Pairing rivers with trains in Switzerland!

According to Travel Weekly magazine, "Planes, Trains and Riverboats is a combination that is shaping up as a hot trend!" This lets travelers rebook their cancelled trips with train trips through Europe before or after their river cruise in 2021.

Pre- or-post train trips can be booked throughout Europe in France, the British Isles, Italy or Scandinavia for both river and ocean cruises. What really caught my eye is a train trip through beautiful Switzerland with its gorgeous lakes and mountain views that are absolutely stunning! Switzerland borders France, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Italy, which makes this trip a great way to experience many different cultures.

There are several itineraries offered that can be customized to your needs. You get to select where you stop. One of the most popular river cruise itineraries starts or finishes in Basel, Switzerland. Adding a train trip from this destination provides easy access to Europe. If you are planning an ocean cruise that departs from Venice, you can easily add on a train trip between Switzerland and Venice!

These train trips are booked as packages with your choice of hand-picked hotels and/or overnight rail. You can also add optional excursions with fun activities such as a cruise on Lake Lucerne. These packages can be customized to fit your budget.

Travellers who are hesitant with COVID-19 can feel confident that every precaution has been taken with increased cleaning and sanitation. Train capacity is at 50% or less. Facial coverings are mandatory, and there is now contactless ticket control!

For those people who prefer the idea of a train trip closer to home, we can also help you plan a train trip in the USA or Canada. We are getting a lot of requests for  trips to the National Parks and Alaska! Contact me for more information.

Book a PRIVATE FAMILY tour for next summer!

Are you ready to explore new places? 

So many people want to travel again, but they are understandably concerned about interacting with large groups of people during COVID-19. We've got good news for you! You can book a small group tour just for you and your favorite people. The hardest part is deciding where your extended family or close friends want to go! 

Insight Vacations offer small group tours allowing you to travel as a private group with as few as 12 people! They are one of our preferred suppliers for escorted tours, and their travel directors expertly plan the perfect trip for your crew. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your air conditioned coach with WiFi to stay connected. The driving and planning is all done for your group. Now, that is a REAL vacation!!

There are several trip itineraries that can be booked for small groups. This provides a safe way to visit beautiful destination in the United States and Europe. We want to tell you about three popular places to visit.

1. Enchanting Canyonlands. 
This popular seven-day tour starts in Phoenix, Arizona and finishes in Las Vegas, Nevada. Your journey begins with a stay in beautiful Scottsdale. From there, your group travels to spectacular Sedona and the Grand Canyon. You can opt for a once-in-a-lifetime, flightseeing tour by helicopter or plane. Next up is the barren beauty of the desert and the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Guests rave about relaxing at Lake Powell's beautiful resort. The tour continues through the diverse landscapes of the sandstone cliffs of Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah and the lush cliff-and-canyon landscape of Zion National Park. This natural beauty is contrasted with the bright lights and excitement of Las Vegas.

 

2. Golden California

Have you always wanted to go to California? I would highly recommend the nine-day tour called the "Best of California". Explore the modern and bohemian influences in San Francisco. Wander around the rugged beauty of Yosemite National Park. Relax in the beach towns of Monterey and Santa Barbara. After this restful time, you get to explore the lights and sounds of Los Angeles. Of course the bus will visit Pacific Coast vineyards so you can experience the area's award-winning wines. 

3. France

Is Paris calling? Enjoy time in this cosmopolitan city, which is known for wonderful food, shopping and cultural outings. Enjoy delicious food and wine in the Loire Valley. Travel to the South of France for relaxation on the beach. Enjoy the breathtaking views from your own personal bus. Did we mention that the busses have air conditioning?

The staff at Insight Vacations hand pick quality hotels and exciting excursions. Even better, some meals are included in the package. Each tour provides down time so you can relax by the pool or explore on your own. Contact us for more information about these private tours.

Galapagos is a HOT Destination Now!

 I want to tell you why the Galapagos Islands is the top tourist destination right now. It's HOT!

