My Backpack Runneth Over, LLC

29/11/2022

Always double check travel requirements and the necessary documentation for travel.

Navigating documentation during COVID was quite stressful, but all of my clients traveled without issues during the last two years.

Name changes, passport expiration, visas, applying for a passport, COVID requirements, and what documentation is needed for certain destinations are frequent questions my clients have.

Have questions about what documents are needed to travel? Ask a trusted professional!

26/11/2022

Do you want to support my small business today?

If you've traveled with me this year, simply leave a nice review on my FB page. I always appreciate referrals to friends and family, too!

Remember, I am offering free quotes on cruises and international vacations until the end of November.

25/11/2022

Good morning!

I’m thankful for a loving partner that supports my crazy ideas. Yesterday, we hosted our first Mexican Thanksgiving and had over 20 friends and family members. It made my heart happy to start new family traditions.

Today it’s back to work. I’m offering FREE quotes for cruises and international vacations until the end of November.

If you’re dreaming about a vacation or planning one, then let’s make it a reality. Message or email me to get started!

22/11/2022

Last minute travel deals with Sandals!

Do you have a week of vacation left that you need to use in 2022?

Sandals has availability for the first week of December at several different locations, and they are running great specials! I have seen really good pricing for Royal Bahamian, Negril Ochi, Barbados, and St. Lucia.

Here's a sample package:
When: December 4-9, 2022
Where: Sandals Negril
What's Included:
🏖Round trip flights from Nashville with Delta
🏖 5 nights in Paradise Honeymoon Beachfront Grande Luxe Club Level Room
🏖 All food and beverages
🏖 Round trip transfer to/from the resort

Total price for two people: $4,836.34

Prices are subject to change until a deposit is paid. Since this trip is a last minute getaway, then payment would be due in full.

21/11/2022

Happy Monday!

The Black Friday deals for travel are being published by the hour, and I can't wait to share with you what I'm finding! Like and follow my page so that you can see the new, updated deals!

The first deal today is a family-friendly getaway to Mexico. This package is pricing about $2,000 below what it has been pricing over the last two months!

When: December 18-23, 2023 (dates are flexible + or - 1/2 days)

Where: Dreams Playa Mujeres

What's included:
🏖 Nonstop flights from St. Louis on Frontier Airlines
🏖 5 nights in a Jr. Suite Garden View
🏖 Private transfers to/from the resort
🏖 All food and beverages
🏖 All taxes and fees

Total price for a family of four: $5,503

This is one of the top family resorts in the Cancun/Riviera Maya. The beach is beautiful and wide, and it's close to the airport in Cancun. There are great pools, lots of fun activities, and good food!

This package can be adapted to fit your needs. Prices are subject to change until a deposit is paid.

20/11/2022

Are you considering planning a group trip for friends, family, or students?

I have extensive experience with planning and implementing a group trip. I am able to handle the following details:

🌎organizing group communication
🌎presenting options for travel while helping individuals narrow down their choices
🌎booking airfare, accommodations, transfers, and excursions
🌎invoicing for each individual party of the group
🌎answering questions and addressing the concerns of each traveler
🌎supporting the group during travel to address any issues

Whether it's a cruise, student group, church group, family reunion, wedding, or simply a group of friends, I can remove the stress and handle the details so that you are simply able to go, enjoy, and relax.

Send me a message or email at [email protected] to discuss group travel.

19/11/2022

Things to consider when booking an all-inclusive vacation package:

✨What room category do you want?

Remember ocean view means you can see at least a sliver of the water. Ocean front means you have direct views of the beach and ocean. Even garden view rooms have the same amenities, so if you’re on a budget, choose an entry level room category.

✨ Do you want private or shared transfers?

Shared transfers save you money, but they take more time. They will stop at several resorts in your hotel zone, unless you have a shared transfer for your resort only, like with Sandals, Couples, or Xcaret. If you want to only be with your traveling companions and get there quickly, then a private transfer is what you should choose.

✨ Should you upgrade to club level?

