I have just returned from a sailing from San Juan to Miami on Explora I and wow, what an experience!

Explora Journeys is all about sophisticated luxury and a truly immersive ocean experience. If you're looking for a cruise that offers spacious suites, exceptional dining, and a focus on "Ocean Journeys" that let you truly discover destinations rather than just visit them, then Explora could be a fantastic fit!

Here's what makes Explora Journeys special and why someone would cruise with them:

All-inclusive Luxury: From gourmet dining and unlimited beverages (including fine wines and spirits) to gratuities and an insuite minibar, nearly everything is covered. This means fewer surprises and a more relaxed vacation.

Elegant and Contemporary Design: Their ships are designed with a sleek, modern European flair, focusing on comfort, spaciousness, and spectacular ocean views. Every suite has a private terrace.

Culinary Excellence: Expect a diverse range of dining experiences, often with a focus on local ingredients and authentic flavors from the regions you're visiting. It's truly a foodie's delight.

Wellness Focus: With expansive spa facilities, fitness programs, and an emphasis on wellbeing, it's a great choice for travelers who want to relax and rejuvenate at sea.

Immersive Destination Experiences: Explora Journeys crafts itineraries that spend more time in port, offer unique overnight stays, and provide deeper, more authentic excursions that go beyond the usual tourist traps. They really want you to connect with the local culture.

Intimate Atmosphere: With a smaller guest capacity compared to megaships, you get a more personalized service and a calmer, more exclusive environment on board.

Elevated Service: The crewtoguest ratio ensures attentive, intuitive service that anticipates your needs.

Who would love Explora Journeys?

•    Travelers who appreciate luxury without pretentiousness.
•    Couples or solo travelers looking for a refined and relaxing experience.
•    "Foodies" and those who value exceptional dining.
•    Travelers who want deeper cultural immersion in destinations.
•    Guests who desire a spacious suite with a private outdoor space.
•    Those who prefer an all-inclusive, hassle free vacation.
•    Anyone looking for a modern, stylish, and sophisticated cruise.

Overall, if you're looking for a bespoke, luxurious, and culturally enriching ocean journey, Explora Journeys could be the perfect match!

As a top Delta Vacations salesperson, I was rewarded an incentive trip to the lovely island of Barbados! Our host hotel was the Wyndham Grand Barbados and we had site visits at O2 Beach Club & Spa, Sandy Lane and the Hilton.We delivered school supplies to the O2Beach Club & Spa for the Aunty Olga Memorial School Aid Program supporting https://www.packforapurpose.org/

Wyndham Grand Barbados

With a stay at Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle All Inclusive Resort in Long Bay, you'll be on the beach, within a 10-minute drive of Crane Beach and Foul Bay Beach. This all-inclusive property is 10.3 mi (16.6 km) from Miami Beach and 12.7 mi (20.4 km) from U.S. Embassy.

Make yourself at home in one of the 422 guestrooms featuring free minibar items and espresso makers. 55-inch LCD televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as laptop-compatible safes and desks.

Grab a bite at Mediterranean Market, one of the property's 3 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Relax with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar or one of the 3 bars/lounges.

Dip into one of the 6 outdoor swimming pools or enjoy other recreational amenities, which include a fitness center. This property also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services. The complimentary beach shuttle makes getting to the surf and sand a breeze.

O2 Beach Club & Spa            

When you stay at O2 Beach Club & Spa by Ocean Hotels - All Inclusive in St. Lawrence Gap, you'll be on the beach, within a 10-minute drive of U.S. Embassy and Carlisle Bay. This all-inclusive hotel is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Dover Beach and 2.3 mi (3.7 km) from Miami Beach.

Make yourself at home in one of the 127 air-conditioned rooms featuring free minibar items and Smart televisions. Rooms have private furnished balconies or patios. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the hotel's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Visit one of the 7 bars/lounges, 2 beach bars, and 2 swim-up bars for a refreshing drink. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM.

Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 3 outdoor swimming pools and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands.

Sandy Lane

The first glimpse of the sea through the marbled lobby of Sandy Lane is one you won’t soon forget. Set on coral sands and turquoise waters within an ancient mahogany grove, elegant Palladian buildings, 113 rooms and suites and a stunning private villa stud the property. Here you’ll find exceptional golf, exquisite gourmet dining, an outstanding spa and endless recreation all alongside authentic and magically warm Barbadian hospitality.

This resort has a British Colonial look and feel with a gorgeous entry. It has four restaurants and a beautiful beach. The Staff is amazing! This resort’s spa was voted #1 Spa in the Caribbean. They have 14 treatment rooms and it is a MUST to book in advance.

With a stay at Hilton Barbados Resort in Bridgetown (Garrison Historic Area), you'll be a 1-minute drive from Carlisle Bay and 5 minutes from U.S. Embassy. This beach resort is 7 mi (11.3 km) from Miami Beach and 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Rockley Beach.

Make yourself at home in one of the 355 guestrooms featuring minibars. Rooms have private balconies. Wireless internet access (surcharge) is available to keep you connected. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.

Grab a bite at Lighthouse Terrace, one of the resort's 3 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Unwind at the end of the day with a drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. Full breakfasts are available for a fee.

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. If you're looking for recreational opportunities, you'll find an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a steam room. Additional features at this resort include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).

