues. An eco-friendly and wallet-friendly move! Take it a step further by turning off the water heater. No need to keep it working hard when you're not around to enjoy the warm showers. You may want to leave a giant note on the fridge to remind yourself to turn it back on when you arrive back home.

Invest in a smart thermostat to regulate your home's temperature efficiently. Set it to an energy-saving mode for the duration of your trip, and you'll return to a cozy, cost-effective haven. Program it to gradually adjust the temperature before your return, ensuring you walk into the perfect climate without wasting energy while you're away. If you don't have a smart thermostat, remember to set your temp high enough (or low enough in the winter) that your central heat & air won't be running non-stop.

With these enhanced tips in your travel toolkit, your home will be prepped and ready for your return.
Ready to head out? I'd love to help you elevate your travels and plan your next trip! Head to my website to request a quote or a virtual appointment.

Buckle up and get ready to traverse the globe as we unveil the most sought-after destinations that are stealing the spotlight in 2024. From the misty highlands of Scotland to the sun-kissed shores of Costa Rica, these captivating locations promise an array of experiences that cater to every traveler's whims. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a culinary connoisseur, these trending destinations offer a tapestry of sights, flavors, and cultures waiting to be explored. So, grab your travel journals and prepare for an odyssey filled with wonder and discovery

Ireland, renowned for its verdant landscapes, captivating folklore, and warm hospitality, stands as a timeless destination in 2024. Begin your journey in Dublin, where history meets modernity in bustling streets lined with pubs and historic landmarks like Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse. Explore the scenic Ring of Kerry for awe-inspiring coastal views, visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher for dramatic panoramas, and discover the mystical allure of the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland. Immerse yourself in traditional Irish music sessions, savor hearty dishes like Irish stew, and don't miss the chance to experience the jovial atmosphere of an Irish pub.

Italy, the land of art, history, and exquisite cuisine, continues to captivate wanderers. Stroll through Rome's Colosseum, immerse yourself in the art of Florence, or cruise along the romantic canals of Venice. Delight your taste buds with authentic pasta dishes and gelato, and wander through the vineyards of Tuscany for a true Italian experience.

Portugal's stunning coastline, historic cities, and warm hospitality beckon travelers. Explore the colorful streets of Lisbon, visit Porto for its port wine cellars, and bask in the sun on the Algarve's golden beaches. Indulge in delicious pastries like pastel de nata and immerse yourself in Portugal's vibrant culture.

New Zealand, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, boasts breathtaking landscapes featured in "The Lord of the Rings." Explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, hike the majestic peaks of Fiordland National Park, or relax in the stunning Bay of Islands. Don't forget to experience the Maori culture and enjoy thrilling outdoor activities like bungee jumping and hiking.

I'd love for you to sound off in the comments! Where are you going, or where would you like to go in 2024? Are any of these destinations on your list? What are you most looking forward to on your travels this year?

Request a quote or an appointment to curate a personalized itinerary and make the most of these trending destinations in 2024!

​we've learned it's also good for keeping blackout curtains closed, marking water bottles so we won't get them confused, a temporary hem or tack, putting on the cruise cabin or hotel room door on that long hallway so it's easy to find, sealing things that leak, and repairing things that are loose or broken.

​I can think of a few trips where it would have come in handy. That's why when my clients ask me the inevitable question-- “What do I pack?”-- I'm always sure to mention duct tape.

Before Santa even made it back to the North Pole, I started seeing them. They were little, big, red, pink. Some had flowers on them, some had cute puppies. And they were filled with chocolate. The message was out and the reminders were here. There's no excuse to forget when you're seeing stores filled with Valentine's Day gifts a full 2 months before the big day. But why buy an insignificant gift when you can put some thought into an entire experience? Here's 15 ways to up the romance factor during your Valentine's Day getaway:

