Wonderland and beyond - alyse rizzo

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Wonderland and beyond - alyse rizzo

Wonderland and beyond - alyse rizzo Hey I’m Alyse, a passionate travel advisor with two years of experience, specializing in crafting personalized European itineraries.

Having lived in Spain for four years, I bring a deep love for planning. Let’s create unforgettable memory dividends!

03/03/2025

🚆✨ Why take the train in Europe instead of renting a car? Because in the U.S., we rarely get to experience it—so why not make it part of the adventure? Here’s why train travel wins:

🚄 Fast & Stress-Free – No traffic, no parking, just smooth rides. Some cities like Zermatt and Cinque Terre don’t allow cars!
🌍 Scenic & Relaxing – Enjoy epic views without having to drive.
🏙 City to City – Step off the train right in the heart of town!
💺 More Comfort – Stretch out, walk around, or grab a snack. This is great for kids so you don’t have to stop all of the time!
🌱 Eco-Friendly – Less carbon footprint, more good vibes.
💰 No Hidden Costs – No gas, tolls, or surprise fees. Book your train early the prices do go up closer to travel dates! If you are travel to many countries in a certain amount of time try the eurorail pass!
👫 More Social & Fun – Meet locals, chat with fellow travelers, or just unwind. We have met so many amazing locals this way on our adventures- they also held my children many times or the kids play together!

🚗 The only time a car is better? When heading to smaller towns where trains don’t go! But for major cities, train travel is a no-brainer. Would you choose the train or a rental car for your next Europe trip? Drop your thoughts below! ⬇️

25/02/2025

🌍 What I’m Booking This Month! 🚢✈️

From iconic festivals to unforgettable cruises, here’s what I’ve been booking for my clients:

🇩🇪 Germany for Oktoberfest – Beer halls, Bavarian traditions, and epic celebrations! Dates are September 20-October 5, 2025.
🇦🇹 Austria – Scenic Alpine getaways and charming Christmas markets.
🇮🇹 Italy – From romantic honeymoons and anniversaies to foodie adventures!
🇬🇷 Greece – A multigenerational family trip filled with history, island-hopping, and incredible caldera dining.
🚢 Viking British Isles Explorer Cruise – Discover castles, rugged coastlines, and rich history.
🚢 Celebrity Alaskan Cruise – Glaciers, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.

If you’re dreaming of Europe, a bucket-list cruise, or a family adventure, I’d love to help you! 📩 DM me to start planning. ✨

16/02/2025

Getting married? Let’s plan your dream honeymoon! ✈️💍 I’m at the all day today as your honeymoon expert and travel advisor!! So many great vendors here today braving the cold! Let’s dream and create the perfect romantic getaway together to somewhere warm!!

11/02/2025

I’m a vendor at the this Sunday as the Honeymoon Travel Advisor!! Last year I was asked what are the top Honeymoon Destinations! For 2025 & 2026 Here are the hottest spots couples are loving! 💕

📍 Maldives – Overwater villas, private beaches, and total seclusion 🏝️
📍 Santorini, Greece – Iconic sunsets, cave hotels, and dreamy views 🌅
📍 Japan – Cherry blossoms, luxury ryokans, and culture-packed cities 🎎
📍 Amalfi Coast, Italy – Coastal glamour, Italian food, and boat trips to Capri 🇮🇹
📍 Bali, Indonesia – Jungle retreats, private pool villas, and exotic vibes 🌿
📍 South Africa – Safari adventures + romantic beach escapes 🦁🏖️

Which honeymoon spot is your dream destination?

10/02/2025

🚢 : 7 Nights in Alaska on Celebrity Edge!

Just booked my clients on an unforgettable Alaska cruise on Celebrity Edge, sailing from Seattle! Imagine waking up to glaciers, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes right outside your balcony.

Highlights we can’t wait for:
🛳️ Luxury cruising on the stunning Celebrity Edge
🌊 Sailing through the Inside Passage—pure magic!
🐋 Whale watching & wildlife encounters in Juneau
❄️ Walking on a glacier (because why not?!)
🍽️ Incredible dining @ Blu

Who else has been to Alaska by cruise? Drop your must-do experiences & tips below! ⬇️

07/02/2025

🇪🇺 Stop Waiting—Your Dream Europe Trip Won’t Plan Itself!