We had lunch at Zemi Eash Coast Café-Fun atmosphere and great food: https://sites.google.com/view/zemicafebarbados/home

We enjoyed dinner at Tides  Restaurant – – wonderful, romantic beachside dining. The views are stunning at sunset: https://www.tidesbarbados.com/

We enjoyed  a Silver Moon Catamaran Cruise . Sails twice a day, at lunch time and at sunset. Holds 12 passengers. Excellent lunch served on board. $140.00 per person and well worth it: https://silvermoonbarbados.com/

I would love to assist you with your next adventure to Barbados!

I have just returned from an amazing trip to Germany with Unique Germany. Our adventure started in Frankfurt and I flew Delta One and it is the perfect way to start your journey, being rested and relaxed when you arrive into such a vibrant city. I moved on to Wiesbaden which is about one hour from Frankfurt and is an easy drive to get there and I check into the Dorint Pallas Wiesbaden which is in the perfect city center location and have a restaurant on site and the food was really good. Wisebaden is a city that is so easy to move around and it’s a very walkable city and it is so rich in history and culture. Whether you’re drawn to Wiesbaden’s famed thermal spas, its stunning historic architecture, or vibrant cultural festivals, Jill curates each trip with care and insider knowledge, ensuring every moment is seamless and memorable. From exploring the picturesque vineyards of the Rheingau region to strolling through the Kurhaus and tranquil parks

Heidelberg:
Heidelberg is a picturesque city nestled on the banks of the Neckar River, perfect for travelers seeking a blend of romantic history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Must see sights to make the perfect trip. 

• Heidelberg Castle: A stunning Renaissance ruin perched above the city offering panoramic views and a rich history.
• Old Town (Altstadt): Cobblestone streets lined with Baroque buildings, boutique shops, cozy cafes, and traditional German restaurants.
• Philosophenweg (Plilosopher's Walk): A scenic path with breathtaking views of the city and river – perfect for romantic strolls.
• Studentenkarzer: The historic student jail, revealing a quirky side of Heidelberg’s university past.

I then moved on to Wurzburg to end my journey and Würzburg is a charming city in the Franconia region, steeped in baroque architecture, rich history, and surrounded by world-class vineyards. Perfect for looking for a mix of culture, beautiful scenery, and culinary delights. Würzburg is famous for its white wines, especially Silvaner and Riesling — clients can enjoy numerous wine taverns and vineyard tours. Würzburg is a delightful blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty that your will love exploring. Here are some must-see highlights to see: 

• **Würzburg Residence:** This UNESCO World Heritage Baroque palace is a masterpiece with grand frescoes by Tiepolo and beautifully manicured
• **Marienberg Fortress:** Overlooking the city, this historic fortress offers stunning panoramic views of Würzburg and the Main River.
• ⛪ **Würzburg Cathedral (St. Kilian’s):** A magnificent Romanesque cathedral with impressive interiors and rich history.
• **Vineyards & Wine Tastings:** Würzburg sits in the heart of Franconian wine country. Wine tours and tastings, especially of the local Silvaner and Riesling, are a must.
• **Hofgarten & Alte Mainbrücke:** The beautiful Hofgarten park and the Alte Main Bridge, lined with statues, are perfect for leisurely strolls with river views.
• **Cultural Scene:** From cozy wine taverns (Besenkeller) to lively festivals like the Mozart Festival, Würzburg offers rich cultural experiences.

As one of Central Travel’s Delta Vacations top producers I was awarded a wonderful trip to Iceland and it was amazing!

We stayed at The Hilton Nordic  located 15 minutes from the city center. They offer free parking, free Wi-Fi, spa and room service. They have a restaurant and a bar on site. Their buffet breakfast had several choices and was good.

We looked at Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Center. It is in a great location in the city, the heart of shopping and the nightlife of Laugavegur Street and the city center. The hotel lobby is very warm and welcoming. We also visited the Reykjavik EDITION. This is currently the only five star hotel in Reykjavik and sits right on the harbor. This was our favorite hotel in Reykjavik due to the location, customer service level, and stylish rooms and common areas. The rooms are modern and spacious with floor to ceiling windows.  They have a lobby bar, restaurant, rooftop bar and restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, and spa.  You know it’s an Edition Hotel from the first moment you walk in due to the signature scent.

Our sightseeing included the Golden Circle Classic Tour. There are 3 areas that we experienced the Geyser Geothermal Park, Gullfoss Waterfalls and lava canyon in pingvellir. We stopped at the Pingvellir National Park and it is an old lava canyon and the continents are being pulled apart and you can see the rift in the fields. The Geyser Hot springs was our next spot and that is an amazing sight. It is the largest Geyser hot springs and Iceland’s most Iconic natural wonders. This stop didn’t disappoint, there were smaller hot springs leading to the large original geyser. You are able to totally walk around the Geyser to get a view from all sides of the Geyser.  We then headed on to the Gullfoss Waterfall which is reminded us of Niagara Falls but a smaller scale. Awesome views! We recommend a private tour so you can move at their pace and enjoy the sights along the way.

We participated in the South Coast Classic Tour which was a full day. If you are short on time and a smaller budget, this is a great way to see Iceland’s highlights on the South Coast. The tour drives by Eyjafjallajokull Volcano which is the volcano that shut down European flights in 2010.  It was fun to see it from a distance.  The South Coast tour visits Solheimajokull Glacier, Reynisfjara Balck Sand Beach, the town of Vik, Skogafoss Waterfall and Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.  All of the nature stops were breathtaking.  I think the black sand beach and Seljalandsfoss were my two favorite.  Both were very peaceful and gorgeous.  If the weather had been warmer and I had rain gear on, I would have done the full hike behind Seljalandsfoss.

