Is Dad a Golfer?

Make it an Unforgettable Father's Day!

Father's Day is coming up, and a travel gift is something Dad will always remember! What are his hobbies and interests? Plan a trip that incorporates some of his favorite things.

If your Dad - or husband- is a golfer, wouldn't he love to play on a signature golf course like Pebble Beach in California or St. Andrews in Scotland? He would talk about this trip for years! If you are also a golfer, you can plan a couples' golfing trip.

Pebble Beach is the #1 rated golf resort in America by Golf Digest, and the scenery in that part of California is just spectacular. If you want a break from the course, there is so much to do in charming Carmel. Enjoy the sensational scenery and visit the area's 15 vineyards. If you are looking for a family vacation, kids will love exploring the Monterey Aquarium. There are tons of hiking trails and other fun outdoor activities.

Did you know there are escorted golf tours where everything is organized for you? There are guided golf tours in Scotland - the birthplace of golf in the 15th century. They will schedule time on links courses, pick historic hotels and stop at the local pub for a wee pint. Perhaps he has always dreamed of playing in Ireland with rolling green hills, century-old castles and spectacular ocean cliffs. I can plan a memorable trip to Ireland as well! The British Isles has many alternatives for non-golfers with historic houses, hiking trails, museums and a great variety of shopping.

If river cruising is on your bucket list, I'm excited to tell you about the new concierge golf program from AMA Waterways. This provide an exclusive golf program on their brand new AMAMagna, which offers a seven-night river cruise on the iconic Danube. This cruise takes you to charming European cities and some of Europe's most prestigious golf courses. Plus, AMA is known for their luxurious rooms and gourmet food. You can golf at world-class courses in different countries on one trip.

Give us a call to plan a very special Father's Day gift he will remember for a lifetime!

Mom would LOVE a train trip through the Rockies!

Want to make it a truly memorable Mother's Day this year? Surprise your wife - or Mom - with a train trip through the Rocky Mountains on the west coast of Canada. This is an amazing way to explore this breathtaking area. Plus, you can share this bucket-list trip with your favorite lady!

There are lots of ways you can explore this gorgeous part of Canada. I can plan an escorted tour or fully independent trip. I highly recommend the 'Rocky Mountaineer' for those who want to travel by train. The viewings are stunning, and the train is well equipped. Check out their YouTube video so you can see what I mean: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_E8X3athRU

If  you have never been to this area, I can assure you that the scenery is breathtaking!  It is an unforgettable experience where  you just sit back, relax and enjoy the incredible mountain views as well as wildlife. Envisage unbelievable scenery as your luxury train takes you through the rugged Rocky Mountains. The best part is you don't have to drive! The glass domed rail cars allow you to see everything. They don't let you go hungry neither - the food is exquisite and is served with a selection of wonderful wines.

They offer 65 unique packages that cover four distinct routes. Trips depart from either Vancouver or Calgary in Canada. You can also start a tour in Seattle. There are many flight options to these three cities. You have a choice of 1-4 nights, 4-7 nights, 7-14 nights or 14+ night tours. Many people add on an Alaskan cruise, which can also be booked in conjunction with a rail trip through their partnership with Holland America Cruise Lines.

The rail packages offer a choice of accommodation with moderately-priced Silverleaf hotels or their luxury Goldleaf hotels. Here is a photo from one of the tour options that includes beautiful Lake Louise and Banff. As you can see, the view from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the Banff National Park is extraordinary.

So when would you like to go? Rocky Mountaineer offer train trips from June through October, and they are booking now for trips in 2019 and 2020. Book by June 28,2019 to take advantage of their special offer of a complimentary hotel night in Seattle, Vancouver or Calgary when you book a qualifying 2019 Rocky Mountaineer package of 5 nights or more.

If you have questions, please Contact Me for more details. You will love this part of the world!

A Favorite Weekend Getaway

Have you spent time in charming Charleston?

It's hard to believe that we have lived in Greensboro, NC for almost two decades! We have always enjoyed exploring Charleston, SC. This seaside city is perfect for a weekend getaway, and we try to go every year. If you haven't visited this gem, I would highly recommend it!!

We have visited at every time of the year, and I can officially say there is no bad time to go! If you like the heat, the summer months are perfect. If you prefer cooler temperatures, I would suggest a trip in the spring or fall. Winters are moderate, so this city is an ideal destination for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year or the long Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend. It is an easy five hour drive from Greensboro, NC.

My favorite part of the historic area is the waterfront Battery Park with the incredible mansions that exude southern charm. A horse drawn carriage is the best way to view this area as you travel along the cobblestone streets. You feel like you are transported back in time when you clatter along the streets. Here is a photo taken on our last trip in February.

