Can you relate to this? You work hard accumulating airline miles, but with all the recent chaos they’ve mostly remained stacked up. If you don’t use them fast enough, they might expire or devalue with the airlines’ ever-changing redemption rules. This year, why not...
From the Desk of Denise Koranek
A patchwork of rules: The latest on airline mask policies
Face masks have become the norm on airplanes and likely will be required for the foreseeable future. While airlines are following CDC guidance around mask policies on flights, each carrier has their own rules and interpretations they abide by. This includes especially...
Peak Versus Off-Season Travel – Choosing Your Perfect Getaway
If you’re like us, the past year has provided plenty of time to update our travel bucket list. It seems to grow longer by the day! As we think about all the places we want to visit in 2021 and beyond, one important question to consider is the pros and cons of peak...
Travel makes you richer: Here are 5 reasons to travel when ready
Well 2020 was a wild ride! Now that we’re into the New Year, it’s time to consider one of the best purchases you can make for you and your loved ones – the investment of travel. With the vaccine rolling out, we’re confident that travel will make a big...
Relive cherished travel memories right from your armchair
It’s surreal to think how quickly the world of travel has changed from a few months ago. For us explorers, seeing the quiet streets and shuttered ships is a struggle! At the same time, we have a unique opportunity during this travel intermission to reengage with...
Stay-cation ideas once the quarantine is lifted
We’re all dreaming of the day we can go explore as before, and while we can’t wait to travel the world again, simply leaving the house seems exciting at this point! Taking a “stay-cation” in your own town can bring about similar feelings of adventure and rejuvenation...
Travel like an expert: Knowing the ideal time to book
One question we often hear is, “When is the best time to book my trip to get the best price?” The answer to that question varies according to the circumstances of what you’re booking, how flexible you are, and whether you’re content or not with leftover...
Don’t give money to your boss. Take a vacation instead.
With the arrival of a new year (and decade!) comes a brand-new set of vacation days. As Americans, we’re accustomed to long hours at the office plus staying connected in our fast, 24/7 culture. With this level of hard work and dedication,...
How to Take More Vacations Even with a Hectic Life
There’s no doubt that travel is fun, relaxing, memorable and life-changing yet it’s a disturbing fact that many don’t do it. I get it! It’s not your cup of tea. Many “WISH” they could travel and offer me every reason as to why they can’t because of their job (swamped...
What you see isn’t always what you get: Here’s what you need to know about traveling on discount airlines
Choosing a flight can be overwhelming. Even with the recent airline mergers, you’re still going to be confronted with a ton of options on who to fly with and when. Further muddying the water is the arrival of discount, ultra-low cost carriers, abbreviated...
Follow the Leader…. What’s it like to visit Mexico right now?
Last week, Tom, I and friends took a fun getaway to relax and unwind on the Rivera Maya. Mexico has been open to visitors since June without having to shut down since. And it was one of the first destinations to adopt the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC)...
Mexico’s EAST coast versus WEST coast: Which is right for you?
Our neighbor to the south offers up endless sunshine and relaxation, and is our top pick for 5-star luxury;something we can all use right now. In fact, while I’ve not yet visited since Mexico opened in June, agent friends tell me they felt safer there than they...
Alcohol Tainting in Mexico: We Discuss the Facts
Let’s be very clear: safety is our number one priority for our clients. As travel consultants, part of our job is keeping a close eye on regional events to make sure the destinations we recommend will provide the exceptional experiences that you want, and deserve....
Our family’s experience at the only all-inclusive resort in the U.S.
What’s it like at the only all-inclusive resort in the U.S.? My wife and I wanted to find out (along with our 2-year-old son) before trying one internationally, so Denise recommended Club Med in Sandpiper Bay, Florida. This was our first time visiting an...
Welcome to Costa Rica! New entry requirements for a Pura Vida adventure
While small in size, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse nations on the planet with activities and adventures suitable for anyone. Plainly said, if you’re bored in Costa Rica you’re not doing it right! With a temperate climate and an easy flight from many U.S....
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
Hidden fees for DIY travelers – Buyer beware
Since the pandemic it’s become increasingly difficult for travelers to compare hotel and airline prices apples-to-apples. This is due to hidden fees that don’t show up in a search engine until the purchase is completed. Booking with a travel expert gives you peace of...
Checking a bag on your next flight? Keep these items with you on the plane
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....
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.