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...
Cruises
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...
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
Traveling with Young Children: A Joy or a Chore?
You may be tempted to put vacations on hold when you have a baby or a toddler, thinking it’s more effort than it’s worth. From personal experience, we’re here to say a vacation with young kiddos can be relaxing, rewarding, and fun with the right planning. Young...
REAL ID required for airport screenings beginning in May: What you need to know
The REAL ID Act has been around for nearly 20 years, with the goal of standardizing driver’s licenses and ID cards across all U.S. states. If you recall seeing REAL ID signs near TSA checkpoints a few years ago, it’s because full enforcement was previously scheduled...
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....
Choosing an All-Inclusive Resort: Our Top Tips
If you’re looking for a stress-free getaway that your whole group will enjoy, an all-inclusive resort may be a perfect fit. With beautifully manicured properties and a set rate for meals, drinks, and activities, you can relinquish the worry of planning to truly relax...
Europe Travel is a Bargain in 2025. Here’s Why.
Even with its consistent popularity, Europe is a bargain right now for U.S. travelers. This is because the Euro has weakened against the dollar, meaning trips in 2025 are more wallet friendly. Fifteen years ago, the exchange rate was around $1.50 USD for 1 Euro. Now...