Astra The Travel Agent Next Door

06/20/2024

📣 Limited time offer! 📣

Save $250 CAD pp on small group travel all over the globe with our friends at G Adventures. Greece, the Galápagos, Iceland, Thailand, Cambodia, Costa Rica — wherever adventure is calling you, make it happen for a whole lot less.

Message me today, then let’s get booking.

📱403-607-0485
📧[email protected]
💻astralewis.thetravelagentnextdoor.com

06/14/2024

What a great interview!

I’m still waiting for someone to pinch me and wake me up as this past week really feels like it was a dream. What an amazing experience and a dream come true! 💜🇯🇴

06/13/2024

A great article by TravelPulse Canada

To put things into perspective, the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), which lists terrorist threats for countries based on four indicators: incidents, fatalities, injuries, and hostages, ranks the U.S. at 30, popular tourist hotspots like Greece at 34, the UK at 41, New Zealand at 50 and....

06/12/2024

Explore Australia and New Zealand virtually!

From beaches to barbies, kiwis to wallabies, outback to ocean, embark on a virtual tour to explore Australia and New Zealand and find adventure and relaxation at every turn. From the underwater splendour of the Great Barrier Reef to the towering Southern Alps of New Zealand − this is the South Pacific. Join our expert product designer to discover all the amazing adventures we offer down under.

Join us tomorrow, Thursday, June 13th, 2024, to learn more about these exciting destinations. 2 time slots available click on the link for more details!

astralewis.thetravelagentnextdoor.com/consumer-evening

06/11/2024

IMPORTANT READ!

This article is about one of my travel colleagues and her medical emergency while we were in Jordan. She provides important information about purchasing the proper travel insurance as you just never know when something might happen when you’re travelling. Our PPP policy is the best and I also purchased this for my two recent trips even though I have insurance through my employer and credit cards.

https://www.travelpulse.ca/news/travel-insurance/ttand-agent-julie-gillens-proof-travel-insurance-works?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1Zx05TeAofu--e17Fkuf61UvfsVFoV_8GnrRj8SPGZN0YjoSEPEx7ZxPM_aem_Ab0V5audcNi1bjHjiCcjXpUVxjMxmaItMvc-dxPx_yjmXlKMKgEP90POl1pVu4RtsjnWT-QuGk4IQ7t34MJmlfoM

Most people leave a little piece of their heart in Jordan, TTAND agent Julie Gillen left a little more.

06/10/2024

On our final full day in Jordan, we had the pleasure of listening to our key note speaker, Bruce P**n Tip, founder of G Adventures. He flew in with his 2 daughters to spend one night with us to celebrate the amazing job everyone did to ensure this conference was a success.

Later that evening we had our final celebration on the beach and got to watch our final sunset in Jordan!

Congratulations to The Travel Agent Next Door, G Adventures and local company Atlas Tours for pulling off such a massive accomplishment for having 300 people participate in an international conference in multiple locations! I can’t even imagine the work that went into ensuring how smoothly everything went for us all. So blessed to be a part of this historical moment in the travel industry and to be able to confidently support travel to Jordon!

06/09/2024

06/09/2024

06/09/2024

Who’s up for a Transformer scavenger hunt?

Our next stop was Wadi Rum, a stunning UNESCO world heritage site, where we enjoyed a thrilling jeep exploration. Afterward, we savored a traditional Bedouin lunch cooked underground!

After our exciting adventure, we settled into the luxurious Movenpick in Aqaba for some well-deserved relaxation and shopping.

06/08/2024

06/07/2024

Today’s journey through Petra was a mesmerizing experience, both under the bright sun and the shimmering moonlight!

Immersing oneself in the ancient marvels of Petra feels like entering a realm of enchantment and splendor. Each attraction, from the iconic Treasury to the grand Monastery, exudes a unique charm that captivates visitors. The intricate sculptures, vivid hues, and panoramic vistas of this UNESCO-designated treasure will leave you in awe.

Here are a few snapshots from today; a photo album is in the works to capture the full essence of this extraordinary day.

Have you been enchanted by the allure of Petra? Share your standout moments! 🏛🌄✨

06/06/2024

The third day of the conference kicked off with another series of training sessions. I then had the incredible opportunity to participate in a workshop led by Hannah Gzik from Build a Kick Ass Company. Hannah’s father had always been a source of inspiration, motivation and passion at our previous conferences, so I was thrilled to see that she would be continuing his legacy with us.