We also did the Classic Whale Watching tour which is on a good size vessel that has indoor and outdoor viewing areas, plenty of seating inside, overalls you can wear to stay warm, and a cafeteria with drinks and snacks. We saw whales within 10 minutes of being on the water.  It lasted about 2.5 hours.  You will also see birds and dolphins. Excellent experience! 

Recommended Restaurants and Bars:

The Laundromat-for breakfast or lunch

Jorgenson Kitchen & Bar-located in Midgardur by Center Hotels-amazing menu with beef, lamb and seafood.  Lunches are two for one Monday through Friday from 11:30am to 5:00pm

Bastard Brew & Food-great bar food and vibe

Lebowski’s-looks like a bowling alley inside, happy hour, great nibbles

Hús máls og menningar- or The Bookstore. This is a bookstore, café, bar and they have live music-The Bookstore Band, and we happened upon open mic comedy night on Thursday.  What a hoot!  And the band is awesome!

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur-the best place to get an Icelandic hotdog made from beef and lamb.  This hot dog stand has been around since 1937 and there is usually a line, but worth the wait.  And you can buy the hot dogs, mustard, and remoulade at the airport to take home.

Iceland is a ‘must see’ destination for many people and Delta makes it easy with non-stop flights from Detroit. I would be happy to assist you with your next adventure!

I had a lovely sailing on the Enchanted Princess this past May!

Prior to the cruise I stayed two nights at the Sonesta Ft. Lauderdale beach resort. They are across the street from the beach, but the resort fee gets you beach chairs and they have an attendant that is there from 8:00am – 5:00pm. The resort is about 5 miles from the port and it is an easy Uber transfer.

I sailed with Princess on the Enchanted sailing on a Western Itinerary and I had been on that itinerary prior so I was familiar with the ports.   When we arrived at the pier it was the quickest that I have ever boarded the ship. From the time the Uber dropped me off until the time that I was onboard was 10 minutes. It was really smooth and easy.

My cabin was a balcony cabin and it was mid aft location. I will say that while I loved the ship I do feel that the balcony cabin is smaller than other cruise lines. The bathrooms were nice size and have nice amenities. 

The ship layout is pretty easy to navigate and I didn’t feel crowded, on sea days the pools were full but they offer two pools, and two hot tubs. The pool area didn’t have that feeling of shoulder to shoulder. The ship has several dining options.  We had the plus package that had the casual dining which doesn’t require reservations. We really enjoyed O’Malleys and Gigi’s Pizzeria and the food was amazing.

One feature they are back to offering is the program that you can pay $25.00 and they will take your luggage from the pier and you won’t see it until you land at your home airport. It was worth every penny.

The highlight of the cruise was the 360 Experience/dinner and it was amazing!!!!  It is a seven-course journey and it takes you on a story/journey of the Mediterranean. It pairs food with wine and champagne from the area that they are exploring. As soon as you make your final payment, explore the dining options right away.

As a top producer with Delta Vacations I have recently returned from Grand Cayman – what a great destination!

The Westin Grand Cayman was our host hotel located directly on Seven Mile Beach, just a 5-minute drive of the Strand Shopping Center and Galleria Plaza. Truly a luxury resort with all the amenities one could want. The rooms were quite nice. The fitness center offered daily activities like Beach Yoga, water fitness and more. The Hibiscus Spa offered a variety of spa treatments. Ferdinand’s Restaurant  was excellent and great service. The Lounge bar, Catboat Bar offered a nice open space to enjoy evening cocktails and evening music.

We looked at the Marriott Resort Grand Cayman.  When a hurricane came through they lost their beach. The hotel is undergoing a major renovation that started in July of 2023 and is not schedule to be completed until March of 2024. The hotel right now offers 299 rooms and suites however after the renovation they will be at 301 rooms as they will be adding two family suites. After the renovation, each room will have their own routers in the rooms with fiber option WiFi; this should make the connectivity much better. I would suggest waiting until renovations are done before staying here.

We also did a site visit at the Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers luxurious rooms and bath amenities in a resort that spans 144 acres of natural landscapes on renowned Seven Mile Beach. An unmatched collection of resort amenities and experiences await, including four signature restaurants and the Caribbean's only AAA Five Diamond dining experience, Blue by Eric Ripert. Other highlights include: The Ritz Carlton Spa; a Greg Norman-designed golf course; 3 clay and 2 grass tennis courts that are lit for night play; eco-adventures and family activities with Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment; plus Starfish Cay, an interactive water attraction for families.  The Cayman Cookout https://www.caymancookout.com/ is a famous food event on the island that the Ritz hosts. This is their 15^th Anniversary of the event and it is held in January. Very popular.

The Kimpton Seafire is the only 5-Star hotel in the Kimpton Brand and it shows.  The hotel is very stylish, with a modern yet retro flair.  It is located directly on Seven Mile and has a very wide stretch of beach (we learned the owner brought in additional sand).  The grounds are beautiful with lots of trees, flowering shrubs and lots of grass areas, which was different for the other properties we saw.

If the budget allows, this is the perfect resort for families.  There are many rooms categories that can be combined (connecting can be confirmed prior to arrival) as well as many suites.  We all loved the Two Bedroom Family Suite Oceanview that has bunk beds as well as a sofa sleeper underneath.  It is perfect for large or multigenerational families.  The rooms are chic and very clean.  I loved the black and white motif with a pop of pink.  The resort is very eco-friendly and is trying to remove single use plastic items.  All rooms with have a water pitcher and bottle refill stations are found throughout the property.  Most rooms have some sort of a small kitchen as well. The Kimpton has a wonderful complimentary waterpark for children with cabanas that are available for rent.  Camp Seafire is an additional cost and we were told it is quite popular.

