With ever-evolving technology and regulations, we’re seeing an uptick in travel mistakes that were associated with days past. Artificial Intelligence can be a helpful tool, but solely relying on it for travel planning can lead to false answers and major headaches....
What a Travel Agent Can DO for you
Are Travel Consultants Needed Anymore? A Fresh Perspective
If you’ve ever sat down behind the computer to plan a vacation, you’ve probably experienced that moment of fear as you make your final purchase. Did I get the best possible value out of every decision? Did I do it right? With artificial intelligence and ever-more...
Covering pre-existing health conditions with travel insurance: Q&A with Denise
Travel is an investment in yourself, including your finances, so it’s important to protect it with a travel insurance policy. It may be tempting to forego this “optional” purchase, but we believe it should just be factored into any vacation budget to provide...
Airlines want your data: How new booking rules impact travelers
Starting May 1, American Airlines announced that travelers who book tickets through third parties will no longer be eligible to receive AAdvantage miles and loyalty points. This change comes as part of an effort to persuade people to book directly with American...
Looking to travel in 2024? Safeguard your booking with these tips
Travel is a worthy investment in yourself, helping you disconnect from the stresses and 24/7 connectivity of daily life and reconnect with what’s important. You’ve worked hard to carve out this time, so protect it! Here are some essential tips to consider that dispel myths and scams and highlight the importance of a travel advisor.
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...
Give the best gift of all this Holiday season, the gift of travel
Are you wondering what to give yourself or your loved ones this Christmas? How about a gift that you already own; that’s better than any item you could buy? People are eager to get back out there and demand is surging. This week we describe the benefits and many ways...
Hurricane in the Dominican Republic: Our vacation experience
Like many during the pandemic, we were grounded entirely for longer than we liked. When my husband and I contacted Denise to help us plan a much needed vacation, we said we wanted an All-Inclusive in the Dominican Republic and September worked best for our schedules....
Considering booking a short-term vacation rental from an app? Read this first
In recent years, companies such as Airbnb and Vrbo have grown exponentially across the world. Travelers looking for something other than a hotel room are understandably attracted to these options, which appear to offer a larger space and more authentic experience. But...
It pays to have a friend in travel
May is Travel and Tourism Appreciation month, and admittedly it’s strange celebrating given the near-shutdown of all things travel. However, rest assured; we WILL get back to exploring again! In fact, research shows that travelers can’t wait to get back to...
Air Fees Explained 10 Ways
In the world of travel planning it can be confusing as to how we earn our living. Like what is commissionable and what is not. Because air is non-commissionable, we charge a fee when taking on the responsibility of researching, booking and maintaining your air...
Travel agents can save you over $1,000 versus booking online. Here’s how.
What if I told you that travel agents aren’t in competition with online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Expedia or Trip Advisor. Would you be surprised? These internet giants certainly have changed the playing field in the travel industry, but studies show that...
6 Reasons Why Travelers Still Need a Travel Professional
Illustration of a Travel Agent at Work More people than ever are leaving unused vacation time on the table – an astounding 662 million days last year. Taking a vacation is a chance to unplug, relax, and enjoy what the world has to offer. Removing the pitfalls and...
10 Reasons for Using a Travel Agent in the New Year: Because Getting the Most is Essential
Planning a trip can be stressful, taking time that you can spend elsewhere on other priorities. Luckily, there are options for planning that perfect getaway without the worry and hassle. So enjoy the upcoming year without the confusion and frustration of researching...
When Should You Use a Travel Professional?
Anyone who's vacationed lately, or even looked into a few ideas for future destinations, has likely noticed something. The bulk of today's travel industry is built on one key notion: convenience. With virtually everything available online, piecing a trip together...
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
Lost and Mishandled Bags: How do the Airlines Stack Up?
Have you ever been in this situation? You’ve just arrived at your destination and are eagerly waiting for your bag to appear at the carousel. After everyone has happily retrieved their bags, you’re still stuck with no luggage in sight. Lost and mishandled bags are...
Airlines announce major expansion in direct flights to Europe – but would you fly on a smaller plane?
Flying to Europe just got easier in 2027, especially if you’re looking to visit under-the-radar destinations. Alaska, American, Delta, and United are all dramatically increasing their flight offerings, with new nonstop flights to cities that allow travelers to bypass...
Tipping in the U.S. and Abroad: The Latest Etiquette
Tipping while on vacation is a necessary but commonly overlooked expense. Whether we like it or not, tipping is just part of the culture here in the U.S. and is becoming more common abroad. We all know to tip at a restaurant in the U.S., but there are other situations...
Do you have SSSS on your boarding pass? Here’s what that means and how to prepare
It’s possible when flying you might see SSSS printed on your boarding pass. This stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection, and while it can add some time to the security process, it’s not something to be too concerned about. There are a lot of codes and other...
Alaska for all travel styles: Our top list of exhilarating activities
Is Alaska on your bucket list? Now is a great time to head to the Last Frontier, America’s vast 49th state. Alaska is like nowhere else, with stunning glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and even charming cities and towns. There is something for everyone at all times of...