It's Dad's turn now...

NEWS FLASH!
Dad does NOT want a tie for Father's Day!

We have A LOT more stuff than people did just two generations ago. Research shows that an experience is appreciated much more than a material gift.

So, it's time to think about a " travel experience" for Dad that will will make lasting memories. The gift of travel can take many forms - and any budget! It could be a weekend trip with tickets to a sporting event, a concert or an outdoor adventure. Tell what your Dad likes, and I will provide trip options.

Not sure what to select? Give Dad a travel gift certificate in any amount so he gets to choose.

What does Dad enjoy? If he's a golf fan, then you can plan a trip to see a PGA tournament. What about a trip to Scotland or Ireland to play some world-famous golf courses? I can book a trip for one person or a whole group.

I've also got great trip ideas for scuba diving, tennis, biking, boating and more! Is he fond of fishing or hunting?  Is he into motor racing? How about  a trek to go deep-sea fishing or a trip of lifetime to the Monaco Grand Prix?  

Make it a memorable Father's Day for your Dad (or husband). I can plan a trip to cater to any interest. I would be delighted to help you plan a very special trip to create create memories he will always treasure! CONTACT US to plan an unique experience that best suits the Dad in your life.

Have you visited the Pacific Northwest? If not, you're in for a treat...

Been to the Pacific Northwest?

If you haven't taken a trip as yet to the Pacific Northwest, you definitely need to visit this amazing destination!  Of course, I admit I am biased because I was born and bred in Canada. I lived in Victoria, British Columbia before I moved to Vancouver. This beautiful area holds a special place in my heart. You should know that the scenery in this area is world renowned, and I haven't met anyone who knows this part of the world that doesn't rave about its stunning beauty!

We just returned from a trip to this area to catch up with family and friends. I was just fascinated with the different types of trees that you see on the west coast. I had forgotten about the spectacular views of the ocean and mountains in the background.

We try to visit the West Coast as least once a year. During these visits, we enjoy stops in Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon. These destinations offer a great variety of attractions. Alaskan cruises depart from both Seattle, Washington and Vancouver, Canada. I would highly recommend adding a day or two before or after the cruise to explore.

If you are going to Seattle, there are lots of fun activities. You can visit beautiful Mount St. Helens, take in the Space Needle, do a Boeing Tour or visit the famous Pike Place Market. The renowned Washington Wine Vineyards are just 30 minutes away where you can enjoy excellent wine tasting tours. You could also enjoy a memorable whale watching tour or go kayaking in the beautiful San Juan Islands.

Many people do not realize that Vancouver, Canada is just a three hour drive from Seattle. This short trip is an easy drive or you or you can alternatively take a seaplane or hovercraft from Seattle to Victoria on Vancouver Island.  These are the pictures I recently took of the beautiful inner harbor in downtown Victoria where you would arrive.

 
Afternoon Tea at the iconic Empress Hotel is a fun thing to do. Also you MUST take in a tour of the world famous "Butchart Gardens". They are spectacular year round, but especially nice in the summer evenings with stunning fireworks in the night-time sky. 

Visit soon to read about Vancouver. This amazing destination is absolutely gorgeous with SO MUCH to see and do! If you can't wait that long,  contact me and I would be happy to help you plan a trip to my "old stomping ground"!

A Mother's Day Gift to Remember...

Mother's Day is ALMOST here!

What does your Mom (or your wife) REALLY want for her special day?


Do you want to show your favorite lady how much you appreciate her? Travel is a memorable gift that she will love for years to come!


Research shows that the most-treasured gifts are "actual experiences" as opposed to a material gift. Jewelry is pretty, but a trip with memories can last a lifetime!

So what would she like? The gift of travel can take many forms and fit any budget. You give me an idea, and I do the research. What about a...
   - girls' getaway with friends?
   - trip to Disney World?
   - relaxing weekend at the beach?
   - tour of the wine country?
   - shopping trip to New York?


Has she always dreamed of a river cruise, a trip to Hawaii or a mini break in Paris? If you still need inspiration, see my TRAVEL DEALS. You can let her pick the perfect destination with a travel gift certificate. It's a smart gift choice for any Mom on your list!

