We travel for many reasons - reconnecting with loved ones, experiencing new cultures, meeting new people – but in every country, scam artists lurk around looking to spoil your trip. Common sense goes a long way, but many scammers are pros that can steal from even the...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
Fly confidently with our 5 favorite travel-savvy apps
Long lines of cranky people, shrinking legroom on planes, folks sprinting to their connecting gate only to see the flight pulling away…what if air travel could be easier? With more and more people taking to the skies, having an...
Tipping when you travel – here are the latest guidelines
Generations Riviera Maya One expense that is commonly overlooked when traveling is tipping. We all know to tip at a restaurant in the U.S., but there are other situations that aren’t always so clear, both in the U.S. and especially abroad. Don’t let tipping leave you...
How to travel without looking like a tourist
Tourist taking selfie at a tropical beach at Maldives Islands Few things are more exciting than being in a completely new place. Think of your first trip abroad – how great it was to experience the new sights, smells, customs, and language. It’s practically addictive!...
Do you know your rights as an airline passenger? Denise answers your top questions.
United Airlines landed in some hot water recently because of the way they handled an overbooking situation on a flight from Chicago to Louisville. In short, four people were required to involuntarily give up their seats after they had boarded. The...
Five Tips for Taking Vacation Pictures Like a Pro
Photography is a great way to weave together the story and spirit of your vacation. Fortunately, you don’t have to be a famous artist to create a wonderful photo album! With these five tips to keep in mind during your next trip, you’ll be transporting your audience...
Boosting the brain, body, and bonding: The health benefits of taking a vacation
Beach Hammock under palm trees American culture places heavy importance on work ethic, which has been particularly evident during the last 18 months. For many this has meant juggling childcare, remote learning, and endless Zoom meetings. We just aren’t wired to be...
Travel rejuvenates mind, body, and spirit: Here’s your go-to guide
As 2020 comes to a close with all its twists and turns, we’ve seen how important physical and emotional well-being are, with travel providing the golden opportunity to refresh and unwind. Bringing an intentional element of wellness into your getaway can be a primary...
What to know about travel insurance in a post COVID world
You’re dreaming about the vacation you want to take: whether it’s waking up to a picture-perfect beach, a tour of Italy, the Alaska frontier or a cruise around the world. You are dreaming of the chance to reconnect with family and friends in a learning, experiential...
Disaster at Sea: A Real Client’s Story
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...
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...
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
Alaska Yacht Vacation: Client Review
Thank you, Denise for your 3-year effort to realize our long-planned Scenic cruise. Even before our cruise set sail, your guidance was so helpful regarding COVID protocols, Canadian access forms and luggage options. You were always accessible and ready with required...
Best ways to stay healthy while traveling
Traveling is the ultimate way to escape from your ordinary routine. But it also comes with being exposed to many people from all over the world, including on your flight, at the hotel, restaurants, and during tours. The last thing you want is to be sick during your...
Do you think a private yacht vacation is out of reach? Think again…
Imagine being in charge of your next cruise experience, surrounded only by your closest family and friends where you get to choose the itinerary. Each day is a new adventure where you can fully appreciate the perfect mix of relaxation, freedom, and adventure all at...
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear – Are they worth the time and money?
Airports are busier than ever and with that comes the potential for long wait times at security and U.S. customs. Fortunately, there are several programs that allow faster access through the lines - TSA PreCheck, Global Entry (which includes TSA PreCheck), and Clear,...
Give the best gift of all this Holiday season, the gift of travel
Are you wondering what to give yourself or your loved ones this Christmas? How about a gift that you already own; that’s better than any item you could buy? People are eager to get back out there and demand is surging. This week we describe the benefits and many ways...