If you’ve missed previous newsletter emails that I’ve sent out, you can find them below! I don’t archive the What to Be Planning ones because they are typically only relevant in the month they are sent. Let me know if any of these make you eager to travel!
2024 has hit us a little harder than most years do - with ER visits, family medical scares, and now our beloved cat, Ptolemy, has crossed the rainbow bridge. It was quite unexpected - he hadn't shown signs of feeling unwell until just last week, but his illness was so great that we were faced with the difficult decision to help him pass to end his suffering.
Read MoreNASA scientists have predicted that 2024 will be "super season" for Aurora Borealis, also known as the northern lights - so where better to catch the painted skies than in Iceland! The best time to visit to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder is between September and April - and if you head to Iceland in December or January you may find yourself luckier to see them as there are only 4-5 hours of daylight during this time.
Read MoreThese clients are celebrating their two kids graduating high school with a big trip to Europe. Their son is very into World War II history, while their daughter loves good architecture and historic places. I think they definitely picked three cities that will fit that bill!
Read MoreLast month EV broke her arm so we "enjoyed" the emergency room and orthopedic appointments. This month brought me back to the hospital as my dad has had some health issues of late, one of which required him to go in for diagnostics (Malcolm and I kept him company for most of one of the days he was there). Hopefully none of my clients felt any type of interruption in the services I provide, but in case you were wondering, life has been a bit hectic for me as of late!
Read MoreGetting the 7 continent badge of honor often seems a lofty goal to people - like Antarctica is unattainable or only for "true adventurers" or those with very high disposable incomes. While of course those two categories of people do travel to Antarctica, it is possible for some of us "common folks" to go there too!
Read MoreShoulder season - the term for the time between peak season and completely off-peak season travel - is a great time to travel to destinations on your bucket list. Being adjacent to peak season means that the weather is usually pretty good still, but the destinations won't be as crowded, and availability will be greater (pricing typically is favorable too)!
Read MoreMy clients have previously taken escorted tours of the UK and Iceland, but this time wanted to join a tour group that was closer to home. They had been wanting to see the natural beauty found in the canyonlands of the Southwest, and this itinerary ended up as the winner!
Read MoreLast month was the month of clearing out water damage from our basement, and this month started off with a bang - literally! My 8 year old, EV, tripped and fell and broke her wrist on the 1st. She's in a cast now for about 4 weeks, but unfortunately has to wait another 4 weeks to enjoy her gymnastics class again safely.
Read MoreWith 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.
Read MoreIt's always a good idea to plan travel as far in advance as you can, so in January, I recommend thinking about your summer travels. And as always, I'm here to help you plan out your trip!
Read MoreWhen you think of spring break destinations, I'm guessing you think of something warm and tropical. Often I get requests for Mexico, Jamaica, or the Dominican Republic as the flights tend to be easy from Minnesota and the rest of the frozen tundra. This year I've gotten several spring break requests to more unique destinations like St. Lucia!
Read MoreAs I take a moment to reflect, I want to thank you for your support and especially thank all of you who have used me to book and plan your travels this year!
Read MoreThis year I took off from new trip inquiries for a couple weeks to ensure I had plenty of time to do holiday activities with my family. The kids and I enjoyed making 6 different types of cookies/treats to give out as gifts to some friends, family, and neighbors - and all were gluten free and dairy free (aside from butter, which my kids tolerate).
Read MoreThailand is a mesmerizing destination that seamlessly blends rich cultural heritage with stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal getaway for diverse travel experiences. Nestled in Southeast Asia, Thailand boasts vibrant cities, ancient temples, and pristine beaches that cater to a wide range of interests. Bangkok, the bustling capital, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences with its vibrant street life, opulent temples like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, and a lot of delicious restaurants and eateries with authentic Thai flavors.
Read MoreThis month for the holidays, consider planning a trip for your whole family. I can't think of a better gift to give your loved ones. Of course I'm always here if you'd like me to work on the trip!
Read MoreThis family was referred to me by another lovely client (thank you for referrals!) and they wanted to spend their kids' Spring Break in London & Paris. As they wanted to ensure they made the most of their time there, they opted for private tours for many of their activities.
Read MoreTomorrow is Thanksgiving in the States, and a perfect time to stop and reflect on what I'm thankful for both personally as well as professionally.
Read MoreMost people think of the desert when they think of Morocco, and rightly so! The Sahara Desert connects with the country, but there are also the Atlas Mountains, and warm sandy beaches on the coast to enjoy. Morocco shares many traits with Mediterranean countries sometimes more so than other African countries, due largely in part to the Atlas Mountains separating Morocco from the rest of Africa.
Read MorePeak season for Europe travel is between June and early September. If you're thinking of using summer break to get your family to Europe, it's time to start the planning to ensure you have a good selection of hotels and activities still available!
Read MoreA previous client of mine contacted me to inquire if I could help. She had a complex trip to plan, with 8 people who came from 5 different airports going to a warm weather destination for a long weekend in January. She wasn't quite sure how to do this on her own, and frankly, didn't want to take the great amount of time needed to figure it out herself. She knew I could help and indeed I can!
Read More
