Destinations Travel Services Inc

11/13/2024

11/11/2024

Iceland with Avril 🇮🇸

Day 5

It’s hard to believe that this is the last full day of our tour ~ Journey on a Quest to see the Northern Lights.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall was the first stop, the weather did corporate and again, our whole group walked the trail that took us behind the 60-meter falls. This is a place where you can experience something amazing, I never thought I would be standing behind a waterfall, a truly spectacular vantage point. This perspective lets you witness the falling water from the inside out, It is much more than a waterfall to stand in front of and look at, and for all those reasons, Seljalandsfoss is probably the most favorite and feel-good tourist destination in Iceland.

After this visit, it was time to make our way back to Reykjavík, not before lunch and a little retail therapy enroute.

After check-in at our Reykjavik hotel, we had a quick turnaround as we were spending our last night at the world famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa in a man-made lake surrounded by lava fields; We had the premium admission which gave us entry into the main lagoon, a free welcome drink, access to the steam rooms and lockers, and three mud mask (silica, lava & and anti aging) along with a bathrobe.
One of the main draws of the Blue Lagoon is simply the fact that it’s famous, I’d say it’s worth a visit, even if just to tick it off the ol’ bucket list for good. We had so much fun though, the photos alone will make you laugh!

Our farewell dinner was at the Blue Lagoon Lava restaurant,
It offered Icelandic culinary classics to Michelin-starred gourmet innovations, Blue Lagoon cuisine is based on the finest, freshest local ingredients and was enjoyed by all.

One last incredible experience as we drove back into Reykjavík was the opportunity to see the Northern Lights one last time, the icing on the cake and the perfect end to an incredible group trip. If you dont know a lot about the Northern Lights, I will say you really cannot plan for them. Iceland has unpredictable weather, so factoring in the time of year will do nothing for you. You just have to pray and hope for the best, luckily we managed to see them on two occasions and they were magnificent!!!

I think we can all categorically say that Iceland is definitely worth visiting, and I do plan on going back! 🇮🇸

11/10/2024

Iceland with Avril 🇮🇸

Day 4

The more we explore Iceland, the more outstandingly beautiful the scenery gets!

Today we got to visit Skaftafell Wilderness area, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. We got to view some of its wonders: glaciers, waterfalls, a snow-capped volcano and lava fields.

Skaftafell is a top adventure playground if you are a lover of the outdoors. It offers a unique blend of landscapes that captivate, diverse scenery that includes lush green valleys, jagged mountain peaks, and serene waterfalls. Definitely a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Our entire group hiked to Skaftafellsjökull glacier, it was a relatively easy hike that offered breathtaking views along the way. It was a hike like no other, getting to explore the icy wilderness up close was a dream come true for many of our group. This is yet another filming location for Game of Thrones, scenes with the Wildlings north of the Wall in seasons two and three. Being a big GOT fan and coming from Northern Ireland where a big part of the show was filmed was the icing on the cake for me.

Today we had lunch at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, it offered incredible views of the surrounding countryside, and I’d say this was probably the best meal we had since arriving in Iceland, there’s nothing like experiencing local cuisine amidst stunning views.

After lunch it was off to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. When we arrived, we were first struck by the serene, iceberg-strewn waters of the lagoon itself. As far as the eye can see, this sublime view opens up before you, surrounded by the rocky, snow-covered hillsides. Bright blue and white icebergs dot the waters. It’s tranquil silence, and frozen figures that float throughout the lagoon captured all our hearts. We even got to see a few harbor seals in the waters of Jökulsárlón.

Our lost stop of the day was at the nearby Diamond Beach, we marveled at the glistening natural ice sculptures on the black sands and had fun taking plenty of playful photographs, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It was amazing to learn that the waters of Jökulsárlón lagoon actually reach the sea. This is where the icebergs meet their ultimate end. Scattered on the beach’s black sand, you’ll see the large chunks of ice sit like roughly-hewn diamonds. They’re like diamonds in the sun, waiting to melt or to be taken out to sea.

There’s a reason why Jökulsárlón is frequently used as a backdrop for movies. This particular location makes an appearance in two James Bond films—Die Another Day and A View to a Kill—as well as in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. You may have also seen the surrounding area in Interstellar, Batman Begins, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
All of these movies have paid homage to the unique scenery that Jökulsárlón offers.

