A Well-Traveled Suitcase

20/01/2025

Namibia is shaping up to be one of this year’s most exciting eco-adventure destinations, and my partnerships with companies like Wilderness allow me to book private adventures you won't find anywhere else.

You'll be able to explore Namibia with expert local guides who know every inch of this unique landscape. Watch desert elephants roam through ancient valleys or spot beautiful oryx against orange dunes. (Message me about booking a hot air balloon experience, too!)

Get in touch to start planning your one-of-a-kind journey through Namibia!

16/01/2025

If you are planning to travel this year - even domestically - be sure you have the proper identification. Beginning May 7 - you must have approved ID to get through TSA. Here is information about what forms of identification will be accepted:

Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint
Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.

Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

State-Issued Drivers License or State-Issued ID
U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
HSPD-12 PIV card
Foreign government-issued passport
Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
Transportation worker identification credential
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

In coordination with its DHS counterparts, TSA has identified acceptable alternate identification for use in special circumstances at the checkpoint.

31/12/2024

29/12/2024

If you are traveling from the US to (or through) the UK...you will need a visa beginning January 8, 2025.

https://www.travelmarketreport.com/air/articles/u-k-sets-dates-for-launch-of-eta-visa-requirement-for-u-s-and-canada?utm_term=Read%20More&utm_campaign=New%20TMR%20Email%20Template&utm_content=email&utm_source=Act-On+Software&utm_medium=email&cm_mmc=Act-On%20Software-_-email-_-Year%20in%20Review%3A%20Top%2010%20News%20Stories%20from%202024%20-_-Read%20More

U.K. Sets Dates for Launch of ETA Visa Requirement for U.S. and Canada by Daniel McCarthy / September 11, 2024 Photo: 1000 Words / Shutterstock.com The U.K. government has set the deadline for when Americans and Canadians will be required to apply for and obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (...

27/12/2024

There’s something truly magical about spending the holidays aboard a luxury cruise. I’ve had the pleasure of doing this many times, and it’s one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season.

Picture elegant holiday decorations throughout the ship—twinkling lights, beautifully adorned trees, and festive touches at every turn. There’s a joyful buzz in the air, from holiday-themed events and world-class entertainment to gourmet feasts prepared with all the seasonal flair. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or indulging in a solo getaway, a luxury cruise makes the season feel extra special.

During the winter months, these incredible ships sail all over the world. You could soak up the sun in the Caribbean, explore the wildlife and scenery in Australia and New Zealand, marvel at the icy beauty of Antarctica, or take in the wonders of Southeast Asia. The choices are as endless as they are exciting.

If you’re ready to treat yourself to a holiday experience you’ll never forget, let’s talk about finding the perfect cruise for you. The world is waiting to celebrate with you!

26/12/2024

Looking for a holiday destination that will take your breath away? When I visited Zambia in 2012, I discovered a world of natural wonder and unforgettable moments that still stay with me today.

Victoria Falls, known locally as "The Smoke That Thunders," is a sight to behold during the holiday season. Standing before its powerful cascade, with mist rising high into the air and rainbows forming in the sunlight, is nothing short of magical. The sound of the water roaring into the Zambezi River below is a reminder of nature’s raw beauty and power.

One of the most memorable parts of my trip was encountering the majestic white rhino. Zambia is one of the few places where you can see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. The experience of observing them, knowing how rare and precious they are, is both humbling and inspiring.

Zambia is a place of stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and incredible wildlife. If you’re looking for a unique and awe-inspiring holiday, this destination might be just what you’re dreaming of. And just so you know – hippos are NOT friendly. When we discuss your plans…ask me how I know!

Let’s start planning your journey!

24/12/2024

23/12/2024

Dreaming of an unforgettable holiday escape? Back in 2012, I had the incredible privilege of spending time in South Africa during the holiday season, and it remains one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life.

Imagine waking up to the golden light of dawn spilling over the savannah, heading out on a safari, and witnessing the "Big Five" in their natural habitat. The scenery is breathtaking—rolling hills, lush vegetation, and the striking contrast of the wild against the peacefulness of the reserves.

One highlight of my trip was Leopard Hills, a luxurious lodge nestled within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Picture yourself sipping your morning coffee as elephants graze nearby or relaxing in your private suite, overlooking the sprawling African bush. The service, the cuisine, and the serene beauty of the surroundings make it a place you’ll never want to leave.

While you’re planning a South African adventure, consider extending your journey to Cape Horn. Known as the southernmost point of the continent, Cape Horn offers dramatic landscapes and a sense of awe as you stand where two oceans meet. It’s a perfect addition to a trip filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

If you’re ready for an unforgettable holiday getaway, let’s make it happen! South Africa and beyond await.

