Let's all say this together!  Stand up and place your hand over your heart . . . we resolve to . . . 

 

...be a better global ambassador exhibiting the true spirit of America--not what is on TV.

 

...take any and all vacation time we've earned...and steal whatever extra days off we can.

 

...go someplace new in 2017, instead of returning to the old tried and true goto vacation destinations.

 

 ...stop saying you've "done" a country, knowing deep down that we could never really know a country unless we lived there.  And I really think I need to KNOW Italy more.

 

...consciously unplug for longer and longer stretches when we travel.

 

...make our politicians see time off for travel as a right, not a luxury; so we can rest, recharge, rejuvenate and reignite our passions being more creative, loyal and productive employees.

 

... NOT do last minute "guilt" souvenir shopping at the airport shop on the way home.

 

...take better pictures--but not so many that we forget to see what is in front of us.

 

...buy quality travel gear and take less of it.

 

...learn something new in each place we go about the culture, language, cuisine, politics, history and religion.

 

...turn strangers in strange lands into our friends.      

 

...not let technology get in the way of us meeting fellow travelers and indigenous people when traveling.

 

...integrate travel more into our lives, as we have with a good diet, exercising regularly and sleeping right. Travel is good for us in so many ways, be it physically, mentally and spiritually

...be more patient dealing with the trials and tribulations of traveling -- be they TSA lines, surly customer service airline reps, over-packed late flights, noisy hotel rooms, boorish fellow travelers or screaming babies.

 

It's going to be a great YEAR! I look forward to working with you to plan some amazing trips for you and your family and friends!

 

What's your dream for 2017!  Well, dreams always equal Italy for me, so I'll be in Italy in 2 months.

Click here for more inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life.

 

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape

                                                                                                                                              

Chocolates melt, Flowers die, but experiences last a LIFE TIME!

Instead of buying flowers and chocolate this Valentine's Day, why not consider

planning a trip for you and your sweetheart? Couples who travel together are significantly more satisfied with their relationships. I don’t think that is very surprising...we’ve all known that couples who travel together have healthier, happier relationships compared to those who don’t. So maybe, this Valentine’s Day, couples should re-think the traditional calorie-laden, perishable gifts and strengthen their relationships by planning a romantic getaway to make memories that will bond and restore you and your loved one for years to come! 

 

Scientific research by the U.S. Travel Association has found that couples prefer taking a short trip over exchanging tangible gifts. Nearly two-thirds of couples surveyed say a weekend getaway is more likely to spark romance than large or small gifts. Just one-third viewed receiving small gifts the same way. Only 15%

rated getting big gifts like jewelry

as important to improving romance.

 

Traveling alone together sparks romance

More than eight in ten of those who travel regularly as a couple say the romance is still alive in their relationship, and seven in ten of the couples surveyed believe

traveling inspires romance.

 

Couples who travel together have more time for intimacy – A majority of couples say that being more intimate is an important reason to vacation together. Among couples that did not take a trip together in the past year, nearly one in four say they "do not have enough time for intimacy." The survey interviewed 10,000 adults and found that travel can boost romance because it allows couples time to talk, reconnect and share new experiences. It also provides a change of scenery and a break from the routine of children, chores and busy schedules.

 

Even better it doesn’t even have to be a super expensive getaway to work! Of course, a week in Bora Bora's romantic over water bungalows can totally make the earth move... but even a Saturday night in a nice hotel suite driving-distance from your home can offer a much needed opportunity to reconnect and finally check out some of the great restaurants and sights that you have been wanting to experience together. Just make sure to allow for a late check-out and breakfast in bed!! So once again, say it with me, travel is the answer! The only thing you need to make this time special is each other. I am always reminded of the quote, “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer”.

Valentine’s Day is less than 10 days away ...are you panicking and tempted to visit the local florist, chocolate shop and/or jewelry store again this year? Do you want your dear one's friends to exclaim "Why didn't my man think of that?" Why not call your favorite travel expert for some great ideas? Believe me....you will thank me later!

 

Click here for more inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life.

 

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape

                                                                                                                                                  

 

TRAVEL PLANNING in is full swing--it's January!  Chances are you have already booked or will be booking a long haul flight for 2017.  Here are few creative ways we've read about  the years from creative travelers that  make their overnight flights more comfortable, some of them will make you giggle.  Which one will you try?

1)  Cabeau Fold 'n Go Travel Blanket & Case Plush and can be used as pillow and lumbar support. 

2) Emergen-C Packets Take one while flying, and a couple more over the course of the flight.

3) IPad if all all attempts fail to make you sleepy, take along your favorite TV shows, novels, movies.