Activities:

Cayman Turtle Centre-Tourist Attraction that breeds and researches The Green Sea Turtle.  You can view and swim with the turtles.  We took a guided tour and then we were left to tour the rest of the facilities on our own.  There is also a bird sanctuary, Smiley the crocodile, shark reef, and butterfly house along with a fresh water pool and water slide. This would be a great place for cruisers to spend a half day or day on the Island.

Pure Art Gallery & Gifts-KY1-1105Way, Grand Cayman Grand Cayman, 5 Denham Thompson Way, George Town KY1-1109, Cayman Island
Pure Art Gallery & Gifts charming Cayman cottage has exhibited and sold local Fine Art, prints, jewelry, souvenirs and collectibles for over thirty years. Located just a mile south of George Town on South Church Street, this treasure trove of island gifts and art is sure to delight. Gift Certificates, Corporate or Wedding, home, Anniversary, kids corner, Birthday, relocating or gifts for yourself abound at Pure Art. Our Cayman Christmas Corner is year-round! This is a great place to have your clients go for gifts. If they want local coffee, salts, hot sauces, Ronnie from Cayman Islands Tourist Board recommends going to the local grocery stores.

My Bar & Seaharvest Restaurant- 390 South Church St Grand Cayman KY KY1-1106, S Church St, George Town, Cayman Islands
This is a great local bar at The Sunset House which is a hotel for divers by divers.  We sat at the semi-outdoor bar and tasted a Caybrew (Cayman Beer) and had some bites.  Great local vibe if you want to stay away from the more touristy bars and restaurants.

Ms. Piper’s Kitchen + Garden-22 Piper Way, KY1-1201, Cayman Islands
This is a MUST stop!  Located at Hampton Inn and set in the backyard within the heart of 7MB, Ms. Piper’s cottage is a collection of keepsakes of her travels, inspiring our dishes, cocktails, décor, music and thoughtful details. Her kitchen is a testament of a journey greatly lived. An imprint of the cultural and spiritual life she has pursued and enjoyed. A celebration of graceful aging; that is abundant and eternal. We are creating a meaningful space with a nod to the free spirits, the stylish vagabonds, the young at heart and effortless feminine energy. Ms. Piper exists in our dreams. She is a figment of our imagination, yet lives in all of us, whispering: “LIVE A LITTLE.”  Make sure you stop by for lunch or dinner and try the Cassava Cheese Bread. Wednesday nights they have local bands play.

I have just returned from an amazing trip to Switzerland traveling with Signature’s Destination Specialist, Queen of Clubs, a luxury lifestyle service provider that works strictly with Travel Trade only. They strive for excellence in both quality of product and quality of service for each bespoke itinerary curated. On this 5-night Signature Educational Journey, I experienced Switzerland on a different scale of comfort and luxury.

I flew from Detroit to Zurich and I upgraded my airfare to Delta One and it was the best money I have spent on airfare. (I am hooked and I won’t go back to main cabin.) I added on one night in Lucerne so when I arrived into Zurich I had a 1.5 hour train ride to Lucerne. Delta One definitely made this much easier not being exhausted. Trains are down to the minute so if you have a train at 11:38am don’t get on a train at 11:34am. Once the train leaves then a car attendant will come around and verify tickets and passports. I was met at the train station by a member of the Mandarin Oriental Palace Luzern for the transportation to the hotel.  The hotel was amazing and the staff thinks of what you need before you know you need it.

• My itinerary began in Zurich with stunning views of the lake and a town rich in European history reflected in its architecture and subtle works of art. The growth in innovation and excellence in this metropolitan city is unmatched and only compliments this city's rich history.

• I then explored one of the most impressive upland valleys in Switzerland in the Andermatt, a ski-haven during winter, a nature photographer's dream in the summer. We did a walking tour of the village – only 1200 people live there – truly authentic Switzerland. We were then off to Pontresina which is close to St Moritz. This village has breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and the Grand Hotel Kronenhof has 175 years of history

• Lake Lugano, located on the southernmost tip of the Italian Alps borders Switzerland. This retreat to a relaxing spa day with scenic views of the tranquil mountains was amazing.

• Then, I hopped onto the Bernina Express to St. Moritz, Switzerland, the birthplace of Apline winter. Exploring this fabulous city and the world-class services it offers from high-end restaurants to luxury-brand shopping was too much fun!

Queen of Clubs can create any experience of what your clients might be looking for. We did a carriage ride with a private lunch next to a lake. We also did caviar tasting in a small store that sells caviar to people around the world that tasted the caviar there first. We also did boat tours on Lake Lucerne and also Lake Lugano. One of the highlights was the Bernia Express from Pontresina to Tirano Italy. It’s a 2 hours trip that passes by 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, and is truly a breathtaking journey.

Our trip was from Salt Lake to Denver so the flights from our area were easy and non-stop on Delta. I arrived in Salt Lake early and used the Airport TRAX line which is the train from the airport to the hotel that we were staying in for the first night which was the Grand America. The TRAX line is very easy to use and easy to find once you claim your luggage. The cost is $2.50 each way and you purchase the tickets right there. The Grand America was at the Courthouse station which was about five 5 stops.

