Central Travel - Administration
4540 Heatherdowns Blvd
Toledo OH 43614
Office Phone: 419-897-2070
800-633-5577
Tammy Parran, DS, LS, CTA
Interests & Specialties
Tammy has been with Central Travel for 22 years and loves to travel! She has completed the Certified Travel Associate course and holds Destination Specialist (DS) designation for Alaska, the Caribbean, North America, and St. Lucia. She also holds a Lifestyle (LS) designation for Spa Travel. Tammy has also completed the Maui S.T.A.R. program and is a Sandals Certified Specialist.
Tammy is located in the Promenade Shops office on Monroe Street in Sylvania, OH.
Expert Bio
Hawaii is certainly Tammy's favorite destination. She has visited the islands several times. Her favorite island is Maui and having completed he prestigious S.T.A.R. program she knows where to stay, how to dine and all the fun activities Maui has to offer. She has attended the Hawaii Travel Exchange annually for several years. Tammy has also spent time in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Costa Rica, the British Virgin Islands and cruised the Caribbean with Princess and Royal Caribbean International.
She has cruised to Belize and Bermuda with Royal Caribbean. And she recently did site inspections in Las Vegas visiting the 4 and 5-star properties. Jamaica was another recent trip staying at Beaches Jamaica.
MY RECENT TRIPS
Paris is a lovely city to visit and I enjoyed every minute! My favorite hotel was Sofitel’s Hotel Scribe Paris – definitely luxury all the way! This lavish hotel is rich in history and in the Opera district heart of the city and within easy walking distance to many attractions. Just steps away from designer boutiques, shops and department stores. In April 2019 a “Parisian upgrade” will be completed and its 50 Million dollar renovation and will offer 201 rooms. The new rooms are fresh and resemble a “real Parisian apartment” modern perfect with classical bathrooms and rooms have a Coco Chanel design. The two story apartments are very inviting and great for families. The suites on the 5th and 6th floor are very large and spacious, connecting rooms are also available.
The look of the hotel is of a “classical time”, you really feel like a Parisian when you stay at the Hotel Scribe. The new lobby will be very inviting and the 1T Rue Scribe will offer a Gourmet Tea room with sparkling chandeliers, Laurent-Perrier champagne and homemade ganache au chocolat. L’Obscur is their cocktail lounge offering crystal flutes, glimmering lights, a very sleek and sophisticated atmosphere for pre-dinner drinks, and creative cocktails. Le Lumiere – Chef Sebastien Crison offers a contemporary French cuisine and is open for lunch and dinner. Carita products are offered in the Keiro Spa that offers all state of the art French cosmetology.
General thoughts on Paris:
Our tour by Walks (which is 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!
More Adventures from Tammy Parran, DS, LS, CTA ...
This is the only way to visit Tahiti! We loved the staff onboard, our cabin, dining experience and activities were wonderful.
With only 332 guests onboard, this country club casual small ship sailing was excellent. Designed specifically to sail French Polynesia’s lagoons, the renowned m/s Paul Gauguin is the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury ship in the South Pacific. No other luxury vessel in history has offered this level of single-destination focus and expertise on a year-round basis for such an extended period of time.
Paul Gauguin Cruises is known for exceptional service that is distinguished by Polynesian hospitality and by one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios at sea. Our cabin was a suite on deck 8 providing full butler service and spacious oceanview accommodations with a balcony. The ship offers gourmet dining inspired by one of the top chefs in Paris, a lavish spa with signature treatments, expansive deck space and pool, a fitness center, a boutique, and a lounge with live entertainment. The Gauguin also offers a watersports marina for kayaking, paddleboarding, and PADI SCUBA diving programs. We thoroughly enjoyed the private beach retreats off the coast of Taha’a (Motu Mahana) and in Bora Bora.
I recommend Paul Gauguin and the French Polynesia for those seeking culture, adventure and taste. Be sure to bring an underwater camera, a floaty to relax on, reef shoes are a must and binoculars.
I have just returned from the new Sandals Barbados. Sandals Barbados (formerly Couples Barbados) is fresh from a multi-million dollar renovation that was part of its recent rebranding. The 10-acre, all-inclusive resort reopened with new restaurants, public area decor, and a total overhaul of its guest rooms in early 2015 to great expectations and fanfare.
This 280 room all-inclusive does not require wristbands and is definitely one of the island’s gems! The staff was very attentive and provided a warm hospitality to all. The grounds were impeccable and truly delightful to stroll and walk the pristine white/pink sand beach.
We were upgraded to a one-bedroom suite with a soaking tub that included butler service. It was very spacious and the butler was a nice touch taking care of every whim. The junior suite oceanfront rooms are close to the beach and activities. Great location for these rooms and they are significantly smaller, yet intimate. You just can’t beat the view!
