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...
Cruises
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
Is family vacation a joy or a headache?
Are you thinking about taking a family vacation? If this evokes images of defeated families, cranky kids, and folks looking like they’d just rather be home, we’re here to say it doesn’t have to be like that! A well-planned family vacation is an ideal way to grow...
Summer flying tips for in-the-know travelers
Summertime is a busy travel period, especially with schools on break and folks wanting to take advantage of the long days and sunshine. Busy airports and hot weather can also cause travel headaches, though, especially this year with the early heat wave paired with...
U.S. State Dept. unrolls online passport renewal for a limited time – Here’s what you need to know
In June 2024, the U.S. government announced a beta release of an online passport renewal system. If you're eligible, the system will open for a limited midday time window daily where eligible U.S. citizens can start their application. After the system's limit for the...
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...