Have you spent time with stunning VICTORIA?

Victoria, British Columbia that is! It is situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and deserves a spot of your bucket list. Many cruise ship lines stop here on the trip to Alaska from Seattle. If you are planning a trip to the west coast of Canada, I would definitely suggest a few days in beautiful Victoria. You will be be glad you did!

I am lucky to have a great reason to visit Victoria each year! I was born here, and we go back once a year to visit family. On one of our trips, Stuart and I took the small float plan from downtown Vancouver to British Columbia's inner harbor. We were amazed by the stunning views during the 15-minute crossing. You can also take a ferry from Vancouver. There are travel options from Seattle, including commercial flights, a high speed ferry or a seaplane to Victoria.

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia, and the iconic Parliament Buildings are illuminated in the evenings. I highly recommend taking the tours they offer during the day. Victoria is home to the world famous "Empress Hotel". They are known for their delightful serving of British afternoon tea. Those who prefer stronger drinks will enjoy having a drink in their bar that overlooks the gorgeous inner harbor.

If you like to walk - you will enjoy the spectacular views from the inner harbor. No stroll would be complete without exploring the quaint shops on nearby Government Street and Douglas Street. Wear comfortable shoes because you can walk for miles! History buffs will love the Royal British Columbia Museum and IMAX Theater. Other popular destinations include the beautiful Beacon Hill Park or a tour of Craigdarroch Castle (a Victorian mansion).
 
A trip to Victoria is not complete without exploring the internationally renowned Butchart Gardens. Covering over 55 acres, these gardens are absolutely amazing. If you are visiting in the summer, be sure to visit during the late afternoon so you can stay for the nightly entertainment shows in the illuminated gardens. Saturdays are magical when the skies explode during the firework displays.

With a mild climate, Victoria is known as the "California of Canada". It is definitely a gorgeous place to visit that will provide you with lifetime memories. I can schedule a trip at any time of the year to meet your needs and budget. Contact me today to fall in love with lovely Victoria.

Stuart's Latest Travel TIPS & APPS!

My husband, Stuart, frequently travels domestically and internationally for work. He enjoys sharing his experiences and travel knowledge.

I sat down with him recently and asked him for his Top 10 Travel Tips. I wanted to share these gems with you!

1. ALWAYS reconfirm your flights at least 24 hours ahead of departure. It's easy - just enter your "airline reference or locator number" on the airline's website. The airlines often make changes to their flight schedule or have last-minute equipment changes.  A change in aircraft means you have a new seat! You can change your seat assignment online (subject to availability). Stuart suggests you avoid the seats in front of the exit row because they often don't recline.
2. When booking a hotel, read the fine print or confirm the price with your travel agent. MANY hotels now charge resort fees and additional room taxes, which increases the published price. Before you leave, download WHATSAPP to stay in touch with family and friends wherever you are.
   
3. Long security lines in customs are no fun, so Stuart suggests that you download the FREE app MOBILE PASSPORT that will speed you through US Customs. It's available at one cruise port and 25 major airports. Your information is encrypted and is officially authorized by US Customs. Once your passport profile is set up, you can receive an encrypted barcode when you arrive at the port or authorized airports, which lasts for four hours. As soon as you arrive turn on your phone, send customs your flight information, and follow the Mobile Passport control signs to the designated Mobile Passport Control line. You will see the envious looks of travelers waiting in the long custom lines!
   
4. Avoid leg cramps on long flights by wearing compression socks and drinking lots of water. Get up and walk around at least once an hour to keep your blood moving.
5. Download some reading material and videos to your laptop or tablet before you go. Many of the airlines have removed the seat-back personal entertainment feature or charge for their in-flight entertainment. Don't forget extra headphones!
   
