Ampd4Travel

06/09/2024

Now that the kids are settled and living their best life back at school, I have had a little more time to focus on my new and growing travel community over at Epic Family Travel & Vacation by Amber: Europe, Caribbean, Florida & Beyond!

I wanted to officially invite any of you interested in travel and quality family experiences to join us to talk about all things travel, learn more about what I do for my clients, and support my small business Ampd4Travel. I even occasionally show my face as I explore new destinations (like Egypt pictured below!) which is a RARE occurrence for this introvert! 😂

I work mostly with referrals, so if you know someone or YOU want to travel in 2025, please message me and/or invite them to my group! I specialize in multi-component travel, seamlessly piecing together multi-destination itineraries to maximize your time in unique and far-off destinations. Whether it's visiting multiple European cities, a split stay exploring both the coastal and volcanic regions of Costa Rica, or combining a Disney & Universal vacation, I've got you covered!

As I approach my first anniversary since starting Ampd4Travel, I continue to be blown away by the support from day 1 and can't say it enough- it truly means the world to me that so many of you have trusted me with you travel plans this past year! I would love to continue to live vicariously through your adventures, and to connect with you in the group! Hope to see you there! 😊

30/07/2024

In honor of World Friendship Day, I'm thrilled to invite all my travel loving friends to join my brand-new Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/epicfamilytravelbyamber/

I hope this community will grow to be your go-to spot to be inspired, swap stories, and plan epic adventures with me!

Join me for travel tips, tricks, and a whole lot of fun. Because, let's face it, life's too short not to explore the world with friends! 👭🌍

23/07/2024

Italy is always a top destination, and it’s easy to see why! Just look at these stunning photos shared by some of my amazing clients who visited this summer. 🇮🇹✨ From the the historic ruins of Rome to the stunning Amalfi coast, Italy never fails to enchant.

But here’s a little travel tip for 2025: It’s the Jubilee Year! 🎉
While this means a year of special events and celebrations, it also means crowds, crowds, and more crowds. Much like I advised clients to skip Paris this summer due to the Olympics, I might steer you away from Italy during the Jubilee next year.

So, where else can you get your European fix without the hustle and bustle? Here are some fabulous alternatives:

🇵🇹 Portugal!
Why? Gorgeous coastlines, historic cities, and mouth-watering cuisine. Plus, it’s a bit of a hidden gem compared to its Mediterranean neighbors.

🇭🇷 Croatia
Why? Crystal-clear waters, stunning islands, and a rich history. Dubrovnik, anyone?

🇬🇷 Greece
Why? Iconic ruins, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. Santorini sunsets are calling your name!

🇪🇸 Spain
Why? Vibrant culture, incredible architecture, and tapas galore. Barcelona and Madrid are always a good idea!

The world is full of amazing places just waiting to be explored, without the stress of navigating through massive crowds! Now is a great time to start dreaming of 2025 destinations. Tell me, where are you thinking of heading to next?!

I’ll be ready and waiting when you’re ready to start planning, I’m always just a message away!

20/07/2024

From the magic of Orlando’s theme parks to the charm of Europe’s hidden gems, the first half of 2024 has been a whirlwind of unforgettable adventures for my amazing clients! 🗺️ ✨

This is just a sampling of feedback from a few of my busy clients who took the time to share about their experiences, and I can’t thank them enough! The best part of my job is living vicariously through your adventures, and all your feedback (good & bad) helps me improve future trips. I promise your experiences with me will only get better with each trip we plan!

I invite you to read their feedback and learn about their travel experiences while working with me. I hope their stories inspire you to embark on your own adventure. And when you’re ready to craft your own memorable family experience, I’m just a message away!

19/07/2024

🌍🚨 Global IT Outage Alert! 🚨🌍

Travelers worldwide are facing chaos today, and it’s times like these that highlight the importance of having me in your corner. With the global IT outage affecting travelers worldwide, I’m on high alert, monitoring my clients’ journeys and staying in constant communication to help them navigate this hiccup.