Today was a day like no other, we visited the best-kept secrets of Iceland and hidden gems that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

11/09/2024

Day 3 ~ Iceland with Avril

Our first stop today was at the LAVA Center, this is an interactive and educational centre depicting key aspects of the Earth’s natural forces. Iceland is home to 130 volcanic mountains and the people here live with the knowledge that many of them are active and could erupt at any time. The LAVA Centre is in Hvolsvöllur, and sits in close proximity to three of the island’s most notorious volcanoes, Hekla, Eyjafjallajӧkull and Katla.
Inside, the center does a remarkable job of explaining why Iceland has so many volcanoes, and how they work. Getting to visit early on our trip offered an engaging backstory to the landscapes we would encounter and it gave us a good understanding of the island’s unusual geological position.
The exhibits include a timeline of Iceland’s volcanic activity, video interviews with local residents on living in the shadow of a volcano, and virtual reality experiences of the earthquakes that occur prior to an eruption.

I found this museum fascinating.
After the tour, we heading up to the rooftop terrace for a panoramic view of the mountains and the three surrounding volcanoes: Hekla, Eyjafjallajӧkull and Katla. Having toured the exhibition, seeing the proximity and scale of the volcanoes gave us a greater understanding of Icelandic life and the constant risks locals live with.

Next was a visit to Skógar Folk Museum to explore Iceland’s cultural heritage and learn about the lives of Iceland’s early settlers. This unique collection of mementos from South Iceland’s past sits in beautifully preserved, turf-roofed houses. Local curator Þórður Tómasson started the original collection which includes examples of many periods of Icelandic architectural history. We also learnt about how the Icelandic people Celebrate Christmas. We have Santa, and they have The Yule Lads.

The Yule Lads are 13 legendary brothers from Icelandic folklore who visit Icelandic homes on the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. They are said to be the sons of the troll Grýla, and while they were once more mischievous, they are now known for giving children toys and sweets. Some of the Yule Lads include:
* Sheep-Cote Clod: Tries to suckle yews in sheep sheds
* Gully Gawk: Steals foam from cow milk buckets
* Stubby: A short lad who steals food from frying pans
* Spoon Licker: Licks spoons
* Pot Scraper: Steals unwashed pots and licks them clean
* Bowl Licker: Steals bowls of food from under beds
* Door Slammer: Keeps everyone awake by stomping around and slamming doors.

It was so interesting learning about these different traditions, I think nearly everyone in our group bought the book of the Yule Lads to share with their kids and grandkids.

After leaving the folk park, we made a stop at the Skógafoss Waterfall. "Skógafoss waterfall is one of Iceland's most iconic and majestic natural attractions, . Legend has it that a settler named Þrasi hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall which has still not been found. You can also climb some steps alongside the waterfall and see it from above. As the weather was windy and raining, we got to experience Skógafoss from its base. We stood at the bottom of the thundering cascade and watch the water pour down, down, down, it was truly breathtaking.

Our final stop for the day was Reynisfjara’s black sand beach and rock formations, known for its unique geology, including the black sand beaches, basalt columns, and a series of rock formations that are significant to local folklore. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach was also featured in Game of Thrones, and used as a filming location for Game of Thrones Season 7, representing Eastwatch-by-the-sea.

When visiting Reynisfjara, it’s important to take safety precautions. We were told to read the safety signs thoroughly and follow their advice. Keep a safe distance from the ocean to avoid getting caught by a wave. Be aware of the tide, as it can get you trapped in the cave or on the East-most part of the beach.

The Fosshotel Núpar Hotel was our home for the next two nights, perfectly situated for Northern Lights viewing; we had wake-up calls arranged at the front desk, just in case the lights were visible after bedtime, and guess what, at 4am we got that call!!!!

The perfect ending to the perfect day.

11/08/2024

🚨 New Black Friday Promotion 🚨

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💖 Call Avril for more information and to book at 815 625 3500.

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11/08/2024

Iceland with Avril

Day 1 & 2
We arrived in Reykjavík early morning and hit the road running, much to our surprise our rooms were ready, we even had had time to freshen up before our Panoramic City Tour. There is an abundance of trendy restaurants, cafés and bars, charming architecture, beautiful, brightly-colored rooftops. We stopped off to visit the Perlan Observation Deck to see magnificent 360o views of the city and its surroundings. The visit to the Icelandic church at Hallgrímskirkja, this Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík, Iceland. At 74.5 metres tall, it is the largest church in Iceland and among the tallest structures in the country.

Unfortunately the weather wasn’t cooperating so we didn’t get to go away from the city lights in search for the elusive Northern Lights. As a substitute, we got to visit Aurora Reykjavík – This is Iceland’s first and only Northern Lights Center, perfect for learning everything “Northern Lights”. Today was a long first day, but everyone pushed through and made the most of the day despite being tired.

Day 2: We packed up our bags and left the City of Reykjavik around 815am. Today we got to experience what i would say is the most talked about location in Iceland, the Golden Circle. This is a popular tourist route of around 300km in the South of Iceland which takes you through many of the country’s natural wonders. Obviously we don’t get around the whole route, but what we did see was pretty spectacular. We did get to visit, the spectacular Þingvellir National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where you can see the incredible rift between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are slowly drifting apart by a few centimeters each year. Our stop at Gullfoss Waterfall, one of the most photographed spots in all of Iceland. Iceland isn’t short of waterfalls. They tumble from cliffs and thunder over rocks. But Gullfoss is considered the king of them all. Catching a glimpse of this natural wonder, it’s easy to see why it’s been the backdrop to blockbuster films.