Let's start planning a memorable trip for Mom. CONTACT ME for assistance in helping make this her best Mother's Day ever!

Creative Way to Achieve Sales Goals

The first business quarter of the year is almost over.
 NOW is the time for business owners and managers to
prepare a plan to reach their sales goal for 2017!

If you are looking for an effective and creative way to achieve your sales goals, you should consider an Incentive Vacation Trip. Research has shown that employees perform better - and stay with their companies longer - when their employer includes an incentive travel bonus as part of the company's yearly budget. I can create a trip to meet your goals - and budget!

Travel incentives can be for both internal and external sales teams. An incentive trip can:

• be used as a motivational tool to increase sales.
• provide a good networking opportunities for top performers to build relationships.

Who doesn't like to go on vacation? Everyone LOVES to travel! An incentive trip combines these two things and provides a great way to motivate your sales people.

So how does this work?  As your travel agent, I put together a package trip that will create excitement and a competitive spirit as your employees strive to qualify for the trip. I provide the options, and you set the sales goals. When included in the yearly budget, companies find an incentive trip generally brings in extra business and improves morale. They can be created for any size budget AND surprisingly are quite affordable.

For example, I can create an incentive package that includes flights and stay at an all-inclusive resort in a tropical destination. I provide destination options that offer group discounts and additional amenities. Our clients focus on running their business, and I handle all the travel details. My fee is paid by the resort and airline, so it COSTS NOTHING to the business!


Alternatively, you might like the idea of an incentive cruise instead! Cruise lines will provide meeting space and equipment - for no additional cost. This way you can attend to business in a relaxing setting. You can also arrange cocktail parties or group outings at a very reasonable cost.

Call me today at 336-790-8911 or email me (jan@takeasuitcase.com) to discuss an exciting incentive trip for your business!

CANADA eh?

 

Canada Topped List for 'HOT TRAVEL SPOTS' in 2017!

 

Recent travel reports show robust travel bookings for Canadian getaways this year. There are two key reasons for the surge.
1. Canada is celebrating its 150th birthday this year.
2. US travelers can leverage a strong U.S. dollar
against a weaker "loonie"!

Canada recently topped the New York Times survey of '52 Places to Go in 2017' list.

One reason is the country's perceived security and natural beauty. It also has easy connections from many US airports.

Canada offers magnificent scenery with memorable places to visit. Sights include the Canadian Rockies, Niagara Falls, the Maritime provinces and historic Quebec City for a taste of French culture....just to name a few.

Rail trips, cruises, city breaks and sight-seeing by float-plane are GREAT for couples and families!

Since I was born in Canada and have been fortunate enough to have traveled extensively in this beautiful country, I am happy to share my travel knowledge with anyone who is thinking about a trip to Canada this year.

I can help if you are looking for a cruise, a guided tour or a full independent vacation. It costs NOTHING to use my service!

• Call me at 336-790-8911 for more information and pricing. 
• Email me at jan@takeasuitcase.com to explore the possibilities!

All I Want for Christmas...

Did you give this as a gift last year?

 

Well, I can stop the cycle of ugly sweaters and socks for the holidays! Be creative this year with the gift of travel!  A travel gift will provide a lifetime of precious memories.

Would your family enjoy a trip …

to Disneyworld?

on a fun family cruise?

to an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean?  

  

Has your wife always dreamed of a river cruise or a trip down under to Australia and New Zealand? NOW is a great time to make that dream a reality as there are some great deals with amazing flight prices and a strong US dollar.

  

Call me to today at 336-790-8911 to wrap up an original travel gift for your loved ones!

10 Reasons to Book a Cruise in October!

Did you know this is 'Book a Cruise Month'?

That means GREAT PRICES on ocean and river cruises!

Here are 10 reasons to book a cruise with Cruise Planners this month.

1. On-board credits.

2. Kids travel FREE.

3. Prepaid gratuities.

4. Amazing last-minute deals on a variety of cruises.

5. Choice of discount packages.

6. Explore Europe on a relaxing river cruise.

7. Unwind with a Caribbean cruise.

8. Room upgrades.

9. Airfare credits.

10. Life is better with a getaway planned!

Visit my website for a list of amazing travel deals. Don't wait - space is limited.