If you’ve ever heard me preach about travel insurance, this is exactly why it’s non-negotiable! No matter how meticulously we plan, nobody expects IT outages, hurricanes, or global conflicts to throw a wrench in their travel plans. But hey, that’s the unpredictable reality of modern travel.

I’m not saying the world is a scary place—far from it! We should absolutely explore it. But it’s unpredictable, and being prepared is key. Protect your investment in your trip so you don’t have to deal with the double whammy of a disrupted adventure and a hole in your wallet.

And know that I’m constantly submerged in all things travel. If there’s something out there that can impact your trip, chances are I’m already aware and problem-solving solutions for you. Because after all the time we spend crafting the perfect-for-you trip, there’s nothing I want more than to live vicariously through your adventure. I won’t let IT issues or hurricanes ruin it for us! 😆

Stay safe, stay insured, and let’s keep those travel dreams alive! 🌟🌍✈️

13/07/2024

Celebrating visiting our 50th state with maple creemees! 🎉🍁🍦

When we first set the goal of hitting all 50 states with our 4 kiddos before our oldest graduated high school, I was worried our goal might be a bit too ambitious. But as we wrap up our New England road trip the summer before our oldest STARTS high school, we’ve officially visited every state four years ahead of schedule?! (Okay, okay, we still need to actually *sleep* in Idaho to make it 100% official, but close enough, right? 😆)

What started as a wild family dream turned into an incredible way of life, filled with more memories than I ever imagined. We’ve made memories across not just our own country, but three continents and counting. There’s never enough time, and these kids are growing up faster than I can keep up with, but knowing they’ll go out into the world with these experiences means the world to me.

We’ve left little breadcrumbs of our family across the globe, and while the days spent crammed in a minivan and sharing pull-out sofas might have been less than glamorous at the time, I hope those are the moments they’ll look back on and cherish the most. Here’s to making the most of the time we have and looking forward to future adventures—even if it means a do-over in Idaho! 😉

Here’s to maximizing the time we have with our loved ones. Book the trip. Make the memories. You’ll never regret the adventures you take together. 🗺️💕

09/07/2024

Thanks for all the birthday wishes, and patience with my delayed replies here at Ampd 4 Travel as I’ve been a bit off the grid celebrating with a family road trip to visit the final 7 states on our journey to visit all 50! 🗺️ ✅

Started today in Rhode Island, and starting to wrap up the day in Massachusetts. We made waves throughout Cape Cod, evaded great whites while swimming with seals and ate sandwiches in Sandwich, MA all while learning about our founding fathers along the way.

Despite a few bumps in the road, I guess you could say my day rocked 😉

Tomorrow we plan to stop off in Boston and Salem on our journey to Acadia! Anyone have any gems to share along the way?

28/06/2024

🚨 Travel Alert! 🚨

Heads up, jet-setters! Starting May 7, 2025, your ID game needs to be on point. The REAL ID Act is kicking in, and without a REAL ID, getting through airport security will be tougher than finding an empty spot on a Santorini beach in July.

Make sure your driver’s license has that golden star 🌟, or your passport is ready for action. Trust me, you don’t want TSA sending you home because your ID didn’t make the cut!

Make sure you and your clients are REAL ID compliant by May 7, 2025 to prevent any disruptions in travel plans. Travelers who use a driver's license as identification at TSA checkpoints must present a REAL ID-compliant license to board domestic flights, which are generally identifiable by a gold star in the upper-right corner.

Passports and other forms of identification will also still be accepted by TSA. These alternatives can be found here, though please note this list may change and checking before travel is recommended: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Learn more about REAL ID: https://bit.ly/3SLnUyh

25/06/2024

Travel Tip Tuesday: The Crucial Importance of Travel Coverage

As a mom of 4 and your favorite travel advisor, I know firsthand that even the best-laid plans can hit a few bumps. This year alone, I've helped clients maneuver several travel disruptions that are made a lot less stressful (and less expensive!) with the right travel insurance.

What would you do if your flight was rerouted, leaving you stranded in an airport while missing the first night of your amazing Costa Rican adventure?

