Travel heightens the experiences life gives us. It caters to the unique interests of each discerning wanderer. Taking ideal journeys for food and wine lovers, history buffs, families, the culturally curious and anyone who dreams of exploring this great wide world we live in.

 

Each personality of traveler is different in what is the priority for the trip and it's our job as a Travel Expert to figure out what type of traveler YOU are and customize your vacation to be exactly what you have dreamed and hoped it would be. There are many different personalities for travelers and none are mutually exclusive. Below are just a few examples of travel personalities, which personality can you relate to best?

 

Foodie:  They seem to enjoy the culture and culinary experience from many different destinations and may be more interested in wine tastings, and authentic cooking classes over the typical sights and landmarks.

 

Escape Artists:  For those choosing to escape for the holidays or escaping with the whole family and make it just a little more special, like Christmas in the Swiss Alps. These clients would probably prefer something cozy and more intimate to enjoy the company they're with as well as the scenery surrounding them. This client wants experiences to last a life time and add a little something extra to the festivities. Some activities may include dining or cooking class in home of local chef or in clients private villa renal, as opposed to cooking school.

 

All adventurers are not alike!

Active adventurer:  Testing their limits is what this traveler is all about. Clients that want action and adventure are usually going to want more secluded destinations that have kayaking, rock climbing, zip lining, hot air ballooning.  Anything to get that adrenaline flowing.  Yet the wanderer can be anywhere enjoying the exploration and immersing themselves in the culture maybe taking leisurely hikes or what about biking through wine country.

 

HISTORY BUFFS:  These clients love history, museums, and the arts. The client will be more prone to traveling to older, historically rich destinations. The want to see and hear about everything. They thirst for knowledge and are anxiously observing all the sights and sounds around them. Gearing the vacation to landmarks and museums, or maybe even the occasional castle.  These clients may enjoy after-hours tour of museums and other tours along these lines.

 

• 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, Paris is Always a Good Idea

Ahhh....the images we have in our head of the stuffy, usually British, Butler – almost always named Jeeves! But let’s be honest...most of us have no real reference other than a few TV sitcoms like “Benson”, “Family Affair” and “The Fresh Prince of Belair”. Or maybe “Downton Abbey”. In the real world, Butler Service is becoming a much sought-after perk at many All-Inclusive resorts and on some Cruises.

 

It sounds romantic having someone at your beck-and-call ready to serve you champagne and run your rose petal bath, but most travelers feel a little awkward at first knowing just what services a Butler can (and won’t) provide. And, is it really worth the extra cost? Only YOU can decide that. Most people travel to get away from the routines of daily life and Butler service can help you feel like a King or Queen for a week. Maybe it’s a special occasion like a Honeymoon or a Milestone Anniversary or Birthday. Or maybe – just maybe – you decide that you are just WORTH IT. Whatever your reason, Butler Service can make a huge difference in the quality of your vacation.

 

So what can a Butler add to your vacation? There are the obvious perks, like unpacking and packing your suitcase, making dinner and entertainment reservations, and making sure that you have your coffee delivered hot and fresh at a set time in the morning. But, I wanted to dig deeper...so I asked some of my fellow travel professionals to share their stories of some of the most wonderful examples of Butler service from their own clients’ vacations (or their own). Here are some of the replies: 

 

 

"I had a couple who didn’t really know how to utilize their Butler until one day when they were leaving the resort to explore nearby beaches and the Butler asked if he could pack them a picnic lunch and some cold beers in a cooler to take with them. They would never have thought of that and it made their afternoon even more perfect”

• ”I came off the plane and then onto the resort property REALLY sick! My Butler didn’t leave my side and had special soup made for me. He then had the Spa bring in hot towels with these amazing smelling hot essential oils. Finally, he went and made up a natural eucalyptus treatment and rubbed my feet and hands (wrapped with HOT HOT HOT towels). I was amazingly CURED in 2 hours...no joke! Now, I never ever leave my special "potion lotion" bottle at home when I travel!” 

• "Having a Butler was the best thing for us as a family. When my husband and I went to a rare adult-only dinner, the Butler took the kids out to dinner, rode them around in the golf cart, played ping pong with them, etc. They loved our Butlers by the end of the week. A great perk for families!!!” 

• ”She walked us to dinner every night and made sure I had my favorite martini ready and waiting. She also reserved our spot at the beach and pool and had cold water in a cooler waiting. She also came over to us at the beach during lunch and took our order and brought us lunch. I can come up with many more"

• "I was surprising my husband with a new putter and the Butler wrapped it and had it waiting with breakfast on his birthday, along with reservations to play golf. He also whisked us to our reserved table at restaurants during the week while others waited in lines or with beepers." 
• "I had some clients at Sandals Royal Caribbean recently and they had their Butler take over a cooler full of water and booze to the private island every day and set them up with chairs and an umbrella. They would also have a bottle of chilled Champagne and pre-dinner munchies waiting on their balcony each day at a certain time."

So, what do you think? Is a Butler in your future? What a great gift to each other to enhance a special vacation, right? I always offer to upgrade clients to Butler rooms, because if I don’t, and then they get there and see what they could have had...they will be coming after me! Most clients who do splurge return from their adventure very pleased that they upgraded because of the enhanced experience. Just relax...and let the Butler do it!

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

                                                                                                                                              

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