With resorts like Secrets, they often offer a club level room. Usually, club level means you get extra amenities, like an extra pool or beach area, an extra restaurant or two, and sometimes premier beverages. Each resort is different, but it’s always important to evaluate if this falls within your budget and is something you desire for your vacation.

✨ What kind of travel insurance should you get?

Most all-inclusive packages offer two options, one that allows you to cancel and get a voucher or one that allows you to cancel and get cash back minus the cost of insurance. If you have a voucher to take the trip at a different time, airlines do sometimes charge rebooking fees. If you will need the cash for the vacation or won’t have the time to travel later in the year, then always choose the cash back option.

Follow my page for more travel tips!

18/11/2022

Happy Friday!

For those of you wondering the best time to contact me or my business hours, here’s my general schedule.

After years of teaching online very early, I’m definitely a morning person.

I generally keep office hours from 7:30 am to 12:00 PM. In Mexico, our biggest meal is lunch, so I usually take some time to exercise and prepare our big meal (like dinner in the US), and then my man comes home and we eat together. I’m always available for calls or messages during these hours, but I’m usually away from my computer and working strictly from my phone.

From around 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, I have client calls, answer emails, or am active on social media.

I’m like an old woman, so I usually shut down technology after 8 PM and relax. If you call or message after 8, I will gladly get back to you first thing in the morning.

If it’s an emergency or a pressing issue, I will always be available for my clients. I do my best to provide constant support for my clients, as I know their time is valuable.

Have an awesome Friday, and as always don’t hesitate to reach out to me for any of your travel needs or questions.

16/11/2022

Are you looking for one of the best Christmas experiences?

4 countries, 8 days, 9 guided tours

Sparkling Christmas lights, wine cellars, yuletide treats, colorful stalls with handcrafted ornaments, and amazing markets filled with a merry atmosphere

A Christmas cruise along the Rhine River is one of the best ways to immerse yourself into the spirit of Christmas.

What: Viking Christmas on the Rhine
When: 2022 departures on December 7, 9 13, 14, 18 or plan ahead for Christmas 2023
Where: Netherlands, France, Germany, and Switzerland
What's included: one shore excursion in every port, WIFI, beer, wine, and soft drinks with meals, visits to UNESCO sites, transfers, all taxes and fees

Prices start at $2,299 per person for a standard room

Let's get you booked now so that you can start getting yourself into the Christmas spirit!

15/11/2022

I would consider myself a very minimalist person, and over the last ten years of my life, I have relished in beautiful experiences all around the world. Multiple studies show that experiences, versus more material things truly bring people joy and happiness.

This week, I'll start publishing different experiences that you can have with your family and friends. Each deal and offer can be personalized to your unique family, airport, or destination, so don't hesitate to reach out to me for more information.

Let's focus on what's really important this holiday season!

12/11/2022

Good morning! Just wanted to share some fun facts about me for those of you that don’t know me too well.

🇲🇽 I live most of the year in Mexico, but now go back and forth to my hometown Benton, Kentucky every few months and stay for at least a few weeks (usually a month if Mom has her say).
👩‍❤️‍👨 The love of my life is Mexican/Italian, so we love being surrounded by multicultural, diverse people and families.
🐾 We had two dogs and now we have four. My boyfriend is in the process of opening a dog shelter because he has a bleeding heart for street dogs here.
🗣I speak fluent Spanish, and I love working with the immigrant community in the US.
🌎 I traveled and backpacked for many years while visiting more than 30 countries. Now, I’m more settled and focusing on other goals in life, like my business and my family. It’s a beautiful phase of life, too!
🥾I enjoy hiking and other bucket list experiences, and I’m definitely due a new one. Next on my list, climb to Machu Picchu.

I look forward to getting to know you more and working with you! I love all things travel, and every day I feel so grateful that this is my job. Have any travel related questions? Feel free to reach out!

11/11/2022

To all who served, thank you for your service!

Did you know that as a veteran, you are entitled to multiple discounts for travel?

