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...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
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...
Thinking about an Alaska cruise? Then here are 4 insider tips to remember
Alaska is the place to fulfill your soul’s desire for adventure. If you want to be rejuvenated by breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing, and once-in-a-lifetime excursions, this is the place to go. Problem is, there are a million itineraries for Alaska, and it can get...
Is Alaska calling you? Here are some epic experiences that will inspire you
Alaska is huge. From the state’s panhandle in the southeast to the Aleutian Islands in the west, it spreads roughly the length of Jacksonville, Florida to San Francisco, California. With Alaska’s size comes endless opportunities for exploring, and autumn is the ideal...
10 Exhilarating Alaskan Activities
What better place for an active adventure than natural Alaska. Here you can stay active amidst stunning natural beauty every day of your vacation. We've compiled a list of some very exhilarating options that will take you away from the every day. 1) Combine a...
Enjoy a Dog Sledding Adventure in Alaska
Husky sled dog portrait on the sea ice, Baffin bay, Nunavut, Canada. You’ve watched the Iditarod on television, and loved every minute. The iconic sled dog race that runs 1,150 miles from Anchorage to Nome is one of the most compelling sporting events in the world. In...
Experiencing the Northern Lights in Alaska
Amazing, breathtaking, extraordinary, fantastic, spectacular... There simply aren't enough superlatives to properly describe the Northern Lights and how you will feel when experiencing them for the first time. The vibrant colors lighting up the wide northern sky...
Traveling abroad soon? These are the essential documents you’ll need
Especially for international getaways, travel has become a bit more complicated when knowing what documentation to bring with you. Each country, airline, and cruise line have their own set of rules, so knowing what is required can prevent a real trip spoiler. If you...
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
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...
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...