NexTrek Travel

08/20/2024

This Virgin Voyages cruising just might be addicting...thanks Jason and Nikki for booking another Virgin Voyages sailing!

08/15/2024

Foodies, listen up! Greece isn't just about stunning beaches and ancient ruins - it's a paradise for your taste buds too!

Imagine savoring crisp Greek salads with sun-ripened tomatoes and creamy feta, indulging in flaky spanakopita, and diving into moussaka so good it'll make you cry.
Don't even get me started on the fresh seafood or the melt-in-your-mouth souvlaki!
From bustling Athens tavernas to family-run island eateries, every meal is an adventure.

And let's not forget the wine - nothing beats sipping crisp Assyrtiko while watching the Santorini sunset!

Who's ready to eat (and drink) their way through Greece with me? Drop a 🍇 if you're in!

08/14/2024

Sea and Farm to Table Experience in Greece

Discover Greece through it's flavors, sounds and colors.
10 Day Itinerary (Message me for detailed itinerary)

➡️Savor Athens' vibrant markets
➡️Indulge in Santorini's famous wines
➡️Enjoy Crete's organic farms and traditional tavernas.

The journey blends rich history and stunning landscapes with authentic Greek flavors offering foodies and wine connoisseurs a unique and unforgettable combination of the best historical sites and gastronomic adventure from city to island.

Day 1: Athens
Day 2: Explore the Parthenon and enjoy Culinary Delights in Athens
Day 3: Athens to Santorini
Day 4: Food & Wine Tour in Santorini
Day 5: Day at Leisure
Day 6: Cruise ARound the Scenic Caldera
Day 7: Santorini to Crete
Day 8: Organic Farm Experience

08/13/2024

The Science of Why You Should Book That Trip

In our fast-paced professional world, it's easy to put off vacations. But, did you know that travel isn't just fun--it's cruicial for your mental health and productivity? Here's some numbers:

📊 82% of people report significant drops in stress just days after starting a vacation (American Psychological Association)

🧠 Travelers are 7% more likely to be depression-free compared to non-travelers (Wisconsin Medical Journal)

💡 Foreign experiences increase cognitive flexibility and creativity (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology)

😴 45% of travelers report feeling more rested after returning from vacation (National Sleep Foundation)

🌟 People who take vacations report 25% higher life satisfaction (Journal of Travel Research)

These aren't just feel-good stats—they translate directly to workplace performance. Employees who take regular vacations show increased productivity, higher job satisfaction, and lower burnout rates.

So, the next time you're hesitating to use those vacation days, remember: it's an investment in your mental health and professional performance.

When was the last time you took a real break? How did it impact your work life? Share your experiences below!

08/13/2024

Thank you Susan and Mike for booking another Virgin Voyages cruise! Always happy book return clients.

08/12/2024

Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and mouthwatering cuisine? Greece is calling!

Why visit Greece?
• Stunning beaches and islands
• Rich history and iconic landmarks
• Delicious Mediterranean food
• Warm, welcoming locals
• Vibrant culture and traditions

Best time to go:
April to June or September to October. Enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices while still experiencing the best Greece has to offer!

Ready to make your Greek getaway a reality? Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable adventure!

08/12/2024

Created with CapCut: https://www.capcut.com/s/CdPbsjHe5o766dcX/

08/06/2024

One thing you should know about working with me?

I’m a hawk when it comes to getting my clients the best value for their money and travel budget.

If I know you’ve got a vacation you’re thinking of taking and I know well in advance, you better believe I’m keeping my eyes peeled for the best offers for you.

Whether it’s a cruise, honeymoon, or an international culinary experience, I dive into the travel promotions and keep an eye out for offers that align with my clients’ upcoming trips.

We’re still in the middle of summer, but if you’re thinking of getting away this coming winter, let me know so I can keep an eye on offers that come across my desk!

08/03/2024

Short on time but desperately in need of a getaway this Fall?

