If you’ve ever let us plan your vacation, you know about the travel insurance conversation and why we always recommend it, especially for trips outside the U.S. Sure, it’s only normal to assume that everything will work out just fine and that that you’ll never...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
It pays to have a friend in travel
May is Travel and Tourism Appreciation month, and admittedly it’s strange celebrating given the near-shutdown of all things travel. However, rest assured; we WILL get back to exploring again! In fact, research shows that travelers can’t wait to get back to...
Air Fees Explained 10 Ways
In the world of travel planning it can be confusing as to how we earn our living. Like what is commissionable and what is not. Because air is non-commissionable, we charge a fee when taking on the responsibility of researching, booking and maintaining your air...
Travel agents can save you over $1,000 versus booking online. Here’s how.
What if I told you that travel agents aren’t in competition with online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Expedia or Trip Advisor. Would you be surprised? These internet giants certainly have changed the playing field in the travel industry, but studies show that...
6 Reasons Why Travelers Still Need a Travel Professional
Illustration of a Travel Agent at Work More people than ever are leaving unused vacation time on the table – an astounding 662 million days last year. Taking a vacation is a chance to unplug, relax, and enjoy what the world has to offer. Removing the pitfalls and...
10 Reasons for Using a Travel Agent in the New Year: Because Getting the Most is Essential
Planning a trip can be stressful, taking time that you can spend elsewhere on other priorities. Luckily, there are options for planning that perfect getaway without the worry and hassle. So enjoy the upcoming year without the confusion and frustration of researching...
When Should You Use a Travel Professional?
Anyone who's vacationed lately, or even looked into a few ideas for future destinations, has likely noticed something. The bulk of today's travel industry is built on one key notion: convenience. With virtually everything available online, piecing a trip together...
Remove the Fear of Arranging Your Own Travel
If you've ever sat down behind the computer to plan a family vacation, you've probably experienced that moment of fear as you make your final purchase. Did I get the best possible value out of every decision? Did I do it right? Remove the fear of arranging your own...
About Denise
My goal is to simplify travel-planning through an equal exchange process where I acquire your ideas and expectations for your trip relieving you of the worry, hassle, stress and time that accompanies Do-It-Yourself planning. Recent Posts
South American cruise 2023: Highlights of the trip (Part 1)
In February 2023 near the end of South America’s summer season, Sunset Vacations & Travel Planning will be hosting a group cruise to the end of the world: Santiago, Chile around the southern tip of the continent to Buenos Aires, Argentina. This will take place on...
Traveling to Europe soon? Avoid these common scams
It’s an unfortunate fact especially in tourist-heavy areas of Europe, that scammers take advantage of even the savviest travelers. Some are virtual pros at extracting money and passports, which can spoil a trip in an instant. Most scams have a common purpose – to...
Skip the security and immigration lines with these 5 strategies
Effective immediately, the CDC no longer requires proof of a negative COVID-19 test for inbound travelers entering the United States. This removes another hurdle that prevented some folks from making the plunge into travel again. With this change, expect to see an...
Alaska cruises: Sailing during peak versus shoulder season
Towering snowcapped mountains, massive glaciers, and wildlife at every turn. There’s a reason why Alaska is one of the most beloved cruise destinations in the world. Just imagine waking up every morning from the luxury and comfort of your balcony stateroom taking in...
A brief history of the Panama Canal by Tom Koranek
It is widely accepted that the Panama Canal is one of the seven engineering marvels of the world. To view in person, the canal is an inspiring wonder. Denise and I just completed the transit of the new locks. It is truly awe-inspiring! Tugboats gently guided our...