The Travel Angels Leisure and Group Travel Specialists

11/05/2024

Attending a presentation of the beautiful island of Martinique

09/30/2024

Hello everyone. Can't believe it's October tomorrow. Where did the time go?

Here to let you know we still have travel deals out there. Over the past weeks, cruising has been in high demand. And some suppliers are including specials along with included checked luggage. Yes, where you always paid for luggage into the US ports, it's included.

So check in with me to see what we have out there as far as special Canadian pricing offers.

Of course, we have Caribbean getaways and the Disney vacations are still among our popular Winter getaways.

And, being a group specialist as well, you may not know we have special group rates for groups of 10 adults. A multi family getaway where no one has to do dishes is something to think about. Ask me about getting a group rate.

Have a good week and Happy October everyone

09/24/2024

Hello all. Following on the Cruising post, I would love to know your favorite cruise lines along with the primary reason you enjoy them.

And, for those who have never cruised, what is the primary reason you don't or won't try it?

Just curious Have a great day!

09/21/2024

Happy Fall everyone! Although I'm hoping to hang on to Summer as long as possible, I have followed my clients in booking my own Caribbean getaway. Dec 1 I'll be going on my first Carnival Cruise. After some positive feedback from my colleagues and doing a big cruise line comparison, it's time I check out the improvements and see how the Fun Ships have evolved. While I have cruised on other lines, the pricing, itineraries on almost 30 ships,a generous drink package, and an adult only area (no extra cost) means I need to do some research. So off I go.

I will happily provide you an update, review and photos upon my return. If you are considering cruising in your Winter plans, here are a few tips:

1- Understand travel agents get the same prices and more for their clients - Even You Tube Cruisers recommend this. Travel agents pair the clients to their wishes. Here in Canada, we also get Canadian offers from our suppliers. Worth checking into.

2- Itineraries vary with so many choices out there. Make a list of places you're interested in crossing off your bucket list and where you don't care to duplicate a visit.

3- Don't forget your sea days activities. Are you a lounger, foodie, or like activities with the latest toys to play with. Do you prefer more quiet time and less kids perhaps? More perks usually suggests a higher price point.

4- Drink packages -confusing but we've got comparisons and tips to help you decide which is right for you. Remember, each adult in the room must purchase the same drink package as they can't be shared. The value of alcoholic drinks covered in any plan varies by cruise line. Some even cover specialty coffees, energy drinks and more. While some cruise lines cover drinks up to $11 in vlaue, others go as high as $20. Daily limits also vary so ask.

5- While cruise lines must offer all in pricing, prepaid gratuities are never included in quotes so this cost needs to be factored in your budget as do drink package gratuities (when a free drink package is offered).

6- Did you know you could package your flights with your cruise. Even a pre and post days for those who may want extra time at their departure port. Cruise lines work on contracts so they don't necessarily offer you the best fitting options especially true if they have flight offers.

7- If you want prime or a preferred cabin location, you need to get ahead. Midship cabins sell quickly, and some categories are limited.

8- As many know, checked luggage is not included in transborder flights between Canada and US. But some packages are offering this perk so ask.

In all, just know before you go and talk to your agent.

Until next time, safe travels.

08/29/2024

Happy Labour Day everyone

As you get busy with back to school and organizing your social and sports club activities this September don’t forget to plan your Winyer getaway.

It’s also a good time to think about what your plans are for next summer. Before winter and the holidays creep up, giving your agent an idea of where and when you plan to travel means we can watch for special offers

September is a slow travel month. Between hurricanes in the south and busy back to school and routines, agents will see discount offers and sales. When we can match this up with clients interests it’s a wonderful advantage.

And if you plan to travel for holidays like Christmas or New Years it’s a good idea not to wait as demands rise with prices.

The days of last minute sales are not so present now. Since the pandemic, airlines have cut flights and hotels can’t afford to give away stays. Please be mindful of that since choice of hotels, resorts, cabins on cruises and flight dates won’t be to your advantage if you wait last minute

Enjoy the rest of summer and happy fall. I’ll look forward to hearing about your next travel ideas and happily help you plan to meet your dream vacation or cruise.

Safe travels

07/03/2024

Hello sun lovers. While you are enjoying the fun under the sun this Summer it's hard not to think of your Winter getaway.

So while you are relaxing by the lake or pool, start thinking of taking advantage of booking your Winter vacation South. And let's not forget, stock up on sunscreen sales, sandals, sunglasses etc for the vacation. Better selections for all items including those pool floats like Swimways Papasan which fit perfect in your luggage. Same with beach toys which are not so available in the winter when you actually leave for that South vacation.

