Sam James Travel & Tours

Home
United States
New York, NY
Sam James Travel & Tours

Designing unforgettable travel experiences. FRIENDS IN PARIS. JOIN US DEC 2024. LINK IN BIO!

09/07/2024

Hey travel buddies! 🌴✈️ Ever had a vacay turn into a "vacan't"? 😅 It happens, but guess what? Your next trip doesn't have to be a rollercoaster of surprises (unless that's what you're into)!

I've just dropped some major travel wisdom on the blog about why chatting it up BEFORE your trip is a total game-changer. 🗣️💬 Want to know how to keep your friendships intact and your wallet happy while living your best travel life?

Dive into my latest blog post and let's make your next adventure unforgettable – for all the right reasons! 🌟🌍

Remember, a little planning goes a long way. Trust me, your future vacay self will thank you! 😎👍

09/06/2024

PARIS: A FOODIE’S PLAYGROUND 🍽️🇫🇷

People often tell me they’re surprised that food in Paris is actually good. My response? “Have you really been to Paris?” 😉

Paris isn’t just about baguettes and escargot! This city is a gastronomic wonderland with flavors from around the globe. French cuisine is fantastic, but why stop there? From Vietnamese phở to Lebanese shawarma to Italian pasta, Paris has it all!

Exhibit A: This beauty right here. 👆🏽It’s pâté en croûte, a savory meat-filled pastry that’s a French classic. I enjoyed this during a food & wine tour in Le Marais (one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods).

Travel Tip: Booking a food tour early in your trip can be a game-changer. It’ll introduce you to local specialties and hidden gems, setting you up for culinary success throughout your stay. Have you ever tried one?

08/27/2024

MENTALLY, I'M STILL HERE 🗼
Fun fact: You've heard of those iconic "love locks" on Parisian bridges? Turns out, they're not so lovely anymore! 🔒❌

Paris actually asks tourists to keep their locks of love to themselves these days. Why? Too much weight can compromise the bridges' integrity (yikes!). Plus, it's now illegal and locals aren't fans.

So next time you're in the City of Love, show your affection with a selfie instead! 📸✨ Who knew being a responsible traveler could be so romantic?
❤

08/24/2024

Paris, in love with you, je suis! 🇫🇷I’m back from a week of Olympic excitement in Paris, and talk about an eye opening experience . 👀

Turns out, whether we’re cheering for our teams or chilling in parks, we’re not so different after all.

Wanna know how travel can show you just how connected we really are? Check out my latest thoughts (link in comments) and let’s explore this crazy (and complicated) world together! 🌍🖤

Vanessa Moore

03/24/2024

Falling for the City of Love ❤️

03/19/2024

Seine dreamers, romantic scheming. 🖤

03/10/2024

Mes Amours! 🖤Join us in Paris this December. I’ve put together a trip you won’t want to miss! Flexible & perfect for solo travelers/small groups. More info @ the link in my bio.

I can’t wait to see you there! 💗🖤

12/13/2023

For day #7 we’re talking about a type of travel that epitomize stress-free indulgence, all-inclusive resorts. By definition, your every need is covered upon arrival - no planning meals, juggling activities, or budgeting for incidentals. If you’re yearning for a vacation that’s filled with worry-free pampering, you’ll surrender to the blissful decision-fatigue relief that all-inclusive brings. 💆🏾

I’ll admit to shamelessly cocooning at all-inclusive without once leaving paradise. Because my goal is wholehearted relaxation and restoration, for 3-4 days, you can find me poolside with a cocktail and book, interrupted only by leisurely reserved beach lounging and buffet feasting.📚🍹🏊

While some may judge holing up as missing "authentic cultural immersion", I disagree. Many properties offer shuttles to local attractions and partner with off-site tour companies for those so inclined. But the beauty of all-inclusive flexibility means creating YOUR perfect retreat.

Properties range from adults-only to family havens with kids' clubs, so multi-gen groups can also indulge together. Some provide babysitters for parents' date nights! Experienced travel agents help match unique needs to the right resort style, amenities, and budget.

Even without leaving, rich destination character weaves throughout, from cuisine to welcoming staff. I adore Jamaica 🇯🇲 for this vibrant infusion of local soul - though properties everywhere boast dedicated teams working magic behind the scenes.
If you crave sinking deeply into relaxation rather than dashing between sightseeing, all-inclusive simplicity is bliss. But for restless explorers, it could miss the cultural mark. Fortunately, with a multitude of options, there's a resort to suit every travel personality!

