Whether you’re daydreaming about strolling through European streets, taking in the historic landmarks and vibrant culture, or relaxing in the Caribbean, soaking up the sun and crystal-clear waters, the big question always lingers: “How far in advance should I plan?” For many of us, the excitement of planning a trip can be just as thrilling as the journey itself, but knowing when to start making arrangements can be a daunting task. Should you book your flights and accommodations a year in advance, or can you get away with making last-minute plans? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including your destination, travel style, and flexibility. In this post, we’ll break down the key considerations to help you determine the perfect planning timeline for your next adventure.
Cruises
Cruises for both oceans and rivers typically release their itineraries 18-24 months in advance. While it’s not always essential to book this early, if you’re aiming to travel during busy periods like Christmas or Spring Break, it’s advisable to book as early as possible. For other times, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance. Doing so allows you to select your preferred cabin, take advantage of early booking discounts, and choose the perfect itinerary. If you book with us, this timeframe also ensures that we have enough time to arrange unique cultural experiences, secure preferred dining times, and fully prepare for your trip.
Europe
To fully enjoy the historic landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine of Europe without feeling rushed or stressed, we recommend planning your trip 9-12 months in advance. This will give you the best chance to find great deals on flights and accommodations and secure reservations for popular attractions. If you’re booking with us, this timeframe allows us to carefully plan your itinerary and coordinate with our trusted partners to ensure everything is ready for your arrival.
All-Inclusive Resorts
For a stress-free all-inclusive vacation, we highly advise planning 3-9 months prior to your intended travel dates, and even earlier for peak seasons like Christmas and Spring Break. This proactive approach gives you the best chance to find the most suitable accommodations at the best resorts, and so much more. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to secure the most desirable room categories and amenities, take advantage of early-bird discounts and promotions, and ensure the availability of popular activities and excursions. Planning ahead also allows you to make informed decisions about travel insurance and other essentials, avoid last-minute rushes and potential price increases, and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable planning experience.
Domestic Vacations
We don’t book all domestic locations, but we specialize in planning trips to stunning national parks, the beautiful beaches of the Hawaiian islands, and one of my favorite places on earth – Alaska! We recommend planning these types of trips 3-6 months in advance. This gives us the opportunity to book flights at reasonable prices, secure accommodations in popular destinations, and plan any necessary excursions. If you’re booking with us, this also gives us enough time to craft the perfect itinerary enriched with hidden gems and expert insights.
Keep in mind that these timeframes are just a starting point, as every traveler’s preferences and flexibility are one-of-a-kind. That’s why we specialize in curating customized journeys that cater to your distinct style and needs. We’re thrilled to help you plan your ideal getaway, and we look forward to tailoring every detail to make your travel dreams a reality! To get started, click HERE.
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Cruising in the Caribbean is a favorite for many due to its sunny destinations, diverse cultures, and clear blue waters. The Eastern Caribbean features islands like St. Thomas and St. Maarten, known for their beautiful beaches and history. In the Western Caribbean, you’ll find a mix of landscapes, from the rainforests of Belize to the markets of Cozumel. The Southern Caribbean offers a more secluded experience with gems like Aruba and Curacao, known for their colorful architecture and rich history.
Caribbean cruises make it easy to explore these diverse regions without the hassle of multiple flights, promising new adventures each day, from snorkeling to exploring ancient ruins and enjoying local cuisine. The onboard experience adds to the appeal, with premium amenities, top-notch dining, and entertainment that reflects the lively spirit of the islands. It’s an ideal escape for those looking for relaxation, adventure, or a taste of local culture.
I love selling and sailing with Royal Caribbean. They boast a fleet of innovative ships equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and entertainment. Expect well-appointed cabins, diverse dining options, entertainment for all ages, and activities ranging from rock climbing to Broadway-style shows. From the groundbreaking Oasis-class ships to the modern and feature-rich Quantum-class vessels, there’s always something new and exciting to explore onboard. For those seeking a longer and more adventurous journey, Royal Caribbean offers a 16-day transatlantic cruise, providing a unique opportunity to cross the Atlantic Ocean and explore different ports along the way.
Royal Caribbean plans to sail seven ships for the 2025-2026 season. They will depart from various ports in Florida as well as Galveston, Texas. Cruise itineraries include the Southern, Western, and Eastern Caribbean, along with the Bahamas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay. The duration of cruises range from 2 to 16 nights.