1. Choose a historic city: Maybe it's the added mystery, but there's something about a historic city that immediately sets the romantic mood for a getaway.
2. Book a BNB. No, not an AirBNB. A Bed and Breakfast. These are classier than regular hotels and usually have some romantic elements built into your price. Plus, with room service and no kitchen, there won't be any need for cooking and cleaning on this trip.
3. Upgrade your Room. You may be able to score a complimentary upgrade if you're celebrating something special, or if you book with your favorite travel agent :) But if not, consider upgrading to the room with the stellar view.
4. Arrange some Room Decorations. Whether it's just a bouquet of flowers or you go all out with streamers, centerpieces, and banners, room decorations let her know you've given this some thought. Your BnB may be able to do this for you before you arrive, so check with the concierge.
5. Welcome her to your room with Strawberries and Champagne (or sparkling cider). Again, the BnB will most likely be able to arrange this for you, but you can always bring your own and set it up while she's admiring the view from the balcony.
6. Take a Carriage Ride. I'll admit, we've never done one of these. I've always wanted to, though, for the simple fact that it seems romantic. Don't forget a throw blanket in case it's a little airy, and see if you're allowed to bring some bubbly along for the ride.
7. Surprise Suitcase Gift. Grab a small gift and sneak it in her suitcase before you leave. Make sure it is TSA approved, though, so the surprise isn't ruined during a security check. 
8. Couples Massage. Enjoy some time relaxing together.
9. Pack a Picnic to go. Grab your basket and head to the beach, park, or a quiet place on the property.
10. Pack an assortment of bath accessories in her favorite scent. Some ideas are bath bombs, salts, aromatherapy, floating candles, and rose petals.
11. Order room service and have breakfast in your suite.
12. How long has it been since you've had professional photos of just the 2 of you? Hire a photographer for a mini session.
13. Share dessert. You may want to do this as part of your dinner or as a standalone date one night.
14. Write her a handwritten love note. This will pair well with number 7 :) 
15. Book a vow renewal package. Or, you can surprise her by repeating your vows at some point during the trip (walking on the beach, during your picnic, during the carriage ride, etc.) 
16. BONUS TIP: Do something challenging or adventurous together. Take a cooking class, Conquer a tree top course, zoom on a Zip line--be creative with this one and pick something you will both enjoy. Anything where you will communicate, work as a team, or encourage each other. Bonus if it is something that neither of you have done before. This will foster closeness and you will create a bond over unique experiences and memories. 

What are some ways you up the romance factor on your getaways? 

Still haven't booked your Valentine's Weekend trip? I have some great ideas! Request a custom travel quote here.

​2023 is going to be a big year for travel. With the exception of a few places, we’re pretty much back to normal. Even cruise lines are removing all covid restrictions and you have plenty of options to board a ship without proof of a vaccine or a negative test. After the past 2 years, these are exciting times. 

​Like most of you, I’m taking time this week to plan my own vacations. And since I ask you guys what’s on your dream list pretty often, I thought I’d share my 2023 list with you. Here’s 5 places I hope to go in 2023:

St. Augustine gets "honorable mention" because we're so close. We can make this a day trip, or a weekend. I know I haven't mentioned it in a while (we've been focusing this year on their neighbor to the south, Orlando), but St. Augustine is still one of my favorite places on the planet. It's been over a year since we've been there, so I'm hoping to at least do a day down there soon. Nights of Lights are up until the end of January, so this month is a great time to go and see the lights without the crowds. 
​
Are any of these places on your dream list? Leave a comment and let me know where you're planning to go in 2023!

Southwest has a kind of unique & antiquated system of scheduling in which the crew is not always with their equipment (the planes). When the weather started grounding flights, crews for grounded flights in Colorado (for example) got stranded and were not able to make their next flight in New York (again, for example), therefore grounding the flight out of New York. As you can imagine, this caused a cascade effect across the nation with crews and planes scattered all over and no one where they should be, requiring Southwest to shut down all but about a third of their flights (one number I saw was 29,000 flights canceled or delayed for up to 7 days). And, of course since their scheduling issues were triggered by weather, Southwest maintains this was a “weather event” (out of their control) instead of “scheduling” (within their control). ​

For now, we can't change how an entire company runs their business. But there are ways to ease our pain if we're caught in the middle.
​​1. always use a travel advisor so that in situations like this, you have a professional in your corner.
​2. Make sure you’re traveling with peace of mind. Don’t skip on the travel insurance.

