RainCity Traveller - Jen Albert

19/05/2024

Alaska…

Last week, we sailed up the Inside Passage from Vancouver and landed in Juneau where we stopped for some delicious bisque and crab cakes.

Did a fun walking tour in Skagway where we learned another example of how women made the West rich.

We munched on some tasty Alaska Fry Bread and then hopped on the White Pass Railway for a trip through history.

In Glacier Bay, we were guided by Park Rangers from the Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and reminded that we were visiting, and welcomed by, the Huna Tlingit people, whose ancestors have been on these lands since time immemorial.

In Ketchikan, we did a self-guided walking tour through its historic downtown and Creek Street, where some of this town’s most colourful history is preserved and stories told.

Then sailed once again through the Inside Passage back home to Vancouver.

We met so many cool people on our cruise. Travellers and ship crew from all over the world excited to experience Alaska. Some, like us, for the first time.

Others who have been many times before but always experience something new. A new port, a new excursion, a new cruise itinerary.

This trip was definitely one for the books and we can’t wait to go back!

16/05/2024

In case you missed it, Envoyage is in! No longer Independent by Flight Centre, Envoyage is a new international powerhouse travel brand, bringing you incredible products, jaw-dropping deals and the benefits that can only come from going global. It’s everything you’ve loved up until now… just more of it. This is just the beginning.

06/05/2024

🎉 Exciting news! 🎉

Virgin Voyages will be sailing the West Coast in 2026 🧜🏽‍♀️

📍Itinerary: From Cali to Canada (8 Nights)

🛳 Ship: Brilliant Lady

📆 Dates: May 3rd to 11th 2026

This 8-night North Pacific passage departs from LA over to Catalina Island then sails north to San Francisco. Next you’ll visit Astoria, Oregon, then cross the Canadian border to Victoria, British Columbia where besides the abundance of activities, Victoria is arguably one of the most photogenic cities in North America. After, you’ll end in Vancouver — a must-visit for every traveler.

🛳 Day 1: Los Angeles, California 🇺🇸

🛳 Day 2: Catalina Island, California 🇺🇸

🛳 Day 3: Sailing Day 🌊

🛳 Day 4: San Francisco, California 🇺🇸

🛳 Day 5: Sailing Day 🌊

🛳 Day 6: Astoria, Oregon 🇺🇸

🛳 Day 7: Sailing Day 🌊

🛳 Day 8: Victoria, British Columbia 🇨🇦

🛳 Day 9: Vancouver, British Columbia 🇨🇦

As your Virgin Voyages First Mate, I can get you booked on this once-in-a-lifetime voyage and this incredible Brilliant Lady itinerary goes on sale on Wednesday, May 8th.

Hurry, contact me today for more details, as when this goes live on May 8th, it is expected to sell out fast.

02/05/2024

We're making some changes! Can't wait to show off our new brand.

We’re setting off on a new journey and can’t wait to take you along for the ride. Independent by Flight Centre will now be Envoyage—a new global independent travel brand. It’s everything you love about us, but with added benefits, a global reach and incredible new branding. Stay tuned to learn more as we share more about this exciting new venture.

25/04/2024

EDIT: Air Canada walks back new seat selection policy change after backlash

According to news sources, Air Canada has temporarily walked back its decision to charge a new seat selection fee for travellers booked on the lowest fares.

No new info yet as to when or how these fees might be implemented.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Flying Air Canada or Air Canada Vacations in either Basic or Eco Standard?

If you haven't already purchased your seat, you might want to do so now.

Effective as of April 24th, you are no longer able to choose your seat free of charge during the online check-in process > it will now be assigned by the airline (➡️ hello middle seat!)

If you want to change your pre-selected seat, you must pay a fee to do so for flights within Canada and to/from the U.S., and on *select* international itineraries.

‼️And a word of warning: once you select your new seat and move to the next screen, you will automatically be charged.

