Supporting My Clients Through Hurricane Melissa
When Hurricane Melissa barreled through the Caribbean—one of the strongest storms the region has seen—some of my clients were unexpectedly stranded in Jamaica. The storm caused airport closures, flight cancellations, and days of uncertainty.
In moments like this, travel advisors and travelers share one essential skill: patience.

Airline Decisions Rule Everything During a Storm
When airports shut down, every traveler is at the mercy of the airline. No advisor—not even the resort—can override:

• Closed runways
• Cancelled flights
• Limited aircraft availability
• Rescheduled flights that get cancelled again

Airlines control the seats. Airports control access. Advisors work within those boundaries.
This is why listening to your travel agent’s guidance matters. We know how the system works, what options are realistic, and when it’s time to wait versus act quickly.

What I Did for My Clients During the Shutdown
Even though I couldn’t reopen an airport or force an airline to fly, I could do what matters most in a crisis: stay close, stay informed, and stay available.
I checked in with my clients:

• Every single day
• Often many times a day

I made sure they knew:

• What the airlines were doing
• When flights might resume
• What options would open next

But I also wanted to know how they were doing.
I asked:

• Are you safe?
• Is the resort taking care of you?
• Are they communicating updates?
• Do you have everything you need?

Travel isn’t just logistics—it’s people. And when my clients are far from home, they deserve to feel supported, not forgotten.
Why Booking With AND Trusting Your Travel Advisor Matters
During a hurricane (or any other major disaster), information online spreads fast—and not always accurately. Having a travel advisor means having someone who:

• Filters real updates from rumors
• Understands how airlines respond to weather events
• Knows what actions help and what actions cause more delays
• Advocates for you the moment new seats open

My clients stayed safe, fully informed, and rebooked as soon as flights resumed.
Travel Is Unpredictable—But You’re Never Alone
Weather happens. Delays happen. But when they do, having a travel advisor in your corner makes all the difference.
Hurricane Melissa was a powerful reminder of why personal service matters. My clients had support, answers, and someone watching out for them every single day—because that’s what I do!

Imagine becoming a travel host—where you get to lead unforgettable journeys and travel for free! As a travel host, you'll bring together friends, family, or community groups to explore incredible destinations while enjoying the perks of complimentary travel. It’s a win win: you create amazing experiences for your group, and in return, you can earn free trips and exclusive benefits.

Hosting isn’t about being a travel advisor or selling trips; it’s about sharing your passion for adventure and connecting with fellow travelers. It's about working with a Travel Advisor to get your group together and lead you along the way!

Some popular community group ideas that make perfect travel hosts include:

  Golf groups hitting famous courses worldwide 🏌️‍♂️
  Yoga and wellness retreats for mind and body rejuvenation 🧘‍♀️
  Book clubs exploring literary destinations 📚
  Culinary groups tasting local flavors and participating in cooking classes 🍴
  Photography clubs capturing stunning landscapes 📸
  Dance troupes experiencing cultural festivals 💃

Becoming a travel host is a rewarding way to combine your love for travel with your favorite activities and communities—plus, who doesn’t love free trips?

California’s wine country is world famous, but when you’re choosing where to explore, it can be tricky deciding between Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and Santa Rosa. Each destination offers incredible wines and stunning scenery, yet each provides a uniquely different experience. Let’s dive into what makes each special to help you find the perfect fit.
 
Santa Rosa & Sonoma – The Heart of Authentic Wine Country

Santa Rosa sits in the heart of Sonoma County, which is celebrated for its relaxed, genuine atmosphere. Sonoma County as a whole offers a broad range of wineries—from small family owned estates to larger vineyards—many focusing on innovative techniques and sustainable practices.

The vibe here is down to earth and inviting. Think cozy tasting rooms, picturesque vineyards surrounded by redwoods, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Sonoma is also known for its farm to table dining scene, pairing beautifully with local wines.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate Sonoma’s mix of wine tasting and adventures like hiking, biking, and river rafting. Plus, accommodations and dining tend to be more budget friendly compared to Napa, making it a great option for travelers seeking value with great quality.
 

Napa Valley – The Glamorous Wine Lover’s Playground

Napa Valley is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and classic wine prestige. The valley is home to world renowned wineries, Michelin starred restaurants, lavish resorts, and spas. The tasting experiences here are typically upscale, with iconic estates offering expertly curated tours and tastings.
 