12/07/2023

Yesterday, I preached about domestic trips. But an epic international voyage checks every traveler's bucket list! ✅

Of my globetrotting adventures, Thailand still makes my heart race.🇹🇭

Its vibrant contrast from America left me forever changed after a mere 12 days. I'm yearning to return to streets buzzing with life so far removed from my own. I discovered two stunning sides of Thailand: metropolitan Bangkok and tropical Phuket, spending 6 days immersed in each. The balanced itinerary let me revel in urban energy then unwind seaside, a perfect recipe for an unforgettable vacation.
Traveling with a group of 20 strangers, we formed bonds exploring a new and foreign land. When halfway across the world from the familiar, mundane details become wondrous. Every sight, sound, taste so lovingly ordinary to locals enchants visitors open to new perspectives. Humility washed over me realizing how narrow my corner of existence had been.

From ornate royal temples to rambunctious floating markets, Bangkok drowned me in mesmerizing chaos. Yet no car honks blared. In Phuket, we admired rescue elephants, toured verdant Phi Phi Islands by boat, and discovered James Bond's cinematic hideaway - Phang Nga Bay. 🐘

While rewarding, such complete foreignness can overwhelm rookie world travelers. I urge first-timers to exhaustively research destinations, utilize guides fluent in regional nuances, and lean on experienced group members when uncertain. My Thailand-native guide's wisdom enhanced our adventure and tempered our nerves of being in previously unknown territory. 🌅

Ultimately, the grandest thrill was shedding familiarity to see life anew. Despite initial anxiety, I'm so grateful I risked branching out. If you have the chance - say yes to Thailand! But take comfort in thorough preparation and reliance on local experts. Stay tuned as my 12 Days of Travel continue...where to next??

12/06/2023

Repeat after me, “domestic travel IS travel!” 🗣️

For U.S.-based explorers seeking new horizons but facing obstacles to international getaways, I urge you to rediscover America's own vibrant cities and landscapes. 🇺🇸 Though we are the "united" states, each region of this country boasts unique culture, cuisine, and adventures.

Being from the East Coast, I frequently encourage friends to venture beyond quintessential California and discover Washington's eclectic emerald city - Seattle!
💚

For my family, Seattle holds special meaning. In the Great Migration, my great-grandfather, Sam James, voyaged there from Florida seeking better opportunity. His journey echoes millions chasing dreams of better living opportunities for their families, shaping Seattle into a thriving hub of diversity.❤️

Beyond the iconic Space Needle selfies and flying fish at Pike Place Market, Seattle serves up an array of arts, culture, food, and outdoor action. You can wander through Chihuly Garden and Glass's mesmerizing installations, explore Jimi Hendrix's legacy, or survey the skyline and distant peaks from a scenic boat tour.

When you need an urban breather, unwind lakeside at Washington Park Arboretum or discover Fremont's eccentric vibe and cheeky Troll sculpture. And don't miss the bizarre Gum Wall!

In the end, Seattle offers much more than lattees and drizzles. With acclaimed museums, a world-class food scene, quirky local legends, and access to rugged Pacific Northwest beauty just beyond city limits - the Emerald City dazzles. Especially for East Coasters seeking fresh inspiration stateside, I wholeheartedly recommend jumping coasts to explore Seattle! Have you visited this vibrant West Coast haven?

12/04/2023

For day #4, we're diving into Mexico's magnificent Yucatán Peninsula!

Separating the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean waters, the region contains 106 municipalities. Hotspots like Cancún, Tulum, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen lure visitors with stunning scenery and ancient wonders. I adore the Yucatán for three key reasons:

1) The proximity of varied destinations for customized adventures
2) Affordability compared to similar tropical locales
3) Rich cultural heritage and archaeology to uncover

Cancún entices with resort getaways, nightlife, and endless activities while nearby Tulum wows with picture-perfect beaches, Mayan ruins, and unique natural sights like cenotes (underground sinkholes and caverns). Did you know that the cenotes were formed by the impact of a meteorite?🤯 Not only did it cause the extinction of the dinosaurs, but also the formation of this network of sinkholes and caverns typical of the Yucatan! On my last visit, we dined at a restaurant located INSIDE of a cenote!

My personal favorite city in this region to visit is Playa del Carmen - a vibrant yet cozy beach town and the perfect home base. 🏖️ From there, places like Cancún or Cozumel are just a quick ferry ride away! In this area of Mexico you can immerse yourself in ancient Maya history at ruins, take cooking classes, and experience fine-dining at local restaurants. Island hopping to Cozumel for world-class snorkeling or the tranquil shores of Isla Mujeres is just 15 minutes from Cancún by ferry.

