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...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
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...
South American cruise 2023: Highlights of the trip (Part 2)
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...
Did the airline lose your luggage? What to do when it happens and how to reduce your risk
It’s a tough reality of travel that your luggage doesn’t always get to the same destination that you do. With the surge of folks getting back out there paired with employee shortages, lost luggage is becoming unfortunately more frequent. While still pretty unlikely,...
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...
What’s it like to cruise through the Panama Canal?
Prior to the Panama Canal opening in 1914, ships wishing to sail from the east coast of the U.S. to the west coast had to make the dangerously long journey around Cape Horn on the southern tip of South America. Through a series of locks and an artificial lake, it’s...
You’re invited to join Sunset Vacations on our Second escorted group tour of 2023 – Ireland!
Is the Emerald Isle on your bucket list? Imagine experiencing rolling green hills, magical castles, vibrant towns, friendly people, and history everywhere you turn. Drum roll please as we announce our next Sunset group tour: Irish Legends, a 9-night/10-day land tour...
Small ship versus large ship: What type of cruise do you prefer?
After being shut down for 15 months, cruising is finally operating with some level of normalcy while still following safe protocols. After all, the cruise lines have had 9 months of practice getting it right. This was further confirmed when the CDC lifted all travel...
Top Tips for Visiting an All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico or the Caribbean
Is visiting an all-inclusive resort on your bucket list? Are you dreaming about beautifully manicured properties with meals, snacks, drinks and activities all at your fingertips for one set rate? Going all-inclusive is one of the most relaxing and stress-free ways to...
Alaska is re-opening. Here are our top picks for land-based adventure.
There is good news when it comes to Alaska travel! Recently the state has lessened travel restrictions by allowing for land vacations without a mandatory quarantine. Instead, you can visit and travel by presenting proof of a negative Covid test upon arrival...
Top Things to do on an Alaska Family Vacation
Just imagine waking up surrounded by stunning glaciers, seeing whales from the luxury and comfort of your cruise ship stateroom, all while being transported from one coastal town to the next. Or envision riding the majestic Alaska Railroad, enjoying lunch while...
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
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...
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