Below is a chart listing each ship, its departure port, the first date of its itinerary in 2025, the number of days for various voyages, and the itineraries for each.
Ship
Departure Port
First Sail Date in 2025
Duration Options (# of Nights)
Itinerary
Rhapsody of the Seas
San Juan
May 24
7, 8
Southern Caribbean
Rhapsody of the Seas
Tampa
November 2
6, 7, 8
Western Caribbean
Oasis of the Seas
Ft. Lauderdale
April 27
2, 5, 6, 7, 8
Southern, Eastern & Western Caribbean, Perfect Day
Independence of the Seas
Miami
October 30
3, 7
Eastern & Western Caribbean, Bahamas, Perfect Day
Icon of the Seas
Miami
May 3
7
Eastern & Western Caribbean, Perfect Day
Harmony of the Seas
Galveston
April 27
6, 7, 8, 16
Western Caribbean, Perfect Day, Transatlantic
Grandeur of the Seas
Ft. Lauderdale
April 18
3
Bahamas
Grandeur of the Seas
Tampa
April 23
7, 10
Bahamas, Southern & Western Caribbean, Perfect Day
Adventure of the Seas
Orlando/Port Canaveral
April 26
6, 8
Western, Eastern & Southern Caribbean, Perfect Day
For those looking for unique adventures, including the Pacific Coast, the Panama Canal, and Spain Transatlantic, you can get onboard a one-of-a-kind sailing on a fan-favorite ship. Allure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas have various itineraries beginning in February, 2025.
For more information on any of these voyages, or to start planning for 2025-2026, click here.
Last August, a Travel Agent friend mentioned a FAM Trip to Tanzania. (FAM = Familiarization Trip. These are trips that Travel Agents attend to become familiar with a destination or resort) She had applied a year earlier, and the trip was canceled, so they were rebooking her for 2023. She mentioned she knew other travel agents who may be interested, and they encouraged us to apply.
The trip was hosted by TATO – The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators in cooperation with the Tanzanian Government with funding from the United Nations Development Programme. Like many parts of the world, Tanzania was hit hard by COVID, and this FAM is part of their effort to rebuild tourism.
Fast forward to March of 2023, and I received word that I was accepted and would be going to Tanzania for 14 days! Yikes. What did I sign up for? 14 days is a long time to be gone. 14 days in Africa? What was I thinking?
By July, it had set in that I was going to Africa on safari. I was scared yet more excited. I started shopping for clothes and preparing. While Africa had always been on my bucket list, and I had many dreams of safari, realizing it was finally happening frightened me. I’m not sure what exactly I was afraid of. Being eaten by a lion? Catching some flesh-eating bacteria? Dying of malaria, cholera, dysentery? (Spoiler alert: it was all in my head – this is not the Oregon Trail!)
On Friday, September 15, my husband drove me to Chicago. The following morning I boarded a flight on Ethiopian Air to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and then to Kilimanjaro Airport in Arusha, Tanzania. Luckily I had my travel agent friend Erin with me, because it was quite an adventure!
It was a VERY long day of travel. The flight was a three-ring circus. The bathroom door came off on the plane, and it was carried through the aisle, a woman trying to steal someone else’s seat while that seat occupant was in the bathroom. People were yelling at each other across the cabin. Guests throwing their trash all over the floor. We made it to Tanzania safely (with lots of crazy stories )
Tears ran down my face as I stepped off the plane and saw the Kilimanjaro International Airport sign. Africa has always been on my list, and to be here is a dream come true. After a very long process of getting our visas approved, we made it through the airport to meet our guide Elisha.
We didn’t know then what a huge role he would play in our adventure or how lucky we were to have been placed with him. Seeing his smiling face, I was immediately at ease and knew I was in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Even though we hardly slept on the plane, it was nearly 4pm when we arrived at our hotel and we knew we needed to stay awake. Our hotel – Four Points Sheraton Arusha had a beautiful pool. (Watch a room tour HERE.) We decided to take a dip, and it sure woke us up…it wasn’t heated!!! While at the pool, we met another American. Tyler worked for the Commerce Department and was in Arusha for a conference. We ended up having dinner with him and many more meals over the next few days. We met our first friend of the trip!
