Destination Designer Deanne Scanlan

16/08/2024

Have you worked out how incredible it is at the top of the world? I for one relish the thought of getting away from traffic noise and that of earthworks. While there are many places that offer peace and tranquility, there is something very special about the Arctic. The vision of floating icebergs and the massive ice shelves with their imposing beauty and powerful presentations surpass even the most idyllic destinations. I have mentioned Quark Expeditions many times this week and for good reason. Now is a good time to reserve your cabin on the adventure.

15/08/2024

How important is it to you when you travel to get 'up close'. I believe it is essential to almost reach out and touch what you see - taking into account the safety aspect of course. 🙂
Quark Expeditions crew are well qualified when it comes to zodiac safety while making sure that your experience in the water and on land fulfills everything you could hope for in an Arctic adventure. I have had first hand experience myself of what being in a zodiac is like when getting closer to nature on a journey to Iceland. I believe that it is incredible when you can say that your knowledge comes from having been there, that your words are more than something out of a book. I would encourage you to consider the Arctic for your next true adventure and it is highly likely that you will see an abundance of sea life and more on an immersive sailing.

13/08/2024

I am sure you have all heard about the intrepid explorers and incredible discoveries in both North and South Poles. So picture this - 'study this image for a few moments then close your eyes, now add a lot of snow to the image you are visualising and a lot of heavy fog. How far can you see now into the distance, not far I would say.
This is what it was like for those who brought the Arctic and Antarctic to our attention. The days were short and bleak but still they pressed on, watching the wild unfold before them as the sub-zero temperatures froze them to their very core.
So why am I telling you what you probably already know? I am sharing this with you as these are the moments that you can experience on an expedition with Quark Expeditions, and hear the stories of how people lived in this tiny cabin for months on end as they were surrounded by mountains of snow.

12/08/2024

What keeps people dreaming of visiting Antarctica, I believe it is a lot about the remoteness, the ice shelves and icebergs, and of course the multitude of penguins. So why not dream about the Arctic where you can see it all - with the exception of penguins - including those big white fluffy things, Polar Bears.
Sometimes you can hear the roar as chunks of ice break off and drop like massive boulders into the ocean and then there is the deafening silence. Quark Expeditions - one of the leaders in polar exploration and adventure, can take you there.
Time to witness it yourself.

12/08/2024

Another great image from Quark Expeditions, this time one of my favourites, the polar bear. Some love the Antarctic but you just don't see the bears there. For this reason alone, you just might have to choose if you have not been to either. For me, there is something about their curiosity and of course the cuddle - not too close - factor as well. In case you are wondering, yes I do have several Polar Bear stuffed toys !!! Join us in 2025 on one of Quark Expeditions, one that will be full of moments just like this one.

12/08/2024

I know, it is only a Walrus - NOT just a walrus but a pod of these powerful creatures. Walrus live mostly in shallow waters above the continental shelves, spending significant amounts of their lives on the sea ice looking for benthic bivalve molluscs. They are relatively long-lived and social animals. This photo was taken in Svalbard between mainland Norway and the North Pole. You may remember it when it was known as Spitzbergen. Join us on a journey with Quark Expeditions for the ultimate experience in the Arctic.

12/08/2024

Take a journey of adventure to a country that is renowned for its changing landscape from sand dunes to turquoise rock pools and stunning sunsets. Places like Nizwa located in Ad Dakhiliyah region is known for its natural charm with seasonal rivers and palm plantations contributing to the natural beauty. Nizwa is renowned for the Nizwa Fort and Falaj Daris, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The capital Muscat was recently made famous by the TRAVEL GUIDES show which showcased much of what the country has to offer. The best time to travel to Oman is between October and April with temperatures ranging from 17 degrees C to 35 degrees.
We have an 8 Days/7-night tour ready to share with you for your next adventure.

10/08/2024

After my recent podcast with Fez Travel Turkiye', I am still thinking about these whirling Dervish Dancers. Unless you have witnessed this, you cannot imagine the concentration that is required for this ancient dance form. Konya in the south-east of Turkiye' is the home of the dance but you can also see it in an enclosed setting in the capital Istanbul. Need more information on how you can experience yourself, please reach out to me and I can chat with you about how inspiring it is to visit Turkiye' at this very moment.