Every year, I hear the same thing:
✈️ “We really want to go to Europe, but we’ll wait until next year.”
💰 “It’s too expensive.”
🤯 “I don’t even know where to start!”

Here’s the truth → Europe is more doable than you think!
✅ There are affordable ways to travel (payment plans, smart budgeting, off the beaten path destinations).
✅ You don’t have to plan every detail—that’s my job!
✅ The best time to go? Right now! Life is short, and those dream destinations won’t wait forever. Every time I look back on my travels it makes my heart warm.

🌍 Whether it’s Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Greece, France, Spain, Germany, Iceland or a multi-country adventure, I’ll make it as easy & stress-free as I can travel is unpredictable so flexibility is key!

📩 Message me or email [email protected]—let’s turn “someday” into booked!

04/02/2025

🚨 Venice Tourist Entry Fee – Quick Guide

📍 Effective Date: April 25, 2024
💰 Fee Amount: €5 per person
📅 Applicable Days: Peak tourist days (mostly weekends & holidays)
⏳ Timeframe: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
📌 Who Pays? Day visitors (not overnight guests)
🖥️ How to Pay? Online in advance or at entry checkpoints

🚫 Who is Exempt?
✔️ Overnight hotel guests (covered by tourist tax)
✔️ Residents & workers
✔️ Children under 14
✔️ Students & caregivers

👉 More details & official updates: go to Venice tourism website

Would you like a help curating a perfect Italy itinerary let me guide you!!

23/01/2025

🌍 What Americans Need to Know About EES & ETIAS in 2025! ✈️

If you’re traveling to Europe this year, here’s a quick guide to two important changes you need to know:

1️⃣ EES (Entry/Exit System):
Think of EES as Europe’s new way of digitally tracking who enters and exits the Schengen Area.

-Replaces passport stamping!
-Collects biometric data (fingerprints + facial scan) and entry/exit records.
-Goal: Streamline borders and boost security.

2️⃣ ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System):
ETIAS is NOT a visa, but a travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers (like Americans) visiting the Schengen Area. This is currently not operational and no applications are collected at this point - it is due to start 6 months after EES!!

Quick application online 💻 (takes ~10 minutes).
Cost: €7 ($8).
Valid for 3 years or until your passport expires.

What You Need to Do as an American Traveler in 2025:
✅ Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.
✅ Apply for ETIAS before your trip (approval is fast for most).
✅ Prepare for biometric checks at the border as part of EES.

These updates mean more efficient borders and a smoother travel experience—but be ready for new steps when planning!

Don’t forget if you are traveling to United Kingdom you need the ETA (download app and apply). You will not need the ETA if you are transiting through the UK!

✨ Save this post & share with your fellow travelers! ✨

20/01/2025

Mediterranean Magic Awaits! 🌊✨

I just planned an unforgettable Viking ocean cruise for my clients, sailing from Athens to Rome in May 2026. This luxurious 8-day journey is filled with breathtaking destinations, seamless travel, and incredible perks!

🌟 Highlights of their journey:
🏛️ Athens: Kick off the adventure with ancient wonders like the Acropolis and Parthenon.
🕌 Ephesus: Explore one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities, a treasure trove of history.
🌋 Crete: Wander through the Venetian harbor, cobblestone streets, and bustling Old Town.
🌅 Naples & Amalfi Coast: Indulge in coastal charm, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
🍝 Sicily: known for mt. Etna and eating cannoli, arancini, seafood pasta, and fine Sicilian wines.
🏰 Rome: End in the Eternal City, marveling at the Colosseum, Vatican, and Sistine Chapel.

