If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the Western Mediterranean in six-star, all-inclusive luxury, now is your chance! You are cordially invited to join me and Tom on our 2026 Sunset Group journey, sailing from Lisbon, Portugal to Barcelona, Spain, September 13-23, 2026...
Cruises
Announcing our next Sunset Group journey! Come celebrate Denise’s 70th Birthday! Explore the Western Med aboard an all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious yacht
For more information, contact Denise at 817-703-6510 or Denise@SunsetVacationsTravel.com If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the Western Mediterranean, now is your chance! You are cordially invited to join Denise and Tom on our next Sunset Group journey in September...
How to have an enjoyable river cruise: A first timer’s guide
River cruises offer a boutique way to immerse yourself in a variety of countries and experiences. Unlike ocean cruises, the smaller ships allow you to disembark close to walkable, inland city centers, giving you more time to take an excursion or explore on your own....
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...
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.
What’s the best cruise cabin for you?
Cruise lines offer a dizzying array of cabins for you to choose from. Fortunately, your travel expert can help vet all the options for you. Do you tend to get seasick? Want to be close to all the action? Whatever your travel style, there is a location best suited for...
Alaska Yacht Vacation: Client Review
Thank you, Denise for your 3-year effort to realize our long-planned Scenic cruise. Even before our cruise set sail, your guidance was so helpful regarding COVID protocols, Canadian access forms and luggage options. You were always accessible and ready with required...
Do you think a private yacht vacation is out of reach? Think again…
Imagine being in charge of your next cruise experience, surrounded only by your closest family and friends where you get to choose the itinerary. Each day is a new adventure where you can fully appreciate the perfect mix of relaxation, freedom, and adventure all at...
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...
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...
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...
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
Keeping your data safe when traveling: Cybersecurity tips for 2026
No matter where you travel this year, chances are you’ll bring your devices and stay at least somewhat connected while away. Technology is useful and essential, from presenting your boarding pass to discovering nearby attractions, but it’s important to protect your...
Our Sunset Group is sailing the Western Mediterranean in 2026! Get inspired with these all-inclusive excursions (Part 1)
If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the Western Mediterranean in six-star, all-inclusive luxury, now is your chance! You are cordially invited to join me and Tom on our 2026 Sunset Group journey, sailing from Lisbon, Portugal to Barcelona, Spain, September 13-23, 2026...
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...