Our First Full Day in Arusha
Like most hotels in Arusha, ours included breakfast. It was a great cold buffet with fruits, yogurts, cereal, and more. The hot station consisted of things like stewed vegetables, bacon, sausage, hard-boiled eggs, and potatoes. There was also an egg station where you could order eggs any way you’d like. I learned this is the norm throughout Tanzania.
Elisha picked us up, and we started the day at Sanaa. This non-profit organization trains and employs the marginalized in Tanzania to create arts and crafts. We were able to tour the facility and see everything from shoe, bags, clothes, rugs, and blown glass being made. A kind deaf gentleman even showed me how to make a glass bead. It was an experience that touched my heart and was simply amazing! I picked up some of the handmade jewelry pieces I will cherish forever. Probably the most incredible thing was the handmade safari bags. I purchased one for my husband and we both absolutely love it!
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Then we toured the incredible Gran Melia Arusha a fantastic property that you would stay at upon your arrival in Arusha before you go out on safari or upon your return from safari before you head home. This luxurious hotel offered incredible views and plush accommodations.
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We had lunch at the rooftop restaurant and met the other half of our group. I was traveling with Erin and Denise with our guide Elisha. Erin, Denise and I all met almost 3 years ago to the day on a FAM trip to Cancun. Denise is the reason we were all here together! The other half of our party was Mia, a travel agent from San Diego (my hometown); Francis, a travel agent from Philadelphia; and Vlado, a travel journalist and influencer from Croatia.
I sat next to Vlado, which would be a theme over the next two weeks. We enjoyed teasing each other but also enjoyed each other’s company and had lots of great conversations. Vlado suggested I try the fried crocodile – when in Rome right? Honestly, it tasted like chicken and I’m glad I tried it!
Fried crocodile
We finished the day with a networking event where I met with over 50 safari companies, resorts, and more. It was like speed dating! Afterward, there was a cocktail reception where we got to speak to everyone in greater detail and begin to form relationships.
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While this trip had many amazing parts, the biggest takeaway was networking with owners and operators on the ground in Tanzania. I have people whom I’ve met in person who I can work with to give my clients a first-class experience. There was a news segment produced about the event that you can watch HERE.
Heading out to the bush!
On Tuesday, September 19th we headed out to the bush. I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was excited! We were really going on safari. Little did I know what was in store for us.
We drove about two hours to Lake Manyara. Lake Manyara National Park is about 125 square miles and the sign said: “Home of tree-climbing lions” so that got me pretty excited. Then Elisaha told us that in all of his years as a guide, he’d never seen the lion in the tree. We didn’t either, so that was disappointing.
We saw lots of birds, tons of monkeys and baboons. Even a few water buffalo. The other part of our safari group saw zebras but we missed them
Knowing now what was to come, this park isn’t my favorite. I think I prefer to see animals that could potentially kill me. It’s way more exciting to me. But Lake Manyara is a great park to start your safari adventure.
Lake Manyara
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Then we headed to lunch at The African Galleria. This was a bit of a tourist trap, but the lunch was tasty.
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Then we toured the Galleria which was full of talented artists and beautiful art. The coolest thing was seeing the craftsman carve the ebony. There was also a huge shop where I purchased some jewelry and other items.
Finally, we headed to our accommodations for the evening – Kirurumu Manyara Lodge This is a tented camp with the most incredible views of Lake Manyara!
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This was our first night in a tented camp. I think I’ve slept in a tent maybe twice in my life and honestly, I was scared. If you know me, you know this is WAY out of my comfort zone. It wasn’t what I was expecting at all. The tent is on a slab and has concrete floors. Our tent even had doors. The bathroom was attached and had concrete walls. We had a toilet, shower, and even double sinks.
The mosquito nets were a little frightening, but yet kind of exotic. Looking back now I can laugh. But at the time I was terrified of the mosquitos and other bugs that were going to eat me alive all night long. Add to that we were sleeping in a tent in the wild. With every gust of wind, the tent flapped, and I was sure a baboon was trying to break in. They weren’t. The Massai tribesmen stood guard all night. If we needed something they were right outside and we just needed to flash our flashlight or scream and they would be there within seconds. Remember that movie City Slickers? That was us but in the bush of Africa.