4)  Lululemon Scarf   is wide and soft cotton with snaps, it can be a blanket, pillow, wrap or blocks the light if you are trying to nap.

5) Inflatable beach ball  serves as a great oversized pillow.  If you have one of the cheap blow up beach balls cover with a hand towel to lay on in your lap. 

6) Tennis ball   Great for rolling your feet over on long flights.  Roll your foot over the ball while sitting in seat to stretch the muscles and increase blood flow to your feet and heels. 

7)  White Noise App  Pop in your earbuds, turn on your favorite sound.  I'm told it works better than noise-cancelling headphones. 

8) Rosemary Oil  Great for sinuses and fights  the dryness caused by cabin pressure which may lead to headaches.

 

Don't forget to stretch your legs and neck  every few hours.

What's your favorite remedy? We would love to add your creative ideas to our list!

 

Click here for more inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life.

 

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape

                                                                                                                                                  

 

Passports, they are a-changin'

I know, right? This is about as interesting as watching the clock tick, especially when there are so many other exciting topics I'd like to share.

Yet, to get you to the most popular cities, top resorts and plan the most exciting experiences in the best places to travel in 2017, you need a passport.  And if you need to renew your passport, you should probably do so far in advance.  Please be aware of some changes:

Passport Applications will increase (again).

Of course, because MORE people are traveling, but also because the 2007 Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative mandating that Americans entering the U.S. by air from Canada, Mexico and Bermuda would be required to have a passport, it's ten years later, and all of these documents are expiring. 

The Real ID Act implementation in 2018

There are minimum standards required pursuant to The REAL ID Act.  Federal agencies are prohibited from accepting state issued IDs that are non-compliant.  For more details click here.

Passports will be more secure

We expect to see "next-generation" passport debut in late 2017.  This next generation passport will have a chip embedded on the information page protected by polycarbonate coating; passport number will be laser cut as tapered, perforated holes through pages; and an artwork upgrade such as a watermark, tactile features and more optically variable inks.  This advance will help in the event that your passport gets wet, bent or stolen. 

Stricter Rules for application

As of November 1, 2016 glasses are no longer allowed in passport photos, unless you present a doctor's note along with your application.

Numbers

As of 2017, passport pages will have numbers on them (some countries will not accept passports with fewer than four pages remaining. 

Renewal may get easier

Rumor has it that renewing passports on-line is in the works.  I don't think I will hold my breath for 2017.

 

Click here for more inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life.

 

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape

Is it just my family?

 

For some reason, as one year comes to a close, travel plans are the hot topic in our family.  We all love something to look forward to and what better than vacation plans?  

 

I don't think it's just my family because phones are already ringing off the hook.  So what's on your list for 2017?  

1. Bora Bora.  See the fifty shades of blue in French Polynesia.  Stay in an over water bungalow, snorkel with the stingrays and sharks or rent a yacht to get a more up close and personal experience in the water and finding little private motus.   Words cannot describe my recent experience and I truly hope each of you can experience that sooner rather than later.

Europe. Board a river cruise ship and take a convenient journey to explore charming little towns along the Rhone, Seine, Main, Danube or Rhine.   Spend a day with a French chef learning to cook Provencal-style. Truffle hunt in Provence or if you love visiting wine vineyards, its on the itinerary as well. No packing or unpacking, just sit back and watch the scenery you've read about in history books unfold before your eyes.    

Food and Wine Travel.  NOW is always the perfect time to visit Italy.   The opportunities to enjoy food and wine of Italy are limitless.

Can't imagine a better place to see stunning coastlines, mystical vineyards and storied landmarks.  Enjoy scintillating views while enjoying a magical meal.  For a more bespoke experience, spend the morning hours gathering  ingredients at the local fresh market and join a local chef  in his home to create a meal to remember while learning more about the way locals live.

Caribbean Dreams

Some mystical experiences are hidden in the mountains of the Caribbean.  Are you looking for some little hidden spots to explore for a new Caribbean experience?  This is one of those spots we found on a recent trip there.  We would love to share our little secrets with you.

These are just a few ideas from my travels in 2016 to spur interest, VIP Travel Experience specializes in unique, exclusive personalized travel planning.  We design individualized journeys, small and group tours, deluxe accommodations, and exceptional excursions, suited to each client based on our personal experience, ongoing research, relationships and professional expertise.

Benefits of working with VIP Travel Experience include:

• Truly expert advice
• Flexible, structured to your schedule
• Authentic Experiences and unique behind-the-scenes opportunities
• Professional individualized attention to detail and execution of a well planned trip
• Beautiful proposals and detailed travel documentation (print and electronic)
• Excellent value pricing
• Memories to last a lifetime
• We make you the hero of your family by wowing your family members with an incredible trip.