Or if your kiddo ended up with a broken bone the day before departing for your much-anticipated Universal Orlando vacation?

Or if flight and train delays caused you to miss your connections and transfers during your multi-country European vacation?

Or if you have an unplanned last-minute change in travel companions, requiring you to scramble for new accommodation dates and rooms?

These are just a few real-life examples I’ve experienced with clients traveling in 2024. Trust me when I say no amount of planning can prepare you for every travel hiccup. It’s really not a matter of IF travel disruptions will occur, but WHEN.

I recommend at bare minimum booking all components of your trip with a credit card that includes some level of travel insurance. Then, consider additional coverage to protect non-refundable elements of your trip and cover medical emergencies or evacuation expenses that your health insurance might not cover, especially when traveling abroad.

I work with several trusted travel insurance companies to help you find the best option for you, ensuring you’re covered well after we've finished crafting your perfect itinerary.

Even if you don't book your trip with me, I highly recommend looking into travel insurance for your next adventure! I'm not an insurance salesman, but I'm always here to share resources and help you find the best fit for your needs.

Got a travel story or tip? Share it in the comments! Need travel insurance recommendations? I'm just a quick message away!

24/06/2024

Dearest gentle reader… ✍️

Who else is going through Bridgerton withdrawals after binging the last season?! 🙋‍♀️

Amidst all the Bridgerton buzz, consider London for your next European getaway! Embark on a 5-day city escape and discover Lady Whistledown’s haunts.

London blends history and modernity, inviting you to explore iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Enjoy world-class museums, vibrant markets, and diverse cultures. From charming Notting Hill to lively Covent Garden, London’s mix of old-world charm and contemporary energy promises an unforgettable adventure.

Just a sampling of the offerings I can help you find to curate the perfect-for-you itinerary:

🏨 Accommodations
- 5-night stay in London

🚗 Transportation
- Private round-trip airport transfers

Optional Tours and Inclusions:
✨ Magic of London Tour: Includes afternoon tea at Harrods, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, a Thames River cruise, and more.

✨London Bridge Secret Walking Food Tour: A culinary adventure.

✨Bridgerton Tour: Visit Stonehenge, Roman Baths, and Bridgerton filming locations.

✨Theater Experience: See shows like Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, or Les Miserables.

✨Explore Markets: Visit Borough Market, ride the London Eye, and tour Shakespeare’s Globe.

Let’s make your English Regency dreams a reality! Fill out the travel interest survey to start crafting the perfect-for-you itinerary! Your own personal Bridgerton season awaits! 😉 ✈️

https://form.jotform.com/232724494877167

22/06/2024

Brain. Overload. 🧠🤯

Just wrapped up an INTENSIVE boot camp with fellow travel advisors, and I think I’ve absorbed enough information to plan a trip to Mars! 🚀 Can’t wait to get home and hug my babies, but for now, I’m basking in the rare peace and quiet as I decompress here at JAX, waiting for the last flight out. 🛫

You all know I live and breathe travel, but after this week, I’m supercharged! Not only do I have my own extensive travel experiences to share, but I now have an arsenal of resources and access to experts in all corners of the world to tap into! If you can dream it, I’ve got the perfect partner in my back pocket to help make it happen! I can’t wait to use all these newfound resources to help curate perfect-for-you experiences!

Shout out to those who cheered me on this week! Loved hearing from you, especially your shared excitement about dream destinations like Alaska and the Galapagos.

What other dream destinations are on your list? Feel free to share them in the comments so I can dream along with you while I await my flight home! ✈️🌍

18/06/2024

Hello from Jacksonville, Florida! 👋

I’m here for a week-long education and training session, investing in myself and my business, . My goal? To find more effective ways to run my business so I can focus on what I do best: providing concierge-level travel planning services for my amazing clients!

