VIP Travel Experience Blog | Luxury Vacation Ideas & more

London's Calling And You Should Go

December 1, 2020 at 10:54 AM

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Topics: travel tips, #girlstrip, #groupfun, #milestoneanniversary, #viptravelexperience, travel planner, different travel styles, passport passion, travel consultant, group travel, travel, experiencesnotthings

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Ireland's Iconic Must See Sights

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 5, 2020 at 12:00 AM

The dramatic Wild Atlantic Way along south west Ireland's coast and its natural beauty is highlighted again in the new Star Wars movie.

I was mesmerized a few years ago, in the final moments of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" watching Jedi master, Luke Skywalker standing on Skellig Michael Island (his hideaway planet) has inspired me to highlight this area for recent travelers. The world will see much more of this site and many other Irish breathtaking views in "The Last Jedi" as we watch Rey learn the ways of the Force from the exiled Jedi master.

While Skellig Michael may not be a hideaway planet, it will most certainly take traveler's breath away even more so as they travel the Country Kerry coast. Can you imagine the view from the Atlantic of the 714 feet UNESCO World Heritage site which served as Gaelic Christian monastic settlement from the 6th to the 8th century. If you travel between March to early October, an hour long boat tours journeys from the coastal village of Portmagee to the island, but absolutely book well in advance, demand is VERY high. Not for the faint of heart, it can be a rough ride in certain weather conditions. Once you arrive, you will need to climb hundreds of rock steps to reach the U shaped valley as shown in the movie.

Don't miss the remains of the monastery on a terrace shelf 600 feet above sea level. In tact and in remarkably good shape, it consists of six beehive huts, two oratories, a medieval church and a graveyard.

One thing you won't find on Skellig Michael are the beloved Star Wars Porgs. However, take a closer look at the large population of puffins (the birds that flock to the island from March to October, their breeding season inspired the creation of porgs). Film designers were asked to superimpose over the birds instead of digitally removing them which is how porgs were created. And they don't fear humans.

If it happens that you can't get to the actual island, filming took place all along the Wild Atlantic Way from the most northern point in Malin Head to the most southern, Brow Head, and several in between.

Are you dying to see "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" now to see the places mentioned? ANd there's more:

County Donegal: Malin's Head's cliffs near Banba's Crown were used for scenes with the Millennium Falcon.

County Clare: Loop Head with its rocky coast is featured in several pivotal scenes.

Dingle Peninsula: Sybil Head was used quite a lot, sets were constructed to appear like structures on Skellig Michael. Tip: I usually suggest travelers visit Dingle Peninsula if they are going in super busy summer time. Some locals actually believe its prettier and more authentic.

County Cork: The scenery and rock faces at Brow Head are very similar to Skellig Michael. Some filming was in abandoned mine shafts as well.

Diehard fans may be tempted to stay where "Luke Skywalker" stayed while filming, The Moorings Guesthouse and Restaurant.

Not a Star Wars fan? Can you think of other hugely popular movies with ties to the Emerald Isle? It's natural beauty, diverse landscapes from stunning cliffs to rugged coastlines, cozy villages to vibrant, bustling city centers, all of which make a lasting impression and desire to visit Ireland. There are many other movies, all featuring iconic scenes shot in Ireland that will make you want to pack your bags and hop on the next available flight. Can you guess a few?

BraveHeart (Trim Castle in County Meath),
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (Cliffs of Moher in County Clare)
P.S. I Love You (Wicklow Mountains in Counties of Wicklow, Dublin, Wexford and Carlow)
The Quiet Man (John Wayne, Ashford Castle, County Mayo & Galway )
Saving Private Ryan (Normandy Beach was shot on Curracloe Beach in County Wexford)
Game of Thrones (Northern Ireland in Winterfell in County Down, and Counties Fermanagh and Antrim)
Titanic (not filmed here, but the real Titanic took on passengers at Cobh (Queenstown then)

VIP Travel Experience can create that PRICELESS Ireland vacation along the Wild Atlantic Way and beyond. We realize that searching for the Ireland Vacation of your dreams can sometimes seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. Give us a few hints, do you love iconic movie spots, Saint Patrick, heritage or genealogy, golf, cycling, castles and kingdoms, history, Vikings, Myths & Legends, Waterford Crystal, Guinness, Jameson and we will create that dream Irish vacation that you will remember FOREVER.