It’s a great pick for travelers wanting a high end, polished wine getaway. Napa tends to be busier, especially during peak seasons and weekends, so advance planning is recommended to make the most of your visit.
 

Which Should You Choose?

If you’re after a laidback, authentic, and adventurous wine country trip with diverse experiences, Santa Rosa and the greater Sonoma County have your name on them. If luxury, refined dining, and iconic vineyards are what you seek, Napa Valley delivers the ultimate indulgence.
Of course, a blended itinerary is also a fantastic option—sampling Sonoma’s heartwarming charm alongside Napa’s sophistication makes for a truly memorable wine country adventure.
 
Blue Water Travel can help you craft the perfect personalized itinerary that fits your tastes and travel style.

Ready to sip and savor your next wine country journey? Let’s start planning today!

We were honored to partner with ALGVacations and Amstar on our first Voluntourism Trip!! 

Tuesday, April 8 went to Asociación Microtia Quintana Roo. This is a school for children with hearing disabilities. We were able to donate enough money for their hearing aid needs, uniforms and get water to their upstairs! This school costs $100-150 per month for the children and a lot of the families cannot afford it much less the hearing aids for their children.

Wednesday we took the money we raised and went shopping for our Wednesday visit. We went back to the resort and got all our shopping items and donations the agents had brought from the US and organized them!

Thursday we visited Vifac which is an organization that probides housing and resources for pregnant women in need and their children as well. They provide a home for those that need it and resources for anyone that needs. Beyond our tons of donations, we also took their yard and turned it into a fun, safe place for the moms and kids! The little kids watched us work all day and just waited for it to be done so they could play. Seeing the joy on their faces filled our hearts!!

​This truly was an amazing trip and we don’t plan to stop here!!

​www.travelpulse.com/news/impacting-travel/tsa-issues-final-rule-for-real-id-enforcement?fbclid=IwY2xjawH0n-NleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHZkrxBg5JFG5UTpp-_Ww9a-QP7_xH6kj0qiW5XJhccImBMpxxodn_RpnJg_aem_7JNv0YDwDV5ut71h1BlO-A

Here are some charts showing you the differences in the luxury cruise lines and the deluxe cruise lines.  

A perfect day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, offers an incredible mix of relaxation and adventure. Here are 5 must-do activities to make the most of your visit:
​
1. Thrill Waterpark

• Home to North America’s tallest waterslide, Daredevil’s Peak (135 feet).
• Enjoy wave pools, splash zones, and a variety of other waterslides.
• Perfect for adrenaline junkies and families alike.

2. Chill Island

• For a serene escape, head to Chill Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches with soft sands and calm waters.
• Rent a cabana or a beach lounger for the ultimate luxury experience.
• Snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life.

3. Up, Up, and Away Helium Balloon

• Take a ride in a helium balloon to soar 450 feet above the island for breathtaking panoramic views.
• Capture stunning aerial photos of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

4. Oasis Lagoon

• Lounge at the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool.
• Swim up to the bar for a tropical cocktail or enjoy the submerged loungers.
• Ideal for socializing or relaxing in a shaded cabana.

5. Coco Beach Club

• Upgrade your experience with exclusive access to an infinity pool, private beach, and upscale dining.
• Indulge in the island’s signature overwater cabanas for a luxurious, secluded retreat.
• Savor premium dishes like lobster and filet mignon.

And for those wanting Adult Time - be sure to go to Hideaway Beach!! 

I just got back from my trip to South America.  I flew into Rio and stayed one night, we boarded the Atlas World Navigator ship and cruised South hitting Brazil ports and Uruguay.  Once in Montevideo we spent one night there before heading to Lima for two nights.  Unfortunately we didn't plan this trip in enough advance to get Machu Picchu tickets.  I'd love to help you plan your trip! 

​South America is a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. From the Amazon’s dense jungles to the awe-inspiring Andes and the charm of coastal cities, this continent offers experiences to excite any traveler. If Brazil, Peru, and Uruguay are on your radar, here are a few tips to start the adventure!  

Brazil

• Ilhabela: Start with a beach paradise near São Paulo. Ilhabela, a beautiful archipelago, is known for its stunning beaches and lush hiking trails. It’s perfect for water activities like snorkeling, diving, or just unwinding by the ocean.
• Rio de Janeiro: Rio’s vibrant atmosphere and iconic sites are a must. Visit Christ the Redeemer, relax on Copacabana Beach, and take a cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain for sweeping views of the city.
• Amazon Rainforest: For adventure lovers, consider a trip to Manaus and explore the Amazon. Jungle lodges offer immersive experiences, with guided hikes, canoe trips, and opportunities to see unique wildlife.