Then it was on to the Strokkur geyser, we saw nature first-hand in this geothermal area, it erupts every 10 minutes so so. I can understand now why Iceland has been given the nickname of ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’. Geysir and the Strokkur area are key points on the Golden Circle.

We had lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm, this was a surprisingly unique experience, we tried their famous homemade tomato soup, made from fresh tomatoes that are grown on-site.

We finished our day at the Secret Lagoon. While the Blue Lagoon is undeniably magnificent, the Secret Lagoon offers a more intimate, tranquil, and less crowded experience. Taking a dip in a natural hot spring surrounded by green fields and a tiny geyser was great, add in showers and cold drinks, it's It's even more magical during winter when you can sit in the warm water with steam rising all around you. Its natural setting and the opportunity to mingle with locals truly adds to its charm.

11/04/2024

A few days late, but WOW, 19 years in business!!! Thank you to all our customers, family and friends, we couldn’t have done it without you.

My vision became my dream! My bank manager said “Aren’t travel agents like dinosaurs”, and that comment gave me the fuel to make ship happen. I opened my business bank account with that very bank, and haven’t looked back since!!!

🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇

In the words of the person that inspired me to take the step and open my business. Sir Richard Branson.

Fun is one of the most important - and underrated - ingredients in any successful venture. If you're not having fun, then it's probably time to call it quits and try something else.

Richard Branson

11/02/2024

𝟮𝟭 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄! 🇬🇧

1. London was the first city in the world to have an underground subway system, which began operations in 1863.

2. The smallest statue in London is the “Two Mice Eating Cheese” located on Philpot Lane near Monument Station.

3. The Great Smog of 1952 was a severe air pollution event that lasted five days, leading to an estimated 4,000 deaths and prompting the Clean Air Act of 1956.

4. London’s famous red phone boxes were designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in the 1920s, and a few are now repurposed as mini-libraries or even coffee shops.

5. The London Stone, a mysterious ancient stone of unknown origin, is embedded in the wall of a building on Cannon Street.

6. London’s postal system has its own unique postcode system, with codes ranging from EC (East Central) to TW (Twickenham).

7. The London Bridge that crosses the River Thames today is not the original; it was sold to an American entrepreneur in 1968 and now stands in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

8. London’s Soho district was once a hunting ground for wild boar during medieval times.

9. The London Eye, despite its modern appearance, is the largest cantilevered observation wheel in the world.

10. The Monument to the Great Fire of London, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, stands exactly 202 feet tall, representing the distance to the bakery where the fire began.

11. The “Whispering Gallery” in St Paul’s Cathedral allows visitors to whisper against one wall and be heard clearly on the opposite side, over 100 feet away.

12. The tradition of the “Pearly Kings and Queens” dates back to the 19th century when working-class Londoners adorned their clothing with mother-of-pearl buttons for charity.

13. The oldest swimming club in the world, the Serpentine Swimming Club, was established in 1864 and still swims in the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park every Christmas morning.

14. The London Underground is home to several “ghost stations,” abandoned and disused stations that are no longer in operation but can still be seen from passing trains.

15. The Seven Noses of Soho, an art installation by artist Rick Buckley, consists of seven plaster noses hidden around the Soho district, placed there in the 1990s as a form of protest against CCTV surveillance.

16. The K2 telephone box, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, is the most iconic and recognizable design of the traditional red phone box, introduced in 1926.

17. The “London Stone” is a mysterious object, possibly of Roman origin, which has been associated with various legends and myths throughout history.

18. The Thames Barrier, completed in 1984, is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world and helps protect London from flooding during high tides and storm surges.

19. London’s underground system has more escalators than any other city in the world, with over 400 escalators in total.

20. The Duke of Wellington’s nose has been rumored to be stolen several times from the statue in front of the Royal Exchange in London.

21. The oldest street in London is said to be Queenhithe, a historic dock area along the Thames dating back to Roman times.

10/31/2024

If Italy, Greece, Spain are on your “I want to visit” list, give Avril a call at 815 625 3500. She has completed training recently with Perillo Tours and is ready to make your vacation dreams come true!!!

10/28/2024

It doesn’t get much better than this!!! Call Avril for more information and to book!

10/26/2024

17 Facts You May what to Know if you join our group to Scotland in 2026 -

Edinburgh, Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

1. Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is renowned for its historic and cultural significance, often referred to as the "Athens of the North."

2. The city’s Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock, is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and offers stunning views over the city.