 

Click here for more inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life.

 

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape

                                                                                                                                                  

A few years ago after searching and searching for the perfect gift for my adult children, parents and friends, I had an epiphany . . . they won't remember these things, but something they will remember is a great TRAVEL EXPERIENCE.  The gift is even sweeter if we can share that experience together ("We'll always have New York").  Share your secret with another struggling Santa mom and experience a destination with several family members or friends.   I promise you that planning this gift is so much more fun than fighting the mall crowds and traffic, and I can make it even easier for you, one phone call or email to me and I'll do your shopping.  

 

Here are a 3 ideas to WRAP your GIFT OF Travel Experiences:

 

1. Scavenger Hunt.  Write down several clues (or when the boys were younger, I printed pictures clues), wrap the clues in separate boxes all under the tree numbered, or I like to put one box under the tree and lead them to boxes hidden around the house with clues.  Imagine the excitement on their face's when they discover the last clue is tickets to:  Whale Watching in Hawaii, Wine Tasting in Italy, Swimming with sharks and rays in Bora Bora, Zip lining in Caribbean or YOU fill in the blank.  Be sure to have your video camera ready-these are priceless moments.

2. Travel Gifts. Buy a few things that pertain to your trip.  Books to build the anticipation of the destination they will be visiting soon.  Or more tangible gifts pertaining to the destination:    If you are taking them to the Caribbean or Costa Rica, some water shoes, snorkel mask,

sunscreen;  National Park passport or national geographic books of Grand Canyon, if visiting National Parks; golf tees if golf trip,  Lei if gifting Hawaii or Tahiti, Bora Bora; etc.

 

3. Gift Certificate.

 

I create gift certificates for my clients with photos of the excursions or destinations that have been booked.

 

Studies show that the twenty-something millennial generation, increasingly value experiences over material possessions.  In the age of technology and social media,  we are bombarded with information, no downtime, etc.  Millennials rate travel experiences just below life's milestones.   This may be a time that we can learn from our children . . .

 

So enough of the THINGS they outgrow or throw out.  Imagine the love and laughs increased with time away from routines exploring new areas of the world.  Time spent  getting to know and connecting on another level with your adult children on your trip to ?? . . . Great times mingling and really connecting are PRICELESS.  Oh the memories, it grows even more special over time when you recount the memories "remember the time when . . ."  So put your thinking cap on and let's find an experience that will change you/their lives.  You will thank me later! A famous quote, The Trouble is You THINK you have time,  make the most of the times you have and experience LIFE together. 

 

WARNING:  I gave John a GIFT OF EXPERIENCE about 10 years ago (Golf Trip with his buddies), and he won't accept any other gift except that one each year.  On the bright side, I don't even need to think about WHAT to get him, its a given.

I would love to hear YOUR ideas, how did you surprise your family or friends with an extraordinary experience?

 

Remember, in your life, you’ll meet two kinds of people – those who dream of going places and those that GO PLACES! Which one do you want to be?

 

Click here for more inspiration and ideas for a travel inspired life.

 

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape, packing light

                                                                                                                                                  

ITALY is, by far, the European country requested most by my clients . . . in fact, over 46 million tourist visit this amazing country every year.  They come from all over the world, for many different reasons and many will return again and again for that magic that only Italy can deliver. Italians are very kind, outgoing, family-centric and extremely patient (unless they are driving!). The Italians realize how blessed they are to be the safe keepers of some of history’s most magnificent relics and art treasures and they are happy to share them. However, there are a few things that most Italians want Americans to know before we arrive in their country. Here is “VIP Travel Experience's” list of the Top 10 ways to blend right in to Italian Culture:

1. Slow Down: You will NOT see it all!
Trust me, the reason that the 46 million tourists flock to Italy each year is because there is so much beauty to see and experience: culture, art, vineyards, food, museums and the amazing people!  A lifetime isn’t even enough time! So, slow down, take it all in, appreciate what you DO see….and then plan to return!  I had to tell myself "Enjoy every second, you will see what is meant to be seen on your first visit".  At the time, I thought surely I would never be able to return, thank goodness that wasn't true. 

2. Dress more conservatively than you do at home.
Miniskirts, short-shorts (they are for the beach!); halter tops and saggy jeans will not live up to the classic fashion taste of Italians. You don’t have to be formal and uncomfortable…just neat, put-together and a little more modest. Some Cathedrals (including the Vatican) will not let you enter if your shoulders and knees are not covered. Cover up, unless you really are spending the day on a beautiful Italian beach. And leave the stilettos at home…Cobblestone streets and high heels don’t get along very well!