After the workshop, I had the chance to meet individually with some of my supplier partners to strategize and discuss plans for expanding my travel business with their support.

Later in the day, our entire group boarded 8 buses and embarked on a special convoy to Petra. We took a leisurely 4 hour drive and watched the magnificent sun set once again. We arrived at the stunning Old Village Resort, a unique property that was once a Jordanian Village inhabited until the 1970s. The exterior of the buildings retained their original architecture, while the interiors had been beautifully renovated.

06/06/2024

The second day of conference kicked off with updates on the latest from our supplier partners. In the afternoon, we had the opportunity to participate in optional training sessions covering a range of topics including business growth, social media strategies, marketing techniques, and emerging travel trends.

After watching another gorgeous sunset, we gathered for the highly anticipated gala awards ceremony at the luxurious Kempski Hotel Ishkar. Despite the last-minute change in venue due to the king of Jordan’s plans, the hotel staff went above and beyond to create a stunning evening with beautiful decorations and a delicious 5 course meal. Special guests added to the excitement of the event, making it a night to remember.

Keep an eye out for my journey ahead as we embark on an unforgettable tour of Jordan. Stay tuned for some exciting days filled with exploration, discovery, and adventure in this captivating destination!

06/06/2024

An amazing recap of the last few conference days and what’s to come! 🇯🇴💜

More details and pictures from me to come!

It was a big high, from the lowest point on earth. Applause filled the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar in Jordan Wednesday (June 5) as The Travel Agent Next Door (TTAND) honoured its best at an awards gala that coincided with its national conference and 10-year anniversary. The multi-day tourism symposium, w...

06/05/2024

The first day of The Travel Agent Next Door’s conference kicked off with a warm welcome session followed by exciting updates from half of our supplier partners.

In the evening, G Adventures treated us to traditional Bedouin outfits and organized a themed night on the beach. It was another fantastic night filled with indulging in mouthwatering Jordanian cuisine, sipping on drinks, getting henna tattoos and dancing with our colleagues and supplier partners.

06/04/2024

Upon our arrival, I wasted no time and immediately delved into the activities at the non-profit organization Safi Kitchen.

Safi Kitchen has a noble mission to safeguard the local culture and natural resources of the southern region of the Jordan Valley. By transforming this area into a year-round tourist destination, Safi Kitchen provides essential financial opportunities for local women and youth who may be facing economic challenges in their communities. Through engaging in tourism activities, community members can earn vital income through the kitchen, empowering women to take control of their finances and enabling youth to lead conservation efforts in their communities.

Our visit was greeted with hospitality, as we were treated to a soothing cup of tea and a delectable meal. For more information about Planaterra and Safi Kitchen, go to https://planeterra.org/safi-kitchen/

After our return to the hotel, I indulged in a unique experience by covering myself in mud and floating in the Dead Sea.

We wrapped up the day with a festive white-themed party filled with delicious food, drinks, music, and entertainment while watching the most gorgeous sunset.

06/04/2024

Embarking on my Jordanian journey began with a red-eye flight to Toronto, followed by a chartered journey with Royal Jordanian airlines, one of the sponsors of the conference attending.

Excitement filled the air as around 300 of us gathered in the airport, ready to board the Dreamliner for a 10+ hour flight. The priority service provided by the airline ensured our comfort throughout the journey.

Upon our arrival in Amman, the Jordan Tourism Board efficiently guided us through customs and immigration procedures. Our luggage was swiftly taken care of, allowing us to choose from three options to kickstart our adventure - heading straight to the Crowne Plaza or selecting from two intriguing Planaterra Projects.

Opting for one of the Planaterra projects, I look forward to sharing my experience with you in the days to come.

06/02/2024

I’m off to Jordan for The Travel Agent Next Door’s annual conference and 10th anniversary celebration! 🎉

I will not have access to phone or voice mail. I will be checking emails but my responses may be delayed.

If you need to book something immediately, you can do so directly on my website astralewis.thetravelagentnextdoor.com

Please be sure to follow and share my adventure with your family and friends! 👀

05/31/2024

Follow along my journey to Jordan!

The Travel Agent Next Door’s 2024 conference and 10-year anniversary event departs Toronto Pearson, for Jordan, this Sunday. “We wanted to do something epic…and this is epic,” says company founder Flemming Friisdahl. Here's what to expect from the jam-packed week, which PAX is covering on lo...

05/31/2024

As we mark the 10th anniversary of my host agency - The Travel Agent Next Door, we are excited to announce that this year’s national conference will be held in Jordan in collaboration with G Adventures, Jordan Tourism Board, and Royal Jordanian Airlines.