Here are just a few examples:
🇺🇸 Sandals 10% off of your room rate
🇺🇸 Lindblad Expeditions (cool National Geographic trips) 20% off
🇺🇸 Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Marriott, Caesars Entertainment, and more hotel chains offer
10-20% off
🇺🇸 Perks with multiple airlines such as discounts, free checked luggage, pre-
boarding priveledges, and access to lounges
🇺🇸 Discounts on car rentals through the major rental companies
🇺🇸 Almost all major cruise lines have military discounts and perks

If you're ready to travel and you are a veteran, send me a message or email so that we can get you the rates that you are entitled to!

11/11/2022

Those deals are getting started! This deal applies to those direct, charter flights to Cancun and the Dominican Republic from Nashville.

Cancun charters depart from Nashville on Sundays and are 6 night packages.

Dominican Republic charters depart on Saturdays and are 7 night packages.

Book now in advance, get the discount, pay a small deposit, then make payments until 30 days before travel.

Contact me for more information!

09/11/2022

Is Black Friday REALLY the best time to book?

It depends on the trip you have in mind and what your travel style is. Last year, I did see some great deals on cruises and all-inclusive vacations. As always, I'll be ready and posting those deals as I see them.

I’m constantly on the lookout for trips, resorts, hotels and experiences that I know will be a good fit for my clients, not just on Black Friday.

Part of the fun for me is planning my clients the vacation of their dreams for the best value possible.

It’s a challenge I enjoy! 💪

If you’d like me in your corner when it comes to planning your European vacation, honeymoon, or all-inclusive trip, I’m just a call/message/email away.

08/11/2022

Thinking about enlisting some help for this year’s winter getaway but not sure where to start?

Over here at My Backpack Runneth Over, it all starts with completing an inquiry form, where I get an idea of what type of vacation you're looking for. Then, I will contact you to schedule a complimentary phone/video call so that I can discuss travel details with you.

From there, if we both agree that we'll make a good travel team, I will send you an invoice for my $25 research fee, which allows me to focus on creating the itinerary you've been dreaming about, book your travel when we've settled on the perfect trip, and support and answer your questions both before and during travel.

Busy professional? Overwhelmed by the details? Engaged and want to focus on your wedding details instead of the honeymoon? Planning a group trip and already tired of detailing with everyone? I can help with all of those situations!

Fill out an inquiry form, and I'll be in touch soon!

https://traveljoy.com/share/questionnaire_templates/K6BhGM26x9ZvQKCNbuq64aMQ

05/11/2022

02/11/2022

Good morning, travel fam! My business has been extremely blessed this quarter, and I am working through quotes and new requests. I want to give each of you the attention you deserve, so please be patient as I get to each client. Thank you for your patience and your business! ❤️🌎

01/11/2022

I’ve been sharing a lot of travel inspiration these past couple of months with places to visit during winter, but can we talk for a minute about places this travel expert recommends AVOIDING during the holidays?

Here are 3 places I love recommending to clients, but for a different time of year:
1. Honolulu, Hawaii: The beaches will be packed full of tourists, and the prices are almost doubled.
2. Iceland: Although it's Northern Lights season, the temperatures and only 5 hours of daylight make it difficult to explore and see all this beautiful country has to offer.
3. Cancun, Mexico: Prices are outrageous, and I have seen all-inclusive packages for triple the normal cost.

📌 Save this post for your 2023 bucket list travel inspiration, and stick around for more travel tips, tricks, and info from an expert.

01/11/2022

While Halloween is celebrated back at home, here in Mexico we’re participating in Dia de Los Mu***os. All around Mexico today, we’re putting up altars to honor and remember those loved ones we have lost. Death here is viewed so differently, and the traditions are truly beautiful.

***os

29/10/2022

It’s 70 degrees and overcast this morning, so this calls for a good book and lots of coffee. I’ll be disconnecting a few hours today and then I’ll be back to work tomorrow on quotes and new travel requests.

