When will travel commence to Europe?

The travel world has been turned upside down; but don't despair, things are gradually making a come back. People are tired of staying at home and asking when will I be able to travel to Europe again? It's time to start planning and have something to look forward to!

Portugal was the first European country to re-open as fortunately it was relatively "Corona free". Cafes & restaurants there reopened in May, and hotels followed at the beginning of June with new hygiene measures. Locals and visitors are required to social-distance at all times and wear face coverings on public transport, with masks also recommended for all public outings.

Europe is slowly re-opening its doors as many of its iconic museums are finally preparing to re-open and lift the spirits of travelers who have been on lock-down for so long! In Paris, the Versailles Palace is once again open now, the Musee d'Orsay is scheduled to reopen on June 23rd, and visitors will be able to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre soon as their scheduled reopening date is July 6th.

In Rome the Colosseum has finally reopened this month, as well as the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Major attractions first need to be made safe for staff and visitors. Some of Europe's other major cultural sites are also taking their time to reopen.

So what will the new normal look like - and what safety precautions will they we taking before re-opening?
Visitors will be required to wear protective masks and have their temperatures taken, and entrance times will be staggered to limit crowds.

When you are feeling ready to travel again, I would be happy to help you plan a dream vacation - and we are here to answer any questions you might have.

Top American Travel Destinations

Explore your Backyard!

Americans are starting to leave their homes after sheltering in place. While many had to cancel their international travel plans, there are some GREAT options in our own backyard. I want to share some travel ideas with you.

Viking River Cruises on the Mississippi

The first group of visitors will cruise down the Mississippi River in August 2022 on a brand new ship from Viking. Many of the sailings are already booked as many Americans want to travel closer to home. Contact me to get details about open dates.

Envisage meandering down the mighty Mississippi on a brand new Scandinavian style ship, which will be very different to the ships currently sailing in the US. You can immerse yourself in American history and culture as you glide along the great Mississippi. Enjoy seeing picturesque towns and pastoral farm land as you slowly drift along the river. The ship offers gourmet food, complementary beer/wine and outdoor dining options. Their prices are competitive for this all-inclusive sailing.

Viking will be offering three 8 day itineraries. The "Heart of the Delta" goes from New Orleans to Memphis; the northern itinerary  goes from "St. Louis to St. Paul"; and their Southern Celebration offers a New Orleans return option. The 15 day sailing travels from St. Paul to New Orleans, and the reverse trip is also an option. Guests will explore 10 states on this longer sailing.

Grand Canyon

This natural wonder should be on everyone's bucket list to visit. There is plenty of space and fresh air on offer! You can visit the South or North Rim. You have plenty of travel options, too! You can fill the car and take a road trip! This option would give you the chance to see middle America. You can fly into Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, which is 92 scenic miles from the South Rim. Many visitors like the bus shuttle that runs between the two rims.
Charleston, SC

It's a short drive to enjoy some serious Southern charm! I love strolling by the waterfront mansions in Battery Park. If you don't feel like walking, then enjoy a horse-drawn carriage. Millions of photos have been taken of Rainbow Row - the colorful row houses that were building between 1748 and 1845. Foodies love this city for its wide array of culinary treats. History buffs will enjoy visiting Magnolia Plantation or Fort Sumter. Charming Charleston has so much to offer at any time of the year.

New Orleans

There is always a party going on in the French Quarter in New Orleans! This vibrant city is know for its music, Creole cuisine and walking ghost tours. I HIGHLY recommend visiting the National World War II Museum, which is rated as one of the best in the country. Wear good walking shoes because this is a great way to explore the city. They city is busy from February to May with cooler temperatures and a wide variety of celebration. A trip in December or January is also a good option when things are calmer.

Contact me for more information on any of these American gems. I can get you prices for travel, attractions and hotels.

What to do AFTER Covid-19

This unprecedented pandemic has slammed everyone back on their heels! It is important to remain positive and know this difficult time will soon be behind us. Remember 'we are all in this together!' Now is actually a GREAT time to plan a trip - so start dreaming!!

For those who had booked vacations for the near future, many of our suppliers are offering very generous future travel credits. For those who had not booked anything, now is a great time to think about where you might like to go later in the year or in 2021 when this terrible virus is just a bad memory. Booking now will give you something wonderful to dream about. There are some generous incentives for those who are booking travel later this year and in 2021. Why not take advantage of these amazing deals while you can?