I'm not going to pretend I haven't written a blog post for you guys in almost 2 whole years. I honestly can't believe it myself. But with navigating my travel business through the travel shutdown, family life, sickness, and travel finally picking back up and making me work again (haha), I kind of accidentally abandoned it. But, really, post-pandemic, there's not a lot that is relevant anymore. Things have changed so much in the industry. Over the next few weeks, I will be taking down most of the previous posts and updating them. And of course, one of my New Year's Goals is to write more--not only blogs like this one, but exclusive travel guides and tip sheets available only to my clients to help them make happy memories on their vacations. And now, to the main feature:

We've all felt the hit of inflation. And I think the most common answer I get when discussing budget for my clients is "as cheap as possible." We can talk about that answer later, but right now let's talk about Universal Orlando resort. When it comes to this particular theme park, they usually have at least one great deal that I can offer my clients on any given trip. But in general, prices are prices, and they are set. So if you can't really save money on your hotel and ticket package, what are some ways you can save after you book? I'm so glad you asked. 
Last weekend, my family and I went to Universal Orlando for a break before we enter into full holiday mode. We had a blast. Everybody should go at least once, even if you're not a roller coaster or Harry Potter fan. There truly is something for everyone. But, of the 4 trips I've done so far this year, our budget was a little tighter this time and we had to get creative to make our dollars go farther. Here's what we did:

If you've followed me for any length of time, you might be surprised by this one. And honestly, I cringe as I type it (that's why it's first...to get it over with). I am not a fan of staying off-site and I hardly ever recommend it. Especially with the addition of the 2 value hotels giving you all the exclusive benefits of staying on-site with the price-point of an off-site hotel, the benefits almost always outweigh what little savings there might be. However, in our case for this particular trip, we had some resources (read: timeshare membership) that made it much more cost effective for us to stay off-site. We would have rather stayed on-site and, having done both, on-site is definitely the way to go. But if you absolutely find a great deal and really need to save that couple of hundred dollars to be able to go, I recommend it. But remember, you'll be missing out on:

• transportation to and from the parks (minimal 1 time parking fee at an on-site resort compared to daily parking if you stay off-site)
• Resort-wide charging privileges to your room key
•  In-park purchases delivered to your room
• Character appearances
• Resort hopping privileges (for most resorts)

You will, however, get early park admission--no matter where you stay--just by booking your trip through a travel advisor like me. 
​Estimated Savings for us this trip: $240

We're big breakfast and small lunch eaters, especially when we're riding thrill rides at an amusement park. So we went grocery shopping before the trip and brought along our cooler packed with eggs, bacon, orange juice, biscuits, and grits. We cooked breakfast each morning before we left for the parks, then packed our park bags with snacks. Make sure to pack plenty of protein! This breakfast cooked by my hubby was better than any restaurant!

We left ours at home this trip and brought regular water bottles. Ice water at the freestyle machines is free, so when we were ready to refill our drinks, we drank water. Not only did we save on cup activation, but it was the healthier option. And you know that yucky feeling you get when you combine sun and sugar? We didn't get that. We also didn't have any sticky messes when the water bottles leaked or spilled (which didn't happen as much this trip because we packed leak-proof bottles). 
Estimated Savings for us this trip: $110

We each have a park bag, and they are tiny. There's a picture of mine somewhere on my Facebook page, but they are just big enough to fit a water bottle and some sunscreen (and obviously...snacks). We stopped carrying the larger backpack for theme park trips because of the bulk and the temptation to pack a ton of stuff into it making someone have to carry around, well...a ton of stuff. But the free lockers for rides that require them are also small. Carrying small bags mean our stuff can fit into 1 or 2 lockers (one for each ticket holder) and we don't have to pay for a big day use locker just to ride. 
​Estimated savings for us this trip: $60

That's a huge chunk of change. Honestly, we probably saved enough to take a whole different weekend trip.

​With a little creativity and planning, you can theme park on a budget. 

The first one is almost ready to be released! I've been working for months to pull together almost 30 years of experiences at Universal Studios Resort in Orlando. It's packed with tips, advice, itineraries, must-haves for your visit, and a lot more. And it's ONLY available if you book your package through me.

