Magnolia Vacations

03/09/2024

Travel agent struggle. Trying to work with suppliers who occupy many different time zones. This morning alone, I've went from Italy, to Vancouver, to Anchorage, to New Orleans and now back to CST. How many time zones do you think I visit virtually everyday? Take a guess.

A little advise for the start of the work week.

08/08/2024

Call Magnolia Vacations today to help you plan a trip to San Diego to see the new Panda's.

Meet the newest pandas on American soil, five-year-old male Yun Chuan and nearly four-year-old female Xin Bao.

04/08/2024

Me and Gina sitting on the "steps" to Coba. One of the structures you can still climb in the Riviera Maya. You see where I'm sitting, that's as far as I went. Gina made it about half way. The "steps" are about 36 inches high.

29/07/2024

The Nice News Quote of the Day

“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.”​– MILTON BERLE

02/07/2024

Oh, I wish I was here! This was seven years ago, but I'd go back tomorrow if I could. CHIC Punta Cana We had a great time!

12/06/2024

I "meet" a new business woman yesterday. We talked on the phone about our businesses for almost an hour. I learned a lot. I want you to meet her as well. Meet - Stephanie Pittman, Owner of Card My Yard Anniston, Al.

She's trying to grow her local small business, so let's show her some love and support today. I've posted her page below. Look it over and share it.

Also, take a minute and check out her Scavenger Hunt! Who doesn't like to win a prize!

If you have a storefront location and want her to feature you in her hunt, send her a message.

https://www.facebook.com/cardmyyardannistonAL/

Card My Yard is the premier Yard Sign Company! Skip the CARD, Stake the YARD! Book today!

01/06/2024

The stress of being a travel agent can be overwhelming at times. Today is one of those days. I have sat at my computer and refreshed till my fingers hurt. My clients departing flight from Atlanta was delayed four hours and I'm sitting here typing this waiting to hear from them to see if they made the now 32 minute connection in Chicago to their flight to Fairbanks, Alaska.

Haven't heard from them yet, either way, so fingers crossed! ✈️✈️

01/06/2024

This was my view last evening from my seat at the Main Street meeting for those interested in the Promotion Committee. Another great turnout of folks wanting to improve the historical Mainstreet in Anniston. We meet on the back patio of Sinclair Social.

It was my first visit and it didn't disappoint.

Chatted with some folk I know and meet a few new ones.

If you'd like to see our city grow and prosper, reach out and find out how you can help!

That's me holding the pretty Blueberry Lemonade. It was wonderful!

01/06/2024

The windows are up in the house and the wind is blowing and a soft sprinkle coming down. To me that's a great day to sit outside for a few minutes with an afternoon cup of coffee. Anyone else enjoying the day?

22/05/2024

I joined the design committee for the Main Street Anniston. We took a walk yesterday afternoon and talked about how to improve the "look and feel" of our city. Started out at Noble Park, a new little park next to the Kress Anniston.

We walked down Atlanta Avenue and talked about the murals and restoring those.

We walked up 10th and talked about adding an entry arch welcoming folks to Anniston.

My question - if you've been to other small towns in other parts of Alabama or other small cities across the US, what draws you to those towns. Did you take a picture of the entrance? If so, would you share it?

No negative Nancy's please, we are trying to make improvements, but it's a process.

Picture of Noble Park:

04/05/2024

Dear Driver of the white four door small car that honked at me at the stop sign this afternoon. I am NOT going to pull out in front of a car with a blinker on until it has turned. I was hit once this way while driving and it won't happen again. Sorry, not sorry. Have a little patience, or leave a few minutes early.

PS. I picked this one because when I went to Alaska years ago, we went on an excursion to a trappers cabin. They asked who wanted to hold reindeer p**p. I was the only one who volunteered. It's like rabbit p**p, but bigger. It really does look like this. They even make jewelry with it.

30/04/2024

What am I working on today? Let's see!

25/04/2024

The travel agency is growing and I need a little help, who wants to "Dive into the vibrant world of travel with us and turn your passion for exploration and adventure into a rewarding career path. 🌍✈️

Super Part Time!

