Sphera Travel

07/10/2024

This is the last chance to RSVP for our event on Monday, July 15. We would love to see you there! It will be a wonderful evening of sharing great wine and talking about luxury travel and estate planning.

Join John Russo, from Russo Ristorante-Mercato, Rose A. Coonen, from Coonen Law, PLLC, and Sue Ball from Sphera Travel for Wine and Wander on July 15th, 2024 at 7:00pm.

05/25/2024

In honor of national wine day, we invite you to take our quiz. Find your perfect wine and river cruise match.

https://sphera-travel.com/discover-your-wine-river-cruise-perfect-match/

Take our quiz to discover your wine river cruise perfect match. Uncork a world of possibilities with Sphera Travel.

02/25/2024

Here is a guide with everything you need to know about travel insurance. We recommend you add insurance to your trip within 14 days of paying your deposit. Let us know if you have questions.

WorldTrips Travel Insurance

Explore travel insurance with Sphera Travel's guide for empty nesters & seniors. Get expert tips for secure & confident luxury travel worldwide.

02/10/2024

Hello Friends! We have been unable to post images on this page for almost a year now! We would love it if you would join our Facebook group: Traveling Empty Nesters by Sue: Luxury River & Expedition Cruising Group.

In this group, we will focus on River and Expedition Cruising. However, you are welcome to share and ask questions about any type of travel. And - you don't have to be an empty nester. Anyone interested in learning more about luxury small-group travel is welcome!

When you join the group, you will be subscribed to Sphera Travel's weekly email, providing wonderful travel inspiration and tips!

We'll see you over in the group!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SpheraTravel

Call now to connect with business.

01/24/2024

Hey there, sports enthusiasts! Sue Ball was a guest on Grand Rapids' very own Fox 17 news, sharing all about the Detroit Lions' impressive win and how to make your way to the National Championship in sunny California!

At Sphera Travel, we're all about turning your passions into unforgettable experiences. Whether it's football, music, food, or anything that piques your interest, we're here to help you plan the luxury group vacation of your dreams!

Check out this exciting story and contact us when you're ready to embark on your next adventure. Let's make your travel dreams come true! Detroit Lions

FOX17 looked into the price of this weekend’s NFC Championship game between the Lions and 49ers. Travel experts expect it to cost fans a few thousand dollars.

03/29/2023

DON'T LET AN EXPIRED PASSPORT RUIN YOUR 2023 TRAVEL PLANS!

Current processing times for passport applications are 10-13 weeks for routine processing and 7-9 weeks for expedited processing.

It's important to check your passport validity today, especially if you plan to travel this summer or fall. Don't wait until the night before your flight to check your passport!

Always ensure your passport is up-to-date, with at least six months of validity beyond your planned return date. Many destinations require this for entry, and you want to avoid getting denied at the border!

Sphera Travel is here to help you with all your travel planning needs. As a courtesy, we collect passport copies from our clients when making reservations to save you time and hassle. However, it's still your responsibility to double-check that your passport is valid before your trip.

Follow the link in the caption to learn more about how to renew your passport!
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html

03/25/2023

"We just used Sphera Travel back in October when we went to Europe. Sue is organized, works hard to find unique excursions, and tailors a trip to your liking. She also puts everything into an app that you can access abroad without wifi or phone data (itinerary, tickets, meeting times, etc). We had a tour cancel on us while we were abroad and she ensured we were refunded and quickly found another tour for us to do on short notice."

Start Discovering the World Together: https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

03/21/2023

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with a luxury Egyptian river cruise! Experience the ancient wonders of Egypt while sailing in style on the Nile River. Imagine waking up to the sound of the Nile flowing and the sight of the lush greenery along the river banks.

Indulge in gourmet meals, enjoy the comfort of spacious cabins and suites, and take in the breathtaking views of historic temples, tombs, and monuments. This is not just a cruise; it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the rich history of Egypt in luxury and comfort.