6. Most airlines are charging baggage fees for domestic flights and some low-cost carriers are doing it on international routes - so PACK SMART.  Don't take more than you need. Roll your clothes so they fit better. You will have to check your bag if you over stuff the pockets in your carry on because it won't fit in the overhead compartment. Look on the airline's website for the baggage allowance as they do vary. BEWARE that a 'Basic Economy' ticket may only allow a personal item - not luggage.
7. Prep for the screening line. Wear comfortable shoes that come on and off easily. Before security, empty your pockets and remove your belts. Ladies should also take off their costume jewelry. It's a good idea to put these things in a plastic bag in your carry-on luggage to save time.
8. Planning a road trip? Take advantage of one of the FREE apps for your mobile device. Stuart relies on WAZE that offers step-by-step navigation, avoids traffic delays and even suggests where you can get the cheapest gas on your route. "HERE WE GO" is another popular app.
9. Traveling to a foreign country? Stuart suggests that you copy and paste the name and address of your hotel(s) into your notes on your mobile device so you can show it to the taxi or Uber drivers, who may not understand English! Several countries in Europe banned Uber, so Stuart uses the TAXI.EU app that is used in over 130 European cities.
   
10. When traveling internationally, Stuart suggests you download XE CURRENCY CALCULATOR to access live exchange rates and calculate what it will cost in US dollars.

Contact me to put these tips to use. Tell me your timing and budget, and I will provide many great travel options! I can book it all, from flights and hotels to cruises and excursions!

Amazing AMSTERDAM!

I am excited to tell you about Amsterdam! I have had the opportunity to visit Amsterdam a few times. My husband often stops there when he is on a business trip, which provides the opportunity to visit our son, Ben, who lives there. We find new treasures each time we visit the city. We love the character and charm of beautiful canals and 17th century narrow houses.

Amsterdam is a very walkable city. Just make sure you wear comfortable shoes! Cycling is hugely popular in the Netherlands, and there are plenty of dedicated bike paths around the city.

The iconic canals are absolutely gorgeous, and a canal cruise is a must-do outing. The city looks magical at night when viewed from the water. Do you enjoy museums? There are many world-class museums in Amsterdam, including the famous Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum (works by Rembrandt and Vermeer) and modern art at the Stedelijk Museum. No trip would be complete without a visit to the memorable Anne Frank House.

I recommend a visit too to the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, which is often open to the public. It is centrally located in the center of Amsterdam on the west side of Dam Square. TripAdvisor gives the palace a five-star rating.

Of course, a trip to the Netherlands is NOT complete without cheese tasting. If you like beer, you will love the microbreweries and the "Heineken Experience". I suggest you book your Heineken tickets in advance because this is a busy place. Beer drinkers will also enjoy stopping in a traditional Dutch pub known as a "brown cafe". There are trendy cocktail bars for those who prefer something other than pilsner or lager!

If you enjoy cafes, there are so many to choose from where you can sip a local coffee specialty called "koffie verkeerd" (similar to a latte). A well-known cafe is the Cafe Americain (yes the spelling is different) in the Amsterdam American Hotel that dates back to 1902. Vintage lovers will also appreciate the Cafe De Jaren, which is located in a former bank building and attracts a younger crowd with its spectacular outdoor terrace that overlooks the river Amstel.

For foodies, there is much to please your palate in Amsterdam with every type of restaurant imaginable from Michelin Five Star restaurants to popular food trucks. For those who like multicultural food, there is always something new and unique popping up all over the city. I am a fan of the Middle Eastern eateries in the trendy bohemian De Pijp district. My husband recently enjoyed a 'Taste of Amsterdam Tour', and he was absolutely amazed at the variety and caliber of the food offered from the food trucks. Think five-star flavors from food trucks!

Amsterdam is an easy trip with direct flights from many major airports, including Charlotte and Raleigh in North Carolina. Any amount of time in Amsterdam is memorable. Whether you want a dedicated vacation or a few days before/after a cruise or tour,  I would be happy to help you plan a trip to this amazing city. Call or email me to plan an amazing time in Amsterdam.

This is NOT your Grandma's Bus Trip!

Escorted tours have long received a bad rap for offering regimented and BORING bus tours for elderly travelers. It's time to take another look at coach tours!

You can explore many exciting destinations on a luxury coach with a personal tour guide. We work with Trafalgar Tours, and they  specialize in authentic activities that allow travelers to connect with the locals. How about as a cooking class in Florence, a winery tour in Tuscany or dinner with a family in a 17th century farmhouse in the Loire Valley? This is definitely NOT your Grandma's bus trip!