Don't take the stressful route, sit back and enjoy every moment of your trip with experienced local drivers.

Local drivers do more than drive you from point a to point b. They enhance your trip with their stories and ties to their beloved country. Absolutely take their word over mine with their recommendations of good, authentic eateries and shopping spots. Be careful what you mention to them, they will move Heaven and Earth to exceed your expectations. Just ask Mr. Tom, his driver, John, saw that he was about to buy a Shillelagh (a walking stick or cane) in one of the tourist areas and he said "Don't buy here". It took several days for John to locate the genuine cane maker, but he would not give up or let Mr. Tom buy anything less than authentic. As the trip was nearing the end, John drove Mr. Tom and his family several hours out of the way to a Village of Shillelagh in County Wicklow to a family business which hand makes genuine Irish Blackthorn walking sticks. Not only did he purchase something more authentic, but he learned alot about the history of it as well.

If you're to start planning your iconic Ireland adventure, let us know. I would love to explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: travel tips, #travelwithfriends, #viptravelexperience, reasons to use a travel consultant, Anniversary Travel, ireland, luxurytravel

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Paris Is Always A Good Idea

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 4, 2020 at 9:58 PM

Who's ready for a visit to Paris? Our book club read several books last year set in PARIS and now I'm trying to figure out how to get a girls trip to Paris or a couples trip to Paris/Normandy/Beaune on my travel calendar PRONTO!! If you love books about Paris and World War II, check these out! "Paris Time Capsule" and "The House by the Lake."

WARNING: You will have an urgent desire to visit Paris soon...and when you do, here are few tips for your next vacation to Paris. Keep reading if bespoke Paris speaks to you, making a Paris trip even more MAGICAL.

Top 8 MUSTS when in Paris:

1. Visit O Chateau for the absolute BEST wine experience! They offer so many options...ranging from a single glass of wine to a Champagne Cruise on the Seine to a full day small-group tour to the Champagne region of France! www.o-chateau.com/paris-wine-tasting.

2. Stop in to the L’Orangerie museum to get “up close and personal” with Monet’s incredible Water Lilies. This small museum is easy to get in and out of, usually with no crowds, and is a fantastic way to see some of the most amazing art in France – hassle free! CLOSED TUESDAYS

3. One of the best values in the Paris art scene is the Sculpture Garden at the Rodin Museum. For only 1 Euro per person, you can wander around and view some of Rodin’s most famous works, including “The Thinker”. There is also a quaint café in the gardens if you want to enjoy a coffee or glass of wine with your culture! CLOSED MONDAYS

4. Be sure to save a few hours to spend on the incredibly charming market street, Rue Cler (in the 7 th arr). This area is a favorite of travelers and you can find just about anything you might want to eat, drink, smell, see, hear or buy! If you are “munchy” try a freshly made crepe from the stand outside Ulysses restaurant...can't think of a better way to start your day with one every day (ha ha )! CLOSED MONDAYS

5. Buy the “fixings” for a great picnic at one of the many markets and eat “al fresco” for lunch! Where else can you enjoy such wonderful food in the shadows of the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame cathedral? A small bottle of slightly chilled French rose wine to share completes the experience!

6. It is hard to go too wrong with Parisian cafes and restaurants....look for places with locals who seem to be enjoying themselves....avoid the ones with big “WE SPEAK ENGLISH” signs and “TOURIST MENUS” advertised out front. Most all have English-translated menus if you ask. Remember that Parisian waiters are paid well...not like here in the US! Slow service is good service...you are basically in no rush...the meal IS the entertainment. (Unlike here where we grab a quick bite before a movie). You must ask politely for the check when you are ready to leave...a waiter will never bring your check spontaneously because they don’t want to seem to rush you...it is considered rude! Relax and enjoy the experience!