Hotels are really nice in Salt Lake and Denver, but they are not 5 star in Moab or in the Glenwood Springs areas.
In Salt Lake they use the Grand America hotel – The rooms are amazing and it was a great way to kick off the tour. The rooms were great and they offer several dining options on property. They also use the hotel across the street the Little America and you can dine and use the amenities at both locations. https://www.grandamerica.com

We then had a city tour of Salt Lake and there is so much to see and do that adding an extra day for some is a must do. https://www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do

We then left Salt Lake and headed to Moab and this is a 5 – 6 hour motor coach ride. The first several hours were just highway so it’s not the most scenic route. We did stop in Price Utah for a lunch stop and they gave us the link to pre order our lunch when we were on the Salt Lake City tour. It was really good food and it supported local business. (which Rocky Mountaineer likes to do) https://www.tangerineeatery.com

We arrived into Moab and we stayed at the Element Moab, and the location is just outside of town (it’s about a 1.5 mile walk from the city center). The rooms are nice and this is where clients could start if they want more time to explore. I would fly guests into Moab and add an extra nights because there is so much to see and do. Rocky Mountaineer partners with Moab Adventures so they actually do a pick up for the train at the Adventure center for the train itself. This area is really good for any family that is adventuress but depending on the time of year they need to plan what they want to do and the temperature during the day. We were there in early June and it was 103 so for hikers they need to include an extra so they are not hiking in the heat of the day. We had two nights here and some families may want two additional nights so they can hike and kayak. https://www.moabadventurecenter.com

From Moab we then got on the train and the train only offers silver leaf and silver leaf plus – there is NO gold leaf as the gold rail cars are too tall to enter the tunnels. Service was amazing on the train they really go out of their way to make it special. When reservations are made the system it will assign seats and those are for both days of the trip. This day we had dinner and drinks on the train and they give you several options for meal choices and can accommodate most meal requests. They did say that if someone is vegetarian or Vegan to make sure they are aware so that a meal can be ordered specifically for them.

We arrived into Glenwood Springs about 6:00pm (this time can vary as the train shares the tracks with freight trains and we ran into about 45 minute delays) In Glenwood Springs they use a couple of hotels and I was at the Hotel Denver. This is where in my opinion travelers need an extra night. There is so much to see and do in the area but the train leaves the next day at 9:00am so you really don’t have much time see the sights. We did make the hike up to see the cemetery where Doc Holliday was buried but many people were disappointed that they didn’t have more time to enjoy the hot springs themselves. (They closed at 9:00pm)

We then took the train the next day from Glenwood Springs to Denver and they offer both breakfast and lunch on the train. The meals are served at your seat and drinks are also included with these meals. This part of the trip is a little slower because of the elevation of the train into Denver. 

We arrived into Denver and they have coaches that pick up and move passengers to the different hotels again they use multiple hotels for Denver. I was at the Oxford and it is a really unique hotel. Found at the intersection of timeless elegance and modern luxury, The Oxford Hotel stands today as an iconic Denver landmark, rooted in its unique history and groundbreaking beginnings of 1891. In the bustling heart of downtown, guests step through our doors and feel taken back to a simpler, quainter point in time. From the classic artwork hung on our walls to the custom, tailored service reminiscent of the Gilded Age, The Oxford offers guests a truly unique Denver hotel experience. The hotel offered a speak-easy which was really fun and we enjoyed dinner there. https://www.theoxfordhotel.com

Getting to the airport from downtown Denver is usually pretty easy they say, and you can take the train. (Oxford hotel is a two block walk to the train station) We were getting ready to purchase our ticket you can purchase them the day prior so you have it. We were advised that the train would not be running because they were doing maintenance on the tracks. The train is $10.50 per person one way and takes about 30 minutes to arrive. Some people tried to use Uber and the cost was $53.00 for a car for 2 people. I booked mine through the hotel and it was $65.00 for the one way and was a Cadillac SUV and could accommodate four people. https://www.denver.org/about-denver/transportation/denver-airport-rail

This trip is not for people who can’t climb at least 5 steps; this is for the train and also for the motor coaches and the national parks do not have ADA accessible walk ways in all parks. The parks try to have paths that may be gravel or paths that are smoothed out but some have larger stones and may not allow for easy walking even with a cane. They do try and advise how far someone could walk with a cane if they think they want to try a path.

The scenery was beyond amazing and pictures don’t do it justice!

Thoroughly enjoyed my recent experience on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas! We sailing roundtrip from Miami to Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Roatan Honduras, Cozumel and Puerto Costa Maya Mexico.

The ship can accommodate just under 5500 – 3100 were schedule to sail but only 2850 actually boarded the ship. (We had amazing service) We were upgraded to a Grand Suite for no additional charge and now there’s no going back to a regular cabin!

Requirement- Vaccinated travelers must take a Rapid Antigen test 2 days prior to sailing and we ordered 3 tests from Royal Caribbean and they were $99.00. I ordered our test from https://store.optum.com/royal-caribbean-tests/.

We knew that this was a relaxing vacation as we had done the ports prior so we didn’t get off the ship only in Cozumel to do a tour called Island Roots, Honey and Chocolate traditions and we had a great time. The tour is four hours and the cost is $50.00 per person. Highlights:
>Mayan Cacao Company: Learn about chocolate, its origins, manufacturing process, and take part in a demonstration.
>Mayan Bee Sanctuary: Learn about the importance of the Melipona Bee to the Mayan civilization; sacred, endangered and stinger-less.
>Tequila: Learn about the history of tequila, watch the tequila-making process, and sample tequila.
Important Notes:
>Although easy walking, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
>Consider physical fitness and medical history when selecting this tour.
>The order of the stops may vary.
>Guest must be of legal age to consume alcohol, please drink responsibly.