As the temperatures increase, travel within the U.S. will also warm up. Families rave about great experiences on a historic river cruise. The American Queen Steamboat Company specializes in paddle boat river cruises in the US. This month they are inaugurating the brand new "American Countess" that will sail on the Tennessee, Ohio, Cumberland, and Mississippi rivers. What a wonderful way to explore our lovely country. This is an all-inclusive small ship with multi-course fine dining. Even better, this trip includes complimentary beverages, nightly entertainment, free internet and on-board enrichment programs. This is a wonderful and relaxing experience for all ages. It is popular choice for extended family vacations because no one has to drive or cook! 



So where's YOUR next adventure going to be?

There are so many possibilities, so think about where you would like to go next and book it NOW to take advantage of great pricing. Here are some suggestions for you.

1. Active families might enjoy hiking in the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone area.

2. How about a train trip through the Rocky Mountains?









3. Foodies would love to eat and drink their way through Napa Valley.

4. Have you always dreamed of going to a dude ranch?

Now’s the time to get excited about your next adventure!

Contact me to help you plan your next getaway. We will all need a break once this over!

Plan a Staycation

The Cornovirus has drastically changed our travel plans. We are being encouraged to practice social distancing and to avoid groups larger than 10 people. Thankfully, the weather has been amazing so we can get outside in the fresh air.

Many school-age children are about to have their Spring Break. I thought it would be helpful to share some 'staycation' ideas so you can visit some outdoor spaces. This will allow your family to explore some local treasures that are within driving distance of your home. As a bonus, you get great family time AND get to sleep in your own bed at night. Don't forget to pack your hand sanitizer, tissues and bottled water.

GO BIKING
North Carolina's state parks, trails and bathroom facilities are currently open from 8 am to 8 pm. Don't forget to take your helmet!

OUTDOOR DINING
Although restaurants are currently closed, you can still dine in a nice spot! Call your favorite restaurant for a take-out order. Then head to a quiet park or outdoor space for some al fresco dining. As an added bonus, it will be much more quiet than a normal restaurant. You can play your favorite music on your phone.

TAKE A HIKE
Grab your favorite walking partner and hit the trails. There are extensive trails - urban and rural - throughout North Carolina. There are three great reasons to go for a hike. First, it is FREE! Second, it is a great way to get exercise. Third, it allows you to experience your area in a whole different way.

HIT THE BEACH
Yes, the water is NOT warm at this time of year. But, it will be nice to stroll on a quiet beach. It might take a few hours in the car, but a break from the house might be a welcome change. You can always get food and snacks from a drive thru.

PITCH A TENT
Although you haven't thought about camping in a while, the current situation makes this a good travel option. You pick the location to pitch your tent. If you don't feel like driving, you can always pitch it in your backyard. This is a fun way to enjoy nature with your family. Remember to back flashlights and a deck of cards. 

Stay healthy during these uncertain times. Let me know what you did on your 'staycation'.

Fall in Love with a Destination Wedding!

Congratulations to all the couples who get engaged over the Valentine’s weekend. Take time to enjoy this special time! I love planning destination weddings for my clients. 

That Was Easy!

1. I offer personalized service. My goal is to simplify the process so that you can enjoy your special day. Many cruise lines and resorts offer full-service wedding and renewal of vow programs designed with plenty of alternatives to fit your needs and budget, including an on-site Personal Wedding Planner.

2. Destination weddings allow you to combine your ceremony and reception with a honeymoon, while offering your family and friends a vacation as well. Some cruise lines and resorts offer FREE wedding packages based on your stay. 

3. Not sure where you want to get married? Visit our calendar to view available wedding venues. It allows you to view open dates at participating hotels, resorts and cruise lines.

·         Select area and browse.

·         See available dates.

·         Reserve your wedding date

If you want to explore your options, click on “Browse All Wedding Destinations” for ideas. Click here to access the Wedding Day Calendar.

Honeymoon Registry

Most couples already have enough stuff! Instead of buying another kitchen gadget that won’t get used, get the gift of travel. Guests can give any amount, and the happy couple can use the money towards a hotel upgrade, romantic specialty dinner, spa service or excursion.