I would also suggest a stroll along Waterfront Park. Visitors of all ages love exploring the four block city market. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes. Watch where you are going so you don't trip on the cobbled streets! Don't forget to visit the world famous "Rainbow Row". These iconic, pastel-colored Georgina row houses were built between 1748 and 1845. You can also book a walking tour if you want to learn more about the history of this area.

If you are interested in visiting a plantation, the best known one is Magnolia Plantation. It is  one of the oldest plantations in the south and is know for its lush gardens. Another popular plantation tour is Boone Hall, which dates back to 1681. You can explore the main house and see the original slave cabins.

Traveling with children or a history buff? Then you definitely need to plan a tour of historic Fort Sumter, which is a sea fort that was in two important Civil War battles. There is also the military museum at Patriot's Point.

Charleston is well known for amazing Southern cuisine, and there are lots of good restaurants to visit. A trip has often included a visit to Magnolia's, which is always top notch. During our last trip, we visited their sister restaurant - Blossom. It is hard to choose which one we like better! Both are very popular, and I would definitely recommend that you make reservations.

If you interested in planning a weekend getaway, I would be happy to help you book a hotel and any excursions that you might like to include. Give me a call at 336-790-8911 or email me. I hope you enjoy exploring Charleston as much as I do!

Why Alaska is Amazing!

Alaska has wide appeal for all age groups. Visitors fall in love with the stunning landscape, charming towns and exotic wildlife. There are many ways one can explore this amazing region. An Alaskan cruise is a popular choice to visit many areas. Now, there are more choices than ever! Here are my ideas for your next visit.

1. Hiking in the Fall
With temperatures in the 40's and 50's, fall is a great time to get outdoors in Alaska. Hikers rave about the 30-minute walk to Exit Glacier from Seward or the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail near Anchorage. Denali is a popular destination for experienced hikers. Don't forget to wear layers and bring water!

2. Northern Lights
Visitors can enjoy this stunning natural display from mid September to late April. The best time to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Northern Lights is from 10 pm to 2 am. I recommend you plan two to three days in a northern town like Barrow or Fairbanks to experience this amazing sight. An afternoon nap is a good idea!

3. Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge is located in a broad, flat delta. The refuge's marine waters are home to more than 44 species. The drier upland habitats boast populations of both brown and black bears, caribou, moose and wolves. Along the coast of the refuge, the waters of the Bering Sea host a variety of marine mammals, including harbor, ribbon and bearded seals as well as walrus. Don't forget your camera!

 4. Scenic Drives

Renting a car is a great way to explore Alaska. Take the Nome-Teller Road to travel to the western most point in the United States. The drive is two hours without stops. When you arrive in Teller, you are actually 55 miles from Russia. There are many great day-trip options from Anchorage. Drive south from  to enjoy the shorelines of Turnagain Arm or drive north to enjoy the Hatcher Pass Scenic Drive. The views are breathtaking.


5. Cruises
A cruise is a popular way to explore the rugged beauty of Alaska. There are three cruise options - northbound, inside passage or southbound. Many cruises leave from Vancouver, British Columbia or Seattle, Washington. I would recommend a few extra days in Vancouver. Click here to read about this wonderful city. A cruise is a relaxing way to see stunning views. The ships offer delicious meals, a great selection of entertainment and comfortable rooms.

Ready to go explore Alaska? I would be delighted to plan your trip. Contact me for options and pricing. 

Make Memories on a Viking Ocean Cruise

I am excited to tell you about the Viking cruise we enjoyed in October. I am a huge fan of Viking river cruises, but this was our first Viking OCEAN cruise. It certainty did NOT disappoint!

Viking is well know for river cruises, but they diversified in 2015 with their first ocean vessel. They now have a fleet of six identical ocean ships with worldwide itineraries. They offer popular cruises in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and Northern Europe. The ships also visit Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, Caribbean and Africa. For those wanting a truly one-of-a-kind experience, they have around-the-world cruises!

These "small ships" have just 930 guests on board. The decor is very elegant with a modern Scandinavian design. These photos were taken by my husband in the "Explorer's Lounge", which quickly became my favorite spot on the ship. The multi-purpose area is great for a light breakfast, a quiet area to read during the day or a relaxing drink at night. You can see for miles with their telescope!

The cruise was truly top notch! The ship was gorgeous, the food was amazing and the service was impeccable. I know why they have won the highly acclaimed "Travel & Leisure #1 Ocean Cruise Line" award for three years in a row! With their smaller ships, Viking can dock in places where larger ships cannot. This access allows them to offer more culturally rich outings.