I do have to say that we did miss the sail away parties and the parades and parties in the promenade. They have live music but its schedule and scattered around the ship to help with physical distancing. People did tend to stay by themselves and we did miss the fun things going on around the ship that people would stop and just hang out. They worked hard to make sure everyone had fun and we did. They had a super bowl party and they were going to show it outside near the aqua theater and also in the mail theater. (It was slightly raining so it was in the main theater) but they had popcorn and pizza that you could take inside and it was a lot of fun.
I know that some people are not sure about cruising right now but NOW is the time to cruise with less people. 

My Delta Vacations educational trip to Maui was excellent.  I visited several resorts and have up-to-the-minute information on the island, properties and activities.  If you have not visited Maui yet here are a couple high level observations:

• Golf – Some of the best courses in the US.
• Families – Many resorts for families and offer classes just for kids where they can learn Hawaiian culture.
• Ka’anapali is like the Cancun strip of Maui.
• Wailea is the Riviera Maya of Maui (Not much night life)
• West side of the island has the best sunsets.
• Sunrise at Mt. Haleakala now needs reservation to drive to the crater due to the fact that guests were climbing rocks and going to areas they shouldn’t by having reservations it allows the parks division to be in more control and provide a better experience. Go to for reservations and updates: https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/haleakala-sunrise-reservations.htm
• During Whale season from December thru April – NO Jet Ski rental is allowed in the channels (have clients ask before making reservations)

The properties I visited were; Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Sheraton Maui, The Kapalua Villas Condominiums, Wailea Beach Resort, Aston Kaanapali Shores Condominium, Ka’anapali Beach Hotel, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and my favorite the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort .

The Andaz Maui  is an amazing resort!  They focus on details so there is no big lobby desk for check in, they bring it to you while you relax. They offer a standard of 301 rooms and 11 villas that include 2, 3 & 4 bedrooms. The resort fee is a little higher than some resorts at $45.00 per night, but the inclusions are well above the fee. Some of the inclusions are:
• GoPro Hero 4 Camera - unlimited use
• GoPro experience lab
• Daily Outrigger Canoe Excursions
• Snorkel equipment unlimited use
• Yoga and Pilates Classes
• Other fitness classes
• Single & Tandem Bikes/helmets
• Guided Kayak Tours
• Ukulele lessons
• Hula lessons
• Coconut Husking
• 45 minute beach portrait session includes a $50 Photo Credit.
• Lei making lessons
• Stand up paddle board lessons
• Mixology class with 2 drinks (twice a week)
• Unlimited use of body boards
*GoPros, stand-up paddleboard lessons, group kayak, outrigger canoe tours, fitness and yoga classes are subject to limited availability. See Concierge for details and to book.

They also offer several dining/paring options and these change like cocktail paring it’s a 3 course dinner with cocktails rather than wine. Luau is $150.00 per person and is 15 courses and open bar and will only seat about 150 – 175 passengers.  Definitely a great value and more true experience. Chefs Tables are six courses with wine and cost varies depending on season.

As one of Central Travel’s top producers for Delta Vacations, I was part of an incentive award trip this January to the Riviera Maya.  We did site inspections at Ocean Riviera Paradise, Hotel Xcaret, Unico 20° 87°, Zoetry Paraiso De La Bonita, Generations Riviera Maya, by Karisma and our host resort was the beautiful Grand Velas Riviera Maya.  All resorts were 4.5 – 5 Star properties and we saw all room categories in each resort.  There is certainly something for everyone in the Riviera Maya! 

One of newest resorts is the Hotel Xcaret. This is a new build hotel and is a very eco-friendly resort built in the mangroves with lots of vegetation. This resort is for the family that wants to be active and is not for the families that are looking for a great beach. This resort is a very large resort of 900 rooms and more rooms will be added. 

The ALL-FUN INCLUSIVE® program redefines the traditional all-inclusive plan into a more complete experience. In addition to day and nighttime activities and elegantly crafted cuisine at the resort, you can enjoy full access to Experiencias Xcaret’s nature parks and tours, as well as each of their dining plans.

They offer two buildings that are adults only for those clients that want tours but not kids. They also offer some fun new technology similar to (Disney) where your wristband opens your room door.  A fun feature they offer is 10 "selfie spots" throughout the resort and photos can be viewed on your phone or purchased from the resort. You also have the ability to use your phone to connect to the TV and access things like Netflix and 55” screens.

With their EVERYTHING FLOWS® service your experience will become magical, let the concierge team gets in charge of everything, just kick-back and enjoy. I’d be happy to assist with your next journey!

I have recently returned from Disney’s Earmarked Conference in Orlando.  Only Top Producers for Disney are invited and I have the ‘inside scoop’ on what’s new.  

Animal Kingdom Lodge – They are getting ready to update the lodge and its needed – the resort is tired.  However, the cast members are more than willing do anything to be helpful.  When the updates are complete this will; be a lovely property.

Yacht Club – Beautiful resort, it is being updated and will be finished shortly. 

Pop Century – this resort as many of the resorts are undergoing renovations, most of the rooms they are going to a Murphy bed to give guests more room. 