Who's ready to start planning this adventure? https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

03/17/2023

Happy St. Patrick's Day, everyone! 🍀
As a luxury travel designer, I am excited to share that many of our clients are already planning trips to some of the most beautiful destinations in Ireland. From the bustling streets of Dublin to the charming town of Galway, the historic Ashford Castle, and the breathtaking scenery of Killarney, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit in Ireland.

It’s important to note that St. Patrick's Day is a very busy time in Ireland, and many of the popular attractions and accommodations can book up well in advance. But don't worry! You can still experience this country's rich Irish culture and stunning natural beauty anytime.

At Sphera Travel, we can create custom itineraries allowing you to explore Ireland at your own pace while enjoying luxurious accommodations and unique experiences tailored to your interests.

In Dublin, visitors can explore the famous Guinness Storehouse and soak in the vibrant culture of this vibrant city. Galway offers a picturesque seaside setting, quaint cobblestone streets, and a vibrant arts scene that's not to be missed.

Experience the historic Ashford Castle with a unique blend of history and modern amenities, including world-class dining, a spa, and a range of outdoor activities such as falconry and horseback riding. And, of course, the stunning natural scenery of Killarney, with its rolling green hills, tranquil lakes, and picturesque hiking trails, is a must-see for any visitor to Ireland.

So why not start planning your dream trip to Ireland today? Contact us to discover how we can help you experience the best of this enchanting country at any time of year. ☘️✈️🌍

Start planning your trip here: https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

03/14/2023

Hey there, bicyclists! 🚴♀️🚴♂️

Are you ready for a new adventure that combines your love for biking with the thrill of luxurious stays? 🏨🌟Sphera Travel would love to help you and your fellow cyclists find the perfect destination to explore by bike.

Picture yourself cycling through breathtaking landscapes, exploring hidden gems and charming villages, and at the end of the day, relaxing in the comfort of a luxurious hotel with all the amenities you could ask for. Sounds like a dream, right? We can make it a reality by carefully crafting an itinerary based on your interests.

You’ll ride from one luxury hotel to another, experiencing the best of both worlds - the excitement and adventure of a cycling trip combined with the indulgence and relaxation of a five-star stay. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to meet new friends who share your passion for cycling and travel. It's the ultimate way to connect with others and create lifelong memories.

So, what do you say? Are you ready to embark on this incredible journey? Let's explore the world on two wheels and travel in style. Drop me a message to learn about these amazing cycling vacations. 🌎✨🚲

Start your adventure here: https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

03/11/2023

Hey there, wine-loving friends! 🍷🍇✨

Are you looking for the ultimate wine vacation tailored to your group's interests? Well, you're in luck! As a travel designer, I specialize in creating customized wine getaways that are perfect for any group of wine enthusiasts.

Whether you're passionate about pinot noir or crazy about cabernet, I can design a wine vacation that's just right for you. From luxury vineyard tours to intimate tastings and gourmet meals, we'll plan every detail to create an unforgettable wine experience that caters to your unique interests.

Here are five fabulous wine destinations for your wine-loving group to explore:

1️⃣ Napa Valley, California - With its picturesque vineyards and world-renowned wineries, Napa Valley is the ultimate destination for any wine enthusiast. We can sip on cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay while enjoying the stunning scenery.
2️⃣ Tuscany, Italy - A classic destination for wine lovers, Tuscany offers breathtaking landscapes, charming hill towns, and delicious Chianti. We'll indulge in wine tastings, traditional cuisine, and some of the most beautiful views in Italy.
3️⃣ Rioja, Spain - As one of Spain's most famous wine regions, Rioja boasts some of the world's most complex and flavorful wines. We'll explore the region's vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the best tempranillo and grenache.
4️⃣ Douro Valley, Portugal - This stunning region is home to port wine and beautiful river views. We can take a 🚢 river cruise, explore historic towns, and taste some of the best wines Portugal offers.
5️⃣ Rhine River Cruise - Speaking of river cruises, why not sip and sail through some of Europe's most stunning wine regions? We'll enjoy world-class wines from the comfort of a luxurious river ship while taking in the beautiful scenery of Germany, France, and Switzerland.