And for Disney/ Universal theme park fans, remember that many flight packages will start to become available so check in with me. And if this Summer is an option, there are offers we can look into for you as well.

Safe travels to all wherever your Summer takes you.

06/09/2024

When someone doesn’t know what I do for work
I’m pretty sure they are hackers right! So to my former clients trying to get a hold of me, please put in what trip I did for you. I can have peace of mind knowing I’m getting the real people.
Enjoy your weekends and

Don’t forget early booking advantages and discounts expire June 28 for Transat and June 30th for air Canada vacations. I’m already booking those Winter getaways. Talk soon

05/28/2024

Here”s another great travel offer. Transat is offering extra savings, price drop guarantee( up to $200 per adult) discounts up to 40% off on South travel packages for travel from Sep 1 2024 to April 30 2025.
And with additional discount on option Flex it is the perfect time to think about your Fall and winter getaways

Of course , as always, I’m ready to send you pricing if you have your tentative travel dates

Email me [email protected].
Let’s talk travel!

05/17/2024

Happy Victoria Day weekend everyone

Well as you enjoy the unofficial start of Summer I want to remind everyone that it's not too early to plan your Winter breaks.

Keep in mind, many operators have incentives and lower prices when you book in advance.

One example is ACV Air Canada Vacations which I just booked clients for 2025 already. (clients saved $350 per person with the incentives and they have a price drop in place). When paired with Careflex, it includes a price drop guarantee and seat selection.

Not to mention that Air Canada Vacations and Transat Holidays also still include your carry on plus 1 checked bag per person. When you know others charge for either of these services, the value speaks for itself.

So consider thinking ahead for your Winter packages going South.

AND, thinking of Europe travel? Well we have several options from bus tours to river cruising also including several incentives.

As always, I thank you for your support, your loyalty and, as your travel agent, I am so happy to be back after this pandemic. I hope to hear from many of you very very soon.

Happy Spring and Summer and safe travels

01/30/2024

Well another Airline failure to report today
While I did not offer Flair, people who may have booked Expedia and Flair their cheap rates will cost them more to replace.

01/19/2024

Another beautiful day at dreams natura

01/17/2024

Checking out Dreams Natura 21 minutes from the airport Tested out the private transfer with Cancun shuttle. $76 USD round trip just the two of us. not shared direct to the resort. They were there with our names at the exit of the airport even though our flight arrived 45 minutes late. ( thanks to freezing weather and de-icing in TO

Next test. Customs and Visitax. Did on -line and the automated systems in Cancun worked very well. Do those on-line and you won’t regret

So far we’re in our second day at the resort In Priviledge ocean view Jr suite. I’ll share photos and more about the experience. No bracelets heated pools and lots of food options in this easy to get around oceanfront resort

01/07/2024

Happy New Year everyone.

Blessed to have a whole new 2024. Yes 2023 was a difficult one losing both of my parents, selling my childhood home for them and the twists and turns that kept me both on my toes and exhausted at times.

News in 2024, Yes I am still selling travel and will be checking out a new build from 2022 Dreams Natura. I will be away for a week this month.

A few more vacation plans and I'm hoping to set up a group trip.
So I'm reaching out to all of you family, friends, clients for your dream trip idea. Now a group trip simply means we fly together, share the same resort or cruise or even a tour. We do not need to be together the entire trip LOL. All fun aside, a group does give extra benefits, special promotions and often better rates. (And you have your travel agent within reach LOL)

So email me: [email protected]
Subject line: Dreaming of " your trip wish" for year:
I'll be collecting ideas for a possible late 2024 to Spring 2025

Celebrating a Leap Year let's put the deadline for your ideas submitted at February 29th.

My own dream would be to organize a different group every year.
Thank you for sharing your ideas and keep traveling safely.

05/23/2023

Is Alaska Cruising on your list? Here's a great opportunity to do a round trip and get at Par pricing- Contact me for more details, I've got you covered.