3. Edinburgh hosts the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, featuring thousands of performances across various genres every August.

4. The city’s Royal Mile, a historic street stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

5. Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known for their medieval and Georgian architecture, respectively.

6. The city is home to the University of Edinburgh, one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1582, and known for its contributions to science and literature.

7. The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, is located at the end of the Royal Mile and is a significant historical site.

8. Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano and the main peak in Holyrood Park, offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular hiking spot.

9. The city has a rich literary heritage, being the birthplace of authors such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson, and hosting the annual Edinburgh International Book Festival.

10. Edinburgh’s National Museum of Scotland is one of the country’s most visited attractions, showcasing extensive collections related to science, history, and culture.

11. The city’s Greyfriars Kirkyard is famous for its historic graves, including that of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years.

12. Edinburgh’s Whisky Heritage Centre offers visitors a chance to explore Scotland’s whisky history and sample a wide range of Scotch whiskies.

13. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous pubs, bars, and clubs, especially in areas like the Grassmarket and the Cowgate.

14. Edinburgh’s annual Hogmanay celebration is one of the largest New Year’s Eve festivals in the world, featuring concerts, fireworks, and street parties.

15. The city’s Scottish Parliament building, designed by architect Enric Miralles, is a modern architectural landmark and a center of Scottish politics.

16. Edinburgh’s Botanical Garden, established in 1670, is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the world and features extensive plant collections and beautiful landscapes.

17. The city’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a popular destination for tourists, academics, and artists from around the globe.

10/23/2024

Upcoming 2025/2026 Groups with Destinations Travel Services.

🛥️ Luxury Yacht around Greece & Turkey
🚢 Alaska ~ Off the Beaten Path Cruise
🚤 European River Cruise
🍀 Ireland & Scotland
🎅🏽 Christmas Markets River Cruise

If you are interested in joining one of Avril’s groups, please comment below. 👇

10/17/2024

🚨 NEW PROMO ALERT 🚨

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Book NOW through November 3, 2024!

10/16/2024

YOU ARE INVITED

Join us for our next Virtual Vacation Inspiration Night featuring
a Holland America Line Alaska Expert.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024, | 6:00 PM CT

If the state of Alaska is on your bucket list, or you've been there before but dream of returning to explore more of this beautiful land, Holland America Line invites you to join them for this FREE Online Event – On Stage Alaska!

During this inspiring, fun, and interactive virtual chat with an Alaska and Yukon expert, you’ll be able to picture yourself taking in the majestic scenery and parks of Alaska & the Yukon as they share their personal experiences.

Log in, watch and listen, and see what may spark your next vacation inspiration – all from the comfort of your own home. Guests will even have time to ask their own questions. Having spent over 75 years escorting visitors through this great land, you’ll want to join Holland America on your next epic journey to create unforgettable memories and discover the Alaska of your dreams.

SPACE IS LIMITED -
SIGN UP NOW TO SECURE YOUR SPOT!

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_T5LB39faQ9WPP-JbMrucdw?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Holland+VVN+10.16.24+-+send+3&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fus02web.zoom.us%2fwebinar%2fregister%2fWN_T5LB39faQ9WPP-JbMrucdw&utm_id=83700&sfmc_id=2765533 #/registration

Make sure to Register and Join Us for this special FREE preview of Alaska to receive our Exclusive Offer for Attendees Only:

LAND AND CRUISE CREDIT UP TO $350 PER STATEROOM PLUS $25 PER PERSON DEPOSITS (U.S.)*

Offer valid for New Bookings Only made between October 16 – November 6, 2024 on Alaska sailings/Cruisetours through September 2025, exclusions may apply.

(*Must be booked with agency that invited you to this presentation to receive promotion)



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* All amounts are per stateroom based on double occupancy. All amounts are in USD with the exception of Dawson Dollars which are in CAD. On Stage Alaska® / Virtual On Stage Alaska® event promotion (OSA): All bookings and upgrades must be deposited or paid for within the OSA booking window to receive the Onboard credit, Denali Dollars, and/ or Dawson Dollars. OSA Offers are available for 1st and 2nd guests sharing a stateroom, new bookings only. Onboard Credit amounts vary by type of cruise or cruisetour, may be used on a single cruise only, are non-transferable or refundable, and are not redeemable for cash. Denali Dollars amount varies by type of cruisetour. Denali/ Dawson Dollars are non-transferable or refundable and are not redeemable for cash. $25 Reduced Deposit: bookings made on cruises requiring immediate final payment are not eligible for reduced deposits. Offer valid for New Bookings Only made between October 16 – November 6, 2024 on Alaska sailings/Cruisetours through September 2025, exclusions may apply. For full terms and conditions, please contact your Travel Professional. Offers are capacity controlled and may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. Other restrictions may apply. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.