I am eagerly anticipating a week filled with networking opportunities, enlightening guest speakers, and valuable one-on-one sessions with our supplier partners. This will be complemented by unforgettable experiences including engaging in Planaterra Projects, a festive Bedouin beach party, and exploring iconic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba.

Join me as I embark on this incredible journey to Jordan and share my experiences along the way!

05/28/2024

I’d like to take a moment to shine a light on some of the exceptional tour guides we had the pleasure of meeting during our travels.

First, let me tell you about Miguel, who led us through Tikal. Not only is he well-versed in archaeology, but he is also a skilled bird expert and a highly sought-after guide. With about 15 years of experience working with G Adventures, Miguel shared fascinating historical insights with us while keeping a keen eye out for wildlife.

Next, we were guided by Belize Caving Expeditions, a locally owned tour company that took us cave tubing and treated us to delicious homemade meals. The owner personally led us to Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) and his passion for sharing the history of his culture was evident. As we hiked back from the caves, he shared with me the story of how he started his company in 2004, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and his plans for future expansion. The most kind hearted and humble person, my travel companions didn’t realize he was the owner until I shared that information with them.

Finally, Ragga Sailing Adventures led our snorkeling excursion in Hol Chan Marine Reserve. These four guides kept us entertained throughout the day with their fun personalities, while also prioritizing our safety and that of the marine life. Dancing, singing, laughing, and engaging in wonderful conversations with them made for a truly memorable experience.

05/27/2024

I had originally planned to spend my final day in paradise leisurely shopping for souvenirs and enjoying some relaxation by the beach or pool, after a week filled with exciting adventures. 🏖️ However, when some of my travel companions suggested renting golf carts to explore the other side of the island, I decided to join in, thinking it would still be a relaxing way to spend the day.

Little did we know, our leisurely golf cart ride turned into a misadventure when the cart unexpectedly broke down in the middle of nowhere. As we waited for the rental company to come to our rescue, we found ourselves surrounded by swarms of hungry mosquitoes, making the situation more comical than frustrating. 🦟

Despite the unexpected turn of events, we couldn’t help but laugh at the ridiculousness of the situation and the memories we were creating. In the end, we all agreed that this final adventure was a fitting conclusion to our unforgettable week in paradise. “Embrace the Bizarre” right ladies? 💜

05/26/2024

An amazing article about 2 amazing people that I’ve been blessed to spend this past week with.

https://www.travelpulse.ca/news/tour-operators/passion-purpose-g-adventures

05/25/2024

Our latest adventure led us to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where we embarked on a boat 🚤 and snorkeling 🤿 expedition. Established in 1987 as a marine protected area under the Fisheries Act of Belize, this reserve operates under a zoning scheme aimed at promoting sustainable use and conservation. Divided into four zones, Hol Chan includes areas where fishing is regulated and others that are designated as no-take zones to protect marine life.

The reserve is closely monitored by marine police to ensure compliance with regulations. During our snorkeling experience, we were grouped with guides and instructed to stick together or risk being removed from the area. The underwater world we witnessed was teeming with fish, turtles, barracudas, rays, nurse sharks, and vibrant coral reefs within arm’s reach. 🐠🦈🪸

Our guides were exceptional, prioritizing our safety while making sure we had a blast and educating us about the diverse wildlife. It was a day filled with excitement and learning, although we all returned with a bit of sun-kissed skin as a souvenir of our unforgettable adventure.

05/24/2024

Embarking on our next journey via local bus and water taxi, we reached the stunning Caye Caulker, where we experienced our impactful G for Good Moment. G Adventures is dedicated to using travel as a force for good in everything they do.

Our G for Good Moment involved participating in the Belize Bike for Purpose Tour. 🚴🏽‍♀️ We leisurely cycled around the island accompanied by a guide from the Bike for Purpose project. This program assists youth from Caye Caulker in developing vital skills for future employment in the tourism sector after completing high school.

During our tour, we were accompanied by four remarkable guides from Ocean Academy school who shared insights about the island and showcased their school. They taught us about the significance of the vibrant murals adorning the school walls, painted by students from each graduating class. We also received a brief lesson in Creole and had the opportunity to support the students by purchasing handmade items, which contribute to their educational expenses.

The students we encountered, along with others at the school, left a lasting impression on us with their impressive presentation skills and dedication to their work. We were truly inspired by their enthusiasm and hard work during our time together. 💜