So, if you're ready to start planning your dream wine vacation, don't hesitate to contact me! Let's create an amazing itinerary tailored to your group's wine interests and ensures a luxurious and unforgettable experience. 🍷🛳️🌅🌄🍇

https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

03/09/2023

Are you looking for inspiration for your next ultimate travel experience? Look no further than these digital luxury travel magazines, which offer a wealth of information on the best hotels, restaurants, and must-see destinations worldwide.

Whether planning a once-in-a-lifetime retirement trip or a multi-gen family vacation, these magazines will provide the information and inspiration you need to create a truly unforgettable trip. So grab your passport and start planning your next luxury adventure.

Start receiving these digital magazines delivered monthly to your inbox.

Register here: https://bit.ly/SpheraInspiration

03/08/2023

Pickleball players organize your group and head to Europe to sail the AMA Magna. New this season! She has a full size pickle ball court. Contact Sphera Travel to reserve your group space!

03/07/2023

Hey Friends! Are you looking for the perfect vacation destination for a multi-generational family group? The Galapagos Islands - it's the perfect destination for travelers of all ages. With its pristine natural beauty and unique wildlife, the Galapagos offers an unforgettable experience.

The Galapagos Islands are a natural wonderland featuring an array of exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes that will take your breath away. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed bo***es and sea lions, there's no shortage of incredible creatures to discover.

But the range of activities available makes the Galapagos perfect for all ages. Whether you're looking to go snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, or just enjoying the island's beauty right from your ship, there's something for everyone. And the best part is, you don't have to be an experienced adventurer to enjoy these activities - there are options for all levels of ability.

The Galapagos is also an excellent destination for families because it offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about nature and conservation. From educational tours to up-close encounters with wildlife, you and your family will gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the importance of protecting it. And best of all, you spend time with the ones you love the most in a spectacular destination!

So if you're looking for a truly unforgettable family adventure, the Galapagos Islands should be at the top of your list. As a travel designer who has visited the Galapagos twice, I would be thrilled to help you plan the perfect trip tailored to your family's unique interests and needs. Let's get started!

https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

03/04/2023

Are you at a reboot point in life known as Life 2.0 or being an empty nester?

If you’re like most people, life after the kids leave the house can be an exciting and frustrating time. Old friends are losing touch, and you’re searching for ways to make new friends. You have a lot of free time and give up old interests for new ones.

We were facing the same issue and designed a Travel Journal that helped us, and we hope to help you through this period.

The journal allows you to reflect, dream, and note your individual travel desires, then discuss them with your significant other, a blueprint plan for the next 30 years if you desire. Friends, your empty nester stage of life can be longer than when your kids lived at home! You have a long time to travel!

We offer this as a FREE journal as, we hope, it helps you enjoy Discovering the World Together. Get your copy today!

https://sphera-travel.com/journal-for-empty-nesters/

02/28/2023

Experience a different kind of travel with Sphera Travel's walking vacations! Immerse yourself in the local culture by walking with expert guides and discovering the hidden gems of a destination. From exploring the fields with farmers to dining with local families, you'll have hands-on experiences that will broaden your horizons.

Walk in Van Gogh's footsteps in Provence, spot hippos in Botswana, and get to the heart of your destination. Walking allows you to blend in and engage like a local, creating unforgettable journeys that are more vivid, unexpected, and lasting.

Don't travel alone; bring your friends and family along for the adventure! Get a group of your closest walking enthusiasts together and explore destinations around the world on foot. The bonds formed during a walking vacation are strong, and the memories made will last a lifetime. So gather your walking group, pack your bags, and let Sphera Travel show you the world like never before.

www.sphera-travel/design-my-trip

02/25/2023

How would you like a complimentary 3-night stay for two at Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes, California?