Disney Springs - They will have more stores and restaurants opening in 2018 check the website for up to date information:  https://www.disneysprings.com

Disney Affiliated Hotels - Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is the only 5-star resort On Disney property.  AMAZING resort!!  Rooms are a minimum of 500 square feet. They also offer character dining on site and it includes Mickey and Minnie - very intimate setting and is guests only. 

You can count on me to match you with the right resort and make your Disney dreams come true!

I have recently returned from a lovely trip to Italy! I traveled to Rome, Tuscany, and Florence with Europe Express – an excellent experience.  

Our first hotel was the Rose Garden Palace.  It was about a 20-minute walk to the Spanish steps and across the street from the US Embassy. The hotel was very nice and the rooms were a variety of size and configurations. There are a lot of areas in Rome that are not accessible by coach or car, so I would suggest a walking tour to familiarize yourself with the city. We did a two-hour walking tour and it took us to areas that were beautiful and clients won’t see unless they do a tour. 

We then drove through Tuscany to Florence, and we stayed at the Villa Pitana.  Originally a Benedictine monastery Pitiana’s beauty and charm open a door to the past.  The villa still retains the articulated architecture of a millenary history, from the foundation as a fortified farm to the utilization as the Benedectine monastery and eventually to the conversion in nobleman elegant Villa in the IXth century – lately revised into a tourist residence. Architecture, decorations, and furniture maintain the memory of flowing of ages and styles.

Italy was an amazing trip and pictures just don’t do it justice.  I would love to assist with your Italy adventure! 

Tauck French Waterways on the ms Swiss Emerald 

We began our journey with 2 nights in Paris.  Then savored the French flair for living from Paris bistros and culinary Lyon to Beaujolais tastings and Provençal pleasures featuring a 7-night Rhône cruise.  The ms Swiss Emerald is designed with an open, airy plan that makes great use of natural light.  It is the perfect riverboat to cruise France's Rhône and Saône rivers through the colorful Provençal landscapes and villages dotting the lush Rhône Valley wine country that so enthralled and inspired the impressionist painters of the 19th century.

I had sailed with Uniworld and was looking forward to comparing both products.  Both products are excellent but here are some of the differences.  Uniworld offers excellent land tours but only one Uniworld staff member for all the groups and each group has a local guide, they usually have 2 groups and one easy walker group. (Moves at a slightly slower pace).  Tauck's land tours have a staff member from Tauck with each group, and they have 4 groups – 3 regular groups and one easy walker group. (All are staffed with a local guide and a guide from Tauck).  The food is amazing on both lines but Tauck offers more upgraded “house wines” and all liquor is included with Tauck. 
It was an amazing experience and I would be happy to assist you with your next river cruise!

I thoroughly enjoyed my sailing aboard the S.S Antoinette with Uniworld River Cruises. The Castles Along the Rhine itinerary sailed from Amsterdam to Basel Switzerland. What an amazing trip!  What better then arriving in a port like Cologne Germany and being in the heart of the city.  In just 30-45 minutes after arriving you can begin a city tour.  You can walk off your ship and within minutes see the most beautiful sights of Castles and rolling vineyards.

The best part is that most all of your tours are included in your cruise cost. River cruising offers the most intimate way to see Europe and experience the best the cities have to offer.  Call me today for more detailed information of my amazing trip along the Rhine River and start planning your dream vacation today.

I recently returned from a trip visiting some of the newest Sandals properties.  Deep within the idyllic waters of the Exumas, the brand new Sandals Emerald Bay is breathtaking!  Secluded within 500 tropical acres along a pristine, mile-long beach, civilized pleasure coexist with exotic adventures, from three impressive pools —including a half-acre, zero-entry pool with a dramatic fire pit in the middle — to five exceptional restaurants.

Play championship golf on a Greg Norman-designed course voted one of the Caribbean's Best by Travel & Leisure Golf. Relax in the first-ever 29,000 sq. ft. Red Lane® Dermalogica concept spa. Explore impossibly beautiful turquoise waters renowned for their boating, fishing and diving. A unique blend of seclusion and sophistication, this exotic private escape is so easy to get to, so close to home. 

The Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau provides a sanctuary so alluring the Duke and Duchess of Windsor made it their epicenter for high society as the famed Balmoral Club of the 1940s. Today, transformed into the Sandals Royal Bahamian, it remains an oasis of European grandeur where guests are still treated as royals.

 Voted “Top Spa Resort” by readers of Conde Nast Traveler, Sandals Royal Bahamian is considered to be the Caribbean’s most elegant resort. Seductive alabaster sand beaches and crystalline waters embrace tropical gardens and opulent suites—some the size of private villas—complete with every imaginable amenity, even your own butler.  

Beaches Turks & Caicos is a one-of-a-kind, unbelievably exciting all-inclusive family vacation destination!   A 45,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art waterpark; three magnificent villages, boasting the architecture and ambiance of Italy, France and the Caribbean; incredibly sumptuous hotel accommodations; a powder-white-sand, 12-mile beach lapped by clear turquoise waters; endless fun activities for everyone, from tots to tweens and teens, featuring Sesame Street® characters, the new Xbox 360® Game Garage and a sizzlin’ teen disco, Liquid at Beaches-all amidst some of the most gorgeous tropical scenery on the planet. 

Set apart from the world and bordered by a natural reef system, this hotel is home to clear waters in hundreds of shades of turquoise and is one of the top 10 scuba destinations in the world. This tranquil resort welcomes singles, honeymooners, couples of all ages, and families with children.