7. I know the Eiffel Tower is a “must” for many people, but there is really no reason to go all the way up to the top. The view is actually better from the 1st and 2nd levels since Paris is so flat. Reservations can (and should) be made at www.tour-eiffel.fr. On the 1st level, there is a nice restaurant for lunch and you can walk around the perimeter that is marked with signs explaining what you are viewing – and if you have a reservation for the restaurant, you can bypass the massive line for the elevator. It is a great way to get the layout of the whole city without the crushing crowds at the top.

8. The Louvre is one of those museums that irritates the fire out of many! It is absolutely HUGE, hot and crowded...but everyone feels like they need to go. You don’t, unless you are a serious artist or art-history buff. If you really are into art, be sure to purchase a Museum Pass that will act as your ticket to most of the major museums in Paris....AND the card lets you bypass most of the lines! CLOSED TUESDAYS

Since it is the mission of VIP Travel Experience to take you BEYOND the highlights for bespoke or unique EXPERIENCES, here are some of my favorite things to plan for my clients:

- Eating a fabulous Michelin starred 5 course dinner in the Eiffel tower with wine pairings.
- A private, personalized excursion with a local tour guide to take you to the most interesting sites of D-Day and Normandy Beaches to discover the battlefields you've always to see, or some you may not have heard of.
- An unforgettable, simply magical night at Mont Saint Michel.
- France has another city, Lyon. I dare you to go without a list of recommended eateries. There are literally hundreds of precious little cafes and restaurants in France's culinary /gastronomical capital, and it's also home to an amazing lights festival.
- Private driver through gorgeous Burgundy countryside to get to charming Beaune. You will absolutely LOVE it and feel like you stepped back in time.

So depending on how much time you have and how far you want to stray from Paris, don't miss out on the many little hidden gems of France.

If you're to start planning your iconic Ireland adventure, let us know. I would love to explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: travel tips, #travelwithfriends, #girlstrip, #viptravelexperience, reasons to use a travel consultant, Paris is Always a Good Idea, Anniversary Travel, luxurytravel

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A First Timer's Guide To Italy

Posted by Tammy Murphy

November 3, 2020 at 9:46 PM

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're 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!

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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 localsand 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?

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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!!! If you're to start planning your first trip to Italy, let us know. I would love the explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.

Topics: travel tips, romantic getaway, #travelwithfriends, #milestoneanniversary, #viptravelexperience, Italy, reasons to use a travel consultant, #RiverCruise, LOVEITALY, Anniversary Travel, luxurytravel

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What's On Your Wanderlist?

Posted by Tammy Murphy

September 24, 2020 at 8:45 AM

If you have travel dreams then you should have travel plans!

While travel to some countries is currently in an unknown territory, we don’t want to push aside dreams of embarking on a trip -- in fact now is one of the best times to start considering your travel goals. Currently many of us plan our vacations in our free time. What if we PLANNED TO LIVE just like we PLAN TO RETIRE. Of all of your life priorities, leisure time is one asset you can't earn back. Let’s face it, if we don’t plan for it 9 times out of 10 it won’t happen. And before we know it another incredible travel opportunity has slipped through our fingers. Perhaps you’re not ready to travel just yet. We get it, you should travel when you feel it's right for you. But for today, let's talk about your travel plans in the next 5 years. A milestone event need celebrating?

That’s why we are proud to be one of Virtuoso’s certified Wanderlist Advisors. What’s Wanderlist? Wanderlist provides you with a customizable travel portfolio that is used to prioritize the most ideal vacations for you + your travel companions while also mapping out your future travel possibilities.

It pays strong dividends to collaborate with us, your seasoned advisors, to maximize your most precious non-renewable asset - YOUR TIME!

How It Works...