Sometimes, all you have is a few days of PTO for a quick getaway to rest and recharge.

But that doesn’t make your trip any less meaningful or easy to plan.

In fact, I would argue that the shorter the trip, the more you’ll need some planning help because you have less time to make the most of your time away.

Call me the queen of maximizing vacation time because that’s where I can help.

Whether you’re planning a city adventure, a quick break to an all-inclusive, or a little wellness time to relax and reset, I’ll help you plan an itinerary that maximizes your time.

Don’t let time be the thing that stops you from making the most of your vacation. Send me a DM so I can give you a list of hotspots for shorter trips.

08/03/2024

Are you Real ID ready? Deadline is May 7, 2025

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock () or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

08/03/2024

Learning about the latest travel technology solutions today!

08/02/2024

"Isn‘t it too early to be thinking about spring trips?"

Some advice from your travel advisor:

It‘s NEVER too early.

If you’re planning your Spring Break trip now, you’re way ahead of the curve:

➡️ You get first pick and can lock in the best rooms at those high-demand resorts and hotels before they fill up.

➡️ You have more time to look for promotions. I keep my eyes peeled for offers that align with the trip you have in mind so you can get the best value for your budget.

➡️ One less thing to stress about. Get it locked into your calendar so you have something to look forward to.

Let’s get you ahead of the Spring travel game. Send me a DM so we can start planning!

08/01/2024

I have a bit of a controversial take on luxury travel.

I’m a pretty big believer that luxury travel isn’t always 5-star resorts and first-class tickets (although both of those are nice!).

Luxury can be as simple as having someone else plan and book all the details for your trip so there’s no stress on your shoulders.

Luxury can be an itinerary tailored perfectly to you, without you having to lift one finger.

Luxury can be as simple as seamless logistics, where all the details are planned and organized for you without any stress or wasted time.

Just know that whether your idea of luxury is the 5-star resorts or it’s all of the things I listed above, I’m a DM or email away and ready to assist!

07/31/2024

Travel hiccups + what to do about them

➡️ Seat Swap Surprises

You’ve checked in online and picked your seats, but then you get to the airport and they've changed.

What to Do: Head straight to the gate desk Gate agents are your best friends here—they can help fix the seating situation or find someone willing to switch seats.

➡️ Your bags are MIA

What to do: Find the airline’s baggage desk near the baggage claim area and file a claim before you leave the airport. If you can’t locate the desk, call the airline ASAP to report your missing luggage.

Hang on to those receipts for any resonable essentials you need to buy. Wwhen you’re back, file a claim with your travel insurance.

➡️ Delayed and cancelled flights

Check the Department of Transportation (DOT) Dashboard: If the delay is within the airline’s control, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard will show you what each airline should do to make it up to you.

➡️ Not Loving Your Hotel Room

Your room’s not up to par? Here’s how to get it sorted

Ask for the manager. Call from your room or go to the front desk and ask to speak to a manager. Be specific about the issues and honest about what resolution you’re seeking.

➡️ Rental Car Issues

If your rental car isn’t what you expected, contact the rental company’s customer service. They might be able to upgrade or switch your vehicle. Always check the car for damage before driving off the lot and report any issues immediately.

I hope you don‘t encounter any of these hiccups while traveling but if you do, use this as your quickstart guide to problem-solving.

07/30/2024

All the Most Recent Tourist Taxes Announced for 2024

07/29/2024

Money saved, money lost — it may seem cheaper to book a trip yourself but…

👉 You might snag a bargain flight, only to pay high baggage fees or get bumped if its overbooked.

👉 That cheaper hotel? It’s dated and lacks amenities.

👉 DIY travel planning often means missed discounts, exclusive deals, and insider tips that could save you more.

What I do is take my clients’ budgets and find the best value for their money.

It may mean recommending a hotel that’s a little bit more expensive but checks all of your boxes.

It could also mean recommending different travel dates so your costs are significantly cheaper.