Cruise Planners recently hosted a webinar in conjunction with Celebrity Cruises. We were amazed at the incredible interest and subsequent bookings for both 2021 and 2022 cruises to this fascinating place. Ecuador and the Galapagos are one of the few destinations that are currently open to American tourists. This is good news because these destinations are on many peoples' bucket lists!

The Galapagos is an archipelago of 13 major islands and several smaller ones. As you are no doubt aware, this magical place was the inspiration for Charles Darwin's "Theory of Evolution" with its abundant flora and wildlife. Many of these creatures are found no where else in the world! 

These islands are located 600 miles off mainland Ecuador. Each island has unique landscapes with volcanic rocks. Due to the lack of predators, these creatures allow visitors to get "up close and personal". This is also a diver's paradise with an amazing array of plant and animal species.

These beautiful islands are protected, and visitors are shown the beauty of the islands by a licensed guide with the Galapagos National Park. The best way to visit this incredible place is by taking a small expedition cruise.

We work with several different suppliers who offer expedition cruises. While Viking is known for their culturally enriching river cruises and small ship ocean cruises, they are now offering small expedition cruises with just 90 guests on board to the Galapagos. They will also be offering land excursions in Peru with access to the renowned Machu Picchu area.

Contact me to learn more!!

Are you Suffering from Tripaphobia?

According to a recent report from American Express, the majority of U.S. consumers surveyed say they are missing travel right now. I couldn't agree more! Almost half surveyed said it was taking an emotional toll and causing increased stress, which leads to anxiety.

It sounds like we are suffering from "Tripaphobia" - the fear of not having any trips currently booked and nothing to look forward to. With the current COVID-19 situation, I completely understand why consumers are nervous to travel again.

I want to share six things I learned that will help you plan your next adventure.

1. The 14-day COVID-19 self-quarantine is no longer recommended!

Travelers returning from a trip outside the country - or their state - no longer face recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return. For more information, click here to read the article from USA TODAY.

2. Dubai is the first airport to employ Coronoavirus sniffing dogs!

Travel & Leisure magazine reported that "the Dubai airport is the first real-world example where dogs are being used to sniff out COVID-19. The dogs do their work from afar, never coming into direct contact with potentially infected or fearful humans. Samples are taken from travelers’ armpits and placed in steel containers designed to allow a dog’s snout to fit inside without disturbing the sample. Test results, which are said to have a 92 percent accuracy rate, are returned in less than a minute." Now that is a good dog! I am sure that other major airports will soon be using these amazing animals. 

3. Delta Airlines have vowed to keep their middle seats empty into January 2021!

Forbes announced that Delta Airlines have extended their "no middle seat policy" to January 2021. Health experts agree that having that additional space between passengers does make a difference. The article stated that "in extending its seat blocking policy, Delta becomes the first major air carrier to extend the practice into 2021. Other major carriers including Alaska, Southwest and JetBlue also have middle-seat blocks in place, though none of the other carriers have yet extended the practice into 2021 as yet."

4. Jamaica Requires All U.S. Visitors to be Tested for COVID-19

Travel Weekly announced that effective August 20th, residents of all U.S. states are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from an accredited lab within 10 days of their intended travel date. This precaution is reassuring for travelers who want to enjoy the beaches and culinary delights of Jamaica!

5. St. Kitts and Nevis reopening borders, but you’ll need to quarantine!

Another Caribbean nation is opening up to international tourism. St. Kitts and Nevis will reopen its borders in October, just in time for fall and winter escapes for Americans. A 14-day quarantine will be required, but then you will be able to enjoy this enchanting island.
Click here to read more. 

Feel safe traveling to St. Kitts and Nevis because they only have 17 reported cases of COVID-19 and zero deaths.

6. Even During a Pandemic, San Diego remains a hot destination!

Local tourism officials in San Diego county have reported an increase in hotel rooms being booked. With new safety protocols in place to ensure that travelers feel comfortable, San Diego is one of the top five destinations in hotel capacity in the country right now.

