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...
Cruises
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...
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...
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...
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
Do your homework before you leave: These international laws may surprise you
One of the joys of travel is stepping outside your comfort zone and experiencing all the sights and sounds of a new culture. Anytime you leave the U.S., though, you’re likely to encounter different laws, some of which may seem trivial to you but are taken seriously....
Traveling During Hurricane Season: What NOT To Do
Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th each year, and in 2024 there were a total of 11 hurricanes that impacted the Caribbean and U.S. Besides the untold loss of property and life that hurricanes cause to residents, this time of year can create...
DOT Unveils New Refund Requirements for Airlines: Here’s What to Know
As of October 28, 2024, the U.S. Department of Transportation has a new policy in effect that requires airlines to automatically issue refunds within 7 business days to travelers in certain situations. Previously, air travelers often had to request refunds through...
How to handle confusing rental car questions
Renting a car is sometimes a necessity when you travel. You might be inclined to think it’s as simple as booking the car, picking it up, and driving away. But the process is a bit more complicated these days. From all the extra questions the rental agent asks, to...
Stay safe when traveling with these expert tips and gadgets
Travel creates rich and rewarding experiences with memories that can last a lifetime. For the most part, the world is a pretty safe place for travelers, but bad actors exist, and this can turn a stress-free trip into a real spoiler. Being aware of your surroundings,...