We had a wonderful evening with our safari mates and guides. This was one of my favorite dinners we had. The food was fantastic and it’s where we all started to get to know each other better. Even though we are all from different corners of the world, we shared a ton of laughs over a great dinner.
All of the details of my trip are saved as highlights on my Instagram.
If you would like more information on going on safari, click here to get started!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-09-20-07.51.55-scaled.jpg19202560Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2023-10-14 12:00:352023-10-31 17:13:44Going on Safari: Arriving in Tanzania!
When the days get shorter and we see the first snowflake fall, we know one thing: winter is officially here. For some of us, this means dreading slushy streets or the stress-filled hustle and bustle of the season, but it also brings time-honored traditions and beloved holidays.
It is a time for celebration, for being with your loved ones, for making life-long memories, and of course, for travel.
Cities across the globe illuminate their skylines as they celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the winter solstice. Here are some of the most breathtaking destinations to celebrate the holiday nearest and dearest to you.
NEW YORK CITY
The city that never sleeps doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to winter festivities. If you celebrate Christmas, you’ll surely love the amazing display at Rockefeller Center and the annual Christmas Spectacular at nearby Radio City. Or take a stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the famous window displays and even do some holiday shopping.
New York is also a premiere destination to celebrate Hanukkah with one of the world’s largest menorahs in the Grand Army Plaza (Manhattan and Brooklyn) lit nightly. The celebration includes music and latkes each night at the Brooklyn location.
Kwanzaa, a celebration of African-American heritage, is also celebrated in New York City. The American Museum of Natural History hosts a celebration with traditional African performances and crafts. Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater, a bucket-list destination in itself, hosts family-friendly activities with dancing and music.
ENGLAND
The city of Bath during Christmas will transport you to the time of Charles Dickens’s AChristmas Carol. From the famous Bath Christmas Market with homemade crafts to lacing up your skates at Bath on Ice, this trip would melt even Scrooge’s heart.
Journey to London for a Hanukkah you’ll never forget. People gather at Trafalgar Square to watch menorah lightings, taste delicious food, and listen to local music performances. Many local Jewish groups also host their own events, so there is no shortage of ways to celebrate.
You have undoubtedly heard of one of England’s most famous landmarks, Stonehenge, but did you know people from all over the world come to this prehistoric monument to celebrate the winter solstice? People gather to watch the sunrise as they play music, dance, do yoga and even kiss the famous stones.
CANADA
The city of Old Quebec transforms into a quaint Christmas village in December. Seasonal décor adorns the stone buildings, and the smell of roasted chestnuts from the German Christmas Market fills the air.
When the Christmas season comes to end, the Quebec Winter Carnival takes hold. With parades, ice canoe races, snow sculptures, and Bonhomme’s Ice Palace you’ll never want to leave this winter wonderland.
Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest is an entire theme park of winter merriment. The Toronto park is reimagined and enchanted with lights and decorations for the holiday season. Entertainment, delicious treats, gift shops, ice-skating, and rides are just a few of the many attractions for guests. The Season of Lights is a dazzling light display honoring Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Christmas.
To fill your winter with wonder and experience these destinations and more during the holiday season, contact me today to start planning!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/artem-kniaz-OuhA7RAMWd0-unsplash-scaled.jpg17072560Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2023-07-11 09:00:002023-07-08 13:57:02Celebrate the Winter Holidays Around the World
Sandals Resorts have long been known as the pinnacle in luxury Caribbean all-inclusive vacations for couples. Each offers stunning beachfront settings, luxurious accommodations and the many features that make the Sandals experience a Luxury Included® experience.
The Sandals Royal Bahamian has recently been reimagined and is now offering all new swim-up suites, renovated rooms and suites, 10 restaurants, 3 new food trucks, all new Coconut Grove and the reimagined Sandals Barefoot Cay, their own private island just minutes away from the resort.
Swim-Up Suites. Step from the comfort of your luxurious room right into a gently flowing river pool from a zero-entry platform in your oversized patio.Butler service and exclusive VIP airport transfers are included with this room category.
Renovated Rooms & Suites. In these newly renovated accommodations, you’ll enjoy stylish new furnishings, lavish spa-style bathrooms and oversized terraces and balconies that overlook the ocean.