All rooms come with complimentary minibars, and butler rooms carry premium drinks. The decor was lovely and the king or queen-sized, four-poster beds are coated in thick duvets facing armoires with flat-screen cable TVs. Neutral tones in handmade rugs and draperies mark most of the accommodations, and all have furnished balconies and sitting areas with sofas and coffee tables. Free wireless high-speed Internet access, phones with voice mail and safes come standard.
I have been to several Caribbean islands – Barbados is definitely one of my favorites!
Classic Vacations & Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas Greek Isles Cruise
Loved Italy & Greece! I booked our pre and post night in Rome and transfers via Classic Vacations. We stayed at the Hotel Bernini Bristol. The Hotel was very welcoming a boutique property with stunning views from its rooftop restaurant. The Trevi fountain is a short walk from the Bernini and the cafes and shops that line the street along the hotel were welcoming and fun.
The Rhapsody of the Seas sailed roundtrip from Rome visiting Mykonos, Santorini, Athens, and Katakolon. Our accommodations were in a Grand Suite and the WOW sale and end of year buy one get one made it very affordable. The cabin was huge and nicely appointed.
I loved the ports of call but Santorini was amazing. No other Greek island is more famous for its romantic setting, mythic beauty, and volcanic scenery. Santorini enchants with a deep blue bay, high cliffs, black and red sand beaches, and white-washed towns perched on the crater rim. This stop should be on everyone’s bucket list. And please do both pre and post stays in Rome you’ll love the memories!
Princess Cay, BahamasIn 2014 I sailed the Western Caribbean on the Ruby Princess in a Mini Suite. Our itinerary included Grand Cayman, Roatan, Cozumel and Princess Cay. This was our seventh family cruise with Princess. We love the Mini Suites! We get four in a row and can open the balcony doors so very nice for morning coffee time with family. We were on the aft of the ship and were very nice.
The pool area was fun and the gym had all upgraded equipment. I was impressed they had a 5K “On Deck for the Cure” breast cancer walk which my sister, daughter and I signed up for.
Last day was Princess Cay always a favorite of mine. Great beach day and service was great and the meal on the island was tasty. Plenty of water activities. Banana Boat ride was great for the kids and we felt safe sending them with the Princess staff on the water sports. By far my favorite day on board!
The Baths in Virgin GordaVisiting the British Virgin Islands I can see why they are called “Nature’s Little Secrets.” The Boating capital of the world, with natural beauty, stunning views, and all the islands were very welcoming with friendly people, top-notch service, and amazing resorts.
Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Peter Island, Guana Island & Scrub Island were true treasures. If you are looking to get away from it all, no televisions, fine dining, and feeling you have found paradise visit the non-touristy area of the British Virgin Islands. The Bath’s in Virgin Gorda was a piece of paradise I will never forget.
Peter Island Resort & Spa is one of our preferred resorts in the BVI. It lies amidst a plethora of exotic Caribbean escapes in the heart of the British Virgin Islands. This exclusive isle is steeped in intriguing pirate lore and unspoiled landscapes: Breathtaking deep blue seas meet five beaches of pearl-white sand while lush palm groves and verdant tropical mountains rise beyond the shore. The resort offers bespoke amenities with a guest-to-staff ratio of 2-to-1 and no-fly zones for celebrity vacationers and Fortune 500 “listers” alike.
I was chosen as one of the 150 top producing Hawaii travel advisers and visited the Big Island. Rich in history and spectacular nature sites. This was the 3rd Annual Hawaii Travel Exchange and I was invited the past 3 years in a row. This educational program is one on one meetings with Hawaii suppliers. My favorite meeting was with the Activities & Attractions Association. Learning to sell experiences!! Luau's, tours, nature & the Hawaiian History. I stayed at the Royal Kona & the Mauna Lani Bay.
Last year's Hawaii Travel Exchange was held on the island of Maui. The Hawaii Travel Exchange, presented by Travel Agent and Luxury Travel Advisor magazines brings 140 pre-selected agents to Hawaii annually. I visited several properties including; Grand Wailea Resort, Four Seasons, Fairmont Kea Lani, Hyatt Regency Maui, Ritz at Kapalua and one of my all-time favorites, The Royal Lahaina.
To me, Maui means romantic and true Hawaii feeling. Maui is known for its sunsets, upscale resorts, agriculture such as the Lavender fields.
I also visited Kauai! Hawaii’s island of discovery! The natural beauty of Kauai is sure to entice anyone who visits this truly fascinating island. Families, couples, honeymooners and especially those seeking adventure will be completely satisfied with all that Kauai has to offer. Kauai is complete with waterfalls, endless gardens, great beaches, fabulous sunsets, and sea life that will amaze you. Humpback whales are visible Jan-May and sea turtles and spinning dolphins seem to be there to entertain you. There are endless activities on Kauai including kayaking, zip line tours, catamaran snorkel tours, movie tours, whale watching and did I mention golf?