The ultimate luxurious oceanfront getaway, Terranea is a world unto itself where you can explore and discover 102 awe-inspiring acres of inspirational coastal setting, a unique combination of panoramic views, and unparalleled refinement. The calming and transformative experience takes you to a different place, far removed from the ordinary. This prize includes a 3-night stay in an Ocean View Guestroom, resort fees, and taxes.
Follow the link to enter for your chance to win.

https://bit.ly/Sphera_vacation_giveaway

02/21/2023

We want to thank our wonderful clients for allowing us to plan unforgettable vacations.

Here are some of the amazing vacations we have had the privilege to design lately.

A multi-generational cruise vacation for a family of 14.
A group of friends sailing on Virgin Voyages
A 40th Birthday celebration to England, Scotland, and Ireland
A Family Christmas Vacation to Egypt
A 40th Anniversary Celebration to Lisbon and Portugal

Start thinking about your upcoming milestones and how you would like to celebrate those with a vacation.

Get on our calendar soon to start planning! https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

02/18/2023

We promise to help you plan the vacation of your dreams. Still, promises are just empty words if we cannot back them up.

Here’s what one of our clients had to say about Sphera Travel.

“Thank you Sue for helping us plan our second trip abroad. Knowing that you were always there was priceless. Checking in on our flights, helping with last minute changes, etc. We are so happy you will be there to help us plan our next adventure! Thank you so much and we will be talking and planning the next trip very soon! You rock!!!”

Marcela B.

https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

02/14/2023

Today is the day to celebrate the one you love the most. Next year we recommend you escape to a picturesque paradise surrounded by breathtaking views and all the pampering you both deserve. We've got you covered whether you're looking for a secluded beach getaway or a luxurious mountain retreat. Get ready to create new memories with your love and celebrate the most romantic day of the year in style!

Jade Mountain - St. Lucia
Escape to paradise with your significant other at the luxurious Jade Mountain resort in St Lucia. Experience the stunning scenic beauty as you relax in your private infinity pool sanctuary, with breathtaking views of the Pitons World Heritage Site and the Caribbean Sea.

Indulge in the delicious "Jade Cuisine" at the Jade Mountain Club and enjoy romantic sunset cocktails on the Celestial Terrace. You'll have the perfect romantic getaway with a range of spa services and outstanding 24-hour service.

The Baglioni Resort - The Maldives
Experience paradise with your significant other at Baglioni Resort Maldives. Surrounded by tropical nature, turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches, our 89 villas are the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Upgrade to our Presidential Water Villa, with 360 square meters of interior space, a private pool, and a waterside veranda. Dive into the crystal clear waters with our PADI Gold Palm 5-star Diving Centre and explore some of the finest dive sites in the world.

Indulge in delicious Italian cuisine at our three excellent restaurants and enjoy a cocktail at our bar. Relax and rejuvenate at our exclusive Baglioni SPA with personalized rituals, luxurious treatments, and yoga sessions.

Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany
Experience romance in the Tuscan countryside at Castello di Casole, a Belmond Hotel. Nestled in 4,200 verdant acres of vineyards, olive groves, and meadows, this restored 10th-century castle offers enchanting rooms, light-filled suites, and a serene infinity pool with spellbinding views. Indulge in delicious Italian dining, grape-inspired spa treatments, outdoor yoga, and pilates. Explore the estate and nearby towns, go on guided nature walks and truffle hunts, and make unforgettable memories with your loved one.

Contact Sphera Travel to plan your next romantic getaway, and we’ll help make it unforgettable. https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

02/11/2023

Traveling to the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, or Paris? These are just a few airports worldwide where we can upgrade your arrival experience with VIP Fast Track services!

Imagine arriving at a busy airport after a long flight and having a smiling face waiting for you as you walk down the jetbridge. Then you will go to the front of the line through customs and immigration and wait in the lounge with a refreshing drink while waiting for your private airport transfer to take you to your hotel or resort.