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CURATE:	EXPLORE:	PLAN:
Your Wanderlist journey begins with each traveler ranking their interests, & travel dreams by using an online tool to organize everything all in one place.	A personalized travel portal (& app) for you to easily explore the places and specific experiences you long for tailored to all travelers interests.	We’ll work together to create a plan for you & all companions future travel possibilities based on your travel portfolio.

Wanderlist builds on the model of financial advising and blending the popularity of the bucket list. A travel portfolio will help save you time and money, as well as prioritize what matters most to you - a clear path to fulfilling your dreams of seeing the world. Wanderlist makes it easy to start living out your travel dreams.

We're here to help you plan a lifetime of extraordinary trips. The world is waiting and we want to be the one to hold your hand to curate the journeys that begin with YOUR dream destinations.

Inspired to see the world?

Schedule your call to learn more about how Wanderlist can change the way you plan travel.

Life is short (2)

Together we can create the best vacation experience for YOU. It's a big world out there -- we hope you EXPERIENCE it.

justin@viptravelexperience.com or tammy@viptravelexperience.com

Topics: travel tips, luxurytravel

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Best Greek Island Destinations

Posted by Tammy Murphy

September 23, 2020 at 9:30 AM

Beautiful view from the island of Santorini

Greece has always been an idyllic Mediterranean vacation destination. With over 200 inhabited Greek islands to experience, each holding their own beauty with turquoise waters, incredible sunsets - it can be hard to choose which ones you want to consider "must sees" when thinking about where you want to visit. This is where I come in, we can chat about your preferences and dreams and together we can choose which islands are the best fit for you based on experiences you enjoy, level of luxury you enjoy and best time for crowds and weather.

#1. Milos

Located in the Aegean Sea, Milos is home to the best beaches in Greece. With a beautiful volcano, this island is rich in minerals as well as history. With white-washed Cycladic villages and black sands this island is nothing but picturesque. With some beaches only accessible by boat, there are over 80 mini beaches to explore. Our top favorite include Firopotamos, Kastanas and Paliorema.

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#2: Folegandros

What we consider to be the best Greek Island for an intimate couples getaway, Folegandros is an untouched piece of true, pure Greece with a relaxing, serene atmosphere. Not having the crowded streets from tourists you'll be whisked away to a lovers paradise with a broad selection of restaurants and cafes, open landscapes and beautiful clifftop housing.

#12 Greek olives fun facts

#3: Crete

Rich with archaeological & mythological history, Crete reflects so much history in its ancient ruins and cultural attractions. Soak up the charming atmosphere of Chania Town’s Old Venetian Harbor or check out the majestic Mt. Ida, which is said to be home to the cave where Zeus was born. Cretan cuisine is some of the best of the Greek islands and focuses on all-natural ingredients and can be enjoyed at any local tavern throughout the islands. Some dishes include Dakos, Gamopilafo, Mizithropita and Apaki.

#4. Paros

With gusty winds that can be seen from a mile away Paros is best known for great kiteboarding and windsurfing sport goers. Santa Maria, Prassonisi, and Pounda are the main beaches where the sport is practiced. The Thalasea Sports Center is the bay of Mikli Vigla and is a popular hub for the sport.

#5. Santorini
Crescent shaped beyond beautiful, Santorini is the precious gem of the Aegean, is actually a group of islands. The whole complex of islands is still an active volcano and probably the only volcano in the world whose crater is in the sea. Venture into the seaside treasures and dive into the deep blue waters with beaches filled with beautiful white, red or black sand or volcanic pebbles, spectacular rock formations and impressive lunar landscapes. This island is one filled with lots of spectacular views, culinary paradise, and perfect for a romance getaway.

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justin@viptravelexperience.com or tammy@viptravelexperience.com

Topics: travel tips, luxurytravel

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How Travel Ready Are You?