29/07/2024

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2384959/episodes/15490080-turkiye-with-the-runaway-suitcase-and-dean-hunter-from-fez-travel

For those with Buzzsprout, you can find my recent interview on Turkiye' with Dean Hunter available NOW!

29/07/2024

You can now find my new podcast on all of the following outlets.

29/07/2024

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/deanne-scanlan/episodes/TURKIYE-WITH-THE-RUNAWAY-SUITCASE-AND-DEAN-HUNTER-FROM-FEZ-TRAVEL-e2micvl

Not only is this episode intriguing but it is also a history lesson on just how unique Turkiye' is. Discover the adventure through the eyes of an Australian who left home over 30 years ago finally settling in Istanbul for what became a 25 year immersion into the culture the people and the history. A...

27/07/2024

Having posted so much about Turkiye' lately, I have really itchy feet to go back and see more. This is Konya Mosque - or one of them. Do you remember what Konya is noted for - the Dervish dancers of course, the original and not a tourist version. Our partner in Turkiye' has some incredible itineraries OR if you wish, you can have a private tour designed just for you. Either way, this journey is one of biblical proportions - literally as it is said that Jesus and the Virgin Mary along with St John spent a great deal of time there.

27/07/2024

IT’S NOT JUST A TOUR; It’s an adventure! 🌍

Experience a unique blend of education and exploration – it will change how you see the world around you! Come on an unforgettable journey that will inspire creativity and curiosity. Clients that have been to Cuba tell us that they are so glad they put it on their travel list. Cuba is simply a destination full of great adventures.

26/07/2024

Antalya, the beginning of the Turquoise Coast on what is also known as the Turkish Riveria. As the 5th most populated city, it is also host to many historical events. Originally called ATTALAS, it dates back to the 1st century BC. The famous Hadrians Gate built in 130 AD is a highlight and when you walk through it, you will be joining such greats as the Queen of Sheba when she was on her way to meet King Solomon.
I have heard that this is also where Cleopatra met Mark Anthony. The beaches are spectacular with the Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop. Just many of the amazing things to see on your journey through Turkiye'. We have a swag of itineraries available so contact me and we can find one that is just right for you.

25/07/2024

Oh to be here right now - Sille Village in Konya Province Turkey. Can you see yourself here? See it with us on a 15 day tour through Turkey which includes all of the popular cities and places like Cappadocia, Kusadasi, Ephesus and more. Need more details?

25/07/2024

Cruising in style on the Mekong. This is last minute deals for 2024.
Ho Chi Minh > Siem Reap available dates
17 & 31 Oct 2024
28 Nov 2024
12 & 26 Dec 2024

Siem Reap > Ho Chi Minh available dates
06 & 20 Nov 2024
04 Dec 2024

Get in touch today for a full itinerary.

24/07/2024

So where are we today - TURKIYE' of course and some may recognise the DERVISH DANCERS in what is not only an incredible spectacle but shows an indication of what one can do in a trance state. What are Dervish dancers and where did they originate from!!

They began as a form of meditation by Jalaluddin Rumi - Remember that name - RUMI. He was a mystic and poet of the Sufi Muslim religion in the 13th century. Born in Persia and then residing in KONYA the capital of the Seljuk Empire in Turkey, he instilled into his followers the knowledge that 'There are many roads that lead to God'. If you have witnessed one of these amazing events, you will know the dedication that his followers were renowned for.
Next week on the RUNAWAY SUITCASE we interview Dean Hunter from Fez Travels based in Istanbul. Stay tuned for the announcement.

22/07/2024

Windstars Windsurf is in Greece. Oh to be back Windstar Cruises , you are the best.

22/07/2024

Once you get the hang of things :) My PODCAST - THE RUNAWAY SUITCASE IS NOW LISTED ON THE FOLLOWING:
I ❤️Radio - Podcast Addict - Pod Chaser - Pocket Casts - Player FM - Spotify and just waiting on verification from Amazon Music.

Now we just wait and see what the feedback is. :) Be kind

21/07/2024

What you are looking at here is the stunning yacht fleet of Emerald Cruises. The only difficulty is choosing your destinations of which there are many combinations to choose from.