If you have travel questions or travel concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us for information. We would be delighted to provide you with travel options and pricing.

A New Way to Travel!

 

I don’t know about you, but I am tired of looking at the walls of my house! Here are some healthy ways to travel safely this summer and fall. A change of scenery is just what you need!

DAY TRIP

Travelling by car provides a lot of options. You select the length of trip and when to leave. If you don’t want to stay overnight, make a day trip to another city, state park or winery. You can explore a new part of your state while staying outside. As a bonus, you can even take your pet!

CITY BREAK

I love being greeted by a perfectly made bed when I open the door to a hotel room. The beauty of a city break is you don’t have to go far from home – to feel like you are far from home and the daily chores of being home! You have your choice of small boutique hotels and larger hotels, which have increased their cleaning efforts. Give me a call for options on new places to explore.

RENT A RV

There is a surge is the purchase and rentals of RVs. A RV is perfect for exploring in a self-contained unit. This is a great opportunity to learn what seasoned RV’ers already know. You go where you want to go, have your own bed and easy access to a restroom! There is an impressive network of RV parks across the United States.

GET OUTDOORS

Looking for a great family vacation in the US? Dude Ranch vacations in Montana and Wyoming are very popular right now. Riding a horse in the great wide open is truly spectacular. Book a trip they will never forget!

Contact me for pricing and options on your next adventure! Pack a suitcase, wear a mask and make some memories!

A Great Escape!

Most everyone is dreaming of their own "escape" with the long standing lock down...but where can you safely go?

Here are 5 suggestions of places that are now OPEN for travel: 

1. San Francisco and nearby Napa Valley is turning out to be one of the most popular destinations this year. If you haven't been to San Fran before, must-dos include the famous "Fisherman's Wharf" area with a ride on a trolley bus of course, and the iconic "Golden Gate Bridge". If you are a wine lover, Napa Valley is a just a short distance from the bay area with amazing vineyards - it's definitely a favorite getaway for me!

2. National Parks in the US are now open. Why not consider a fall vacation to somewhere like the Grand Canyon? This picture was taken on our own trip to the south rim of the park, and we were just mesmerized by how spectacular it is. We also really enjoyed nearby Flagstaff and Sedona which are so picturesque.

3. Mexico is open to American tourists - and flights have resumed from many American cities. As of June, popular tourist cities such as Cancun, Playa Del Carment, Tulum, Cabo & Puerto Vallarta have reopened their hotels.

4. Many of the Caribbean Islands including Jamaica are now OPEN to tourists, and they are ready to welcome you with well known Caribbean hospitality. There are so many resorts to choose from in all different price ranges - including many all-inclusive resort options. If you prefer to rent a Villa, we can help you with that too - this is a great idea for a family or friends re-union. You will find new safety protocols in place so that you will feel safe in these uncertain times at beautiful resorts such as pictured here at Sandals Negril.

5. Tahiti is spectacular if you love to cruise and want something different - and French Polynesia is officially re-opening to international tourism on July 15, 2020. Paul Gauguin Cruises are resuming sailing with itineries that include return airfare and a pre-cruise hotel night. Strict cleaning procedures and very strict health protocols have been implemented. 

Perhaps you  like this idea, but are not quite ready to go as yet...so what about a Tahiti & French Polynesia cruise for 2021 to look forward to? There are several small ship cruise options for this idyllic destination that is remarkably unspoiled with unparalled beauty and laid-back charm. Crystal clear pristine water, an abundant marine life, incredible coral with amazing snorkeling opportunites make this a trip of a life time to dream about!

  

Prefer to plan now for Europe in 2021? NO PROBLEM, our suppliers such as Globus Family of Brands are allowing guests to book now and have the assurance that you can change dates, destination, itinerary, or another Globus brand  without penalty. In addition, the Globus Health & Safety Team have established an enhanced program of on-trip protocos & procedures to ensure the health of their guests.

Let us help you get excited about travel again - Contact Me for information on anywhere YOU would like to escape to!

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.