Founded in 1947, Trafalgar has a high satisfaction rating of 95%. They offer over 300 unique trips around the world. They escort guests to Europe, Great Britain, Russia, the Americas, Africa, Middle East, Asia, Australia and the South Pacific. This is a great way to see areas off the beaten track without the hassle of train schedules or driving a car, which can be a scary experience!

Trafalgar creates trips that are perfect for couples and families. They deliver an immersive and cultural experience wherever you go. Enjoy riding in luxurious and air-conditioned coaches with a tour director, which is like having a 24-hour concierge that guides the way! So why drive when you can sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery? Your tour guide and local specialists take care of every detail so you can spend your time enjoying your destination.

They hand pick quality hotels at an affordable price. Plus, they offer VIP access to iconic sites such as the Vatican & Sistine Chapel, and the Eiffel Tower. That means you don't have to stand in line for hours so you can maximize your vacation time. This is the SMART way to travel! The package price includes tips, tolls, taxes, porterage and many of the meals.

Looking for a "budget" tour? Their Costsaver Tours are the perfect choice for solo travelers or those who are looking for lasting travel memories on a limited budget. Costsaver Tours offer tremendous value and provide a selection of hand-crafted optional experiences while leaving time for self-directed exploration.

Interested in going to Ireland and/or Scotland?  Ask us about Trafalgar's sister company Brendan Vacations, who are Celtic experts. They offer guided and stress-free vacations through the beautiful British Isles.

Ready to go?
Contact Us for more information for wherever YOU would like to go!

Tips to keep your sanity when traveling with children!

Traveling with children is not for the faint of heart! I have 10 travel tips that will help you enjoy your family summer vacation. Really!

1. Plan Flight Times & Seating
When choosing flight times, remember to plan around nap time and bed time with small children. In terms of seating, ask if you can have the bulkhead seats in the middle of the plane as they have more legroom and the possibility of a baby bed. Flying with a child under two? Don't assume that they fly for free - contact the airline  ahead of time to confirm if they charge a fee. Depending on the price, it may be worth paying for an additional seat for the extra space.


2. Allow Plenty of Time
If your vacation involves flying, leave early so you don't have to rush through the airport with young children. Check if your airline offers a "meet & assist" service because this can definitely be a lifesaver. It's also a good idea to let children move around before they board the plane to get some of their energy out before they have to sit still.

3. Don't Overpack

We all make the mistake of packing too much - but remember you can always purchase items wherever you are going. Parents are tempted to take a lot of equipment, but it must be lugged through the airport. A light stroller may be all you need because it doubles as a temporary bed for naps. Strollers are also a great place to store jackets and snacks.  If you must take a car seat, I would recommend  a car seat-stroller combination.

4. The Crucial Carry On
A well packed piece of carry-on luggage is a life saver for parents. Bring plenty of diapers, wet wipes, a change of clothing, soft toys and a pillow for babies and toddlers. Pack snacks, medicine in case they are not feeling well and suckable treats for pressure change. Many airports will allow baby milk and food in containers, but check with airports ahead of time. I also recommend that you pack extra clothes for yourself in case you get wet or dirty. Trust me, this has happened to me before!

5. Backpack
A backpack for both the parent and the child allows you to be hands free. Kids will love opening up their backpack to find new crayons, coloring books, small games, playing cards, toys and a portable DVD. I once wrapped up their play items, and they loved opening each one. Don't forget extra batteries or power packs. Young children can be responsible for packing up their own bags prior to arrival, which gives them something to do.

6. Load up your Tablet

Kids love to play with tablets. While at home you may be stricter with viewing times, but giving them special screen time will allow you to relax and keep your sanity. Remember holiday rules are different!  Make sure you have plenty of songs, TV shows, stories, games and Disney movies on your tablet. I recommend packing child-sized headphones so it is more comfortable for them to wear.

7. Choose a Resort Carefully
Often the family is crowded if they all have to sleep in the same small room. This also makes for tired (and cranky) vacation goers! Ask you travel agent for options such as a condo or a vacation rental home where you will have more room and can prepare some of your own meals.