This fee does *NOT* apply if you are an Aeroplan 50K, 75K, or Super Elite Member (you may choose a complimentary Standard seat for you and any companions travelling on the same reservation), or fares where a seat is included but it DOES apply to bookings made prior to April 24.

This is just one more thing to remember when booking your flights, but Travel Agents are here to help.

We know the rules, have the networks, and built the supplier relationships. All of this combines to make your travels easy and stress-free, saving you time and money 💯

Questions? Send me a message...your next great adventure (with the seat you want) awaits!

📸 Air Canada

Air Canada Air Canada Vacations

25/04/2024

Toronto! We can't wait to see you in June at Travel Market Place. Thanks to everyone who supported us in Vancouver and made this possible. ✈️🌻👩🏽‍🦽👨‍🦼👨🏾‍🦯🏳‍🌈

30/03/2024

🎄✨ Experience the Magic of European Christmas Markets with Avalon Waterways! ✨🎄

Have you ever dreamed of wandering through Europe's enchanting Christmas markets, surrounded by twinkling lights, enticing aromas (mulled wine, anyone?), and holiday cheer?

Now is your chance to make that dream a reality!

Join me and some friends on a breathtaking journey along the Danube from Vienna to Nuremberg with Avalon Waterways.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as we explore centuries-old traditions, savor seasonal treats, and discover the charm of Europe during the most wonderful time of the year.

​🎫Secure your spot for Christmas 2025 with our special group pricing!

Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience — reserve your stateroom now.

Click the link in the comments for more info ⬇

08/12/2023

This week was definitely Hawaii week. 🌺

After spending 5 nights on the island of Oahu, I’m back home and once again meeting with suppliers and island representatives from Hawaii.

We were reminded that Maui is open for travellers to visit respectfully, Kaua’i is a place to rejuvenate, Oahu is both a Town and Country destination and the Island of Hawaii is more than just a volcano.

All of the islands are rich in history, culture, and .

Tread lightly, travel mindfully, take nothing but memories and leave nothing but gratitude 🙏

Mahalo for this event.

If Hawaii is on your bucket list, message me to start planning your next adventure.
✈️🏝️⛰️🐠🌈🍹🤙🏼🏄🏽‍♀️🪸

16/09/2023

I was lucky enough to spend time this week with some of my Ontario Independent By Flight Centre family. ❤️

Thanks ACTA Canada for letting me crash the Eastern Summit ✈️

02/09/2023

Sail on sailor, thank you for amazing songs that launched an empire. ❤️🍹☀️🍔🦜

01/09/2023

This is part of why I love being a part of Independent by Flight Centre. The support from suppliers, as well as other agents, is so helpful in this business and I am grateful that I have so many people I can reach out to and connect with. ❤

27/08/2023

When in Seattle… ☕️

26/08/2023

Today’s ship tour of the Odyssey was 💯

I will post a reel soon but highlights include: spacious staterooms, amazing restaurants like The Grill by Thomas Keller (yes! That Thomas Keller. Has a restaurant you MAY have heard of? - The French Laundry), stunning amenities, a spa I could live in, and a relaxing pool deck complete with waiter service.

Small ship cruising for those looking for a relaxed vacation with exceptional experiences.

18/08/2023

Another fun night with my fam and of Tourism

12/08/2023

Touring the today on Holland America and found this guy…

08/08/2023

🧜🏼‍♀️ Ahoy Sailors!

Extend your sunny days with sizzling August savings. 🛳️☀️🌊

Up to CAD $675 off Caribbean voyages —

only through 22 August.

August might be the last full month of summer, but you still have a chance to give yourself sun-drenched plans to look forward to. Swap the chilly weather for a chill holiday at sea with up to CAD $675 off our hottest (and award-winning!) Caribbean voyages, or keep the warm vibes going with up to CAD $1350 off early fall sailings in the Med — all with up to to $600 in free drinks.