This is the best stress-free way to start your vacation, and these VIP services make lasting memories for your group. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make your arrival luxurious and stress-free!

Let us know if you are interested in these services for your vacation!

https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

02/07/2023

Did you know you can travel and still play pickleball? We’ve found five excellent options to Discover the World Together while playing pickle ball!

Holland America Cruise lines
Indulge in luxury and pickleball like never before with Holland America Cruise lines. Known for their unparalleled traveler experiences, exquisite cuisine, and impeccable service, they take you on a journey around the world in style. Starting in 2021, they have added state-of-the-art pickleball courts to all of their ships and have been named the official cruise line of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). So, whether you want to sail the seas of the Caribbean or explore the coasts of Europe, you can play pickleball in luxury while getting there.

Club Med Turkoise, Turks & Caicos
Enjoy an adult-only all-inclusive resort like few others. Club Med Turkoise is located on Grace Bay in Turks & Caicos, with gorgeous award-winning beaches and thrilling sports. Land & water sports with lessons & top-of-the-line instructors and equipment, including the flying trapeze

Sandals South Coast, Jamaica
From over-the-water bung-a-lows to beautiful turquoise waters, serenity awaits you at Sandals South Coast all-inclusive resort. Newly added pickleball courts, swim-up suites, bars, water sports, SCUBA, and entertainment, will take you to a whole other world.

Cloister at Boca Raton, Florida
Experience luxury like never before at our magnificent hotel, boasting grand architecture and lush, impeccable grounds with hidden gardens. Indulge in the luxury of our 294 guestrooms and suites, each designed to provide ultimate comfort and style. Immerse yourself in a world of art and fashion with rotating collections and brand collaborations. Just steps away from our prestigious Resort Course, expansive Racquet Club, and our 54,000 sq ft wellness haven, Spa Palmera, enjoy a game of pickleball in style. Make your stay truly unforgettable at the Cloister.

Carmel Valley Ranch, California
Carmel Valley Ranch has transformed and emerged as a completely new style of resort that encourages guests to play, engage and connect. Taking full advantage of nearly 500 acres of magnetic landscape, the resort includes scores of programs and activities such as beekeeping, early morning hikes, fitness classes, and horseback riding. The Ranch offers a rich array of amenities, including a Pete Dye championship golf course, tennis courts, bocce ball, pickleball, basketball courts, swimming pools, hot tubs, an organic garden and vineyard, kids' splash zone and playground, meeting rooms, and a bevy of swings hanging from majestic 300-year-old oaks. Our new Spa Aiyana, drawing on the region's bounty, is currently offering massage, body, skincare therapies, and natural nail care. The renovation also includes a complete redesign of our 181 extremely spacious suites scattered along the foothills, affording spectacular views.

When you’re ready to play pickleball while traveling, round up your pickleball-loving friends and contact Sphera Travel to start designing your vacation. https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

02/06/2023

Are you facing an empty nest and wondering what to do with your life in the coming years?

Then, it's time to start planning your next adventure! Sphera Travel is offering a FREE travel planning journal to help you organize and plan your dream vacations.

Whether you're looking to explore a new city, relax on a beach, or experience a different culture, this journal will help make your trip a success. Take advantage of this opportunity; claim your journal today and start planning a life of DISCOVERING THE WORLD TOGETHER!
https://sphera-travel.com/journal-for-empty-nesters/

01/31/2023

Here are some tips on planning the ultimate luxury group vacation to celebrate becoming an empty nester with your wine-loving friends.

A European river cruise is an excellent option for a luxury group vacation with your wine-loving friends. The cruise allows you to unpack once and visit some of the best wineries Europe offers while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a luxury cruise ship.

Sphera Travel will recommend the best river cruise line based on your preferences. River Cruise vacations often include exclusive wine tastings, pairings, and visits to renowned wineries and vineyards.

Some popular wine-producing regions for your river cruise include the Rhine Valley in Germany, Bordeaux in France, and the Douro Valley in Portugal. These regions offer stunning landscapes and a rich history of winemaking, and a river cruise is a perfect way to experience them in style.