8. A Pool is a Must!

Even if your accommodation is on or close to a beach, you will want to ensure that there is a pool for the kids to splash around and cool down. A pool saves you the hassle of getting off all the sand, and it helps children sleep well at night!

9. Plan for a Slower Pace
Find the right balance - don't overload your itinerary. Let everyone have a chance to pick an activity. Travel specialists find that the most successful family trips are where the children are involved in choosing an activity themselves.


10. Plan Ahead
It's better to plan as far ahead as possible. Don't wait to the last minute because flights get pricier the longer you leave it and resorts/cruises can be sold out.

Contact me so I can plan your trip. I just need your travel period and budget. This will save time so you can spend it getting ready (doing laundry and making sure clothes fit everyone!)

Fall in LOVE with Niagara Falls

You'll Love Niagara Falls!

As one of the world's natural wonders, Niagara Falls is a top tourist attraction. Visitors are awe struck with its amazing 170 foot waterfalls. Standing on the viewing platform and watching them crashing down is absolutely spectacular! You can't imagine the sound unless you have been there.

Niagara Falls is actually on both sides of the border - United States (US) and Canada. There are amazing views from the American side. I think some of the best views are provided from locations in Queen Victoria Park on the Canadian side. Summertime is the most popular time to visit. Visitors who come between May and October rave about the magnificent fireworks and illumination show.

It's an easy destination to visit. You can fly into Buffalo, New York, as Niagara Falls is just a 35 minute drive from there. There are also many guided tours available - relax while someone else does the driving! I would highly recommend a side trip to Toronto, which is just an hour’s drive from this popular site. Don't forget to bring your passport!

The Rainbow Bridge lets visitors travel from the US into Canada (and vice versa). It takes just 20 minutes to walk across the bridge. There's a small fee to cross the bridge. Whether you go on foot, by bike or by car, you must have a passport or proof of identity. Adults can use a passport card or passport book, and a child's birth certificate will suffice. Visit the Canada Border Services Agency for more information.

One of the most popular ways to experience the falls is by boat on the famous 'Maid of the Mist'. This legendary water vessel has been offering tours since the 1840’s!  You can count on getting wet with this experience – but fortunately they do provide ponchos!  The falls can also be viewed by going up or down. Take the elevator down to the caves or book a helicopter ride for panoramic views. Located in downtown Niagara, the Skylon Tower offers an observation deck and revolving dining room.

If you decide you might like to spend a few days on the Canadian side of the border, there are lots of activities for all ages. Adults can visit the many wineries because Niagara is located in the Canadian wine country. There are also casinos and top-rated golf courses nearby. Families will enjoy visiting the Niagara SkyWheel, 'Marineland', a Safari Park, several water parks and the Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory. 'Old Fort Niagara' is located on the American side, which is a 17^th century fort that history buffs will really enjoy.

Contact us to plan an unforgettable vacation to Niagara Falls!

May the luck of the Irish be with you!

St. Patrick's Day is approaching - and that is the time of year when many people consider making a trip to beautiful Ireland! Access is easy with daily flights to most of the island's main cities.

Is Ireland somewhere that YOU have always wanted to go?  Maybe you would like to trace your Irish roots? This island is a good destination if you love Celtic music or want to sleep in a former castle! 

Ireland is steeped in a rich history and is a magical place to visit. The scenery will take your breath away with rolling green fields, a spectacular rugged coastline and rustic castles. You will marvel at the pretty quaint villages and enjoy freshly caught seafood. The pubs are filled with a great selection of drafts, friendly locals and toe-tapping music. No trip would be complete without some fresh fish and chips!

There are many ways to explore this island - stop over, city break or countryside tour. The best way to plan a trip is to determine your length of stay and interests. You can choose from an escorted tour to a self-driving trip (on the other side of the road!)

Ireland is known as a golfer's paradise with a great selection of courses. I can plan a special trip for you and your golfing buddies. The island offers great spots for hiking and biking, too! Dublin is a bustling city with a great selection of attractions. Are you starting to see green?

I can plan a trip to meet any budget. The BEST part is there is NO FEE for my services! Let's discuss where you want to go, and I will provide you with some options. Contact Us for more information.