Click here to choose your cabin: https://bit.ly/chooseyourcabin

04/08/2023

🏳️‍🌈 Happy Pride Vancouver! 🏳️‍🌈

I'll be celebrating this weekend at Quattro Pride in the Vineyard at . This is a free, annual Pride event that celebrates love and family and wine.

All are welcome so come join us! 🎉

I cannot wait to see , and .abit.dragking perform again.

We may not be in the city but these three will still give us world class show and bring the house down! 💕

And I'll be set up at a table with fellow travel agent friends so if you want to stop by and chat with us about your next adventure, destination wedding or cruise, we would love to see you! ✈️

Have a great weekend everyone!
❤🧡💛💚💙💜

+

06/07/2023

My Danish friends are off to explore the US Virgin Islands today and since it is , I thought I would share my own pics from a day spent at Magens Bay Beach on the island of St Thomas.

This was Day 5 of our Symphony of the Seas cruise and we decided we just wanted to be away from people for a little while.

So we grabbed a bag of snacks, bottles of water, and disembarked in Charlotte Amalie to hop on a Safari Bus (ie a converted pick-up truck taxi 🚕) to wind our way uuuup Crown Mountain then dowwwnnnn Crown Mountain to the little piece of heaven.

We found a quiet spot and relaxed for a few hours before heading back to the ship.

It was a good day 😊

Reach out to book your own good days. Just click the link in my bio to book your consultation 🛳️

16/06/2023

Hey Sailor! 🧜🏽‍♂️🧜🏽‍♀️

Did you miss last night's Virtual Cruise Night?

No worries! We've got you...

Here is a link to the replay: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15cIoAZOXrIkY6LD9GX7LhXJaYoAD1gUt/view?fbclid=IwAR0x9I3e9a3WrnATvbgC0OZbSkYVXJ5OREsBzxPgjpgkXY5j91OlynazDr8

Watch it and let us know one thing you learned about Virgin Voyages in the comments below! ⬇

BONUS - Book your cruise me before June 30th and I'll add up to $400 USD in Sailor Loot to your booking.
Have a massage, buy some Sailor swag or get a tattoo - on me 🤩

14/06/2023

AHOY! ... Grab yourself an adult beverage and come learn all about what it means to Set Sail The Virgin Way on Richard Branson's, adults only, Virgin Voyages!

TODAY! June 14 @ 4:00 PM

Registration 🔗: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAldO-urTopGtSTTE9AQAxwqnS6d0j-sSnl?fbclid=IwAR0dvUKYFqP9pqUpA1O23828p1YKACKgbxS3-8Pj1SeucTS3zcMWc9p2zyY #/registration

Don’t forget to tell them Jen Albert sent you

🛳️ Sailing Caribbean & Mediterranean, South Pacific & more!
🏖️ Featuring Beach Club at Bimini - Virgin's Private Beach Club
🍹Adults Only - No Kids!
⭐️ Food + Tips + WiFi + Basic Bevvies + Group Fitness Classes

We'll share special incentives and exclusive offers including up to a $600 Bar Tab per cabin for sailings on Virgin Voyages! Cheers and sea you soon...

14/05/2023

Being away from home and exploring new places is amazing but enjoying a cup of coffee on my balcony, the morning after a travel day, is pretty good too 😊

What’s one thing you look forward to post-vacation?

❤️ Hugs from your kids?
🐶 Snuggles with your pets?
🛌 Sleeping in your own bed?
🍽️ A meal from your favourite local restaurant?
🗺️ Planning your next trip?

Let us know below! ⬇️

24/04/2023

I may be out of office this week but that doesn't mean I'm not still working hard for you, my amazing clients! 🛫

For the next few days, I will be in the Riviera Maya for some Playa Resorts training plus conducting site inspections at these spectacular properties:

〰 Wyndham Alltra Cancun
〰 Hyatt Ziva Cancun
〰 Hyatt Zilara Cancun
〰 Seadust Family Resort Cancun
〰 Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun
〰 Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya
〰 Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen
〰 The Hilton Playa del Carmen
〰 Yucatan Resort, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

I love boutique hotels so I'm very excited to see the Yucatan Resort myself but I can't wait to show you what all of the other resorts have to offer you.

