Kat S. - The Travel Smith

09/09/2024

Changes to European Travel

United Airlines recently announced that it is discontinuing service to several European destinations citing low customer demand. Those cities include: Belfast Intl., Bergen, Berlin Tegel, Birmingham, Copenhagen, Glasgow, Hamburg, Istanbul, Manchester, Newcastle, Oslo, Prague, and Stuttgart.

Meanwhile, leaders in Rome are contemplating how to limit access to the famed Trevi Fountain which has become a focal point for hordes of travelers and influencers looking for that perfect pic. The plans would include visitors having to make a paid reservation in advance to visit the fountain. Residents will still be able to visit the fountain with no restrictions. The goal is to try to control the massive crowds that surround the fountain from sunup until sundown.

Experts predict that Spain’s anti-overtourism protests could soon begin spreading to other destinations in Europe as the imbalance is increasingly felt by residents of these popular destinations. Many cities are trying to rebalance the situation, but the main point of the issue is a housing crisis caused by too many short-term rentals, rude and self-obsessed tourists, and the overall unsustainability of so many tourists. Venice recently enacted a tourism fee in an effort to reduce the number of visitors to their city. European cities that are seeing the results of a post-pandemic travel boom are looking at ways to balance tourist levels in a way that still makes these destinations a better place to live for the residents.

Ahh, It’s Good to be a Villain! At Disney!!

Gaston. Cruella de Ville. Captain Hook. Maleficent. Scar. The Evil Queen will soon have their own spot to call home at Walt Disney World Resort. Villains Land at Magic Kingdom Park is coming as part of massive expansion plans announced recently. Now you can rub elbows with characters you loathe.
Villains Land will include two major attractions and dining. “Be prepared, you poor unfortunate souls,” Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro said. “It’s going to be a fearless new vision for what a Disney experience can be." Preparation for the new themed land is underway.

More Disney News

More news from Disney and the announcement of the expansion of its fleet with four new ships that will launch between 2027 and 2031. The new ships will join the fleet’s five others currently sailing, along with four others already under construction.

But wait, that’s not all!
Massive expansion plans have been announced for Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed the plans, which include a confirmed Villains Land, a new “Cars”-themed area (taking the place of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island), and an opening year for a previously announced Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge.

09/04/2024

If you're seeing this post, then it must be destiny (see what I did there?). Let me help you make your Disney dream cruise come true.

Your legend begins aboard the Disney Destiny! ✨ Itineraries are available now, and bookings open September 12th. Will you choose heroes 🦁, villains 😈, or both?

Find out more: http://di.sn/6006YEQQn

08/28/2024

Oops! Sorry, no kids on Virgin Voyages - Whether you've been thinking about a much-needed escape for you and your partner, an energizing adventure with your gal pals, or an adults-only getaway with friends, Virgin can take care of whatever level of vacationing you are looking for. Call me, and let's start planning your exciting adults-only voyage.

08/27/2024

Yes, let's do this!

08/27/2024

Celebrity Cruises provides an upscale experience at a price that won't break your travel budget. Let's plan a trip that will leave you feeling extraordinary.

Make your own history in Europe🚢✨ Discover Europe like never before with over 40 overnight stays in iconic cities such as Florence, Venice, Lisbon, Copenhagen, and Istanbul. Adventure awaits with Celebrity Cruises.

08/20/2024

Let Viking show you how relaxing travel through Europe can be. Unpack once, and enjoy the luxuries of river travel. Be as adventurous or low-key as you want, Viking will help make your dream trip a reality. Give me a call and we will start planning your trip.

08/17/2024

Why Visit Baja California?
Renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking landscapes, Baja California offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The region boasts world-class resorts and stylish boutique hotels catering to luxury and adventure-seekers alike.

For those living on the West Coast, this is a great getaway to explore that's not far from home. From wine tasting or enjoying a foodie wonderland, to adventure or tranquil peace, the choice is yours on how to spend your time in Baja. Let me. help you plan your vacation escape.

08/16/2024

Visit timeless Christmas Markets on board an AmaWaterways' Romantic Danube - A Taste of Christmas itinerary! From grand abbeys and fortresses, celebrate the holidays ahead of the crowds. Call me and let me start planning this magical trip for you.

08/16/2024

Knock, knock, open the door to adventure! Get ready to check that next destination off your bucket list with a great deal offered by Royal Caribbean.

Unlock the seas and save big! ✨ Right now you can save up to $600 off your next Royal Caribbean escape or enjoy the same amount in onboard credit when booking at the NextCruise desk onboard! Plus, for a limited time, grab an extra $100 in Bonus Savings for all 2025 Europe and Alaska cruises, as well as sailing on the breathtaking new Icon Class ships – Icon and Star of the Seas!

08/12/2024

Some exciting changes coming to Disney!

08/11/2024

POV: you relaxing with a view of the ocean, and not a care in the world. Let's make your next vacation happen... call me for details and information

We’ll hold a deck chair for you! Which one is yours?
📸 Tim Faircloth

08/08/2024

Summer of 2025 sailing the rivers of France? Oui très bien! Instead of drooling over pictures of stunning scenery, you could be the one IN those pictures. Reach out to me and we can start creating this magical adventure.

08/07/2024

You don't need to travel across the pond for a memorable vacation with a focus on stunning beauty. Travel the Hudson River on American Cruise Line and enjoy 8 days of peak fall foliage, iconic homes of influential artists and authors, and a visit to the birthplace of a U.S. president. Reach out to me and we can get this magical journey started.

