Traveling to Saint Kitts and Nevis is perfect for anyone looking to get away from it all and reconnect with loved ones. This island nation, known as the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest in the Americas by both size and population. Yet, this tiny...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
CDC announcing guidance for U.S. cruises to resume
The cruise industry became one step closer to operating in U.S. waters when the CDC last week outlined requirements for test cruises with volunteer passengers to guarantee ships can sail without spreading the Covid virus. This is good news for the industry which...
A fluid situation: The latest on cruising in 2021
More than a year after the CDC shut down all cruises in the U.S., there currently doesn’t appear to be an end in sight. So, cruise lines are making their own waves by taking action and moving to friendlier waters! Royal Caribbean recently announced several itineraries...
Not just for the rich and famous: Enjoy the freedom and privacy of a yacht charter
With ocean and river cruises mainly suspended until at least spring 2021, have you considered the ultimate luxury of a yacht charter? Imagine experiencing up close the warmth and healing powers of the water with a small group of your closest friends and family where...
Bon Voyage! Are you sure you want to be a DIY cruiser?
Late summer/early fall is upon us, which means it’s time to start thinking about 2020 spring break plans! This year, how about a cruise? Cruising is at the top of our list because it’s an economical, convenient, and luxurious way to see the world. The price includes...
River cruises in Europe: Which river is your best match?
No matter your age or travel style, river cruising is one of the best ways to see Europe. Rivers are the historical highways of the continent. Each and every city or small village dates back centuries! The experiences are memorable, the charm unique and the sites a...
What’s it like to cruise through the Panama Canal?
Just about everyone has heard of the Panama Canal, but how much do you really know about it, or how it works? Prior to the canal opening in 1914, ships wishing to sail from the east coast of the U.S. to the west coast had to make the dangerous, long journey around...
Think river cruising is just for baby boomers and up? That’s wrong, and I’ll tell you why.
For whatever reason, many people associate cruises, and particularly river cruises, as the haven for retired and unadventurous folks. Perhaps it’s the ease of it all – you board the ship, and your meals and room all-inclusively travel with you. But if...
Make the most of your cruise vacation. Here are 5 awesome homeports to explore.
Thinking of going on a cruise? Whether you’re a cruise newbie or looking to book your annual getaway, rest assured that there is a perfect itinerary to match your style. And while the exciting destinations of your cruise may be the ultimate goal, the...
Our Guide to Visiting Europe’s Christmas Markets
What comes to mind when you think of holiday shopping? Overcrowded parking lots? Long lines at the mall? Instead imagine miles of twinkle lights, festive live music, the smell of mulled wine, and perfectly crafted gifts that anyone on your list would feel blessed to...
Best Souvenirs to Take Home from Ireland
Millions of people visit Ireland each year to view its stunning green landscapes, castles, pubs, coastlines, quaint villages and more. Ireland is perfect to visit any time of year, with changing seasons offering different experiences, sights and sounds. And when...
Here’s what you can expect on a European river cruise right now in October 2021
My husband and I just returned with our Sunset group of 17 which included old friends and now new friends from sailing the Rhine River from Basel, Switzerland to Amsterdam. Prior to boarding we spent a week doing a circle tour of Switzerland that was over-the-top...
Inspired to visit Switzerland? Here are some top sights for your next Swiss getaway
Switzerland may be small in size, only slightly larger than Maryland, but it pulls far more than its weight on sightseeing, culture, food, and adventures. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, Switzerland is a diverse country, taking on the various...
Greece is opening to tourism! Here are 5 reasons to go.
Greece remains one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in Europe. Thinking about the country conjures up images of monuments, white-washed villages perched atop cliffs, and islands surrounded by stunning deep-blue water. Beginning in mid-May, the government...
The Best of Ireland’s Historic Pubs
There's a saying in Gaelic, "Céad Míle Fáilte." Its literal translation is "one hundred thousand welcomes", wherever you come from, whoever you may be. With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, we are reminded that Irish pubs are so much more than just a...
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
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...