With so many landscapes, adventures, and vibes - I adore building Yucatán trips with a taste of each! Spend days soaked in Cancún's sun-drenched resort life then ease into tropical tranquility in breezy Tulum. With a region this diverse - you truly can have it all! Stay tuned for 8 more travel hot spots as my 12 Days of Destination inspiration continues!

12/01/2023

Think Vegas is all late nights, gambling, and partying? For many tourists that's the appeal, and there's nothing wrong with having a little fun in sin city! 😉The truth is, in Vegas, you can vacation there any way you want - do what makes you happy!

Folks are often surprised when I share my love for destination #3 in my 12 Days of Travel - Las Vegas! I'm not one for casino marathons and late nights 👵.When I visit, I prefer spending time outdoors ⛰️ and indulging in incredible cuisine. Coming from the Northeast, a Vegas getaway during winter off-season means glorious warmth and sunlight when it's too cold back home. My favorite months are January-May: after New Year's crowds and before intense summer heat.☀️

Beyond the flashy Strip, I enjoy spending time in the surrounding desert landscapes like Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Grand Canyon. Take jeep, helicopter, boat tours - or self-drive day trips to absorb the vibrant geology and ancient history.

Don't get me wrong - Vegas has unbelievable hotels, shows, and restaurants too! But there's fabulous nature and adventures just outside the city most never experience. Vegas offers far more beyond surface-level "sin".

If striking desert vistas call your name, I know a phenomenal tour guide! DM me for details. And stay tuned for 9 more inspiring vacation locales this holiday season!

11/27/2023

This holiday season, I’m “gifting”😉 12 days of vacation ideas for your next getaway! As a travel advisor, researching destinations across the globe helps me best match clients with their perfect trip. And getting to experience these places myself is an added perk of the job! 😊

If you’re looking to travel but don’t know where, or want to revisit a favorite spot but try something new, talk to a travel agent. We specialize in crafting customized adventures to both new and beloved places.

To kick things off, I’m sharing one of my favorite ways to travel - ocean cruising! 🚢Cruises offer diverse options from budget-friendly inside cabins to luxury suites, destinations spanning the world, and specialized voyages from family fun to adults-only. With so many ships and itineraries, there’s something for every travel style and budget. Whether you prefer fine dining or casual buffets, there’s a cruise out there for you!

Beyond amenities, the best part of cruising is waking up in a new port daily. Spend a week island-hopping the Caribbean or explore the coasts of Europe in two weeks, stopping in a new place each day. At each port, you can book guided shore excursions for adventurous activities on land. I’ll never forget horseback riding along the beach in Puerto Plata during my last cruise! 🐎 (Pictured above!)

With accommodations, dining, entertainment, and transportation covered, cruising makes for an effortless vacation. They're great for all types of groups - friend trips, family reunions, weddings, multigenerational families, and solo travelers too.

If cruising sounds appealing, I encourage you to contact a travel advisor to start planning. We're happy to make recommendations based on your travel style, budget and destination wishlist! Already dreaming of a getaway at sea? Book a call through my bio link to start planning your cruise!

07/20/2023

Traves to Toronto once*

Me ever since then: "Iiiii ammm very much aliiive on the 6 side"📍

Oh Canada! 🇨🇦✨ 🌆 Toronto’s beauty and the warm hospitality blew me away! 😍🙌

I've put together all the deets of my journey so you can start planning your own adventure! 📝🗺️ Check it out in the link in my bio! 🤩

07/06/2023

36 HOURS IN TORONTO!!! Toronto has it all; lakeside activities, beautiful architecture, friendly people, bike lanes,🍄, diverse neighborhoods, museums, good eats, and the city as a whole is extremely 4.20 friendly. 🇨🇦🍁

To help plan your next/first trip to Toronto, I've put together a travel highlights guide that includes the accommodations, dining and activities I enjoyed during my 36 hour visit. To receive an email copy, tap the TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS link in my bio and I'll send it to you free of charge! I hope this is a helpful start to an amazing trip.

If you've already been to Toronto, what places are not listed that I need to check out next? 👀

Can't wait to hear what you guys think!!