21/12/2024

Mike and Julie just returned from an unforgettable Danube River cruise, traveling from vibrant Budapest to charming Nuremberg. They were absolutely enchanted by the breathtaking scenery, from storybook villages to grand castles perched high above the river.

The highlight of their journey was their post cruise extension in Prague. The "City of a Hundred Spires" stole their hearts with its cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and the magical glow of Old Town Square at sunset. Mike couldn’t stop raving about the history, and Julie loved strolling across the Charles Bridge, soaking in the timeless beauty.

Their experience was filled with luxury, comfort, and memories to last a lifetime—and now it’s your turn.

Book your Christmas Markets cruise for 2025 or 2026 and experience the festive magic of Europe’s holiday season. Imagine sipping mulled wine, shopping for handcrafted treasures, and celebrating the most wonderful time of the year on the Danube.

Let’s chat to start planning your holiday getaway for next year!

21/12/2024

The year we visited the Galapagos Islands, we departed a few days early to visit one of the world’s most awe-inspiring places: Machu Picchu.

Reaching the legendary “Lost City of the Incas” is an adventure in itself, starting with the unforgettable train ride from Cusco. The landscape shifts before your eyes—rolling valleys give way to dramatic mountains, mist rising from the winding Urubamba River below.

Arriving at the ruins feels like stepping back in time. Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is a masterpiece of stonework, history, and natural beauty. Wandering through its terraces, temples, and ancient pathways, you can’t help but marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and the breathtaking setting surrounding you—peaks cloaked in green and clouds drifting lazily past.

It’s a place that holds a quiet magic, especially during the holidays. The sense of peace and wonder stays with you long after you leave.

If you’re looking to make your next holiday season one to remember, let’s plan your journey to Machu Picchu—a destination that truly lives up to its legend.

20/12/2024

One year, I spent the holidays exploring the Galápagos Islands aboard a private yacht with just 22 family members of all ages. It was the kind of journey that stays with you forever.

Cruising through this untouched archipelago feels like entering another world. Each day brought a new island and a new discovery: blue-footed bo***es performing their comical courtship dances, ancient giant tortoises slowly making their way through lush highlands, and playful sea lions that seemed to delight in swimming alongside us.

On the yacht, life was relaxed and personal. Mornings started with a quiet breakfast surrounded by endless ocean views. Days were filled with snorkeling alongside marine iguanas, hiking volcanic landscapes, and zodiac rides to hidden coves. Evenings brought everyone together again for dinner, where we shared stories of the day’s adventures under a sky full of stars.

The Galápagos isn’t just for adventurers—it’s for anyone who loves nature, connection, and the simple joy of discovery. Traveling with a multigenerational group made it even more special: kids, parents, and grandparents alike experienced something rare and extraordinary together.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a holiday escape unlike any other, let’s start planning your private Galápagos adventure. The memories will last a lifetime.

18/12/2024

During the holidays of 2014, I discovered Moorea—a stunning island gem in French Polynesia that feels like stepping into a postcard. Picture soaring green peaks surrounded by calm, crystal-clear lagoons where the only sounds are gentle waves lapping against the shore and the occasional splash from a ray gliding beneath the surface.

Days here move at a slower, more luxurious pace. Mornings might be spent snorkeling with vibrant marine life, while afternoons call for lounging on a private beach, soaking in views that redefine "paradise." Moorea offers the perfect balance of adventure and serenity—whether you're hiking through lush jungles, tasting fresh tropical fruit at a local market, or simply watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Visiting over the holidays made it even more magical: a quiet escape from the usual hustle and a chance to reconnect—with nature, with loved ones, and with the beauty of living in the moment.

If you're dreaming of an unforgettable holiday season in 2025, now is the perfect time to start planning. Let’s design your escape to Moorea and create memories that will last a lifetime.

17/12/2024

in 2014, my family and I spent the holidays in Bora Bora, and honestly, it felt like a dream come true. Think turquoise lagoons, cozy overwater bungalows, and the kind of peace you didn’t know you needed.

We snorkeled with the most colorful fish, enjoyed incredible meals with jaw-dropping sunset views, and had plenty of time to just relax and soak it all in. Whether you're looking for adventure or just a laid-back escape, Bora Bora has it all.

If you’ve been daydreaming about a tropical getaway for the holidays, I can’t recommend Bora Bora enough. I’d love to help you plan an unforgettable trip that fits exactly what you’re looking for.

Let’s chat and make it happen!