Summer travel season is upon us, and with that comes high demand for flights and a surge in checked bags going through airports. While rare, every time you check a bag there is the risk it won’t end up on your plane which can cause a stressful start to any vacation....
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
Unwritten rules for flying: Travel etiquette to make everyone’s experience better (Part 2)
With summer travel just around the corner and air travel demand expected to come back in a big way, a few small steps can make the experience better for everyone. We’ve all heard of folks making some really bad decisions while flying which can result in jail time and...
Unwritten rules for flying: Travel etiquette to make everyone’s experience better (Part 1)
Air travel is increasingly stressful, but being aware of some simple etiquette tips can avoid meltdowns and make everyone’s experience just a little bit better.
10 Gorgeous Reasons to Visit the Emerald Isle, Ireland
Why do millions visit and continue to return to Ireland? This week we focus on 10 of the most beautiful sites in Ireland and invite you to join our small-group tour this October 2023.
Is it worth the splurge? What we recommend you spend some extra dollars on for a truly spectacular vacation
If you’re the type of person who wants to travel well, some upgrades can make a big difference in shifting from a good trip to one you’ll cherish forever. Booking early is key! These are our top upgrades worth splurging on.
Why take a tour for your next getaway? Here are our top reasons
As tempting as setting out on your own adventure may be, we’re big fans of going with a tour group. Even for seasoned travelers, taking a tour relieves the stress of going-it-alone planning and provides peace of mind knowing all the details are being taken care of....
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...
Protect your cybersecurity when traveling: Our top tips
Did you know that approximately 1 in 4 international travelers have been victims of hacked devices when using public Wi-Fi? This is a surprising statistic for many, but unfortunately it’s a fact of life in our increasingly connected world. Whether abroad or in the...
Hurricane in the Dominican Republic: Our vacation experience
Like many during the pandemic, we were grounded entirely for longer than we liked. When my husband and I contacted Denise to help us plan a much needed vacation, we said we wanted an All-Inclusive in the Dominican Republic and September worked best for our schedules....
Considering booking a short-term vacation rental from an app? Read this first
In recent years, companies such as Airbnb and Vrbo have grown exponentially across the world. Travelers looking for something other than a hotel room are understandably attracted to these options, which appear to offer a larger space and more authentic experience. But...
New DOT Dashboard Explains Air Passengers’ Rights
On 9/1/2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) unveiled a new dashboard that explains the services each airline provides to passengers in the event of a controllable cancellation or delay. This provides one location where travelers can quickly and easily...
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
Is seeing the Northern Lights on your bucket list? Top tips and ideas for 2024
Nothing quite prepares you for seeing the northern lights in person. The colors and movements are hypnotizing, graceful, and mysterious, and they have captivated people for millennia. If seeing the northern lights is a bucket list item, know that 2024 is an especially...
Airlines want your data: How new booking rules impact travelers
Starting May 1, American Airlines announced that travelers who book tickets through third parties will no longer be eligible to receive AAdvantage miles and loyalty points. This change comes as part of an effort to persuade people to book directly with American...
Travel for mind, body, and spirit: Health benefits of taking a vacation
For some, travel is considered an occasional luxury, something that inevitably gets placed on the backburner of life. Pair this with our American work ethic and the next thing you know vacation days are left unused and the chance to form lifelong memories is delayed...
The latest on tipping: Where and how much to tip in 2024
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...
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...