✨ How I made this trip extra special:
✅ Free beverages: I secured complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with meals—cheers to relaxation! 🥂
✅ Pre-paid gratuities: One less expense for them to worry about—truly stress-free travel.
✅ Viking Air Bundle: They’re flying in style with flights perfectly coordinated with their cruise itinerary, saving time and money.
✅ Cabin upgrade: I helped them score a Veranda Stateroom—perfect for enjoying those Mediterranean sunrises right from their private balcony.
✅ Customized pre- and post-cruise stays: I arranged a pre-cruise stay in Athens for extra time exploring ancient wonders and a post-cruise extension in Rome for even more sightseeing.

This is the type of care and detail I love providing to my clients—every trip becomes truly memorable.

If you’re ready to sail into luxury, explore Europe, or start planning your dream adventure, let’s make it happen this year! 🌍✈️

15/01/2025

Heading to Europe for the first time? 🌍 Here are the essentials you NEED to know to make your trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable! ✈️✨ Save this blog post for your next adventure! 🗺️ https://wonderlandandbeyondtravel.com/author/alyse-rizzo/

1. Packing Tips:
- Travel light—Europe has cobblestone streets, stairs, and smaller cars, so stick to a carry-on if possible.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
- Don’t forget adapters for European outlets (Type C or F).

2.Travel Documents:
- Keep your passport safe and make digital + physical copies.
- Check visa requirements for each country. ETA + ETIAS

3. Money Tips:
- Carry a mix of cash and cards (notify your bank about travel plans).
Use local currency (euros, pounds, etc.) for small purchases. Always use ATM!

4. Transportation:
- Europe’s train system is amazing—look into Eurail passes or local trains.
- Budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet are great for intercity travel.

5. Cultural Etiquette:
- Learn a few key phrases in the local language—locals appreciate it. I like Duolingo or coffee break podcast
- Research tipping customs, as they vary by country.

6. Food & Dining:
- Don’t rush meals—embrace the slower dining culture. Some countries eat after 5pm
-Try local dishes (think croissants in Paris, pizza in Naples, or bratwurst in Germany).

7. Sightseeing Tips:
-Book tickets for popular attractions in advance (e.g., Eiffel Tower, Vatican).
-Use walking tours or audio guides to explore cities or hop on and off bus.

8. Stay Connected:
- Get an international SIM or portable Wi-Fi for GPS and staying in touch.

9. Health & Safety:
- Travel insurance is a must
- Keep valuables in a secure crossbody bag to avoid pickpockets and wallets in front pocket

10. Traveler Mindset:
- Be flexible and open to unexpected adventures—Europe’s charm is in the little things! Find you pace of travel!!

Happy planning!!

25/12/2024

Happy Holidays and much love from my family to yours during this beautiful season!

18/12/2024

✈️ Heads up for UK-bound travelers in 2025! 🇬🇧

Starting January 8, 2025, all travelers to the UK must complete an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)—think of it as a quick, electronic visa.

Key Details:
🔗 Official Site: Apply for an ETA here (avoid third-party sites that charge extra!): https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
💷 Cost: £10 GBP ($12 USD).
⏳ Validity: 2 years or until the attached passport expires.
📋 Pro Tip: Travelers must apply before boarding flights, though approval isn’t strictly required pre-flight—airlines may enforce this, so better safe than sorry.

Insider Hack:
📱If using the mobile app, US travelers should scan the inside of the back cover of their passport (not the front) to read the NFC chip. Hold your phone steady on the last page, and you’re set!

Fast & Easy:
✅ You can complete the process in minutes. Approval often comes back quickly—ours took under 5 minutes!

Coming Soon:
⚠️ Schengen countries will introduce their own ETA system (ETIAS) later in 2025—more updates to come!

This process mirrors the US ESTA system (since 2009) and Australia’s e-visa program for Americans.

02/12/2024

Fly Smart, Travel Better! ✈️

Dreaming of Europe today? Now’s the time to book those flights! 🌍 With Travel Tuesday (the Tuesday after Black Friday), airlines and travel sites drop amazing deals on flights, making it the perfect opportunity to snag incredible prices for your next adventure.

💡 Why it matters:

Travel Tuesday is when airlines clear inventory, meaning you could score that bucket list flight for a fraction of the cost!

•Follow pages like , ’sCheapFlights, and to catch those fleeting deals.

