Spotlight Cruise and Travel

11/02/2024

10/29/2024

Imagine a vacation where every detail is taken care of—from the ideal family cruise to unforgettable friend getaways. Spotlight Cruise and Travel specializes in personalized, stress-free trips that connect you to the heart of each destination. Ready to explore the world with ease and authentic experiences? Let’s plan it together!

10/23/2024

Clock says 8AM, body says 5AM, I am at WorldVia Travel Network headquarters in Georgia this week, focusing on LUXURY travel and refining our group travel programs. Spotlight Cruise and Travel

10/09/2024

If your valid passport was lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene or a recent major storm, we may be able to waive the fees to replace it. Learn how to apply for a replacement at travel.state.gov/disaster.

10/07/2024

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/discover-why-more-travelers-choosing-cruisesand-how-i-keri-ann-white-wtdec

Did you know that 35.7 million passengers are expected to take a cruise in 2024, a 6% increase from pre-pandemic levels? Cruising is more popular than ever, and it’s easy to see why: it offers a seamless way to explore multiple destinations while enjoying all-inclusive luxury.

09/12/2024

I’ve been away more than I’ve been home the past few months, and I’m on the road once more! This week I’m at Harrah’s Resort Southern California with some of the travel industry’s brightest and best! I’m meeting with our supplier partners, learning about the latest innovations in travel, and gaining some new tools to better serve our Spotlight Cruise and Travel family! (If you aren’t a part of the family yet drop your travel goals in the comments and let’s start a conversation!)

09/06/2024

09/01/2024

Each British Virgin Island (BVI) has its own unique charm, from the bustling capital of Tortola to the laid-back Jost Van D**e. Explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or diving, hike scenic trails, sail through calm waters, or simply relax on the beach. With warm hospitality and endless adventure, the BVI's are yours to discover - find yourself surrounded by BVI Love. What more can I tell you?

Come Discover Your Luxury Escape >>>MORE

08/25/2024

Have I mentioned that I have the best job ever?? Good beautiful morning from Holland America Line’s Eurodam!

08/24/2024

Which bucket list destination is calling your name? From ancient ruins to bustling cities, there's a world of wonder out there waiting to be explored. Take advantage of a $200 air credit to get where you want to go. Share your ideal bucket list adventure in the comments!

Turn Vacation Dreams Into Lifelong Memories >>>MORE

08/18/2024

Discover the heart and soul of Costa Rica and Panama on Swan Hellenic's Central America cruise as you explore lush rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife and colorful birds. Relax on pristine beaches with turquoise waters and swaying palms or explore the crystal-clear depths and encounter a kaleidoscope of marine life on vibrant coral reefs. This adventure promises an unparalleled exploration of cultural treasures and breathtaking natural wonders.

Go Beyond >>>MORE

07/06/2024

The Puget Sound region is forecast to experience high temperatures through next week.

If you are in one of these groups, take extra precautions to stay cool, drink water, and take breaks from the heat:
*Older adults (65 and older)
*Young children
*People with chronic health conditions or mental illness
*Athletes who exercise outdoors
*Outdoor workers
*People living unsheltered or homeless
*People who take medications that increase sensitivity to the heat, including those for allergies and colds, thyroid, depression, heart/blood pressure, and weight loss. Check with your doctor about your health conditions and medications.

For tips on staying safe during extreme heat, visit www.kingcounty.gov/beattheheat.

To find a cooling center near you, visit: https://kcemergency.com/

Stay safe, Neighbors!!

07/05/2024

Excursions
Book Early: Popular excursions like glacier trekking, whale watching, and flightseeing can fill up quickly. Book these activities as soon as possible.
Get Back on Time: Make sure excursions booked outside of the cruise line will get you back to the ship on time! Cruise ships wait for no-one.
Local Tours: Consider booking tours with local operators. They often offer smaller groups and more personalized experiences.
Cultural Experiences: Engage in cultural excursions, such as visiting Native American heritage centers or attending local performances. These can provide a deeper understanding of Alaska's rich history and culture.
What tips for excursion planning would you add to this list?
; ;

07/03/2024

Seeing glaciers is another priority for Alaska cruisers.
Glacier Viewing:
Find a Comfortable Spot: On glacier viewing days, ships will often rotate to give all sides great views, so almost any spot with an outside view is a good spot.
Photography: Use a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the stunning details of glaciers and wildlife. Keep extra batteries and memory cards handy as the cold can drain batteries quickly.
Have you ever witnessed a glacier calving? When huge chunks of ice break off of a glacier it sounds like thunder and can create huge waves. It's remarkable to watch!
; ;