10 Restaurants & 3 Food Trucks. With 13 dining options, you’re sure to satisfy all your culinary cravings. Six of the ten restaurants are new, offering French cuisine, a British pub, steaks, Pan Caribbean, sushi and fresh seafood. At the food trucks, you’ll find grab and go sweets, coffee, tacos, seafood and Italian classics.
Coconut Grove. This brand new beach club, where you can lounge, dine and play, is a Sandals first. Relax during the day under the shade of the palm trees and join the party at night with live entertainment. Coconut Grove is where you’ll find the food trucks.
Barefoot Cay. With this private island, you’ll feel like you’re enjoying 2 resorts for the price of 1. Barefoot Cay has two secluded beaches where you can relax, go for a swim or explore the Bahamas’ best snorkeling. Throughout the chic Beach Club, you’ll find a pool, whirlpool, swim-up bar, shaded hammocks, private cabanas, a Zen garden with firepit seating and the region’s best seafood house. A short cruise on the Love Runner will have you there in no time.
Sandals Royal Bahamian is located in Nassau, which is conveniently located just a short flight away with nonstop service from many major U.S. cities. Although it’s a quick trip, you will feel like you’re a million miles away with the resort’s easy-going beach lifestyle and irresistibly soothing charm.
Want to be on the beach by noon? No problem. With the resort’s new Breakaway service, arriving early just means more time to enjoy your vacation. Upon arrival, the Breakaway hostess will greet you with a delicious cocktail, and with a quick change into comfortable clothes,you’ll head straight to the beach or swim-up pool bar and leave the Sandals team to take care of everything else.
There’s no better time to get away to the Bahamas, and Sandals Royal Bahamian will bring a redefined luxury experience to your next getaway. Let’s book your stay today!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/download-4.jpeg10001460Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2022-01-30 13:41:012022-08-11 21:36:34Take a look at the Reimagined Sandals Royal Bahamian
Royal Caribbean has announced their Europe deployment for 2023! From April to October, you can choose from itineraries that visit Norwegian fjords, Iceland and Scotland, Spain and France, Greece and Croatia, the Greek Isles, Italy and Adriatic, the British Isles, Western Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Russia, Greece and Turkey.
From colorful Mediterranean coasts to whitewashed seaside Greek villages, the best way to see Europe is with the cruise line voted Best Overall for 19 years running. Immerse yourself in ancient Greek cultures. Sample the delights of wine-country wonders throughout France, Spain and Italy. And experience unique itineraries from fjord-filled getaways in Norway to trekking across the Arctic Circle.
Has Greece been on your bucket list? With 227 islands, it can be daunting to put together an itinerary. When you cruise the Greek Isles, all the decisions are made for you. Unpack once and see the best of Mykonos, Santorini, Athens, Zakynthos, Skiathos, Thessaloniki, or, for the first time ever, Olympia. Royal Caribbean has four ships with various itineraries sailing the Greek Isles in 2023.
Perhaps you’re considering a Mediterranean cruise. With Royal Caribbean, you can take a grand tour of all the classics. Indulge in the delicacies of Italy, marvel at famous monuments in France and soak up the sun on the seaside shores of Spain.
Why do people love cruising in Europe? You get to sample a number of countries and ports without the hassle of checking in and out of hotels, and without eating up precious vacation time moving from city to city. In addition, your cruise fare includes accommodations, all meals and entertainment onboard and (possibly) your airfare. You don’t need to worry about exchange rates or currency fluctuations. And let’s not overlook the incredible experience of cruising – wonderful and attentive service, all the services and activities, the variety of dining options and the overall relaxed shipboard lifestyle.
With nine ships sailing throughout Europe, you will undoubtedly be able to find the perfect itinerary for your ideal European vacation. In fact, you will probably struggle to decide which itinerary to choose. Don’t worry! Nobody ever said you can take only one cruise. Contact me to book your European cruise today!
Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights brings together the stories and visions of the world’s most notorious creators of horror. From cinematic greats and crazed current cult favorites to the park’s original abominations—every year, the legend grows and the experience reaches beyond your wildest nightmares.
