I recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Thailand with EVA Air and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and I’m here to tell you: don’t sleep on Chiang Mai. While Bangkok gets the spotlight and the southern beaches steal the Instagram feeds, this Northern Thailand gem quietly delivers something truly extraordinary – an authentic blend of ancient spirituality, natural wonder, and cultural immersion that will leave you fundamentally changed.
From receiving a personal blessing from a Buddhist monk in ancient temple walls to walking alongside elephant families through lush forests, my two days in Chiang Mai delivered experiences that still give me chills. Let me share why this captivating destination should be at the top of your Thailand travel list.
Two private islands, Christmas week sailings with double Castaway Cay stops, and 14-night Panama Canal crossings—Disney’s 2025 cruise lineup is their most ambitious yet. But with early booking opening August 25th and prime staterooms disappearing in hours, waiting could cost you hundreds (and your dream vacation).
Dreaming of Hawaii but worried about making costly mistakes? You’re not alone. Every year, millions of first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands fall into predictable traps that can turn their dream vacation into a series of missed opportunities and “if only I had known” moments.
From assuming all the islands offer the same experience (spoiler alert: they absolutely don’t!) to packing only swimwear for a destination that can actually get quite chilly, these common missteps can leave you sunburned, stranded, and spending way more than necessary.
As a travel professional who’s been helping clients navigate the islands since 2019, I’ve seen it all – and I’m here to make sure your Hawaiian adventure is everything you’ve imagined and more. Let’s dive into the 10 biggest mistakes first-time Hawaii visitors make, and more importantly, how to avoid them completely.
After six years of crafting European itineraries, I’ve learned that the difference between a magical multi-country adventure and a logistical nightmare often comes down to one crucial decision: which countries you pair together. Poor choices create unnecessary stress and sky-high costs, but when you get it right? That’s when the magic happens—creating space for spontaneous café afternoons in Paris, hidden gem discoveries in Amsterdam, and leisurely dinners that become trip highlights.
After several years of crafting bespoke Caribbean experiences, I’ve discovered that while the Caribbean offers over 7,000 islands, only a select few deliver the perfect blend of sophistication and authentic local culture. From St. Kitts’ intimate rum distilleries to Cozumel’s private archaeological tours, these eight ports transform ordinary cruise stops into extraordinary adventures.
The real magic happens when you know the right local guides, the hidden beaches accessible only by private boat, and the exclusive experiences that turn your Caribbean cruise into stories you’ll share for years to come.