Have your Resume Ready, the application requires it to be uploaded.

The Travel Agent Assistant is a pivotal part of the sales support team, focusing on customer engagement, preciseness in travel documentation, and smooth operation through digital channels and direct communication. This role involves a blend of working environments, split between in-office and remote settings, designed to accommodate dynamic work preferences while ensuring high productivity and service quality.

Work Schedule and Location:
This position offers a flexible working arrangement, with approximately 50% of duties performed in office and 50% remotely. The role requires a commitment of 8 to 12 hours per week, catering to those seeking a part-time opportunity with adaptable work locations.

Key Responsibilities:

Calendar Management: Take charge of the agency’s schedule, coordinating appointments, reminders, and follow-ups to maximize efficiency and oversight.

Customer Correspondence: Efficiently manage inquiries and correspondence with clients through email, social media, and other communication channels in a professional and timely manner.

Data Entry, Proofreading and Verification: Rigorously review client details and travel documents to eliminate errors and ensure all information is accurately recorded.

Itinerary Management: Assist in the development and final review of travel itineraries, ensuring each component seamlessly integrates for a flawless travel experience.

Social Media Engagement: Support and engage in the agency's social media efforts by creating content, interacting with posts, and fostering a vibrant online community.

Skills and Qualifications:
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
A strong eye for detail with exceptional proofreading abilities.
Effective at juggling multiple tasks and priorities.
Experienced with social media platforms and digital calendar management.

To show your interest, please complete the application:

10/02/2024

Been going through some pictures and found this panorama I took in Australia. I wanna go back so bad. It's such an amazing place and I didn't get to see enough.

01/02/2024

Do you over pack or do you pack "just right"? I'm closer to "just right" than an over packer. Magnolia Vacations

01/02/2024

Today I'm going to start learning about Antigua & Barbuda..... another place on my list. Anyone have any specific questions about this beautiful Caribbean island.

Antiguans enthusiastically try to top Barbudans, and vice versa. The action swings back and forth between the two islands until we are reminded that when vis...

24/01/2024

Ahoy, fellow explorers!

Today's maritime musings are all about Royal Caribbean's latest marvel, the Icon of the Seas – a leviathan of leisure that's charting new courses in the cruise cosmos! As I type, some lucky agents are getting their sea legs aboard this behemoth, and let me tell you, it's like watching kids in a candy shop through my screen.
Sailing into the future together,
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations 🌊✨
Pose the million-dollar question to your audience: "Who's with me?" Encourage them to drop comments, share their enthusiasm, or tag their cruise buddies who would be up for a grand Icon escapade!

Ending with a Call to Adventure:
Alright, brave hearts and thrill-seekers, who's joining the 'Icon of the Seas' fan club and signing up for an adventure like no other? There's no limit to the fun we can have on this incredible cruise castle. Let's anchor our dreams into reality!

Introducing the new Icon of the Seas℠ — a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean® adventure where you’ll have the time of your life, multiple times a day. It’s thrills you never dared to imagine and next-level chill you never dreamed possible.

19/01/2024

"Monkeying Around Memory Lane – to St. Kitts!"
Post Content:
🐒🏝️ One year ago today, I was basking in the sunny embrace of St. Kitts, with a cheeky little monkey keeping me company for a snapshot moment. Now, as I reminisce, I wish I could teleport back to those vibrant Caribbean hues and free-spirited vibes!

🌴🍹. Time travel's on my wish-list, but my trusty time machine (aka cruising) is the next best thing!

Longing for sunny stories? Dreaming of your next 'monkey around' moment? Whether you're a cruise connoisseur or a maiden voyage dreamer, let’s chat about the sea's siren call. Your next Caribbean caress is just a conversation away with me, your cruise curator at Magnolia Vacations.

So, grab your virtual suitcase and sail on over to https://www.magnoliavacations.com/ for your next chapter of maritime magic.

Here’s to more memorable monkey moments and cruising into the sunset!