08/06/2024

Travel News, August 6, 2024

Carnival Cruises
Carnival Panorama sailings were canceled into December due to ongoing issues with the propulsion and difficulties securing drydock space on the West Coast. Originally scheduled for drydock in Portland, Oregon, the work had to be re-routed to Victoria BC due to the ship’s inability to clear the bridges on the Columbia River en route to Portland. But wait, that’s not all! Workers in Victoria will remove the famous Whale Tail, and the ship will then make its way to Portland for dry dock and repair. The ship will then have to sail back to Victoria to have its funnel reattached.

FAA News
A measure was introduced in the Senate, aimed at strengthening the FAA’s safety oversight procedures. Named, The FAA SMS Compliance Review Act of 2024, it is designed to ensure the FAA has a ‘robust and effective safety management system’(SMS).

Labor Day Travel
Recent polls suggest that Americans are hitting the pause button on Labor Day travel. Many would-be travelers have opted out of the traditional September travel weekend due to rising costs of travel, and the increasing levels of flight delays.

Tourism Limits
Santori residents are pushing for limits on tourist visits. The increasing number of visitors is overwhelming the island’s infrastructure, and pricing many permanent residents out of the housing market. One proposal includes capping cruise visitors to 8,000 per day. Nationally, Greece is forecast to set a tourism record of 33 million visitors. With tourist revenue up by 16 percent, Greece will need to find a balance between the economic benefits and the preservation of local communities and the environment.

Venice is another hot tourist destination that is looking for ways to limit how many people visit the famed city. As of August 1, 2024, Venice is now limiting tourist groups to no more than 25 people in an effort to combat overtourism. The rules apply to both Venice’s city center and the outlying islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

08/04/2024

With France on everyone's mind right now, why not follow through on that dream to travel along the Seine River and explore the heart of France. Call me and I can get started on making 'some day' a reality.

Join Cruise Manager Louis E. as he takes you on a journey through Paris and Normandy along France’s spectacular Seine River. See some of the highlights of ou...

08/03/2024

It's never too early to start planning that memorable adventure for summer of 2025! Give me a call and let's get started on putting together your Alaska experience.

Setting sail from Seattle for the first time, Anthem of the Seas is the perfect vacation for an unforgettable 7-Night Alaska Experience. From the wilds of Sitka to the charm of Skagway and breathtaking Juneau, each day promises new thrills. 🌲🐋Plus, kids sail free on Summer 2025 sailings for a limited time!

08/01/2024

Bergen, Norway, known as the 'capital of the fjords' is located on the southwestern coast of Norway. Surrounded by mountains and fjords, it is an ideal location to take in the beauty and culture of Norway.

07/28/2024

Cruise & Travel News

*Amawaterways offers up to 20% off on Europe and Egypt departures for 2024 - available through 9.30.24
*Paul Gauguin waives the Single Supplement on a selection of 7-14 night voyages

DISNEY
Haunted Mansion returns to Disneyland on July 29, 2024. Guests can gain access to Haunted Mansion exclusively with the virtual queue.

SWA announces changes to their service. Beginning Feb. 2025 they will offer redeye flights between select cities. Additionally, they will offer expanded service for selected SEC & NFL weekends. Give me a call for the details.

07/28/2024

In a pickle about where to travel? Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer courts so that you can pursue your Pickleball passions while vacationing. All you have to do is pack your paddles, and I'll do all the planning... give me a call!

Attention Pickleball lovers! Did you know Celebrity Cruises has courts on ships🎾

When booking with Celebrity Cruises you can combine thrilling activities to serene moments, where every perspective is a story waiting to be told. 🚢

Which ship are you eyeing to rally on?

07/26/2024

It's never too early to start planning for travel during the holidays. Give me a call for a fee-free quote!

Happy Christmas in July! Leave the Christmas planning to us whilst you relax and unwind on the perfect stress-free holiday! 🎄 Book your end of year Christmas sailing now! 🎄 🔗

07/26/2024

Christmas in July is the perfect time to plan your next holiday getaway! And we can help! https://mousefantravel.com/quote

07/17/2024

Take your cruise to another level with Celebrity Cruises.

07/13/2024

Virgin stands out as the ultimate adults-only cruise. The question isn't will you have fun, but how much fun will you have? Whether it is a girl group getaway, a couple's retreat, or a small selection of friends, let Virgin show you how they do fun. Give me a shout and I can get you started on your next adventure.

Ready for a different kind of Halloween cruise?
The Halloween Voyages: No kids. Just treats are the best Halloween celebrations at sea, and are throwing them fleetwide throughout October.


ONBOARD HAPPENINGS include:
Costume Party & Contest
Festival Stage: Spooky Edition
Eerie entertainment options
Exclusive Food & Bevs

Contact us know to learn more about the Mediterranean, Transatlantic, or Caribbean Halloween sailings!

07/11/2024

Midway through the summer of '24 and you're already dreaming about your next adventure? Let me help you begin the process of planning that vacation for next summer. Land or cruise exploration (or maybe even both), the earlier you book, the more $$ you will save. Give me a call or send me a message and we'll figure out where your next adventure will take you.

07/03/2024

Pretty lady, Icon of the Seas taking a break at Costa Maya. Tonight we race to get north of the hurricane

07/01/2024

Just a friendly reminder for anyone traveling this summer season, you should definitely pack an extra dose of patience, flexiblity, and humor. Also, I would highly recommend adding insurance to your trip if you haven't already. This is looking to be an active summer for storms, and you'll want to make sure that you protect yourself and the financial investment you have made on this trip. Focus on the things that you can control, and protect yourself from the things that you can't control (i.e. weather). Keep an eye on the weather leading up to your trip, and be aware of any potential changes that might occur as a result. (Psst, remember that having a travel advisor is a great resource when your travels make an unexpected turn) Attached pic is our ship docked at Cozumel instead of St.Maarten.

06/26/2024

So much to see... so little time.

06/25/2024