5 Tips for Visiting the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a beautiful country known for its charming canals, windmills, and tulip fields. If you're planning a visit (or have it as a port stop either before or after a river cruise), here are some tips to help you blend in with the locals and fully enjoy the Dutch culture.
Experience Africa: Your Dream Safari Awaits!
Africa is a place of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're dreaming of an exhilarating safari, witnessing the wildebeest migration, or enjoying the peaceful solitude of the African savannah, I can help you create a tailor-made African adventure that exceeds your expectations.
One of the best-kept secrets about traveling to Africa is the Green Season. This time of year (mid-March to May and November to December) offers incredible value, fewer crowds, and better availability.
Mexico’s New Restrictions on Electronic Devices
Mexico has recently implemented new restrictions on the electronic devices and other personal items you can bring into the country. Whether you're jetting off with a laptop for work or packing a tablet for your next vacation, it’s important to stay informed to avoid unexpected fees at customs.
What’s Allowed Without Import Fees?
Mexico now limits the number of certain electronic devices that can be brought into the country tax-free. According to the latest regulations, ONE portable computing device, such as a laptop, tablet, or iPad, is permitted per traveler without incurring any import fees.
However, if you're traveling with multiple laptops or tablets, be aware that any additional devices may be subject to an import fee.
Don’t Let Your Phone Bill Ruin Your Vacation Memories!
My husband recently shared a story about one of his clients who traveled internationally and didn’t check his cell phone plan before departing. Unfortunately, this client returned home to a shocking $3,000 phone bill! (No, he didn’t hire me for his vacation.) Yes you read that correctly. And while that sounds like an extreme case, it made me realize that many people might not know if they have international cell phone coverage.
Different cell phone providers offer various options for international travel, and it's crucial to understand yours before you take off. For example, I travel frequently, so I’ve set up a plan that charges me a flat $10/day when I’m outside the U.S. Some carriers offer temporary travel coverage at a reduced rate for the duration of your trip.
Is Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) Automatically Added to Your Flight Reservation?
Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is a critical component for those who enjoy the benefits of TSA PreCheck. It helps you breeze through security with shorter lines and fewer hassles. But how do you ensure it’s correctly added to your flight reservation?
Are You REAL ID Ready?
While standing in the TSA line at the airport, I heard an agent tell a traveler that his driver’s license wasn’t a REAL ID. That perked my interest, and I started listening. Sure enough, many people in line were being told the same thing. With the REAL ID requirements starting May 7, 2025, I thought it would be helpful to send a little reminder to double-check your driver’s license.
Tips to Avoid Flight Delays and Cancellations for Smooth Summer Travels
Flying any time of the year can be challenging, but summer travel brings its own unique hurdles like full parking lots, packed airports, and even heat-related flight issues. Did you know that airplane engines don’t fare well in extreme heat, potentially leading to flight delays and cancellations?
Keep Your Valuables Safe: Tips for Beachgoers
While it might sound obvious, the frequency of thefts at the beach, particularly when people are enjoying themselves in the water, makes it worth repeating.
Virgin Voyages: A New Era in Cruising
Stepping aboard a Virgin Voyages (VV) ship, it’s evident from the outset that this isn’t your typical cruise experience. With its adult-only atmosphere and modern approach to seafaring, VV sets itself apart in a myriad of ways. As someone well-versed in traditional cruising, I embarked on my first VV voyage with an open mind, ready to embrace the differences and discover what makes this cruise line truly special.
Money Saving Advice from Seasoned Cruisers
Those who’ve cruised even once will quickly notice cruise lines try to get you to spend more money once onboard. A little secret is it’s one of the ways they keep their fares down. With low fares and fierce competition between the brands, they find ways to make extra money once you’re onboard or even before you sail.
European Travel Just Got Easier: ETIAS Update
European Travel Information and Authorization System, a travel authorization program that Europe has been working on. However, there’s another update in the pipeline, and once again, it’s been delayed, this time until 2025.
Expedition Cruises Unveiled: What You Need to Know Before You Set Sail
Expedition cruises are unlike their ocean and river counterparts. While traditional cruises focus on entertainment, expedition cruises pivot towards education. Onboard, you'll likely have a team of scientists dedicated to research, fostering a culture of learning and exploration. If you're craving in-depth, knowledge-packed experiences, expedition cruising might be your perfect match.
Beyond Office Supplies: Staples Offers TSA PreCheck Enrollment
When you think of Staples, you probably picture aisles of office supplies, printers humming away, and the satisfying click of a stapler. But here's a little-known secret: Staples is not just your go-to for paper and pens; it's also your passport to smoother, hassle-free travel.
3 Tips for Island Hopping in Hawaii
The stunning islands of Hawaii offer a treasure trove of natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Island hopping allows you to immerse yourself in the unique charm of each island, creating a truly unforgettable vacation. For many, visiting Hawaii is a once in a lifetime vacation and with short flights “hopping” from one island to the next is attractive.
How many islands you visit is of course up to you. Here are some practical tips to make the most out of your island-hopping adventure in Hawaii, ensuring that you maximize your time, discover hidden gems, and create cherished memories along the way.
7 Tips for Renting and Driving a Car in Ireland
A self-driving style vacation in Ireland promises breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, there are some things to consider like the fact they drive on the left side of the road. It’s recommended to have at least one other person in the car to help you navigate, when you don’t have experience driving on the opposite side of the car and road.
Set Jetting: Exploring the Magic of On-Screen Destinations
Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the enchanting world of your favorite movies or TV shows? If so, set jetting might just be the perfect travel trend for you. In this blog post, I’ll dig into what set jetting is and how it can affect your vacation experience. Set jetting, is someone who visits a particular destination because they want to visit a location where a movie or TV show was filmed.
Embark with Confidence: Expert Advice for New Cruisers
You’ve decided to finally take your first cruise! Your reservation is confirmed and now you have questions. Lots of questions. We’ve all been there, so here are my top tips for new cruisers. Even if you’ve been on many cruises, use this list as a reminder to help you prepare for your next cruise. This part might not be fun and exciting, but it may make a difference, when you arrive at your cruise port.
8 Cruise Tips You Want to Know
Cruises are a wonderful way to see the world and there are some helpful things to know to get the most out of your vacation. Even if you’ve been on many cruises before, you’ll likely benefit from the tips I’m about to share.
7 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Alaska
Alaska is another one of those places, if you haven’t visited I hope you get there soon. Especially for those who live in the US, it’s fairly accessible and a wonderful way to see wildlife, glaciers and the vast beauty of the wilderness.
I do suggest a cruise for this part of the world, as the main cities are on the water, so why not have a floating hotel take you from place to place. There are many options to choose from and planning a trip can become overwhelming. I’m here to help you sift through your options to choose a cruise that’s right for you. Here are the 7 things to know when planning your trip to Alaska.
Apps for Helping Travelers with Accessibility Needs
Traveling and exploring new places can be hard enough without a disability. As you know I’m not disabled, so I really can’t speak to the daily challenges one may face. I can however share and pass along some useful tools I have been given - specifically apps.