I explored the El Dorado Resort hotel located in the Riviera Maya, Mexico. It is an amazing resort and one that everyone should enjoy!  It is a gourmet all-inclusive resort, that is for adults only and that means total pampering from the time you check in to the time you have to end your incredible vacation.

The El Dorado is one of Conde Nast Travelers top 100 resorts in the world and has the prestigious AAA 4 diamond award, all of the restaurants are ala cart, and you won't find a buffet at this resort. The resort sets on over one mile of beautiful beaches and has 5 room categories to choose from to make the most perfect and romantic vacation.

Imagine having a fun day in the sun, taking advantage of all the water sports, then enjoying a relaxing massage in the spa and end the perfect day having a candlelit dinner on the beach. The El Dorado is truly a deluxe intimate resort and I would love to help plan that special vacation!

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience in Paris and visited several hotels.  One of my favorite properties was Sofitel Paris Baltimore Tour Eiffel.  This hotel has a great location, only a 10 minute walk to the Arc de Triomphe and also a 10 minute walk to the Scène.  This hotel offers 103 rooms of those rooms 30 are suites, 53 are Deluxe and 20 rooms are Classic  rooms (these are much smaller only 161 Sq. feet ) so I would upgrade to the Superior room (161/194 Sq. foot)  or deluxe category (these rooms are 215/269 sq. foot  have a small French balcony)

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This hotel was completely renovated in 2017 the hotel used to be an MGallery hotel and in 2017 it went through a 50 million Euro renovation and emerged a Sofitel. The hotel was not only upgraded in the standard sense but also technology. They offer very high speed Wi-Fi and also an interactive board in the lobby that will allow you to map out your daily plans with a touch of a screen.  They also have an extensive wine cellar on site. The service levels were amazing and they will do anything for your special occasion. They can do traditional things like champagne and chocolates but can also do some special things like embroidery on a bath robe.  They focus on customer service and being the best they can be.

General thoughts on Paris:
Our tour by Walks (which is a Signature Travel Network preferred supplier) of Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle (stain glass is a must see) and the Concierge was excellent.  Violet, our tour guide, was extremely knowledgeable, personable and funny.  We all learned so much on the tour and would recommend it to anyone.  Walking tours are great way to see the sights and plan ahead!  Max on this tour is 15 and have headsets to hear the guide.

The metro is easy to use for major tourist sights, but difficult to use for smaller areas.  Uber was relatively inexpensive and much easier to get around.  A private transfer to Charles de Gaulle is the ONLY way to go.  The traffic was crazy and our driver was great.  Allow every bit of 3 hours with security tight and it does take time to get through it all.

Stop and enjoy a pastry and coffee.  Taste Paris and take in sights that are like no other!

My trip to Jamaica in December of 2020 was a quick but fun experience!

First recommendation – you must use Club Mo Bay in the Montego Bay airport! Restaurants in the airport are not open and we are not sure when they will be. When I arrived at the airport Delta was closed but Club Mo was aware of my situation and made arrangements for someone to check me in and they took me directly to the lounge. Food and beverage are served to you directly – it’s a great respite before your journey back home.

The Moon Palace did not disappoint. This is an all-inclusive, beachfront resort in Ocho Rios that's perfect for couples, singles and families. Fringed by beautiful white-sand beaches, this beautiful resort boasts 705 comfortable rooms and five pools, which include waterfalls, plunge pools, the FlowRider Double Wave Simulator, a kids' pool and swim-up bar. I was upgraded to a Deluxe Ocean view with a balcony it was concierge level however that building that you would normally be in was closed due to COVID. The property was spotless and all COVID protocol is being followed. The restaurants were great, hand sanitizers and apps for menus. Room service has been extended to 24 hours.

I also enjoyed Couples Tower Isle. An all-inclusive 226 room couples-only hotel set amid 19 acres of lush, romantic gardens, this has always been a favorite of mine. Directly on the beach, the resort features nightly entertainment and a private off-shore island. The lobby was nice but small – so they are doing check in as quickly as possible to allow for social distancing. The rooms were nice and while they usually do room check in for villas but they can make exceptions for clients who would prefer to check-in at the lobby level. Rooms were very nice and they have been updated since I stayed here last.

I felt very comfortable traveling. Delta provided a great experience and the Jamaican people were thrilled to have visitors to the island!

Secrets St Martin
This dining capital of the Caribbean offers visitors the unique experience of enjoying 2 distinct cultures on one stunning tropical island. Dutch St. Maarten is known for being lively and cosmopolitan, while French St. Martin is more tranquil and has the flair of San Tropez. This unique island also offers a wide range of accommodations, ranging from intimate boutique hotels that dot French St. Martin to larger, full-service resorts that showcase Dutch St. Maarten. Accommodations range from moderate to luxurious.

I thoroughly enjoyed the newly re-opened Secrets St. Martin. With only 258 rooms and tucked away on a half-moon cove, this resort offers a great spa and several room types. There are two buildings, and the rooms are the same in the categories but just a different view. The preferred club rooms face the marina usually on the upper floor, the lower floor has the swim up rooms.

The resort boasts one of the Caribbean’s largest freeform pools and offers a great spa. The Fitness Center is nice size and offers Matrix Equipment – they also have aqua bikes in the pool. The beach is rather short and it’s a cove beach but nice and snorkeling in one of the Caribbean’s calmest bays is great. There are several dining options to choose from and only Himitsu, the Asian restaurant requires reservations.

One note of caution, this is not a resort for anyone that has mobility issues – some areas don’t have elevator access though the resort does have elevators near rooms.