07/04/2023

Just returned from an incredible trip to Ontario, Canada, and I'm soooo excited to share all the amazing details with you! From stunning landscapes to hidden city gems, this trip had it all. My trip also happened to coincide with Canada Day! Stay tuned for my upcoming posts where I'll share all the details on my latest adventure. 🇨🇦 🌍✈️

06/10/2023

Have you ever celebrated Pride?🏳️‍🌈 Do you agree with this list? 👀
Best Cities to Celebrate Pride:
New York, NY
Berlin, Germany
Montevideo, Uruguay
Madrid, Spain
London, UK

#

06/08/2023

Getting married in 2024?❤️ Check out our guide to Destination Wedding to learn the essentials needed to get married in our top 5 suggestion locations! Link in bio!

06/04/2023

Do you plan travel during the summer months? Recently in conversations I've been asked a lot if I have any summer travel plans. Typically my answer is no! I like to avoid summer travel as much as possible due to the large crowds from families and kids being off of school.

I travel all year-round, so the seasons never factor into my decisions regarding when to travel as a child-less adult. My favorite time to trave is late-fall (October-early December), avoiding the Thanksgiving holiday of course. As an agent based in the North East, I find that I enjoy getting away during the winter months to a wamer location!

I do have one upcoming trip this summer (more to share on that later!) Do you have plans to travel this summer? If not, when is your preferred month to vacation?

03/30/2023

A big thank you to Stefani for choosing Sam James Travel to plan her epic birthday trip to Playa Del Carmen! This trip included stops all across the Yucatan Peninsula including Cancun, Cozumel and Playa Del Carmen. Guests stayed in downtown Playa Del Carmen at the The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences (look out for our review post soon!)- an amazing location with versatile accommodation options, close proximity to beaches, restaurants, ferries to Cozumel and excursion transportation. The hotel also has all-inclusive dining for exceptional dining and drink options on site. 10/10! Would absolutely recommend. Thank you Stefani for trusting us to plan this epic voyage to celebrate a birthday milestone!

01/07/2023

Each trip is inspired by the kind of person you are deep down.

01/05/2023

So much to learn from these travels.

01/03/2023

❗❗4 VERY important things to know if you're getting married in Jamaica in 2023!!

Research is necessary to select the location that is most suitable for you, your partner, and your guests!

The Caribbean islands are a top choice for many destination weddings due to their promise of sunshine, sea, and beautiful landscapes. Each country, however, has different requirements. If you're still deciding on which location is best for you, check out our FREE resource; TOP 5 CARIBBEAN WEDDING DESTINATION LOCATIONS & ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH.

💙💙💙

01/01/2023

So you're recently engaged and planning a destination wedding? Congratulations! As for wedding planning, you should highly consider working with a travel agent who specializes in destination weddings!

A destination wedding is a great option for busy couples looking for a beautiful venue, a location that all guests can enjoy, and a stress-free planning process.

Working with a travel agent will save you hours of time and stress by assisting with researching and finding the perfect venue for your budget, as well as booking travel for you and your guests.

For that most wonderful day, so much goes into planning. A destination wedding travel agent will facilitate the logistics and let you ultimately have the wedding of your dreams!

Contact us today to set up your free 30-minute consultation!

12/30/2022

An experience of a lifetime- every time.

12/29/2022

The world has so much to offer, it is hard to say no.

12/27/2022

Work, travel, save, repeat.

12/23/2022

Incurable wanderlust.

12/21/2022

Vacation calories don’t count! 😌🍽What’s the best meal you’ve had on vacation? And what city were you in?

It’s hard for me to pin down one meal but I’d say my top 3 cities for food are 1) New Orleans 2) Paris 3) Bangkok

09/27/2022

💭Where do you start when planning your wedding? Your venue.

Destination weddings are all the rage these days, with couples choosing to tie the knot in far-flung locations, including Mexico, Hawaii, Jamaica, and more.

☝🏽But given that most of these dream weddings are often held at resorts you’re probably not familiar with, it can be tricky to narrow down which one is best suited to your needs and style.

Not to mention, you may be looking for something that isn’t cookie-cutter.

The struggle is real.

💕My specialty is helping find the venue that best matches your vision and style. DM to get started!