Local Experiences:

• Samba and Bossa Nova: Experience Brazilian music and dance in a local club or samba school, especially if you’re visiting during Carnival season.
• Culinary Tour: Discover Brazil’s diverse flavors, from feijoada to pão de queijo, and try tropical fruits like açaí and cupuaçu.

Peru

• Cusco & Machu Picchu: The ancient Incan city of Cusco is a gateway to Machu Picchu. Spend a day or two acclimating and exploring the charming streets of Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu. Book tickets in advance for either the classic or panoramic route to this world-famous archaeological site.
• Sacred Valley: This valley offers beautiful Andean landscapes, Incan ruins, and local markets. Consider a guided tour that takes you through towns like Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
• Lima: Peru’s capital, Lima, is a haven for foodies. Known for its fusion cuisine, especially ceviche, Lima is the place to experience top-tier dining and rich cultural history.

Local Experiences:

• Andean Market Visits: Interact with local artisans and farmers at markets in Pisac and Cusco, where you can buy traditional textiles and crafts.
• Food and Pisco Tasting: Dive into Peru’s culinary scene with a guided food tour. Try Peruvian staples like lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and of course, the country’s iconic cocktail, the pisco sour.

Uruguay

• Montevideo: Uruguay’s laid-back capital has historic architecture, bustling markets, and beaches. Take a stroll down the Rambla, visit Mercado del Puerto for a local lunch, and explore the old town’s charming streets.
• Punta del Este: Known for its luxury resorts and beaches, Punta del Este is a beautiful escape with lively nightlife, art galleries, and ocean views.
• Colonia del Sacramento: This UNESCO World Heritage town is perfect for a day trip. With cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and views across the Río de la Plata, it’s a charming place to explore.

Local Experiences:

• Tango Dancing: While tango originated in Argentina, Montevideo has its own unique tango culture. Try a tango class or visit a milonga (dance hall).
• Uruguayan Wine Tasting: Uruguay is known for its tannat wine. Many wineries near Montevideo and Punta del Este offer tastings and tours.

The hurricane season has been very active this year. This has me thinking about all the ways we as Travel Advisors help our clients during this stressful time.  I personally had a conference last week in Florida.  I spent one day changing everything to arrive one day early to beat the storm only to find out that afternoon that it was cancelled.  I had to then go back and make sure everything was cancelled without any fees!  

I definitely stress to clients the need for travel insurance no matter what, but especially during hurricane season!!  Here are the top 5 reasons you should ALWAYS use a Travel Advisor, but specifically how we help you during a hurricane! 

Why You Should Book with a Travel Advisor During a Hurricane:

1. Proactive Travel Monitoring
   
   • As your travel advisor, we closely monitor weather patterns and hurricane developments, ensuring you’re always informed of any potential disruptions. We stay on top of real-time updates, so you don’t have to worry about last-minute surprises.
2. Expert Knowledge of Airline and Hotel Policies
   
   • We know the ins and outs of airline, hotel, and cruise policies during weather emergencies. Whether it’s securing fee waivers, rebooking flights, or adjusting hotel stays, we handle all the fine print for you, ensuring that your travel plans are modified without stress or unnecessary costs.
3. Seamless Travel Insurance Coordination
   
   • We ensure you’re covered with the right travel insurance, providing peace of mind. From cancellations to interruptions and delays, we work with you to select comprehensive policies that cover natural disasters like hurricanes, and in case of an emergency, we’re your first line of support to file claims.
4. Handling Delays, Cancellations, and Evacuations
   
   • If your travel plans are disrupted by a hurricane, we are here to quickly and efficiently rebook your flights, extend hotel stays, or arrange alternative accommodations. In case of an evacuation, we assist with relocation logistics, so you can focus on staying safe, while we take care of the details.
5. 24/7 Support and Local Connections
   
   • During a crisis, access to a reliable advisor can make all the difference. We provide 24/7 support, and with our local connections and industry partnerships, we can get you the help you need faster. Whether it’s changing plans or finding safe lodging, we’re only a phone call away.

By booking with us, you’ll have an experienced travel advisor on your side, ready to navigate the complexities of travel during a hurricane and ensure that your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.