Posted by Tammy Murphy

September 1, 2020 at 10:25 AM

Starting the Countdown for travel produces more endorphins in anticipation than actually arriving in destination (well sometimes!). More to that point - I have been a very busy bee and I can tell you I have been experiencing some endorphin overload especially after a full week of seeing new properties and new experiences for future travels. Typically this time each year we travel to Las Vegas to attend Virtuoso Travel Week. Virtuoso is an invite-only luxury travel consortia. Being part of this consortia has incredible perks for our clients. We meet one on one with hand picked representatives from boutique hotels, luxury cruise lines and on the ground partners from many countries around the world.

It is always a treat to meet new friends and nourish the old, attend continuing education programs and socialized with many partners over cocktails, dinner with partner friends and also other travel advisors. As with all things 2020, we pivoted and I attended one to one meetings via video format with 130 individual partners. Of course, NOT meeting our friends in person was a drag, but there were many, many positives. I was able to be completed zoned in and sometimes the background of the meeting was in destination so I was able to see the view from hotels in Spain, France, Italy, etc. At a time when we cannot travel to Europe, brainstorming and seeking new accommodations and experiences was beyond exciting!!!! Building my knowledge and professional relationships with friends around the globe makes me better prepared to choose which of the many options is the best fit for you, your family and your travel preferences. It's always nice to say "I have a VIP Client I'm sending, please look out for them.

lonely-planet-h_lvEhh25ro-unsplash After each of my clients return from their trip that we've planned I send an email asking what's on their radar for the future. And here's why I ask - I have a notebook of who wants to go where and having planned their past trips, I know what kind of experience and accommodation they are looking for and I choose my meetings based on this. So before we actually start the detailed planning, I've kept each of their destinations on MY RADAR for a year sometimes.

Many of my clients have already reached out, but for anyone that I haven't spoken with, I would love to know how you are feeling about travel for 2021?. We've received phone calls, "Where can you send me, I gotta get out of here?" and some that say, "let's start planning 2021." And I'm sure many of you can relate, or may fall somewhere in the middle. Whether you want to plan for future travel or just dream for now, it's all OK, we want you to feel comfortable and we would love to know HOW YOU FEEL!

And as we continue to navigate this temporary travel landscape, we are checking on and staying in touch with our travel partners and tourism boards for the most relevant information. While many countries in the Caribbean are opening borders to the US, many European countries are not opening borders to US citizens at the moment. Some tourism boards have said that countries will need to flatten curve for a minimum of 60 days before possibly lifting the ban.

I would love to get your thoughts on a couple questions to help us get a better idea of how you are feeling about your future travels - we would be so grateful to hear your feedback. Just click the link below to answer our quick 2 question anonymous survey to help us better provide you with the best information.

justin@viptravelexperience.com or tammy@viptravelexperience.com

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Topics: travel tips, luxurytravel

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Do I Stay or Do I Go?

Posted by Tammy Murphy

August 13, 2020 at 3:00 PM

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"Let's getaway" Are you hearing that little voice in your head?? It sure was for me the last few months. While I try to stay FOCUSED FORWARD and not dwell on my trip dates that passed with me staring at my computer screen or sitting hours on hold...IT WAS TIME for me (maybe you've seen the meme of the girl putting her luggage on the nordic track-yep, that's me about now- how about you??)

Getting creative, my amazing husband and MY travel advisor, John Murphy, designed the perfect weekend getaway a few weeks ago complete with my favorite private driver of all time. We took several day trips in a convertible with cool lunch stops in Bay St. Louis, Ocean Springs and Madisonville. Not quite the Italy or Greece trips I had planned, but it was WONDERFUL for where we are right now.

I bet you can do the same wherever you are located, take a road trip within a couple hours of your home until you are ready to venture to the skies.

I am so very happy to share about some clients that were REALLY ABLE TO GO...OFF TO PARADISE ... a precious honeymoon couple kept their travel plans to ANTIGUA (correction-when their original honeymoon to Jamaica was cancelled 2 weeks before travel, they were heartbroken and still wanted to get away, so we were able to revise their honeymoon destination to Antigua since its borders were open. After receiving all of their texts and facebook posts, we can't really imagine the honeymoon in Jamaica because Antigua turned out to be just PERFECT. I was in contact with from the moment they left home until arriving back home. They had nothing but wonderful, positive, thankful texts (including the travel days). I was so very happy for them!!