As the sun sets on days filled with thrills in all of Universal’s theme parks, the night awakens with a frightening chill at Universal Studios Florida™. Surrounded in shadow by screams and mad laughter, you’re never quite sure if your spine is tingling with dread or sheer excitement. Step by step, you enter into terrifying haunted houses, inspired by the biggest names in horror. Face nightmarish creatures on streets twisted into sinister scare zones. Lose yourself in outrageous live shows filled with diabolically entertaining surprises. Then escape to some of Universal Studios’ most exhilarating attractions where heart pounding takes on a different meaning—until the horror calls you back.
Halloween Horror Nights is select nights Sept. 3–Oct. 31. Contact me today to reserve your tickets to the world’s premier Halloween event!
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/HHN_Hero_O4A9443.jpg12801920Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2021-06-18 11:38:182021-06-18 11:38:21Tickets now available for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort
After a year like 2020, it’s hard to predict what the future of travel will look like. While travel this year will probably not look like what we saw pre-Covid, Americans are still traveling. With a pent-up demand for travel and the vaccine rolling out, it appears that the confidence to travel is increasing daily. So far this year I’m seeing a few travel trends worth noting…
Domestic Travel is on the Rise
Booking.com’s Future of Travel report for 2021 says “local travel remains easier, safer and – happily – often more sustainable.” Their ”Familiarists not Tourists” prediction shows 47% of travelers are planning domestic trips over the next 7-12 months. My most requested destinations this year have been – Florida, Arizona, National Parks, and Hawaii.
Disney is a still a top choice! Disney World is has been open since the summer and even though the parks have limited capacity, abbreviated hours and have put a hold on parades and fireworks, It is considered relatively safe to visit. Add to that it is easy to reach by either car or quick, direct flights, you can see why it is a pick for so many families.
Beach Vacations are also a popular choice because it is an easy way to maintain social distancing and find peace of mind when visiting these destinations surrounded by nothing but the sea.
Short term planning
Normally at this time I would be booking Summer and Fall vacations, but the requests currently coming across my desk are for April – June. With so much uncertainty, travelers are feeling more comfortable booking vacations a few weeks out instead of months.
In addition, with so many still working from home, and kids still doing remote learning, there seems to much less concern about working around school breaks. As long as there is a good internet connection, and enough time in the day to get the job done, it doesn’t seem to matter right now when families travel.
Bucket List Trips
For those who are planning a little farther out, there seems to be little holding back on the types of trips they are taking. Having realized that access to travel cannot be taking for granted, many are looking to book bigger trips as soon as possible.
Travelers are looking for more unique experiences and upgraded amenities in order to stay in a ‘bubble’. I’m seeing more and more requests first class seats on flights, private transfers and suites with more room and bigger balconies to spend more time in their room.
Flexible Cancellation Policies
Before the pandemic, you would need to buy a fully flexible airfare to have the ability to change your dates, which would have been far more expensive than a standard ticket. Furthermore, cancelling your vacation last minute would be out of the question without losing a good chunk of your money.
Now many suppliers have realized that the only way to provide travelers with the confidence to book is by giving them the flexibility to change their hotel or flight booking at no extra cost. Airlines such as United, American Airlines and Delta have scrapped change fees for man flights. Hotels and suppliers are also allowing travelers to change destinations or dates without fees.
Working with a Travel Advisor is a MUST!
Anyone who didn’t have one in 2020 probably regretted it. If you have had to change a trip on your own, you probably understand why it’s helpful to have a travel agent in your corner.
Travelers today need help navigating the new normal in order for their trips to be a success. With a considerable amount of uncertainty and quarantine, testing and entry requirements changing daily, travel agents have become an invaluable and irreplaceable source of information.
Even those who have booked their own travel for years, are turning to Travel Advisors for their experience and expertise.
What are you most looking forward to in the world of travel in 2021? Tell us in the comments below.
To book your next vacation, contact us today to start planning!
Disney’s Blizzard Beach will be reopening on March 7, 2021 and you will soon be able to once again leisurely float across Cross Country Creek and speed down Summit Plummet! First opened to the public on April 1, 1995, this spring will kick off Blizzard Beach’s 25th season.
When Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park reopens, it will operate in alignment with the health and safety protocols implemented throughout the Walt Disney World Resort, including reduced capacity, temperature screenings, physical distancing markings and face coverings. You can find the most updated information on the dedicated Know Before You Go section of the microsite.