Vickie from Magnolia Vacations 🚢🌞🍌

17/01/2024

Title: "From Frostbite to Sun-Kissed: Trading 8 Degrees for Tropical Breezes!"

🥶🌡️ Brrr, folks, my computer screen's more chill than a polar bear's picnic today, flashing a frigid 8 degrees that's matching Fairbanks, Alaska, toe-to-toe!

🏖️🛳️ But why should polar bears have all the fun? I'm daydreaming about swapping snowflakes for staterooms and this numbing cold for a cocktail under a cabana. Imagine ditching those heavy coats for swimsuits faster than a snowman's meltdown in July!

🌊☀️👙 If your hands are practically icicles as mine are, let’s join forces and envision ourselves on the dazzling decks of a warm and sunshiny cruise. Fleece begone; flip-flops, it's showtime!

So, who’s ready to trade these 'cool' 8 degrees for sizzling days at sea? Let’s thaw out plans for a sun-soaked cruise together! Slide into my DMs, and I’ll show you just how toasty your future travels can be – no mittens required. Connect with me at Magnolia Vacations' Hot Cruise Hotline and let’s heat things up! 🔥🚢💃

Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

Below is the only ICE I'd like to see right now.

What about you?

15/01/2024

Hey cruise-loving friends,
Let's ride the waves of nostalgia, as today's note from the captain's log marks one year since my husband and I set sail on a sweet, seven-night escape to the Eastern Caribbean aboard the Regal Princess, cruising's own starlet from the 2021 "LOVE BOAT" series.

In a twist of roles, I found myself indulging in a bit of screen time, streaming the show that had once spotlighted the very decks we walked, the lounges we lounged in, and that unmistakable sense of oceanic charm. Reality met reel on those polished floors, adding layers to our cruise experience.

This trip wasn't about my usual hotel inspections or ticking off a to-do list. The motto was chill and charm, with daydreams woven between ports and stargazing. Yet, the allure of adventure tapped us on the shoulder in St. Kitts. There, we treaded through swaths of history and were intrigued to learn that the brilliant Alexander Hamilton first saw the light of day on nearby Nevis.

Cruising, as I’m reminded every sail, stitches together the vibrant threadwork of thrill and serenity. Plan it packed, or paint it peaceful – the cruise canvas is yours to color.

With that said, do you have a cruise tale anchored in your heart? Or a vacation style that sings to your soul? Come on, share your journeys with us or cast a line about the getaway you're dreaming of!

Ready when you are for your next chapter of sea-bound stories. Check in with Magnolia Vacations, and let’s turn the pages together.

Charting courses and chasing sunsets,
Vickie - Magnolia Vacations
www.magnoliavacations.com
Photo Credit - Vickie Robinson Thomas
The beautiful Regal Princess as I lounged in a beach chair on the beach of Princess Cay.

13/01/2024

Day 13 - Ahoy, shipmates!
Sea days on a cruise are like little oases of opportunity amidst the oceanic grandeur. The beauty is, you can dial the day to match your vibe, whether it's action-packed or tuned to the rhythm of the waves.

Fancy a leisurely day? Curl up with a book, let the promenade deck be your runway, or roll the dice at the casino's siren call. Maybe sweat out the indulgence at the gym, or let the ship's shops sway you into splurging.

I've got to spill about our sea day escapade during a Princess Cruise last January. While Matt scouted the ship's treasure trove of shops, I found myself in the theater, swept up in a spirited game of "Deal or No Deal." Unlike the usual, watching from the comfort of my seat, I was right there, in the heart of the gamble! And it wasn't glitzy suitcases, but a high-stakes tap dance with digital luck on a big ol' screen. My choice? Lucky 13 – because, why not channel some of momma's charmed digits?

The game was a carousel of ups and downs until I swung a deal with a cozy handful of 'bags' left – not usually the gambling goddess, that's me. As fate had its chuckle, $1 lurked behind lucky 13! Still, walking away with an unexpected $150 felt like hitting jackpot – an experience that rippled joy into the following port day.
Alright, anchor's aweigh on a dilemma: are sea days your jam, or do port days make your heart sing? I toggle like a ship's compass! How about you, cruisers?