Can you EVEN IMAGINE how wonderful your first getaway will be? It will be completely incredible BUT please read my article below about some travelers we read about and how to help make sure this doesn't happen to you.

WHY USING A TRAVEL ADVISOR IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT POST COVID . . .

Everyone is asking....Do I stay or do I go? Some countries are opening (the Caribbean) some flights are flying, yet other countries are not lifting the travel ban on the US. There are conflicting headlines, news stories, articles and sources. The short answer is it purely a personal decision that only you can make.

IF YOU DO decide the time is right for you, let's be sure you have all the facts (as we know them today). Please hire a travel advisor. We are getting updates and following it minute by minute from trusted sources.

An example, the headline may read "Caribbean borders are open", before you pick up the mouse, please consult your travel advisor ...there are different opening dates, many different restrictions and some hoops that must be jumped through prior. One example below:

Antigua, Mexico and Jamaica just opened its borders to international travelers. So WHY were there 30 people stranded at the Miami airport, denied boarding onto their ticketed flight to Montego Bay on June 16? Because they did not know that there is a new Travel Authorization Form, a medical clearance that must be applied for online prior to travel, that is collected by the airport staff BEFORE you can get on any plane bound for Jamaica.

Why did I include that depressing story? Because I care about you and your travel dollars and that of your friends as well. I would say that it is MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER as travel begins to reopen around the world in our post-COVID world. In today's times, it's just too risky to DIY your travel. A travel advisor would have informed those travelers of the new restrictions and given the link to apply for and print the new Authorization form well before departure.

It's simply what we do!

As we all start to navigate the new travel climate:

1. Just because you CAN doesn't mean that you SHOULD. We have the resources to stay up to date on ever-changing entry and quarantine requirements from every destination. Policies are literally changing moment-by-moment and it is important to know the risks of finding yourself in an unexpected quarantine situation. Also, just because a resort or island is "open", what is the actual experience going to be like? Are masks required? Are all the facilities and amenities open? Will the kid's club and waterparks be operational? Without buffets, what are the food and beverage options? We can get that info for you to avoid expensive disappointments!

2. We have intel to stay current on which travel partners are trustworthy and fiscally sound. We certainly can't guarantee there won't be any surprises, but we have connections that keep us informed and are there for us when needed. Most importantly, you won't face it alone.

3. We are part of a MUCH larger network of advisors, so we hear about which resorts, airlines and destinations are going above and beyond to adapt post-COVID wellness policies to protect your health and well-being. And which ones are NOT. We want you to feel safe and secure wherever you may travel.

4. We do have some ultra luxe LUXURY connections and private drivers scattered across the USA until the borders are open to us to fly across the pond! There are some totally mind-blowingly beautiful destinations and resorts right here in our own country.

I'm definitely not saying don't fly to wherever you want and feel ready to go. I'm simply saying, let's make sure you have all the facts so that it is the travel experience you've been dreaming of. We would LOVE to help you get out of your house and live again - safely and when you are ready, we will be here.

5. As you've come to count on us in the past, we are available to you before, during and after your travels...kind of like a personal backup system! If you run into any hiccups or need reassurance while away from home, we are your first call!! Delayed/Cancelled flights? Text us while you wait in line with the airline and we can try to get you rebooked before you even reach the desk. Is your "ocean view" suite actually overlooking some construction? Let us work out a relocation with the front desk if they don't respond to your request. Don't risk your hard earned travel dollars and PTO to a mouse and computer screen. A travel advisor is always your best advocate because they truly CARE!!

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Keep dreaming!