As many of you gear up for your summer adventures, which I’ve had the pleasure of planning, know that I’m still working hard for you. Today, after an 8+ hour day of classroom sessions, I raced back to my not-so-glamorous hotel room to address a client’s trip concerns, which turned into a nearly three-hour phone call with more follow-ups required tomorrow?!?! 🤪

I’m sharing this to highlight the true value in hiring me as your travel advisor. I spend countless hours curating the perfect-for-you trip, and even after your trip is booked, I’m still working behind the scenes finalizing details, and advocating for you when travel hiccups occur. And then, I choose to prioritize and invest even more of my time in continuing education to serve you even better in the future!

I am passionate about helping others enrich their lives and create family bonds through memories made in travel. Even while juggling the demands of life with 4 kids, I continue to find the value in travel with my own family, and I am assured all my time and energy is being spent in the right place as I look back fondly on our own travel photos, and now as I read the stories of the memories you are making with your own families on the trips I’ve helped plan.

Travel is worth it. Booking your trip with me is worth it, I promise.

Thank you to those who have already entrusted me with your travel plans, it truly means the world to me. And to those who haven’t booked with me yet, what are you waiting for? 😉 🗺️

13/05/2024

Official date announced! Who’s planning to visit this summer?!

Drop on in with Princess Tiana this summer, as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort on June 28!

Princess Tiana serves up delicious Louisiana favorites, and we’ve been serving you all kinds of news about her new ride. We celebrated our announcement down...

12/05/2024

Actual footage of mom vs dad traveling with 4 kids 🤪🤣

Here’s to all the incredible moms out there, juggling the chaos of family at home and out in the world, with grace and strength! 💪

Whether you’re buried under all the kids or sneaking a moment to scroll through your phone, you’re absolutely crushing it. You deserve all the love and appreciation today… and every day!

Happy Mother’s Day! 💐

06/05/2024

Official dates FINALLY announced!
Time to start planning those fall trips!! 👻

Fill out the travel interest survey to get started! 👇

https://form.jotform.com/232724494877167?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZSedXei1MW2VJfAyLlU-I3ML7WVJ9IG9WaiNawVIsNLaAm1lmSFF6Fq6Y_aem_AeCoPBKpOV6KQhQ1pWB2gRByRWAX-1YAGUbYUolFdS3YNZF_YIjDrlTDZBOx79ZqdhAVAwBRGfYJh5Mz8GUYfU1d

03/05/2024

Turning dreams into reality, one magical itinerary at a time!✨

Thrilled to receive this glowing review from a client who trusted me to help navigate a family trip to Orlando! From Mickey to Minions, we crafted the perfect blend of Disney and Universal magic for their family adventure.

It absolutely made my day to read this review and hear I successfully helped to alleviate the stress and overwhelm of planning so this mom could focus on making memories and participating in her daughter’s joy. 💕

I’d love to do the same for you!
Fill out the travel interest survey to get started planning your next trip! 👇

https://form.jotform.com/232724494877167?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaMh8k4nAT_deslvgSDjVu0_LXyBElJZKUWCT1fBUE9YquFRqiVcmu7DTA_aem_ARfpbpkZEtzrvBqPEhTuwubTju3VA-2K9F9KjONX-dbPfqDSXcVyfqGwXo673Z3y0WrdS-jSs03IhBkUufKzFwq3

02/05/2024

Ok, it’s time to choose your next vacation destination! National Park vs. Theme Park, which would you choose?!

Are you going to dive into the serene beauty of nature with a National Park trip, embracing majestic landscapes and wildlife encounters? Or do you prefer to unleash your inner thrill-seeker at a Theme Park, where adrenaline-pumping rides and immersive entertainment for all ages await!

Share your choice and why in the comments below!

02/05/2024

Just announced!

Experience many of your favorite video game characters like never before as you explore the interactive fun of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, opening 2025 at Universal Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.

Get your first look at the experiences at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, one of five amazing worlds at Universal Epic Universe. From Super Mario LandTM to Donkey Kon...

01/05/2024

🎉 Happy Global Travel Advisor Day! 🌍✈️

To celebrate this momentous occasion, I thought I’d take a minute to properly introduce myself to my fellow travel enthusiasts!

