If you’re planning to visit the U.K., there’s an important new requirement you’ll want to be aware of. Starting January 8, 2025, travelers staying in the U.K. for less than six months will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the country.

As the holiday season approaches, travel deals start popping up everywhere, promising unbeatable prices. But are these holiday promotions really as good as they seem? While some may offer genuine value, others can fall short of expectations.

Holiday promotions often appear to be the best way to save on a dream vacation. But in reality, some “deals” come with extra fees, limited availability, or restrictions that make them less flexible & desirable than standard offerings. 

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.

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 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. 

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. 

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?

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.