October 30, 2024 - My Own Backyard

Mid-month, I attended the European Travel Agent Forum in the Azores (a Portuguese island chain in the Atlantic). First of all - if you haven't been here, it was BEA-U-TI-FUL. It reminded me of a cross between Hawaii (there are 9 islands here and each is a little bit different with different charm) and Ireland (lots of quaint farms with cows roaming, and very green). I only got to explore one island, Terceira, but some of my colleagues went on to see 2 or 3 others, and their pictures and stories were amazing. If you're looking to check this island chain off your bucket list, I'd recommend planning to travel in the summer months, when weather is warmest and there's the most activities going on.

My Own BackyardKara BrownOctober 31, 2024halloween, portugal, Azores, Lisbon, Summer travelComment

July 10, 2024 - What NOT to Be Planning: Italy 2025

I'm throwing the usual planning guide on its head this month: instead of telling you what to plan, I'm going to tell you what you shouldn't be planning for 2025, and that is Italy, particularly Rome.

What to be PlanningKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024italy, portugal, spain, greece, franceComment

January 24, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Spain

With a long history that is different than most of its European relatives, Spain is a terrific place to travel to. Situated on the Iberian peninsula in Western Europe, Spain has influence from not only its European neighbors, but also exhibits unique Moorish architecture and some Islamic ties from their neighbors to the south.

Destination SpotlightKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024spain, alhambra, cadiz, madrid, portugal, morocco, france, basque, seville, barcelona, prado, la camina, pilgrimage, la sagrada familiaComment

July 12, 2023 - What to Be Planning: Europe

Summertime in Europe is considered the peak season - meaning it costs more, is busier, and popular destinations, accommodations, or tours can have limited availability quickly. July is an excellent time to begin planning your 2024 summer Europe trip! Ensure you get the flights, hotels, tours, and tickets you want before they are gone or way too pricey. Europe has seen a booming 2023 summer season, it's expecting an even bigger 2024!

What to be PlanningKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024europe, france, belgium, germany, england, italy, greece, spain, portugalComment

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-James Michener