I’m Amber, founder of Ampd 4 Travel, and I’m absolutely amp’d about all things travel! After over a decade of globe-trotting adventures with my four kiddos, I decided to channel my passion into helping you plan your own unforgettable journeys. Whether it’s exploring the wonders of Europe, diving into the magic of Universal Studios, soaking up the pura vida vibes in Costa Rica, immersing yourself in the enchantment of Disney, or unwinding in the Caribbean, I’ve got you covered!

My mission? To inspire you to escape the daily grind and create lasting memories with your family through travel.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to live vicariously through your adventures and hope you’ll follow along in my little corner of the internet as I plan, experience and share all things travel with you! ✨ 🗺️

30/04/2024

Need a reason to get excited for 2024?
Look no further than the electrifying summer lineup at Universal Orlando!

Save the date:
✨ June 14th ✨ is when the magic begins!

🏰 DreamWorks Land: Immerse yourself in the world of Shrek, soar on the Trollercoaster, master kung fu with Po, and experience the all-new live show DreamWorks Imagination Celebration! (June 14)

🧙‍♂️ Hogwarts Always: Delve into the captivating realm of Harry Potter with a mesmerizing nighttime spectacle at Hogwarts™ castle! (June 14)

🎥 CINESATIONAL Lagoon Show: Embark on a cinematic journey with captivating soundtracks from Harry Potter™, the thrilling adventures of Jurassic World, and the heart-pounding suspense of Jaws. Select nights only! (June 14)

🎭 Universal Mega Movie Parade: Join your beloved characters in a spectacular daytime parade featuring T. rex, E.T., Trolls, and more! (July 03)

If you’re ready for an unforgettable summer filled with magic, excitement, and adventure at Universal Orlando Resort, fill out the linked travel interest form and I’d be happy to help you start planning today!! 👇✨

https://form.jotform.com/232724494877167?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYT1hh0_qk_HTMKGcQw1T94lXi-KI3L6KQcZvQTiCISME3Peu-uXAol9Ds_aem_Ab295P_Uw4RY4TRmKL5J9IBpvHqtLdjnhZn53kFagi_dwknlkQQfYqVqK4FpD80lyy1l9LraciUcdOVp_jh2Cegx

26/04/2024

Friday Feature: your ultimate travel companion, my included travel app!

As your personal travel advisor, I work tirelessly with a each and every client to curate the perfect-for-you trip. But the magic doesn't stop there! Once your ideal itinerary is finalized, you gain access to a user-friendly app, where all your travel documents and itinerary details are conveniently stored in one place. No more endless email searches or frantic paper shuffling! Plus, with live flight alerts, you'll be instantly notified of any changes to your flight schedule, keeping you stress-free and informed throughout your journey. Say goodbye to travel headaches and hello to seamless adventures with this travel app.

Let's start planning your next unforgettable getaway together! Message me to get started! 🌏✨

25/04/2024

🛳️ Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: What's Your Pick? 🌴

Are you dreaming of turquoise waters and endless relaxation? Let's weigh the options between a cruise and an all-inclusive resort to help you decide which adventure suits you best! Here are some key differences:

Cruises allow you to explore multiple destinations in one trip without the hassle of packing and unpacking. In between shore excursions exploring new cultures or adventures at each port of call, there’s endless onboard entertainment included. From Broadway-style shows to water slides, cruises offer a wide range of onboard entertainment options! And did someone say food?! Enjoy diverse dining experiences with multiple restaurants and cuisines to choose from!

Meanwhile, an All-Inclusive Resort offers unlimited relaxation. Kick back and relax on sun-soaked beaches or by the pool with no itinerary to follow. Indulge in unlimited food, drinks, and activities included in your stay. Immerse yourself in local culture with onsite activities, excursions, and entertainment options.

Which do I prefer? It's a tough call! Both options offer unique experiences and unforgettable memories. Not to mention the perk of having someone else feed my kids all day everyday!!

Ultimately it depends on your travel style and preferences, but I’d love to hear your thoughts! Comment below with your vote!