Fun facts about Disney’s Blizzard Beach:
Summit Plummet is a 120-foot-tall waterslide with a near-vertical drop is one of the fastest waterslides in the world! Guests accelerate up to 65 mph on the slide, making it one of the fastest attractions at Walt Disney World.
At 3,000 feet, Cross Country Creek ranks among the longest lazy rivers in the country. It takes between 20 and 30 minutes to complete one journey around the waterway – depending, of course, on how lazy you want to be!
One of the world’s longest family whitewater raft ride is none other than Teamboat Springs at Blizzard Beach. Along the winding rapids of Teamboat Springs, you will encounter remnants of the fabled snowstorm in the form of snowshoes, snow shovels, melting icicles and a snow mobile!
Tickets to Blizzard Beach are now available. Contact me today to plan your next trip!
I get asked a lot, “Where would you go?” and that’s a hard question to answer. My list is long. I have the privilege of seeing so many amazing destinations and experiences all over the world. Every once in a while, something comes across my desk that makes me stop and daydream for a second.
One such trip came over a few months ago and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. So, I decided to start a new blog series…’Bucket List Travel.’ Here I will share one trip that is on my bucket list.
Many places are off-limits for now due to COVID and political unrest. Some options are on my list because they are places clients are asking about and I’ve never been. They are within reach, I just need to find the time to go. Others are my true bucket list trips. They are the once in a lifetime trips that I have my heart set on.
While cruising wasn’t possible this last Christmas, I thought this month was the right time to share the Christmas Market River Cruises that Amawaterways offers. Their Iconic Christmas Markets River Cruise takes you down the Danube through Austria, Germany, and Hungry. I’ll be honest, I would go on any of them!
Travel back through centuries as you walk along cobblestone streets through grand cities and historic towns bedecked with twinkling Christmas trees and lined with wooden huts gleaming with handcrafted treasures. Sparkling lights; the festive sounds of children dressed as angels singing carols; enticing smells of hot-mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, sausages and sweet treats of every kind; and timeless wonders are a feast for all your senses.
Christmas Markets on the Danube lets you experience timeless holiday traditions and elegant pageantry in five countries—Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany. Let iconic capital cities—Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna—decked in holiday finery with glittering Christmas trees illuminated by thousands of lights, bells pealing from cathedral towers and children dressed as angels singing Christmas carols, dazzle you. Wander the stalls of Europe’s most traditional and enchanting Christmas Markets, including Regensburg and Salzburg, shopping for handcrafted toys and gifts, sipping hot mulled wine and inhaling the fragrance of gingerbread and roasted chestnuts. Cherish all the glory and magic of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Danube during this festive time of the year.
Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year and get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world’s most timeless Christmas Markets on the Christmas Markets on the Rhine cruise. Warm-up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the “Capital of Noël,” Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. And while in Gengenbach, marvel at the world’s largest Advent calendar, where every evening at 6:00 PM, the brightly lit windows of the neo-classical town hall open and behind each one is a picture by a famous artist, such as Andy Warhol. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
Throughout this dreamlike journey, an overflowing of good tidings and magical Christmas markets come alive on the Magical Christmas Markets River Cruise. A winter wonderland awaits at Prague’s Christmas markets brightly decorated with wooden huts stocked with handicrafts and delicious scents flavoring the air. Be spellbound by the medieval atmosphere of Nuremberg’s main Christmas market, and sample its renowned gingerbread. Stroll through Regensburg’s romantic Christmas market at the Thurn and Taxis Castle, savoring fresh dumplings with vanilla sauce. Get caught up in the magic of Salzburg’s Christmas markets at both Hellbrunn Palace and at Christkindlmarkt, located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and around the venerable cathedral, which is a feast for the senses, from the warm aroma of mulled wine and Austrian pastry delights, to the sights and sounds of holiday performances, to the colors and textures of traditional handcrafts. And while in Vienna, visit enchanting Christmas markets from the regal Schönbrunn Palace to Vienna’s charming Maria Theresa markets.
https://wishesandwaves.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/3a.-Cologne-FB.png6301200Cherihttps://wishwavestage.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_2-1030x184.pngCheri2021-01-20 15:34:432023-04-15 11:10:11Bucket List Travel: Amawaterways Christmas Market River Cruises