Address

New York, NY

Website

https://linktr.ee/samjamestravel

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Sam James Travel & Tours posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Sam James Travel & Tours:

Videos

Ready to make new travel memories? 5 unforgettable days of authentic adventures and new connections awaits. Link in bio for all the details.🖤

Best Cities to Celebrate Pride

Have you ever celebrated Pride?🏳️‍🌈 Do you agree with this list? 👀 Best Cities to Celebrate Pride: New York, NY Berlin, Germany Montevideo, Uruguay Madrid, Spain London, UK #pride2023 #pridemonth ##nycpride #travelblogging #travel #traveler #lgbtqtravel

Do you plan travel during the summer months? Recently in conversations I've been asked a lot if I have any summer travel plans. Typically my answer is no! I like to avoid summer travel as much as possible due to the large crowds from families and kids being off of school. I travel all year-round, so the seasons never factor into my decisions regarding when to travel as a child-less adult. My favorite time to trave is late-fall (October-early December), avoiding the Thanksgiving holiday of course. As an agent based in the North East, I find that I enjoy getting away during the winter months to a wamer location! I do have one upcoming trip this summer (more to share on that later!) Do you have plans to travel this summer? If not, when is your preferred month to vacation? #summertravel #travelblogging #traveladvisor #travel #traveladdict #summer #summer23

What are your venue non negotiables?

As a destination wedding specialist, I often ask my clients what their non-negotiables are for their destination wedding. I encourage you to make a list of what is most important to you both as you endeavor to plan your wedding away. It will keep you focused on what matters most. 💕 #destinationwedding #destinationweddings #travelagent #weddinginspo #blacklove #wedding #bride #bridetobe #weddings #weddingdress

As a destination wedding specialist, I often ask my clients what their non-negotiables are for their destination wedding. I encourage you to make a list of what is most important to you both as you endeavor to plan your wedding away. It will keep you focused on what matters most! 💕 #weddingplanning #weddingplanningtips #weddingplanning2023 #weddinginspo #weddinginspo2022 #gettingmarried #destinationwedding #destinationweddings #destinationweddingplanning #travel #travelagent

Wah Gwan, Jamaica? 🇯🇲Jamaica is my #1 suggestion for destination weddings because the country makes it easy to do a legal wedding. See below for my top 5 favorite venues in this beautiful country! 👇🏽 Beaches Negril- When you book the wedding package, "A Beautiful Beginnings", along with stays of six paid nights or more in all room categories, the wedding ceremony fee is waived! Jamaica is easy to get to,( 1 hour from Miami, 2.5 hours from Atlanta, and 4 hours from New York.) Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay (Adult's Only)- This resort offers 24-hour room service, seven gourmet restaurants, nine bars, and lounges, plus the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia and championship-caliber golf nearby. Plus, enjoy all the amenities of the neighboring sister resort, Secrets St. James! Ocean Coral Spring- We love the privilege concept at Ocean Coral Spring! It offers guests a private pool and beach area, with exclusive sun lunges and Balinese beds, as well as private waiter service. Half Moon Montego Bay- With a wide range of different settings available for your special day, you can choose the one that best suits you. Owing to the 400 acres of property at Half Moon, there are several places where you can say "I do". Throw a night of wedding revelry, and make some unforgettable memories. Sandals Negril- A wedding at Sandals has its perks! You can take advantage of these great features when you book and register for your wedding; a personalized wedding website, wedding blog, email announcements, and an online photo album to share photos with friends and family! It's hard to go wrong with any of these venues in this beautiful country! If you have any questions about destination wedding travel, I'm just a call or an email away! #destinationwedding #destinationweddingspecialist #traveladvisor #traveladvisorsmakeithappen #weddingtravel #weddingtravels #weddingtravelagent

So many cheers, so little time! 🥂 Where will your next vacation be? Take our quiz “what’s your travel type?” to receive custom travel suggestions based on your preferred travel style! #travel #travelgram #traveladvisor #DreamVacation https://sam-james-travel.involve.me/what-travel-is-best-for-you-ca53

Bangkok is home to the largest and, quite arguably, the best Chinatown in the world. After sunset, we headed to the famous Yaowarat Road and found some of the best eats in the city!! I'm a big seafood lover, and the food was delicious. Have you considered a trip to Thailand? We took an amazing 14-day tour that stopped in Bangkok and Phuket. We had an amazing tour guide, Audi, and even met travel friends who we keep in touch with to this day. Wow. Good memories. Have you considered a trip to Thailand? We took an amazing 14-day tour that stopped in Bangkok and Phuket. We had an amazing tour guide, Audi, and even met travel friends who we keep in touch with to this day. Wow. Good memories. #travel #traveltheworld #traveladvisor #bangkok #bangkokfoodies

😏We had to hop in on this! Sam James Travel & Tours will create and plan your dream vacation. We specialize in land and boat tours and work with vetted and experienced vendors worldwide! Are you ready to join us? We'll design your next vacation, baecation, or destination wedding! #traveladvisor # #customtravel #curatedtravel #travelblogger #travelagency #usherraymond