23/04/2024

Ready to jet set but wondering when's the best time to book your next adventure?

From summer getaways to winter escapes, knowing when to book can make all the difference. While the best time’s right now, here’s a general timeline of when you should aim to get your upcoming trips booked:

Summer Break (June-August)
Start planning NOW!
Ideally we should book your summer vacation at least 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular destinations and peak travel dates. Prices tend to rise as summer approaches, so booking early can help you secure better deals.

4th of July Getaway
Start planning NOW!
For 4th of July travel, it's best to book as early as possible, ideally 3-4 months in advance. This holiday is popular for domestic travel, and prices for flights and accommodations can increase closer to the date.

Labor Day Getaway
Reach out now. Book by July!
Similar to the 4th of July, aim to book your Labor Day weekend getaway 3-4 months in advance for the best prices and availability. As it marks the end of summer, many people travel during this time.

Thanksgiving Break
Reach out this summer. Book by late September!
For Thanksgiving travel, aim to book your trip at least 1-3 months in advance. Prices can vary depending on the destination, but booking early can help you secure better deals and avoid last-minute stress.

Winter Break (December- January)
Reach out now. Book by July!
For winter break vacations, it's wise to book well in advance, ideally 6-9 months ahead of time. This is a peak travel period, especially around Christmas and New Year's, so prices tend to be high and availability limited closer to the dates.

Too busy to plan that far ahead? Don’t panic, that’s where I come in!
Fill out the linked travel interest survey and I’ll get started on planning the perfect-for-you trip! ✈️ 🗺️

https://form.jotform.com/232724494877167?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABphKQWC4o6T9iIkERAScemc6UtXBIyXl16Mixm39sjKy8vma9xhdDt2Bb2A_aem_ATq41Szu2eEbYAltvLth5omwxV6uVHfebJTkCqfPB8pEHOA05T4ZjLB54eW89BwGadI

18/04/2024

Already plotting my own family’s next adventure to California after curating this family’s Spring Break adventure! From theme parks, a popsicle hotline, and stunning coastal roadtrips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in California!

I can’t thank my amazing clients enough for trusting me with their travel plans, and allowing me the opportunity to live vicariously through their adventures!

I love piecing together the perfect-for-you itinerary, and offering a convenient app for you to easily access the itinerary leading up to and during your travels. Just one of the perks of working with me!

I’d love to offer the same for you! Get started by completing the travel interest survey 👇

https://form.jotform.com/232724494877167?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABpsYuzOB2mW1O1FfMgOi36vF7dCYrAsaN-3SvzODQ4m1sPpbVpRQjIRwRhA_aem_ATJCSTNrJZvBvx1KWFFI3GVVUiSxKAEGGjV-o1qJSmrXepEyO4ARrBt8_AZDNcMkfOc

15/04/2024

The best cure for whatever ails you this Monday… is having a trip to look forward to for a future Monday! 😉

Whether it’s mountains, beaches or an exotic destination calling, I’m here to help you find the answer! ✈️ 🗺️

Message me to start planning your next adventure today!

24/03/2024

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but it’s time to stop dreaming, and start traveling! Make this the year you decide to transform your dreams into destinations! 🗺️ ✨

This photo is from a few months ago when we experienced the magic of the Northern Lights with our kids in Finland, but we didn’t stop there! There’s just so much magic in the world to discover together, one destination at a time!

I invite you to follow along for our next journey, as we explore Africa for the first time! 🇰🇪 🇪🇬

Tell me, where are your dreams taking you next?!

29/02/2024

Excited to see Universal Orlando Resort will debut DreamWorks Land this summer! A vibrant new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved characters Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda.

http://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/sales/newin2024

Located in the Universal Studios Florida theme park, the expansive area will feature tons of fun for the entire family and include a family-friendly coaster, multiple interactive play areas, live entertainment, character meet and greets and more!

So many new and exciting things coming to Universal Orlando, I can’t wait to help plan some epic trips for you guys in the upcoming year!