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. Tipping customs and guidance change all the time it...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
Sunset Groups to Peru September 14-25, 2024
Grandeur of Peru by Alexander + Roberts, September 14-24, 2025 Contact Denise@SunsetVacationsTravel.com or 817.442.5398 to place deposit and secure your spot among 16 guests. A+R's distinctive style: Our beloved Andean Trip Leader Carlos brings history and culture to...
Sunset Groups to Italy April 11-23, 2025
Come join us in the historic country of Italy! From the west coast around the boot to the Adriatic Sea, you’ll witness iconic landscapes, magnificent churches, imposing palaces, ancient temples, elegant squares, incredible art galleries and museums. Arrive at the...
Looking to travel in 2024? Safeguard your booking with these tips
Travel is a worthy investment in yourself, helping you disconnect from the stresses and 24/7 connectivity of daily life and reconnect with what’s important. You’ve worked hard to carve out this time, so protect it! Here are some essential tips to consider that dispel myths and scams and highlight the importance of a travel advisor.
Consider joining a travel group for the getaway of a lifetime
This week we focus on more hand-curated getaways that dig deeper on a specific interest or are catered to certain people. This is a great way to deepen your perspective and develop lifelong connections and friendships
Cruising in 2024? Updated tips for first-time cruisers and important reminders for everyone
Make 2024 the year you take a much-needed cruise vacation! Whether you’re a newbie or experienced cruiser, these tips will help make your vacation as stress free as possible.
How to have an enjoyable river cruise: A first timer’s guide
If you’re considering taking a river cruise as your next getaway, – great idea. Here are some of the top ways to maximize enjoyment while on board and during your stops.
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; one that’s better than any item you could buy? This week we describe the benefits and many ways of giving the gift of travel including using your...
Our top tips to make holiday air travel a breeze
Traveling to our seasonal gatherings can be stressful, particularly if navigating air travel. From frenzied travelers to longer-than-usual lines, flight delays and weather have the potential for added drama. There is hope, however! By remaining proactive and following a few simple tips, you can help relieve some of the stress associated with air travel and arrive at your destination refreshed and in the holiday spirit.
Should you update your travel documents? Here’s the why and the when.
When you travel are your documents up to date? Because a government issued ID is required to board a plane, it’s important to keep your state ID updated and if traveling internationally, your passport as well. When life changes happen, what do you need to update? How...
Will you need a “Visa” to visit Europe in 2024? Here’s what to know
starting in 2024, the European Union is preparing new document requirements for American citizens to visit. Is it technically a “visa”? No. But there will be some additional hoops to jump through before you can begin your European escape. Here’s what is changing and what you need to know.
Stay safe on your next vacation with these crucial tech tips
We all like to assume people are inherently good. Unfortunately when traveling, sometimes that isn’t always the case. With your phone and other technology, it’s a good idea to be cautious when a helpful stranger offers to take a group photo. You key in your PIN and...
A Successful Plan to Beat Jet Lag
As someone who loves to travel, I’ve experienced my fair share of jet lag. The fatigue, insomnia, and general feeling of being out of sync can really put a damper on a trip. So when my son and I planned a trip from Toronto to Perth, involving three different flights,...
What’s the best cruise cabin for you?
Cruise lines offer a dizzying array of cabins for you to choose from. Fortunately, your travel expert can help vet all the options for you. Do you tend to get seasick? Want to be close to all the action? Whatever your travel style, there is a location best suited for...
It’s hot outside! How to travel safely during a heat wave
There has been a lot of news coverage recently about the extreme temperatures in much of the northern hemisphere. Traveling in the summer has its perks – generally it’s peak time for tourism so everything is open and running, but you do need to be weather-aware....
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
Planning to take a long-haul flight? Stay healthy and comfortable with these tips.
As much as we look forward to our vacation, long flights can be physically and mentally demanding. Planes are usually full, and especially if you’re in the economy section, 8-10 hours in the air can seem daunting. This week we offer some tips to combat some of the...
Protect your investment in travel: What to do when your tour supplier financially defaults
Travel operators, like any industry, can be affected by financial conditions. Investing in a comprehensive travel insurance policy paired with using a credit card for ALL payments allows you to breathe easy and focus on your stress-free vacation.
Is family vacation a joy or a headache?
Are you thinking about taking a family vacation? If this evokes images of defeated families, cranky kids, and folks looking like they’d just rather be home, we’re here to say it doesn’t have to be like that! A well-planned family vacation is an ideal way to grow...
Summer flying tips for in-the-know travelers
Summertime is a busy travel period, especially with schools on break and folks wanting to take advantage of the long days and sunshine. Busy airports and hot weather can also cause travel headaches, though, especially this year with the early heat wave paired with...
U.S. State Dept. unrolls online passport renewal for a limited time – Here’s what you need to know
In June 2024, the U.S. government announced a beta release of an online passport renewal system. If you're eligible, the system will open for a limited midday time window daily where eligible U.S. citizens can start their application. After the system's limit for the...