Viking cruises are adults ONLY and an excursion is included in every port. Their modern staterooms are spacious, and each one has its own veranda. In addition to the main dining room, they have two specialty restaurants that are included in the price. We enjoyed the selection of fine wines and beers that were complimentary with both lunch and dinner. I loved having afternoon tea in the "Wintergarden".

Viking have some wonderful promotions with special contracted air prices. Contact me if you would like information on any of their ocean and/or river cruises. I would be happy to help you plan a dream vacation!

Don't delay - the rooms sell out quickly!

I fell in LOVE with Savannah!

I have just returned from a weekend in Savannah and can't wait to tell you about it!! 

I have never spent more than a few hours in this interesting city. I was excited for the opportunity to spend more time there. For those of you who have not been there yourself, Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia. It is bursting with Southern charm, amazing food and one-of-a-kind stores. It reminds me of Charleston, SC - another great weekend getaway.

Savannah is very picturesque with a network of squares and charming cobblestone streets. Be kind to your ankles by wearing good walking shoes! A great way to see the city is the hop-on-hop-off Trolley Tour.

Our hotel was on the riverfront, and the views were amazing. There are several major hotels in this area. I would recommend a stroll along the river. We discovered that they offer a free ferry taxi service from the hotels that was FUN - and very convenient.

Bring your appetite when you visit Savannah! There are so many great restaurants to try. Those who visit in the fall can sample Southern-inspired food at the popular Food & Wine Festival, which is held at the Georgia Railroad Museum. You never know what you will see when dining. We enjoyed a Southern meal on the waterfront - and watched the steamboat go by!

No visit to Savannah would be complete without a stroll down Broughton Street. Browse in the locally-owned boutiques and stop to have some coffee. Visitors fall in love with Savannah's Southern hospitality, enchanting architecture and beautiful Spanish moss.

Contact me to plan your Savannah getaway. It's a great destination for a winter break. I would be happy to share our own Savannah experience and help plan yours!

Ready for a fall break?

Fall is a great time to travel with shorter lines, less expensive flights and lower temperatures! Best of all is the ability to enjoy gorgeous fall foliage.

Here are my top five suggested places to travel during the fall months.

1. Europe
Take advantage of shoulder-season airfares and less crowded airports now that the kids are back in school. I am a huge fan of traveling in October with great weather for exploring.
We have done several river cruises in October, and we absolutely loved it!! The weather is cooler of course - but you just need a light sweatshirt or jacket. We did enjoy basking in some lovely autumn sunshine. River cruising is a magical way to explore smaller cities and stunning views. I took this picture of fall colors from our Rhine River cruise.

2. Montreal & Quebec City
If you prefer not to spend extra time in airports, I would highly recommend a visit to the quaint historic areas of Montreal and Quebec City just across the border in Canada. A cruise is a popular way to see this beautiful part of Canada as well as the Maritime provinces. There are many options of cruises departing from both Boston and New York. Plus, there are many low-cost flights to these cities.

3. Charleston, SC or Savannah, GA
A weekend trip to gorgeous Charleston has always been a favorite of ours. The heat is oppressive in the summer months, which is why we love visiting in the fall. We love touring the cobblestone streets on a horse drawn carriage and the views of elegant southern homes. I took this picture of a beautiful home near Battery Park.

Savannah is very similar, and we look forward to our own upcoming trip to explore this charming area in early November when a cousin comes to visit. Both of these destinations are known for their friendly locals and amazing cuisine.

4. River Cruising in the U.S.A.
If you enjoy history, then you will love taking a river cruise from several destinations in the United States! Create memories with a round-trip voyage from 'Music City'. Board a paddle boat steam boat in Nashville to travel back in time! Enjoy live onboard entertainment and lecturers about the musical roots of this area. This cruise ONLY runs in November and sells out quickly, so contact me TODAY to reserve your spot.

5. New York City and/or Washington, DC 
We prefer to visit New York or Washington, DC once the leaves change - and the temperature becomes bearable. Iconic Central Park in NYC is just spectacular with fall foliage. There are always new gems to explore in NYC. I took this photo of the Oculus on our last trip. Plus, there are tons of great shows to see. Cooler weather - and shorter lines- make fall a perfect time to travel to Washington, DC. You could spend weeks exploring the amazing museums, monuments and memorials. 

So, where do YOU want to got this fall? Contact me for information about these wonderful destinations. You pick the place, and I will take care of everything else!