Amazing Escapes Travel & Tours

06/27/2025

Bags packed, passports ready, and big smiles all around! These two cuties are off on their next adventure — destination: Punta Cana! From sandy toes to sunshine-filled days, this vacation is all about making memories, splashing in the waves, and living their best island life!

Let the fun begin!

06/26/2025

After months of planning together, this amazing family of 7 is officially off on their ICELAND adventure! From chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, glacier hikes, spotting puffins and scenic drives they're about to experience the trip of a lifetime! It’s been such an amazing experience helping bring this unforgettable journey to life — let the memories begin!

Whether you have a bucket list trip or a simple weekend getaway in mind I would be happy to assist you in your planning! Contact me Robyn Basten for complimentary travel planning services!

06/25/2025

What’s happening in the world, and should you cancel your vacation and start researching backyard staycations?

Short answer. No. You’re still good to go.

Here’s what you really need to know.
Travel is still safe and fully operational across nearly every destination.
The affected areas are very specific. Think southern Lebanon, Israel, and regions near Iran or U.S. military bases. There is no credible or widespread threat impacting global travel right now.
We are not recommending cancellations or major reroutes unless your plans involve active conflict zones. Your comfort level matters. If you want to shift your plans, I'll help you. If you didn't use my company....well you are on your own. Consider this a PSA from me.
State Department advisories are worth reading, but they are often issued with a wide diplomatic brush. They don’t always reflect what’s happening on the ground.
I use multiple sources of intelligence to form a clearer and more balanced perspective.
Situational awareness is always a smart travel tool. Stay alert.
Avoid large crowds. Maybe leave the American flag t-shirt at home this year.
And yes, ALWAYS get travel insurance. If you need a reputable recommendation, send me a message.

The world is still open. Still beautiful. Still full of wonder.

06/13/2025

✨ FAQ Friday with Amazing Escapes Travel & Tours ✨
Let’s clear up some common questions I get as a travel agent! 💬✈️🌍

Q: Does it cost more to book through you instead of online?
A: Nope! My services come at no extra cost to you. I get paid through the travel suppliers, so you get personalized service for the same price—or sometimes even better—than booking direct.

Q: What happens if something goes wrong during my trip?
A: I’m just a message away! Whether it’s a delayed flight, missed connection, or resort hiccup, I’m here to advocate for you and help resolve it quickly—so you’re never left dealing with it alone.

Q: Can you help with group travel or destination weddings?
A: Absolutely! From family reunions to wedding groups and milestone celebrations, I take care of the logistics so you can focus on making memories.

Q: Do you only book cruises and all-inclusives?
A: Not at all! I book everything from custom itineraries and guided tours to hotels, theme park packages, and event-based travel like concerts or sports.

Got a travel question of your own? Drop it below and I’ll answer it in next week’s FAQ Friday! ⬇️💬

06/09/2025

Monday Motivation: Cross-Country by Rail 🚂

Not all adventures need a plane ticket! Sometimes, the most charming getaways are just a scenic train ride away. All aboard to a family I booked today on Amtrak's Southwest Chief, one of America’s most legendary rail routes, traveling from Chicago to Riverside, California.

This isn’t just transportation—it’s a journey.
🚉 Total trip time: ~42 hours
🌆 Major stops: Chicago ➡️ Kansas City ➡️ Albuquerque ➡️ Flagstaff ➡️ Riverside
🏜️ Highlights along the way:
– Watch the sun rise over the Kansas plains
– Ride through the red rock canyons of New Mexico
– Cross the Mojave Desert as you near California

Whether you book a cozy coach seat or upgrade to a private sleeper room with meals included, the Southwest Chief lets you relax, unplug, and take in the breathtaking American landscape.

📸 Tip: Bring your camera—you’ll pass mountains, deserts, forests, and cities all in one trip.
✨ Sometimes the journey is the destination.

➡️ Want to plan a rail adventure like this? I Robyn Basten can help you book and customize the experience. Let’s make your train travel dreams a reality!

06/03/2025

05/31/2025

🎉 Sneak Peek Saturday: Where Are My Clients Headed Next Week? 🌍✈️

🚗 A couple is taking a scenic road trip through Colorado’s majestic Estes Park and Colorado Springs — think mountain views, cozy cabins, and charming towns!

🌴 A friend's getaway to sunny Cancun for an all-inclusive escape at the stylish Royalton Chic Cancun — sunshine, spa days, and rooftop vibes await!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A family adventure to Jamaica, checking into the fun-filled RIU Montego Bay — beach time, jerk chicken, and unforgettable memories!