As with any luxury vacation, book your river cruise well in advance to ensure availability. Consider hiring Sphera Travel to take care of all the details for you.

Start designing your river cruise here. https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

01/28/2023

Hello Luxury Travelers!

We hope this message finds you well and ready for your next adventure. If you need some travel inspiration, look no further! You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and our website for all the latest updates and destinations. We're also excited to announce that we've recently joined Pinterest, so be sure to follow us there for even more travel ideas. We recommend you choose the platform that you are most comfortable with. If you love our inspiration, please share it with friends and family who might want to travel with you!

In addition to our social media platforms, we also have a travel goal-planning journal specifically tailored for empty nesters. Subscribe to receive updates and get closer to achieving your travel dreams.

We'd love to hear from you and know your favorite place to learn more about Sphera Travel.

www.sphera-travel.com/links

01/25/2023

As a luxury travel designer, I have the pleasure of helping many travelers plan their dream vacations, and there is one destination that always stands out as genuinely extraordinary: Antarctica. If you consider celebrating your retirement milestone with a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I would be thrilled to help you plan a luxury Antarctica cruise.⁠
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Antarctica is a place like no other, with breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. From kayaking through icy fjords to hiking on the continent's rugged terrain, there is much to see and do. And a luxury cruise is the perfect way to experience it in style and comfort.⁠
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I have access to the best accommodations, gourmet meals, and expert guides, and I would be happy to work with you to create the perfect itinerary for your retirement celebration. Whether you want to spend your days exploring the continent's natural beauty or relaxing in the comfort of your ship, I can help you make it happen.⁠
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If you are interested in learning more about how I can help you plan a one-of-a-kind Antarctica luxury cruise, please don't hesitate to reach out. I look forward to helping you plan the perfect retirement milestone vacation.⁠
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Happy travels!⁠
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https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/ ⁠
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01/24/2023

As a luxury travel designer, I have the pleasure of helping many travelers plan their dream vacations, and there is one destination that always stands out as genuinely extraordinary: Antarctica. If you consider celebrating your retirement milestone with a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I would be thrilled to help you plan a luxury Antarctica cruise.

Antarctica is a place like no other, with breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. From kayaking through icy fjords to hiking on the continent's rugged terrain, there is much to see and do. And a luxury cruise is the perfect way to experience it in style and comfort.

I have access to the best accommodations, gourmet meals, and expert guides, and I would be happy to work with you to create the perfect itinerary for your retirement celebration. Whether you want to spend your days exploring the continent's natural beauty or relaxing in the comfort of your ship, I can help you make it happen.

If you are interested in learning more about how I can help you plan a one-of-a-kind Antarctica luxury cruise, please don't hesitate to reach out. I look forward to helping you plan the perfect retirement milestone vacation.

Happy travels!

https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/

01/21/2023

Hey friends! I just wanted to let you all know about some exciting updates coming to Sphera Travel in 2023. We're always looking for ways to bring you the best in luxury travel inspiration, and this year we have a new resource to help us do just that. Not only will we have access to top-notch luxury travel suppliers, but we'll also be able to offer exclusive promotions, upgrades, and highly curated vacations for empty nesters like you.

Be sure to subscribe here to get these resources delivered straight to your inbox.

We can't wait to help you plan your dream getaways for the new year!

https://bit.ly/SpheraInspiration

01/10/2023

Hey everyone! As empty nesters, we have been looking for ways to travel and experience new cultures while still having the support and comfort of a privately guided vacation. Sue recently went on a luxury small-group guided vacation, which was the perfect balance of independence and support.

Scroll to see why a luxury small-group guided vacation is perfect for empty nesters.

Sue had an incredible experience on the luxury small-group guided vacation and highly recommends it to other empty nesters looking to travel in style and comfort.

Contact us when you are ready to plan your private group vacation.

https://sphera-travel.com/design-my-trip/