It may even mean snagging you freebies, offers, and other value-adds you won’t get when you book yourself online.

Let‘s make smart choices together and stretch your vacation budget further without sacrificing quality or comfort. To get started with planning, send me a DM or check out the link in my bio to book a discovery call.

07/29/2024

Packing for my next trip. He's my supervisor 😀.

Question...if you use packing cubes do you:

A. Pack similar items in each cube (shirts in one, etc.)
B. Pack outfits together?
C. Neither. I have my own method.

Trying to decide if I want to change up my game plan.

07/29/2024

Wow! It's been an incredible summer of travel. I am thankful to have been a part of helping plan these clients trips:

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic:
⭐Secrets Cap Cana (3 different honeymoon clients)
⭐Excellence El Carmen (couples trip)
⭐Breathless Punta Cana (honeymooners)

Virgin Voyages Dominican Daze (6 couples)

Princess Alaskan Cruise (Multi-generation family trip)

Utah National Parks (family trip)

If you're ready to plan your fall/winter/spring travel, let's talk.

07/28/2024

Ready to sail away on Virgin Voyages? I've got 3 discounted deals left! Must take advantage by August 15. Message [email protected] for details. Or text "VV" to 217.899.3219

Voyages into June 2026 are eligible for this offer.

07/24/2024

VIRGIN VOYAGES is doing Kids Sail Free the Virgin Voyages way. Now through August 23rd, Sailors who book a 2024 Voyage in a Central Sea Terrace or below for two get second Sailors ages 18-26 for free. Because they’ll always be kids to mom and dad, right? Now's the to book your Sailors on the ultimate graduation/birthday/don’t say we never did anything for you trip now and they’ll save on their (adult) children’s fares. It’s our way of doing the “Kids Sail Free” thing while still remaining the exclusively adult, always luxury cruise line your Sailors love. Sea what we did there?

07/23/2024

Book by August 15 and received $300 off regular price and $600 onboard credit 😍

Saint Isles & Seas of the Caribbean on Virgin Voyages
PORTS:
⚓San Juan, Puerto Rico
⚓British Virgin Islands
⚓Barbados
⚓Saint Lucia
⚓St. John's Antiqua and Baruba
⚓Sint Maarten
⚓San Juan, Puerto Rico

Sailing Dates: February 8-15, 2025

$975 deposit due at booking
$3572 total (based on double occupancy)

This all-adults cruise includes:
❤️Sea Terrace Cabin (balcony with hammock)
❤️All Dining
❤️Gratuities
❤️Wifi
❤️Non-alcoholic beverages
❤️Travel Protection

BOOK today! This onboard credit is a limited-time offer only.
Email [email protected] or text "VV" to 217.899.3219.

Price and availability subject to change. Price above reflects the $300 discount.

07/11/2024

I'm am so excited to learn about this beautiful destination. If you're ready to book your Greece trip, contact me.

07/06/2024

As a first-time cuiser, I was pleasantly surprised by my recent sailing with Virgin Voyages.

⭐Exceptional service: The service across the board was consistent and exceptional. Our room porter was personable and consistent. The restaurant and bar services were quick and easy. And the embarkation and debarkation process was seamless.
⭐Chic, comfortable cabins: The chic cabins are comfortable and make the best use of space. The hammock was an added bonus.
⭐Entertainment is different but top-notch. I enjoyed the Dual Reality show and had time to take in a couple of loung acts.
⭐Restaurants are excellent. I did not experience a bad meal or service at any of the 4 restaurants I tried. I loved the restaurant experience which I image is different from the buffet-style dining found on other cruiselines. The food quality was excellent and I found many healthy options to choose from. The Galley was also a great place to find quick-service food options from breakfast to dinner.
⭐Lounge and Social Areas: It was easy to find the type of bar or social area experience I was looking for at any given time.
⭐Adult Playground Area: The pool was the focal area for the recreation. There were two indoor gym options and one outdoor gym area that all faced the pool. I also enjoyed the walking/running track on the top desk. There was plenty to keep you busy and in shape.
⭐Theme Parties: Pajama Night, We Fancy Night, and Scarlett Night were all fun. I did not stay more than about an hour for each since they started at 11:00 PM.
⭐Bimin Beach Club: The private beach club at Bimini was excellent. There are two pools and close access to the beautiful beach. The food choices were excellent and unique. Bar service was consistent with the on-ship experience.