We have this on our list for 2025 so if you would like to know more, please feel free to contact me or download the brochure, find your destination of choice, and then give me a call.

21/07/2024

Is ANTARCTICA ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? If so then you must see this offer - then contact me for more information.

Start your trip with 2 nights in Ushuaia at the 5* Arakur Resort & Spa, giving you ample time to enjoy the beautiful nature and Tierra del Fuego National Park at your leisure.
You will then embark on your small expedition ship, the MS Seaventure. Start your voyage by cruising through the Beagle Channel and crossing the infamous Drake Passage. Arriving at the South Shetland Islands, you will have your first glimpse of the icy wilderness of Antarctica. As you are travelling at the very start of the Antarctic season you will navigate through brash ice in zodiacs.
Continue on to the Antarctic Peninsula and enjoy the ethereal landscapes and peaceful seclusion. Witness penguins coming ashore and building nests and cruise via zodiac past yawning Weddell seals, lazing on the ice. Your time in Antarctica includes two daily excursions (subject to weather and regulations) with a mix of landings and zodiac cruising.

19/07/2024

Mirabell Gardens Salzburg, do you want to know the best way to see them and get there of course? Renowned as the setting for much of the Sound of Music, the gardens are located in the heart of the city. Should you choose a river cruise then I highly recommend one with AmaWaterways. I currently work with four cruise lines providing spectacular journeys.
If this looks like something you would love to try, then please contact me and we can discuss the options.

16/07/2024

I have had people say that going to a website to chose a cruise isn't as easy as they thought it was - and they are right. There are many additions and variables on a journey to your destination of choice. This is why you need someone who has a lifetime of experience in the industry to guide you through the process and help with making the right choices for your holiday. There is a misconception that going direct will save you money - NOT TRUE !!. The pricing is set by the cruise company and by allowing us to help with the process, you are making sure that every little detail is taken care of.
Why not give us a try, you won't be disappointed.

16/07/2024

First recording ☑️ editing underway. It won't be long now for our first guest to make an appearance.

15/07/2024

You will never find this view boring, that of the Castles along the rivers of Europe. You would also not need an excuse to try or revisit river cruising as it is still one of the most relaxing ways to travel from country to country. Unpack once, and yes you do that on a big ship as well, but you do not find these views unless you can travel the not-so-deep waters of the Danube, Rhine, Rhone, Main and Seine rivers. We are devotees of river cruising so speak of this from first-hand experience. If you have been dreaming of this style of travel, then as a river cruise specialist, I am certainly the one you need in your travel plans to provide you with a memorable holiday.

📸AmaWaterways

11/07/2024

SEE PATAGONIA ON BOARD THIS INCREDIBLE EXPEDITION
15 days ESSENTIAL PATAGONIA - the ULTIMATE journey in SOUTH AMERICA.
Step onboard the Ultramarine! This premium expedition vessel takes guests to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet. The ship has been purpose-built to meet the specific demands of the polar regions and is well-appointed to let guests explore The Arctic and Antarctica safely and comfortably. It offers a robust portfolio of adventure activities. The mix of sustainability features creates innovative operations to offer ultra-immersive polar experiences to guests on board. The vessel is one of the few to offer a suite of flight-seeing activities, travelling in one of the two twin-engine helicopters. This really opens up the possibilities to go further and see more.

The Expedition Ship can accommodate a maximum of 199 passengers and offers the most spacious suites in its category. The cabins are all elegantly designed and feature oversized windows with sleeping views and spa-inspired bathrooms. The Penguins, the whales, the icebergs are all there waiting for you. This tour is greatly reduced for MARCH 2025 NOW FROM $18,956 per person- WAS $26,395 per person.

11/07/2024

COMING SOON !!!!!!

08/07/2024

There are many advantages to river cruising and I would have to say getting up close and personal with the towns and cities is definitely one of them. This is Nuremberg and if you see it in the summer or spring time it is magnificent. If you visit there for the Christmas Markets - well it is magnificent. AmaWaterways have itineraries to suit at any time of year so why not visit in two different seasons. . Passionate about Europe - then this could be a great option for you.