💍 And a couple's dreamy honeymoon to Sandals Regency La Toc in stunning St. Lucia, complete with a breathtaking helicopter transfer over the island! 🚁🌴

✨ No matter the destination, I Robyn Basten an here to make your travel seamless and stress-free. Ready to plan your escape? Let’s chat!

05/30/2025

Thursday Travel Deal Spotlight! DREAMS ONYX RESORT & SPA

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE WITH ROUND TRIP FLIGHTS
Summer/Fall Deals - Up to 40% off; Kids Stay Free (some restrictions apply)

3 Nights From:
$1019: Now-6/30
5 Nights From:
$1399: 9/1-10/31
$1409: 7/1-8/31

Located on the Dominican Republic's northeastern coast, wrapped between nature and ocean, lies Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa. At this AAA Four Diamond award-winning resort families, couples and friends looking for a family-friendly vacation on a palm-studded beach will find Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa is the perfect choice. 822 suites provide luxurious amenities including a hot tub on every suite's private, furnished terrace or balcony, free Wi-Fi, a daily refreshed minibar and 24-hour room service. Guests staying in the Preferred Club will receive preferential status and amenities, exclusive access to two private lounges and two private pools and more. The family section includes spacious accommodations, a family fun pool with water slides and a lazy river, restaurants, Core Zone Teen's Club, Explorer's Club for kids and additional incredible amenities for the whole family.

Contact me Robyn Basten for more details!

05/28/2025

🎥 Just booked this incredible Colorado escape for my clients—and now I’m dreaming of going myself! 😍⛰️

From the wild beauty of Estes Park and the iconic Stanley Hotel to the stunning red rocks of Garden of the Gods and epic views atop Pikes Peak, Colorado delivers adventure, nature, and charm all in one unforgettable trip.

Whether you're into hiking, history, cozy cabins, or scenic drives—this state has it all. Ready to plan your mountain escape?

📩 Message me Robyn Basten to start your Amazing Escape.

05/20/2025

eady for the adventure of a lifetime? Join me Basten this August for an unforgettable Alaska cruise aboard Holland America's Eurodam!

Picture yourself sailing past towering glaciers, spotting whales in the wild, and breathing in the crisp mountain air as you explore one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. 🐋❄️🌲

Onboard the elegant Eurodam, you'll enjoy world-class service, immersive cultural experiences, and the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. From Glacier Bay National Park to charming coastal towns like Juneau and Ketchikan, every stop is a postcard moment.

📅 Spots are limited and this popular sailing won't last! If Alaska is on your bucket list—this is your sign.
Let me handle all the details so you can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.

📩 Message me today to reserve your cabin. Your Alaskan escape awaits!

04/28/2025

03/22/2025

✈️ Top 10 Travel Packing Tips 🧳
Pack smart, travel easy!

✈️ 1. Roll Your Clothes
Rolling instead of folding saves space and helps reduce wrinkles. It's especially great for casual clothes like t-shirts, jeans, and dresses.

🎒 2. Use Packing Cubes
These are game-changers for staying organized! Sort by outfit, clothing type, or family member if traveling in a group.

🧴 3. Follow the 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids
TSA requires liquids to be in containers 3.4 oz or less, in a 1-quart zip-top bag, and one bag per traveler in carry-ons.

👟 4. Stuff Shoes with Small Items
Socks, belts, chargers—use the space inside shoes to maximize packing efficiency.

🧥 5. Wear Your Bulkiest Items
Save suitcase space by wearing your heaviest shoes, jackets, or sweaters on travel days.

🌦️ 6. Always Pack a Lightweight Rain Jacket
Even in sunny destinations, weather can turn. A compact rain jacket or poncho is always a smart idea.

🛂 7. Keep Essentials in Your Carry-On
Medications, a change of clothes, chargers, important documents, and valuables should never go in checked luggage.

📱 8. Bring a Power Bank
A reliable portable charger keeps your devices powered for maps, bookings, and entertainment—especially during long travel days.

🧳 9. Leave Room for Souvenirs
Don’t pack your suitcase to the brim—leave space for anything you might buy on your trip!

✅ 10. Make a Packing List (and check it twice!)
Start a few days before you leave so you have time to add forgotten items. Apps like PackPoint can help tailor lists to your trip type and weather.

🧭 Where are you headed next?