Remember, if you’re interested in partnering with me to plan your next trip, simply fill out the travel inquiry form then I’ll be in touch! Have a great weekend!

http://www.mybackpackrunnethover.org/book-travel-now/

28/10/2022

One of the most frustrating things for me is when I can’t find the trip my clients are looking for within their specified budget and desires.

Weeks like December 26, spring break, Memorial Day, and other peak travel times, can really blow the budget.

Sometimes I’m just unable to find what clients are looking for, and I always like to be up front about pricing and expectations. If we’re having trouble finding something within your budget, there are a few different options:

1. Increase your budget if you know this is the exact trip you want. There are payment plans and other options.
2. Reduce or change your travel dates.
3. Change locations or consider an alternative option.

I will always work with you to do the best I can to find exactly what you’re looking for.

You have my word that I always want the best value for my clients, and I’ll work hard to find it!

26/10/2022

Woke up feeling a little bit like Cookie, the old island dog of our family.

In Mexico, parties are big cultural events, and people go all out, even for birthdays. On Sunday, I threw a big birthday party for my boyfriend, and we are all still recovering!

However, the show must go on, and as your travel agent here's a little behind the scenes look of what I'm working on today:

😎getting a final quote for a Princess Cruise Tour to Alaska
😎getting a final quote for a Christmas break cruise on Royal Caribbean
😎working on cruise excursions for a February cruise
😎a phone call with a new client about their honeymoon
😎checking in with a current client at Sandals Royal Bahamian

Surely this can't be my job! So much fun! Can't wait to help you, too!

Have a great Wednesday!

21/10/2022

It's been a wild week in Mexico, so sorry for the lack of posts this week! I've been focused on getting quotes together for new clients between the power outages!

I got back to looking for travel deals, and I just found a great one for one of my favorite adults only resorts. I have sent several clients here, and they love the beautiful beach, delicious food, and great service. This is perfect for a couple or laid back group of friends looking for a beautiful, relaxing getaway.

When: November 28-December 3, 2022
Where: Atelier Playa Mujeres
What's Included:
🍾Direct flights with Frontier from STL
🍾5 nights in a Junior Suite King room (upgrades available)
🍾Round-trip private transfers
🍾All food and beverages
🍾All taxes and fees

Total price for 2: $3,559
Prices are subject to change until a deposit is paid

Comment below with your email address, and I will email you a detailed quote and get you booked! I am also able to book your hotel/transfers only and you can book your own flight or use your points.



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17/10/2022

Happy Monday!

I'm working on lots of Alaskan cruises this week, and those prime dates in July/August are selling fast! The end of May and September are looking the cheapest.

If you want a balcony cabin or higher, now is the time to contact me for Alaskan cruises, because they are selling fast!

16/10/2022

Sn**ch up this deal before it's too late!!!!

This is an adults-only resort that I have had LOTS of clients visit and love! It's a wonderful property, where you will relax, feel pampered, and have a beautiful beach.

The total price for two adults is $4,279. For $500 more per person there is an upgrade to a Preferred Club Ocean Front Master Suite. These rooms will sell out FAST.

Considering taking your children? This direct flight on Frontier from STL is EASY, and there are a few different options for family friendly resorts with some availability.

Ready to book this package? Send me a message or comment below. I'll simply need your email address, names, and dates of birth, and I can hold it until the end of the day at this price. It's that easy!

Gift yourself or a loved one a relaxing vacation for Christmas!

14/10/2022

A Rare Unicorn Today Instead of Deal of the Day

Today while browsing for the deal, I came across a rare find. Sandals South Coast has an overwater bungalow available for next month. These things book up over a year in advance, so it’s impossible to find one like this!

Yes, it’s expensive, but if it’s on your bucket list, then sn**ch this thing up!

With a tranquility soaking tub, custom-crafted king sized bed, private patio with an outdoor shower, personal butler service, luxury, chauffeur driven transfers, expedited immigration, and more, what’s not to love.

Total Price for one week: $22,615.60

14/10/2022

Everything you need to know about Alaskan cruises!