​Fill out the theme park quote request form to get started. 

Are you looking for the perfect gift for the traveler on your list? Or maybe you're hoping to snag some swag for your next vacation. Keep reading for a round-up list of a few of my favorite things!
​Oh, yeah. Sorry for the lack of pictures. Honestly, I'm still trying to figure out which pictures I can use without violating copyright laws. If you want to see the product, just click on the product name. I DON'T get any commission or kickback from the links, I just love these products :) 

When I discovered this neat little belt, I wasn't even traveling. Well, I sort of was. I was training for my first 5K, which was going to be in St. Augustine over the Bridge of Lions. It was amazing, by the way, but that's another story for another day. So, I needed somewhere to keep my phone and my car key while I was running the track in my pocket-less pants. Enter the running belt. I realized then that it is big enough for a passport and a few cards, as well. AND you can wear it up under your shirt pretty much undetected. Perfect for carrying the important stuff inconspicuously while traveling.   

My water bottle is my constant companion. I have an earlier version of this one, but I know this one is just as good. It's double wall insulated and keeps your hot drinks hot and your cold drinks cold. Seriously. Our power was once out for over 24 hours. I filled my bottle up with ice water before going to bed that night and I was surprised that there was still ice in it in the morning. Traveling with a water bottle is always a great idea: Fill it up and sip on it at the airport (past security, of course!), on the cruise ship, or while relaxing at a resort. Paying closer attention to hydration is super important while traveling due to changing environments and humidity levels. 

There's not a whole lot to say about this other than our Swiss Gear Backpack is the go-to carryon no matter where we are traveling. It's sturdy, durable, and has all sorts of pockets to cram our necessities in. It's everything you've come to expect from a brand like Swiss Gear. I also love that it's got a pocket for my laptop/tablet. 

This RFID blocking passport wallet has a spot to keep your passport (of course!), cards, and boarding passes handy. You can even get a different color for every member of your family. If you've ever done the passport shuffle at the counter trying to figure out whose passport is who's, you know the importance of color coding. :) I love that it has the outside strap to hold everything in place.  

I'm going to be completely honest: I don't have one of these. But I NEED it. With all the gadgets we take on the road and, of course, none of them can use the same charging cords, I definitely need something to keep those bad boys organized. I usually just cram them in the front pocket of my suitcase and hope for the best. Then we arrive at our destination tired, on our last battery bar, and frustrated because our charging cords are all tangled up. Yes. This cord organizer would definitely help!

Honestly, I can't decide whether I like the scratch off or the photo frame better. Both are great ways to keep track of and show off your adventures. But, I chose scratch off because I feel like it's better for the world traveler. It'd be kind of hard to fully appreciate that awesome photo from Germany in a world map. This map also has a water color under the scratch off option and I just love that. Once all of the countries are scratched off (and while your masterpiece is in progress), it looks amazing as a wall hanging. 

So, you're at the airport for your 1 hour and 2 minute layover (because you booked with your favorite travel agent and she got you the most reasonable layover available). You grab some coffee and an airport chair and sit down for a nice game of Match 3D while you wait. But...there's no place to put down your coffee. You don't want to chug it (it was expensive enough, may as well enjoy it), you don't want to put it on the floor because it might get kicked over, and the guy sitting next to you doesn't look like he'd be willing to hold it (so you don't bother asking). What ever will you do? You're going to whip out this trusty travel cup holder, attach it to your carry on, and commence to match random pieces of digital junk as fast as you can. 

Organizing your outfits by person, day, type, or occasion has never been easier. My 2 favorite ways to use these: 1. Each person gets their own cube (or cube set, depending on the size of the person and length of the trip). It's like having suitcases inside of a suitcase! 2. Each day gets their own cube. This is especially helpful if you're traveling by yourself, or if you're sending your child away with the grandparents. Each day, take out the cube and everything you need is right there at your fingertips. And if something gets flagged in security? They're not dragging out your entire suitcase just to inspect one item. Everything is neat and organized. Just how I like it. :) 

Did I miss anything? What's your favorite piece of travel gear for yourself or to gift others? Let me know in the comments!