3. Cappuccino and Café Lattes are morning-only drinks!
A true Italian would never dream of ordering one after late morning, or especially after a meal! If you need a caffeine pick-me-up later in the day, stop  in a coffee bar for a quick shot of espresso. Did you know that Italy is one of the only countries that doesn’t have a Starbucks? They are illegal there because the Italians are so proud of their coffee culture. Italian coffee is superior and should be enjoyed as the real Italians do…Give it a “shot”! (Pun intended!)  Sshh, don't tell but I don't drink coffee, so this bit of info is from friends. 

4. Dinner is not usually served earlier than 8:00pm!
Showing up at a restaurant before 7:30 will probably get you a view of the staff having their own pre-service meal and a totally empty dining room! Your meal will be more enjoyable in a restaurant full of happy locals and with the wait staff ready to do their thing! Most places charge a “Coperto”, or cover charge, for each table. This is NOT a ploy to take advantage of you…it is routine! It is explained as the cost of washing the linens, dishes, and providing the “free stuff” like bread (pane in Italian) or tap water. Get used to it!  

5. Simplify your schedule!
Leave time in your day to just wander around and poke your head into the real Italy. If you just get a couple of blocks away from some of the most famous tourist sites, real Italian life is in front of you. Stop to listen to a street performer (and tip!), stop into a neighborhood café for a glass of wine or a coffee or slurp a cone of gelato with the locals. Plus. If you are always trying to keep up with a tight schedule, you and your travel companions will just plain get grumpy!

6. You need to call for a taxi, or go to an actual taxi stand.
You cannot just hail a taxi off the street in Italy, and many Italian taxi drivers get their entertainment from watching tourists try to do so! As an alternative, familiarize yourself with the public transportation systems in your town. Busses, Subways, Trains and Boats are remarkably efficient and manage to get millions of Italians where they need to go every day…Why not you?

 

7. Italian is the official language of Italy!
I know this seems obvious…but some Americans go barging in to other countries expecting everyone to speak English fluently? Just learning a few common words and phrases in the local language will make a big difference in your experience. We have seen Americans screaming “DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?” at someone (they aren’t deaf…just Italian!) try “I’m sorry, but my Italian is poor…Parla l’Inglese?” (Par-la Een-glace?) Even if you find yourself in the rare circumstance with no English-speakers, Italians speak with their hands, so go back to your charade talents and you will get your point across and have a good laugh doing so!

Note:  there are apps now that demonstrate how to say words or phrases in another language, which we tried to do out of respect.  

8. Speaking of waiters in restaurants, slow service is good service!
European restaurants are drastically different than most here in America. When you take a table for a meal, it is yours for the night or as long as you want…Waiters are NOT trying to “turn tables” fast so they can make more tips. (tips are not required, but a small gratuity for good service is always welcomed)   Waiting tables is a respected profession in most of Europe and they are paid well. Italians enjoy their mealtimes and are not in a rush to dash off to a movie or other event. Dinner IS usually the event! Relax and go with the slow flow! And you must ask for the check when you are ready to leave. It is considered rude for a waiter to bring your check before you ask because he doesn’t want to rush you! Get the picture???

9. Everyone in Italy doesn’t want to kiss you!
Italians are very welcoming people, but there is a certain etiquette for reaching out and saying hello!  You will see friends, family and even acquaintances kissing each other on the cheeks and saying “Ciao” all over, however, as a stranger, that might be a little bit “overboard”. When you meet an Italian, take their lead…but a smile and a firm handshake is probably the most appropriate until you get to know them a little better. Also, Italian culture respects its elders and, if someone is introduced as Signore (Mr.) or Signora (Mrs.), it is best not to address them by their first names until they request it.

10. Smile!
You are in a country that has welcomed and inspired visitors for centuries! Enjoy the people, the beauty, the art, music & literature. You are one lucky duck…and don’t forget it! The Italians will be happy to share a smile with you and you will return home already planning your return trip in your mind! And remember…”VIP TRAVEL EXPERIENCE” specializes in custom-crafted Italian vacations! Let us help you plan your next adventure to put these newly learned skills to use! 

 

My first experience in Italy was nothing short of magical, and I would love to help you have that same experience!!!

Topics: #girlstrip, #bestvacation, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, planning the right trip, Italy, #reunion, travel concierge, travel consultant, #passportpassion, why use a travel agent, Best Vacation Value, First Time Tips to Italy, LOVEITALY, group travel, paradiseescape