Cast your tales and tips overboard—I'm all ears for your yays and nays!

Happy cruising, and whether it's sea or shore, may your days be filled with epic tales and treasures galore.

Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

12/01/2024

Fantastic Day 12, everyone!

I've got a birthday tale about my sister Kim to sprinkle a little extra magic on your day. While we were aboard the majestic Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas, I found myself in a bit of a not-so-standard cruise situation.

Imagine this: cozied up in the cabin, lost in the tranquility of the sea, when suddenly – BAM – my door's getting the knockdown of its life. It's Kim, wide-eyed and certain we're sinking. "The ship's taking on water!" she exclaimed.

Now, while my heart did a quick dive, my mind knew that our ship was as buoyant as a cork in a bathtub. "Kim," I soothed, "we'd be hearing alarm bells if we were reenacting the Titanic. Remember the emergency briefing?"

Turns out, Kim had tangled her wires. She'd caught wind of an actual SOS, alright, but it wasn't us in distress; it was a far-off refugee boat, and our cruise liner, in all its nautical nobility, had swiftly wheeled around to lend a hand.

We stepped out onto the balcony, and there it was – a sight to gawk at! Our vessel carving a giant arc in the deep blue. The power of that U-turn churned up a wake that could've been spotted from space!

And then, with the grandeur only the Coast Guard can muster, they arrived on the horizon. We witnessed a rescue mission unfold, the kind that imbues a newfound appreciation for the unwritten sea chronicles.

What did we see – a real-life lesson in the significance of those safety briefings and a reminder that every ship, big or small, shares the same saltwater roads and sometimes, the same life-saving duties.

Attention to detail can be a lifesaver, folks, and Kim's alarm turned awe is a birthday memory we'll carry forever.

For journeys you'll never forget or the peace of mind knowing you're sailing with the savvy, look no further than Magnolia Vacations at https://www.magnoliavacations.com/. We're in the business of crafting safe, sound, and sublime sea escapades.
Here’s to more serene birthdays and breathtaking balcony views!
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

11/01/2024

Title: Day 11 - A Special Member's First Cruise Experience

Hey everybody, Vickie from Magnolia Vacations here. Today I'm opening the album to a heartwarming chapter from our cruising chronicles. Get cozy, as I share a story close to my heart about a remarkable family member's first brush with the high seas.

Meet Zachariah, a standout spark in our family constellation and an individual who's proudly striding on the "spectrum." Zachariah's way of experiencing the world, especially his dining adventures, adds a unique hue to our tapestry.
One charming quirk is Zachariah’s particular palate, long-established and fiercely honored. The snapshot I've got for you today is more than just a picture—it's a tiny triumph. It's dinner time. Zachariah places an order for a hamburger, his all-time favorite. But plot twist—no bacon, no burger! This isn't about being picky; it's about the comfort and rhythm he finds in certain foods.
Our foresight met opportunity at breakfast as we snagged a couple of extra bacon strips, stashing them in a Ziploc bag we had on hand—little did we know that this simple tactic would be our ace in the hole for peaceful evenings ahead. Zach’s smile at seeing his perfected burger is one for the family hall of fame.

The takeaway? Sailing into the sunset with someone who's got their own set of sailing rules just means you've got to be a bit more shipshape with your strategies. Cruise lines are fantastic helpers, but sometimes your best play comes from one of those tiny little lifesavers—a Ziploc bag of bacon in this case.

Remember, wherever you're headed next, the team and I at Magnolia Vacations are here to help you navigate the big blue, whether you need extra bacon or a bouquet of new experiences. Set your course to https://www.magnoliavacations.com, and let's make your next cruise as accommodating and joyful as can be.
Until our next tale from the sea,
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

09/01/2024

Hey adventure enthusiasts,
Quick wave – I skipped out on Day 7's update! I was whisked away by the joy of the moment and time just slipped by. Thanks for riding the waves with me!
Catch you on Day 8.
www.magnoliavacations.com
Happy travels,
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

Growing and learning this wonderful and crazy industry has taught me to listen to what my clients say and don’t say; both are just as important. Our number one goal is help you become part of our traveling family.