07/01/2024

One of the top reasons people cruise to Alaska is to see the magnificent wildlife - and there is a lot of it to see!
Know the Best Times: Early morning and late evening are often the best times to see wildlife.
Deck Viewing: Spend time on the outer decks of the ship during scenic cruising days. Crew members or Park Rangers often provide commentary and point out wildlife.
Listen for Announcements: It's not uncommon for the Captain or crew to announce when they spot wildlife from the bridge. That's your cue to head to your balcony or an outer deck!
We'd love to see your Alaska wildlife photos! Share them in the comments!
; ;

06/28/2024

Enjoy the Local Cuisine:
Seafood: Alaska is famous for its fresh seafood. Try local dishes like king crab, salmon, and halibut both onboard and in port.
Local Breweries: Sample local beers and spirits. Many Alaskan towns have unique breweries and distilleries that offer tasting tours.
Wild Berries: Wild berries are everywhere! Look for wild blueberry tea, berry scones and baked treats, and wild berry preserves.

; ;

06/26/2024

Wherever you travel, please respect the environment. For you it's a vacation destination, for the locals and wildlife it's home.
Leave No Trace: Follow all guidelines for environmental protection. Respect wildlife and natural habitats, and ensure you leave no litter behind. Never throw anything overboard.
Eco-Friendly Products: Use eco-friendly and reusable or biodegradable products to minimize your environmental impact.

; ;

06/25/2024

In 2024, Spotlight Cruise and Travel began hosting our new destination exploration series, “Spotlight Discoveries” - and now you are invited to travel with us! Throughout the year we will be hosting small group trips to various destinations – partnering with some of the industry’s finest to provide meaningful and memorable travel experiences.
These groups are perfect for first time cruisers and experienced cruisers alike. I can’t wait to bring you along with me to visit some of my favorite destinations!
Learn about our next Spotlight Discovery Group Trip at https://spotlightcruiseandtravel.com/Spotlight-Groups

06/24/2024

Packing for an Alaska Cruise isn't quite the same as packing for the Bahamas!
Pack Layers: During cruise season there is no need for a parka and snow boots. Instead, pack good-quality walking or hiking shoes (bonus if waterproof) and layers that you can build up or remove as needed.
Mosquito Repellent: Bring insect repellent for protection during shore excursions, especially if you'll be in wooded or marshy areas.
Packable Bag: A reusable tote or backpack is handy for carrying souvenirs, water bottles, and extra layers when you go ashore and it won't take up much room in your luggage.

; ;

06/22/2024

Crown Princess docked in Skagway, Alaska. This ship was such a good fit for our family. Grandpa and the other grown-ups enjoyed that it was a little calmer than some other cruises we've experienced, and the kids had so much fun! Princess doesn't have waterslides or climbing walls, but they have excellent kids and teen programs - the most immersive we've seen!

06/21/2024

Choosing Meaningful Souvenirs:
Local Crafts: Look for unique souvenirs made by local artisans, such as hand-carved totem poles, jewelry, and native art.
Alaskan Products: Consider bringing home Alaskan-made products like wild berry jams, smoked salmon, or locally crafted soaps and lotions.
Shop Local: Travel and tourism is a huge part of Alaska's economy. Support locally owned small businesses where possible.

; ;

06/20/2024

A cruise to Alaska offers incredible wildlife sighting opportunities. Moose are one of Alaska's "Big 5", along with Grizzly Bears, Caribou, Dall Sheep, and Gray Wolves. This guy, on Holland America Line's Koningsdam, is probably the only one you'd want to get so close too, though!

06/20/2024

Whenever we cruise with our kids (and sometimes when it's just the grown-ups) our room stewards delight us with towel animals. Our youngest LOVED that they put his sunglasses on the elephant! What are some of the creative towel animals you've seen? Share pictures!

06/19/2024

Educational Opportunities on a Cruise
Onboard Naturalists: Attend lectures and talks by onboard naturalists and experts. They provide valuable insights into Alaska's wildlife, geology, and culture.
Park Rangers: When cruising through Glacier Bay, park rangers often come aboard to provide commentary. Take advantage of their knowledge to learn more about the area.
Immersive Excursions: Offer the opportunity to learn about the local cultures and lifestyles.

; ;

06/18/2024

Alaska sunsets are something else! This was taken at about 11:ooPM in June from our balcony on Crown Princess.