The 1st two nights of the Kauai destination specialist program I stayed at the ever popular Sheraton Kauai. The Sheraton is very inviting hotel with excellent service and comfort that any Starwood property has to offer. There were many honeymooners and families here. They offer a great beach, fine dining, a small pool and a great view of the sunsets that Kauai has to offer. The Sheraton is also part of the Monk Seal endangerment program where they get guests involved in helping to save this dying creature. I was lucky enough to have a fellow monk seal come up on shore during my stay and was able to learn and see them up front. The Sheraton also participates in the movies under the stars where 1 night a week they show a modern film out on the beach under the stars. They also have a luau 2 nights a week right on the property. The Sheraton is a deluxe property I would recommend to anyone.
The ever luxury Princeville Resort up in the north shore of Kauai is soon to become the St. Regis collections Princeville Resort. The word luxury says it all! This hotel caters to couples many who are vacationing for a special anniversary. The phenomenal views of the mountains and beach are great at this resort. Princeville is also well known for their golf and has renowned awards for their courses. They are even adding a new spa to be completed in 2008!
The last two nights of our program I stayed at the only air-conditioned condo in all of Kauai the new and fascinating Outrigger Waipouli Resort. These condos consist of mostly 2 bedroom brand very modern facilities with all the latest appliances. This resort is located on the east side of Kauai and is on a great walking beach however not a great swimming beach for it is very rocky and a ton of reefs. They offer a swimming pool complete with waterslide, a beachside bar and they are building a restaurant to be complete in fall 2007. I would recommend this property to those looking to stay for a long length of time or 2 couples traveling together. There is a food store across to street to shop to fill your gourmet kitchen.
Whether you are looking for adventure, romance, or fun family filled vacation Kauai has a ton of great things to offer to everyone. I look forward to assisting you on your next trip to KAUAI!
In August of 2012, I had a chance to visit Costa Rica with Delta Vacations. Costa Rica offers a spectacular Rain Forest great for ziplining, a towering active volcano and plenty of sightseeing and adventures to enjoy. I enjoyed the fresh fruits, welcoming people and rich culture. I stayed at the Westin and the Hilton Papagayo. If you are looking for adventure Costa Rica should be on your list!!
The Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal is a destination unto itself: It is an eco-friendly wonderland of 2,400 acres nestled between the lush forests and pristine beaches of Costa Rica’s magnificent North Pacific Riviera. This unrivaled luxury resort boasts 406 oversized suites – with finely appointed bathrooms and a private terrace or balcony – all centered on an expansive lagoon-style pool and accented by beautiful gardens, thatch-roofed cabanas, and spectacular ocean and forest views.
Royal Caribbean's spectacular ship "Radiance of the Seas" was a great way to experience Alaska's Inside Passage.
Royal Caribbean is a cruise line for all ages offering many activities from Rockwall climbing to excellent shows, casino games, bingo, to even billiards tables onboard. There are many dining options including specialty restaurants serving 5-star fabulous dinners and excellent service throughout the ship.
My first suggestion to anyone looking to cruise Alaska is to book a balcony cabin. I cannot stress enough how much you will definitely utilize your own private balcony for viewing. Alaska has the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen and the freshest air I have ever breathed. Picture yourself each morning sipping your hot cup of coffee and taking in the sights of beautiful waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and if you are lucky like I was, a view of a humpback whale breaching!
We sailed from Vancouver to Anchorage with our 1st stop being Ketchikan. Ketchikan is an adorable town with great shopping, fabulous view of the mountains and an abundance of bald eagles and is a great stop to take on a salmon bake for it is the Salmon capital of the world! Our next stop was Juneau, Alaska's state capital which offers the famous Mendenhall glacier and wonderful wildlife and whale watching tours. Sea Lions, humpback whales, and orcas were the highlight for me of this fascinating port. Our third stop was Skagway which is a quaint little town well known for it's Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad which is a must see. Next stop, Hubbard Glacier! All I can say is bring your camera.....a wall of ice that will certainly take your breath away. Anchorage was our last stop and is the largest city in Alaska offering many luxury accommodations, museums, the Alaska zoo, great skiing and my favorite highlight - Moose! The bear and moose population in this area are abundant and quite a sight to see.
To me, Alaska is a must see whether you cruise or take a land package. Trust me when I say you will not be disappointed. Alaska's travel season is May - September and we still have lots of space available so I look forward to booking you and sharing my experience with you for your next trip to Alaska!