THESE ARE ROUND TRIP VANCOUVER!​​​​​​
Applicable Sailings

🛳️NCL Spirit - 14 nights with departure between June 1 and September 1, 2023
🛳️NCL Jewel - 14 nights with departure between June 1 and October 1, 2023

NORWEGIAN JEWEL NORWEGIAN SPIRIT
Vancouver,British Columbia
Ketchikan (Ward Cove),Alaska
Juneau,Alaska
Skagway,Alaska
Hubbard Glacier,Alaska
Seward,Alaska
Hubbard Glacier,Alaska
Icy Strait Point,Alaska
Juneau,Alaska
Skagway,Alaska
Ketchikan (Ward Cove),Alaska
Vancouver,British Columbia Vancouver,British Columbia
Icy Strait Point,Alaska
Juneau,Alaska
Skagway,Alaska
Hubbard Glacier,Alaska
Keystone Canyon (Valdez),Alaska
Seward,Alaska
Keystone Canyon (Valdez),Alaska
Hubbard Glacier,Alaska
Skagway,Alaska
Juneau,Alaska
Ketchikan (Ward Cove),Alaska
Vancouver,British Columbia

04/23/2023

Do nothing: Do we underestimate and judge people who seem to do nothing?

Someone's lawn is not perfectly manicured; limited in the "outings" they take; or without a visible achievement list. We need to reflect.

Maybe that person is visiting the sick and elderly; maybe they go hold hands or talk with someone who needs mental support; maybe they are working behind the scenes and you can't see them focussed on people rather than things and achievements. Maybe they need us to value them for a change.

Sometimes we have to believe in what we don't see. And People, should always matter over things. Sometimes Volunteers don't get the recognition they deserve when they are behind the scenes. Sometimes, we don't see the contributions of others because we don't take the time to go over how they made others feel from the gestures of kindness.

While posting sale items recently I've come by some kind people who care to provide support without expectations. It's not balanced with others who don't value people's time or work.

Time to turn things around and let's give thanks to those who volunteer to simply be nice people. Hold a door open, say a kind thing to the elderly, drive with courtesy, and are simply willing to help. Those who drop everything they are doing to help someone. Mowing a seniors lawn, looking out for each other. Even in this day of technology, a virtual hug, a word of encouragement, a follow up to just touch base.

To those of us who don't tally their gestures of kindness, BRAVO!
To those who choose to add a little extra kindness to their work (I've seen many PSWs for instance who go beyond) BRAVO!
To those who put dusting off to visit a sick friend, send a card or have coffee with someone. BRAVO!

Remember you can't judge a book by it's cover but you need to open your eyes and read between the lines sometimes.

Cheers to the kind people I have met over the years.
BRAVO to kindness and caring.

04/11/2023

Another Sargassum update for you.

Thank you to all my supporting clients who have booked and are booking their vacations with me. This Winter was very hopeful that travel is resuming following the past 3 years. I truly appreciate your bookings and your referals. Happy Spring to all and cheers to letting yourself get to your favorite vacation spots this year!

Read up on this article below:

Travelers heading to Florida, Mexico and Caribbean destinations this summer should be prepared for the influx of sargassum expected to make landfall on beaches.
According to the Miami Herald, the University of South Florida’s (USF) Optical Oceanography Lab revealed that The Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt contained an estimated 13 million tons of seaweed at the end of March, a new record for the period.

As the stinky seaweed continues to increase in size, officials said the massive bloom would reach its peak between June and July, with Weather.com experts revealing that major beaching events are “inevitable” in Florida, the Caribbean and Mexico throughout the summer.

“Given the complexity of its motion, growth, and decay, it is not possible to forecast the timing of beaching,” a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) spokesperson said. “However, given the size and number of the current Sargassum patches, there is a strong chance that Sargassum carried by the Florida Current may reach the Florida coast despite wind and wave conditions.”

In response to USF’s report, the Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network said the largest landfall this summer would measure an estimated 650,000 tons and impact beaches in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cancun, Mahahual and Xcalak.

According to Reportur.com, the monitoring network’s director Esteban Amaro believes that only five percent will reach Mexican beaches, while another 90 percent would “continue on its way to the Sea of the Sargasso.”

Sargassum seaweed begins to release hydrogen sulfide as it rots, which can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, in addition to a rotten egg odor. Travelers are advised to avoid touching or swimming near the seaweed.

In March, Mexican Secretary of the Navy Jose Rafael Ojeda Duran announced the installation of 9,050 meters (around 29,691 feet) of anti-sargassum barriers, including 1,850 meters in Othon P. Blanco (Chetumal and Mahahual), 2,400 meters in Puerto Morelos, 2,500 meters in Solidaridad (Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras) and 2,300 in Tulum.

03/20/2023

Wanted to share this with you all

03/20/2023

Here's an update on Sargassum Look over this growing concern for Caribbean and Florida Coasts

In 2011, 2014, 2015, and in 2018, thousands of tons of pelagic sargassum seaweed, referred to as sargassum influxes, have piled up to 3 metres thick on beac...