The experience was refreshing and uniquely tailored to modern travelers, with chic, comfortable cabins, innovative dining options, and top-notch entertainment. The attention to detail and the absence of typical cruise clichés made it an enjoyable and memorable journey. I can now see why people are enthusiastic about cruising with Virgin Voyages!

06/25/2024

Limited time offer! Looking for an all adults cruise? If you book a Virgin Voyages cruise through NexTrek Travel within the next 60 days for travel anytime in the next 2 years, you will receive $300 off the price and $600 onboard credit! Just put a deposit of $300 down to secure your cabin. We have a very limited number of this offer. Don't wait!

Message me for details or email [email protected].

06/20/2024

Nothing makes me think YIKES more than seeing online forums and messages of people whose vacations were ruined because they got to their resort or hotel, and it was not as expected.

Now, some of you may not necessarily care too much about where you lay your head at night, you’re there to explore and enjoy the destination.

But for some of you, the resort or hotel experience can absolutely make or break your whole trip.

👉 My advice?

Don’t go off of the photos online, and outdated reviews you’re hoping still reflect the current situation.

I love that I can give my clients dynamic knowledge of resorts and hotels, either by visiting myself or by tapping into my network of trusted people on the ground.

They get the scoop so they don’t end up at a place with shabby rooms, stiff mattresses, and a pool that’s closed for maintenance.

When you’re ready to book trips fully armed with ALL of the information, not just what you see online, this travel pro over here is ready to help!

06/19/2024

After two flight delays = 4 hours later…heading out for my Virgin Voyages 🚢

06/12/2024

Take advantage of the current promotional $500 savings!
Book your trip to end the summer in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

$650 per person deposit (based on double occupancy)
Travel dates: 8/25 to 8/30/2024

Includes:
Roundtrip Flights from St. Louis
5-Star All inclusive - Junior Suite Ocean Front King Room
All Adults Resort
One-bottle of 🍷 per stay
25% discount on spa services
One in-room breakfast or 🍾 breakfast
Roundtrip transfers
Cancel for any reason travel protection with medical coverage

*Licensed, bonded, insured travel agency.
Can price different dates and airports.

Text "MB" to 217.899.3219 or email [email protected] to secure your booking today!

Price and availability subject to change until deposit is paid.

05/31/2024

I get asked a lot “So what does a travel agent do?”

The simple answer is lots of things, but today, I’m giving you the shortlist. I can help with:

Create personalized travel itineraries based on your interests, preferences and budget.

Offer expert advice on destinations, travel requirements, best times to vist, and insider tips.

Provide ongoing support before, during and after your trip...from travel changes, cancellations and emergencies.

Bottom line: I’m here to help bring ease to your next trip.

If you’re interested in putting my travel planning services to work for you, you can visit my website and fill out my iniquiry form or book a complimentary call.

05/29/2024

How about a trip to Cancun to end your summer?

Travel Dates: August 18-23, 2024
$260 per person deposit (based on double-occupancy)

What's Included?
✈RT Nonstop Flights from St. Louis
5-🌟 All-inclusive Adults Only
Deluxe Partial Ocean View - King Room

Free in-room 🍾 breakfast
25% discount on spa services
$200 in resort coupons
Private Transfers to/from airport/resort
Cancel for any reason travel protection

*Licensed, bonded & insurance travel agency.
*Pricing and availabililty subject to change.

For more details or to book your trip to Cancun, text "cancun" to 217.899.3219 or email [email protected]