09/01/2024

Ahoy, cruisers!
Day 8's log is all about embracing the unexpected at sea. Now, I won't dress it up – not every day aboard is a scene out of a postcard. I remember one family adventure where the waves decided to give us their own version of a rollercoaster ride. Rain danced on deck and bellies flipped – yep, even the most seasoned sailors amongst us went a little green.
But here's the fun twist: somehow, those with a bit of 'liquid courage' seemed to sway perfectly in sync with the ship's rhythm. Goes to show, the ocean has its own rules, and a touch of humor goes a long way.
Remember, every journey has its squally moments. Keep a sunny disposition and find that cozy nook with a view inside the ship, where you can nestle in, ride out the tempest, and enjoy the voyage with a latte or good book in hand.
www.magnoliavacations.com
Smooth sailing, and here's to navigating the high seas with a smile!
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

06/01/2024

Hey there, buoyant buddies!
It’s day 6 of “Cruising into 2024,” and today we're diving into the mouthwatering world of cruise cuisine.

Get ready to set sail on a sea of flavors! Most mainstream cruises come with your full board included, meaning you get access to an array of eating experiences without dipping back into your wallet. The main dining room? That's your flagship for daily dining – serving up a feast for the senses with a different menu each night and no extra charge.

But for those times when you're looking to spice things up, many cruise ships come sprinkled with specialty dining options. Think of these as your hidden coves of culinary treasures – from an intimate French bistro to a sizzling steakhouse, and more. There's a world of tastes waiting to be discovered, just a reservation away. These meals are an extra charge but think of it as reserving your seat at a foodie's paradise – ideal for ringing in a milestone or celebrating under the starlight.

Now, here’s a seaworthy tip to keep your cruise as smooth as your favorite gelato: chat with your travel agent about these dining nuances. Your trusty agent at Magnolia Vacations can guide you through the specialty options and help you pre-plan these extras to dodge any surprises on the high seas. That way, you’ll know exactly what’s on the menu for your budget and your belly.

Ready to chart a course for your next culinary cruise adventure? When you’re good and hungry for more than just a getaway, check in with us at Magnolia Vacations. Just click on over to https://www.magnoliavacations.com/ and we'll cook up an unforgettable cruise experience tailored to your taste buds.
Until the next course—I mean, post—here's to delicious discoveries and serene seas!

Bon appétit until tomorrow's tidbit of cruise wisdom!

Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

05/01/2024

Cruising crew,
Day 5 of "Cruising into 2024" zooms in on the eye-opening fun of cruising with a lively bunch of teenagers. Picture this: over 30 kids, jitters of excitement, ages 16 to 18, all ready to embark on a voyage of a lifetime!

That first night's dinner aboard the ship? Let's just say it felt like a game of maritime 'Where's Waldo?' – only with teens instead of a guy in stripes. With everyone scattered like a deck of cards in the wind, trying to rally the troops was no less than a cat-herding escapade. Missing shoes, AWOL tweezers – it was a circus, but heck, it was our circus and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

There they were, our batch of near-adults, dipping their toes into the cruising life for the very first time. My heart was bursting to see their reactions to it all: the expanse of the ocean, the freedom, and of course, the feast.

Travel day pro tip for the sea-bound: pack a suitcase of patience along with your flip-flops. With that in your pocket, even the wildest of rides rolls out smoother than a calm sea at dawn.
And what's a cruise without a snap of the food, right? It's practically a rite of passage, so here’s a mouthwatering memento from our floating fiesta.

When the travel bug nibbles and you're itching for that family cruise, remember to add a dose of chill to your packing list. And when you're ready to dive in, Magnolia Vacations is just a click away at https://www.magnoliavacations.com/ – we're your crew in crafting epic sea tales.

Sea you tomorrow for another slice of adventure!
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

04/01/2024

Hey cruisers,
Day 4 of "Cruising into 2024" is all about family, friends, and those unforgettable group getaways.