Click here to start your honeymoon registry.

Honeymoons Made Easy

After you say, ‘I do’, it is important to take time to relax with your spouse. Contact me to book the honeymoon of your dreams. I can book a river cruise, city vacation or all-inclusive resort. You tell me your dates and budget, and I will do the rest.

I’m Here to Help!

I would be happy to answer any questions that you have about destination weddings, the travel registry or honeymoon destinations. 

Contact me to make your special day extraordinary without the stress!

Travel Healthy!

The coronavirus is making big news. It is heartbreaking that the death toll is rising.

This terrible virus got me thinking about staying healthy. I wanted to share these travel tips to help you stay healthy while traveling. Of course it is always a good idea to wear a mask through the airport. I know it is hot, but it can really help keep those germs out of your lungs.

1.      Stay hydrated and drink lots of water. I know it sounds simple, but we often forget to push the fluids while traveling.

2.     Travel with vitamin C to boost your immune system.

3.      Get some rest and recharge your system.

4.     Thoroughly wash your hands. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds – that is the time it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice.

5.      Wipe down your seating area with sanitizing wipes. Clean your driving wheel and handles. Wipe down the armrest and tray on your flight.

6.      Use a tissue to open doors so you don’t make direct contact with handles.

7.      This one sounds odd, but it really does work to kill germs! Put a little bit of Neosporin or another antibiotic ointment in your nostrils to filter the air you are breathing on an airplane.

Contact me to schedule your next trip. 

Top Six Destinations to Visit in 2020

As we enter a new decade, I want to share a few of my favorite places to visit.

1.       River Cruises

Imagine yourself meandering down a tranquil river on your own “floating hotel”.  The ships are much more intimate with fewer passengers and gourmet meals. Unpack your bag just once and let the sites come to you as you enjoy the ever-changing scenery.  You are totally immersed in the local culture. There are castles, vineyards and small quaint villages. Every day you can walk right off the ship and into the center of town. Operators offer river cruises through Europe, Russia, China, Southeast Asia, Egypt and Africa. 

2.      Safari

Safaris are available for four, five, seven or 10 nights. I was lucky to spend 10 nights in four different areas.  Our group visited the Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. Sleeping options were tents or full-service lodges. I highly recommend visiting Victoria Falls. This incredible sight is about an hour's drive from Kasane and definitely worth the trip! We met lots of locals!

3.      Belize

Belize has world class scuba diving with the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. Visitors enjoy the sailing, fishing, hiking and exploring over 1,000 Mayan ruins. There are also jungles, wildlife reserves and the largest cave system in Central America. Belize is located in Central America. It is always warm, yet comfortable with the blowing trade winds. The food is also amazing!

4.      New Zealand

It is comprised mainly of two islands - the North Island and the South Island - with incredibly diverse scenery. This small country is surrounded by beautiful beaches, majestic mountains and enchanted forests. If you are adventurous, New Zealand is the place for you! Activities include bungy jumping, skydiving, caving, river rafting, jet boat racing, ziplining, canoeing and kayaking. The islands are world renowned for both fishing and golfing. New Zealand is a magical place, and visitors love the laid back and friendly atmosphere.

5.      Expedition Cruising

One of the fastest growing areas in travel is Expedition Cruising to places like the Arctic and Antarctica. An expedition cruise such as one to Antarctica offers passengers an opportunity to meet penguins up close. You can hike on the ice or kayak among icebergs close enough to touch them! You will see wildlife such as puffins, seals and whales in their natural habitat. These cruises offer professional guides and on-board lectures. The trip length varies with different itineraries, some include the popular Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

6.      Montreal and Quebec City

If you prefer not to spend extra time in airports, I highly recommend a visit to the quaint historic areas of Montreal and Quebec City, which are located just across the border in Canada. There are many low-cost flights to these cities. You can easily visit both cities in the same trip because it takes three hours to travel between the cities by car, bus or train. A cruise is a popular way to see this beautiful part of Canada and the Maritime provinces. There are many cruise options that depart from Boston and New York. 

Give me a call at 336-790-8911 to plan a trip to any of these amazing destinations. The hard part will be deciding where to visit first!