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...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
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...
French River Cruise on the Seine – A sample of excursions
Sunset Vacations and Travel Planning is taking a river cruise in France, roundtrip from Paris, October 5-15, 2025. This is a chance to immerse into French culture, delve into history, and absorb beautiful scenery along the Seine. We hope you’ll consider joining Denise...
Sunset Groups to Normandy, France October 5-15, 2025
Take a journey down the river of dreams, October 5-15, 2025 11 days/ 10 nights – Roundtrip Paris onboard the Scenic Gem There are few superlatives that do justice to Paris, a city that oozes romance and is home to world renowned architectural wonders and iconic pieces...
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...
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...
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
Dreading your Long-Haul Flight? Stay Comfortable and Healthy with These Tips
As much as we look forward to our vacation, long flights take a mental and physical toll. Planes are usually full, and especially if you’re in the economy section, 8-10 hours in the air is daunting. This week we offer some tips to combat some of the side effects of a...
Visiting Ireland for the first time? Here are 10 tips
Ireland is filled with lush green landscapes, castles, bustling pubs, coastlines, quaint villages, and more. Visitors to the “Emerald Isle” comment on its mysterious draw that awakens the senses and sticks with you long after you return home. With some of the...
New entry/exit requirements to visit Europe are coming. Here’s what to know.
Starting this fall, visitors to Europe will need to register with an automated entry/exit system (EES). This applies to U.S. citizens for short term stays, defined as 90 days within a 180-day period. This is not a visa, but there are some steps to be aware of...
Are Travel Consultants Needed Anymore? A Fresh Perspective
If you’ve ever sat down behind the computer to plan a 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? With artificial intelligence and ever-more...
Covering pre-existing health conditions with travel insurance: Q&A with Denise
Travel is an investment in yourself, including your finances, so it’s important to protect it with a travel insurance policy. It may be tempting to forego this “optional” purchase, but we believe it should just be factored into any vacation budget to provide...