Here's a little throwback to our first family cruise – when we turned a graduation celebration into an epic ocean excursion on Royal Caribbean's Majesty of the Seas!

Imagine this: nearly a year of planning for a party of 30, mixing family with a delightfully rowdy bunch of "extra friends." This wasn't just a vacation; it was an event, with everyone jetting off from Atlanta, buzzing with anticipation.

Our destination? The sun-soaked shores of the Bahamas, with a four-night extravaganza at sea. Picture a clan of cruisers, for many their very first flight, maiden voyage on a ship, and initial step beyond US borders. The thrill was real, and the adventure has been inked into our memory books.

For those of you pondering that perfect family cruise, let me tell you, Royal Caribbean doesn't just float our boat – it makes it soar! Their lineup has something for every age, making family fun time a breeze.

Oh, and here's a gem of a tip: Even though we've all got snazzy phones for snaps these days, don't miss out on the ship's photographer when you board. That first group shot? It's pure gold! I'd share ours, but it's safely tucked away in the treasure trove of Thomas family keepsakes. So I've shared a picture from our last family adventure.

If you're feeling inspired and can't wait to dive into planning your next family cruise, give Royal Caribbean a go – it's a bet I'm confident you won't regret.

And hey, if you're sitting on a snapshot gem from your own first cruise, we’d love to see it! Sharing is caring, after all.
Ready to chat about those cruise dreams?
Until our next nautical narrative,
Vickie from Magnolia Vacations

03/01/2024

Day 3 of "Cruising into 2024" is all about prep work, friends!

So, you're about to embark on your very first cruise and the question pops up: what in the world should I pack?

How do I even get ready for this floating adventure? Take a deep breath, because I've got some tried-and-true tips to make your maiden voyage smooth sailing!

First up, let's talk documents. Passports, tickets, and booking confirmations - keep these essentials in your carry-on, not stowed away. It's your golden trio for getting onboard without a hiccup.
Next, pack smart – and that doesn't just mean a fancy dinner outfit (though you'll want one of those!). Think layers, versatile pieces, and comfortable shoes because you'll be exploring from sun deck to shore excursions. Don’t forget the sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to keep those vacation vibes hassle-free.

We can't leave out the tech – phones, cameras, and chargers are your best friends to capture those picture-perfect moments. But remember, unplugging can be just as rewarding.

Plus, get familiar with your ship! Every cruise line has its personality and amenities. Some homework on what your floating resort offers means you’ll hit the ground running... or should I say, hit the deck dancing?

And lastly, an absolute must – travel insurance. Better safe than sorry when you're testing your sea legs!

Got any of your first-time cruiser tips to share? Let's make our community trunk of cruise wisdom overflow!

Ready for more travel ins and outs? Cast away your doubts with Magnolia Vacations – we’re here to make those dream vacations a reality.

Looking forward to your stories and hey, here's to your journey ahead – may it be as endless as the ocean and as timeless as the tides.

Cheerfully yours, Vickie
Magnolia Vacations

02/01/2024

Hey folks,
On day 2 of "Cruising into 2024," let's sail back in time to a memory that's particularly dear to me.

My first cruise was in 1990, hopping on the memorable ship named Celebration – it was a travel agent's teaser, a cruise to nowhere from the vibrant city I woke up in.

Back then, I was in El Paso, living the military life at Fort Bliss with my husband. Imagine me, bleary-eyed and buzzing with anticipation, catching a 3 am flight just to board on time. What a whirlwind! Those two days taught me a ton, especially the golden rule for any trip: travel the day before. It's one less worry on your travel checklist!

And talk about a blast from the past – comparing that old-school Celebration to the new Celebration today is like flipping through a history book of cruising. The evolution is staggering, and every change reflects just how much we love setting sail across the oceans.

Calling all cruise enthusiasts: I want to hear about your first time aboard. How did it go? What stayed with you?

Catch you on the next wave, and keep those cruising memories coming!

Safe travels and smooth seas,

Vickie from Magnolia Vacations
Photo Credits
Celebration 2003 - By Jon Worth – Wikipedia
Celebration 2023 Carnival Corporation