When you are ready to take your dreams to reality, we are here for you!

justin@viptravelexperience.com or tammy@viptravelexperience.com

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Topics: travel tips, luxurytravel

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Organizing and Reminiscing: Past Travels inspires Future Travel

Posted by Tammy Murphy

July 29, 2020 at 4:10 PM

Organizing and Reminiscing Past Travels inspires Future Travel

If my house were on fire and my family was safe, the first things I would grab are my photos, scrapbooks, laptop and hard drive. Would you agree? Although special, the rest of the things can be replaced . . . Murano glass gondola or Amalfi Coast painting on the wall, clothes, shoes, etc. We have all heard about the awful times of people losing photos from fire, flood, stolen or crashed computers, etc. Let's talk about organizing your vacation photos so you can reminisce and get excited about past memories and future travels. So now can we agree , PHOTOS ARE THE BEST SOUVENIR.

So how do you rescue the photos from your phone or the cloud and into photo books, scrapbooks or your favorite mode of viewing? I think I heard some of you say hire someone (just kidding).

...That time we celebrated our anniversary in Venice, I get chills every time I see this photo. I can almost hear the musician passionately serenading us through the quiet and quaint alleys of Venice. It was nothing short of magical and I purchased a murano glass gondola to remember the moment, but once we returned and reviewed photos . . . this photo evoked more emotion than the glass did and I keep returning.

In my past Photo Organization Classes, it seemed much easier to organize printed photos. Digital photo organization can be very overwhelming, but with an action plan that fits your needs, you could soon be showcasing your photos and inspiring your family for future travel. You can adopt the same action plan you used for printed photos for digital photos. Here are a few steps to guide you through the process.

Gather
Sort
Store
Showcase

1. Gather

One method I used for gathering my travel photos was creating a few folders in Shutterfly: France, Italy, Ireland, Barbados, Exuma, etc. I moved all photos from my phone and computer to these folders in Shutterfly and shared the login with my family so that they could upload their photos as well. Then as time allows, I begin creating a few pages at a time until I'm ready to print the digital photo book highlighting my favorite travel photos.

It occurred to me that I skipped a step in my organization. With printed photos, I had used a Photo Box with divisions by years, then subdivided to months to consolidate and sort my photos. The digital answer is to create a folder on your desktop named "To Be Organized or Scrapbooked" to gather them all into one place, then subdivide by year. Then create subfolders by months or location. I recommend choosing a program or app to assist in gathering your travel photos from all of your devices and you may even want to scan printed photos to add to your digital file. Here are just a few examples: Google Photos, MacPhotos with photo duplicates cleaner or PhotoSync are some examples. If you want more details, here are two links that may be helpful: Tom's Guide or Organizing your Digital Photo Collection. Going forward, I plan to use an app called PhotoSync to consolidate all of my travel photos to "take the pain out of moving your photos", I also like the idea that it will eliminate duplicate files. I would love to hear if you have a tool that you love for gathering across multiple devices and sorting by theme or year.

2. Sort

Next, sort your travel photos by time and location. This is where a program or app is handy sorting by people, places or dates. A couple suggestions are Magix Photo Manager, Photo Organizer by Systweak, Google Photos or Adobe Bridge. Based on this blog, Adobe Bridge is the best value.

3. Store

This is something you will want to carefully consider prior to choosing the tools above. Remember, free always comes with a few compromises. Consider security, photo compression for cloud services or an external hard drive. Some people suggest both. Some examples are Carbonite, Google Drive, and DropBox. For more details, you may want to read Consumer Reports Guide.

4. Showcase

My favorite part about organizing my photos is my ability to create a digital photo book for myself and traveling companions so we can relive these wonderful travel memories. As mentioned above, it's a sure way to get my husband inspired to start planning our next travel adventure.

I hope you are inspired to organize your travel photos, print a photo book and share these memories with your family and friends.

When you are inspired to plan your next adventure, we are here for you.

When you are ready to take your dreams to reality, we are here for you justin@viptravelexperience.com or tammy@viptravelexperience.com

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Topics: travel tips, luxurytravel

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Organizing and Reminiscing: Past Travels inspires Future Travel

When you are ready to take your dreams to reality, we are here for you justin@viptravelexperience.com or tammy@viptravelexperience.com

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