•Flexibility is key! Be open to connecting flights or alternate airports to save big

•Timing is everything! Booking 3-6 months ahead is ideal for peak seasons like summer in Europe.

But why stop at flights? Let’s take this from dreaming to doing! Send me a message, and we’ll:
✅ Find the perfect boutique stays in charming villages or cities.
✅ Plan epic excursions like Chianti wine tours, gondola rides in Venice, or Santorini sunsets.
✅ Map out the most iconic historic sites and hidden treasures!

Your European adventure will be custom-designed to fit your travel dreams. Let’s make it happen! 🛫💼

06/11/2024

Today I turn 36! This year, I celebrated by donating my hair for the 5th time. Grateful for the journey, the growth, and the chance to give back. Here’s to another year of making memories—both mine and yours. 🌍✈️

23/10/2024

🕰️ Travel Time Buckets: Collecting Memory Dividends at Every Age in Europe 🌍✈️

As life unfolds, so do the opportunities to invest in experiences that grow in value over time—just like “memory dividends,” a concept from Bill Perkins’ Die With Zero. Each stage of life calls for different types of travel, each moment gaining richness as it is remembered in the future.

Time buckets defined:

Ages 20-30: The Time of Exploration and Connection
💃 Party at Ibiza’s famous clubs, but don’t miss the history of Dalt Vila during the day.
🎒 Backpack through Prague, Budapest, and Kraków—affordable adventure, endless stories.
🚲 Live like a local cycling the canals of Amsterdam—quaint, free-spirited, and perfect for socializing.

Ages 30-40: Savoring Culture & Culinary Delights
🎨 Let the art in Florence speak to your soul and your palate with Tuscan cooking classes.
🍷 Sip and savor your way through Bordeaux’s famed vineyards and the charm of Saint-Émilion.
🍽️ Indulge in the best of Lisbon’s food scene—mixing tradition with vibrant modernity.

Ages 40-50: Family Memories & Enrichment
🏰 Explore the fairy-tale castles of Bavaria—perfect for family adventures.
🚢 Cruise the Greek Islands—luxury, history, and kid-friendly experiences wrapped in one.
🖼️ Show your kids the best of Paris and London—museums, landmarks, and family fun.

Ages 50-60: History & Relaxation in Europe’s Timeless Cities
🇮🇹 Stroll through Rome’s ancient ruins while indulging in a gelato from a hidden piazza.
🇬🇷 Unwind in the serenity of Santorini, with its postcard-perfect sunsets and local wines.
🍇 Experience the peaceful beauty of Provence, France—lavender fields, slow mornings, and villa life.

Ages 60+: Legacy Travel & Leisure
🚂 Take a scenic train ride through Switzerland—breathtaking views at a slow pace.
🛥️ Cruise the Danube and explore multiple European capitals without the stress.
🏞️ Relax in Lake Como, Italy—luxury, lakeside villas, and serenity in every view.

✨ Invest in memories that grow in value over time. Ready to create your next memory dividend? Connect with me to start planning your perfect European getaway tailored to your time bucket! 💌

08/10/2024

🌟 Dreaming of the perfect honeymoon? I just planned this FIT itinerary for a couple and would love the opportunity to help you! Let us turn that dream into reality with an unforgettable, stress-free journey through Italy and Greece! 🌍💍✨

🇮🇹 Start your adventure in Rome, where history comes alive at the Colosseum and the breathtaking Vatican. We’ll arrange private transfers to ensure your trip starts smoothly! 🏛️🚗

Next, indulge in Florence with a hands-on market tour and cooking class 🍝, and don’t miss a day trip to the Chianti wine region 🍷 and charming Siena. Then, head to Venice for a romantic gondola ride through the city’s magical canals. 🛶❤️ All by train travel that I will set up for you!

🇬🇷 Your journey ends in Santorini, where relaxation awaits with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Choose a day trip to Mykonos or the hidden gem, Paros, for the ultimate island-hopping experience! 🏝️🌊

Let us craft this once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon just for you! DM to start planning your dream escape today! ✈️💫

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