Playa Resorts have the best addresses, sit on pristine beaches, offer vibrant culture and authentic cuisine—all inspired by natural beauty and perfected with premium inclusions.

Because each resort is distinctive, infused with the essence and flavor of its unique destination and local culture, every encounter and experience is new, exciting, and above all, authentic.

What are your favourite things about all-inclusive resorts?

The beaches? 🏖
The food? 🌮
The endless drinks? 🍹
The entertainment? 💃🏽
The activities? 🤿

Let us know in the comments ⤵

29/03/2023

My friend Jordana Manchester - Adventure Travel Specialist of Storied Lands Travel wrote this great blog post on sargassum 🌿.

What it is, where to find it, how to avoid it when travelling.

Please give it a read as it may help you decide where your next trip will be!

When travel came roaring back last spring, I went from planning elaborate safaris and multi-country sojourns, to laid back beach getaways. With the pandemic still luke warm, Canadian travellers weren't ready to venture too far afield, but they were ready to escape the winter doldrums, gather up thei...

19/03/2023

Happy Birthday to my favourite sister! 🥳

Ok, yes, my ONLY sister, but still my favourite 🤣

You’re funny, and kind, and have the biggest heart and I couldn’t be more proud of you. ❤️

Here’s to celebrating you this week in Vegas 🥂

11/03/2023

And speaking of forces to be reckoned with….

I had the honour to introduce this panel of change makers at this week’s in Vancouver.

David Lyons-Black | Accessible Travel Specialist at Independent by Flight Centre

Jordana Manchester - Adventure Travel Specialist, Writer, and Cultural Anthropologist

Lystra Sam | CEO, Founder, Entrepreneur, and Actor
Qmooniti Travel & Lifestyle 𝓠𝓶𝓸𝓸𝓷𝓲𝓣𝓲

The panel - Filling In The Gaps: Accessible Travel From an Intersectional Lens - spoke to the pieces that are ‘missing’ in the travel industry.

The pieces that would allow travellers of all abilities, all identities, all backgrounds, ALL PEOPLE, to travel safely, freely, and with dignity.

So many people are underserved in this industry and this panel is determined to change that.

Thank you to our audience for your attention, thoughtful questions, and the discussions we heard you start throughout the remainder of the conference.

Thank you to for the space to speak to this.

And thank you to David, Jordana, and Lystra for being the rockstars you are.

Change is coming….be ready.

📸

11/03/2023

One year ago, at , I introduced myself to Jordana of and basically forced her to be my friend 😆

She is a force to be reckoned with…travel curator, writer, cultural anthropologist, mama bear, and all around good human.

She is one of the many friends I’ve made in this industry who are making waves, bringing in change, and value community over competition. 🫶

Oh, and she’s funny as heck too. 🤣

Thanks for not running away from me last year! You’re stuck with me now ❤️

10/03/2023

Another great Travel Market Place hosted by .

Impeccable service, great food, comfy beds, delicious drinks. 🍹

We also took part in trivia night at BC Kitchen and kicked butt 🤣

02/03/2023

Bula! ❤️

One last in person learning this week with and .

Because who WOULDN’T want to visit Fiji. And with direct flights from YVR, it’s so easy to get to the white beach and clear waters that much sooner.

Message me to start planning your dream Fiji vacation. 🏝️

21/02/2023

When we talk about accessibility for travellers (and others), it’s places like this that can make a trip worthwhile for everyone.

14/02/2023

Spending the morning with and learning about their Europe offerings 🗺️

Because who doesn’t love croissants for breakfast 🥐

Message me when you’re ready for your European Vacation ✈️