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!!

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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:
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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.

I was fortunate enough to attend the PRE Inaugural cruise on the brand new Royal Caribbean ship Utopia of the Seas.  She will be sailing from Port Canaveral for weekend sailings and will be stopping at the fantastic Perfect Day at CocoCay!!! 

The ship is beautiful.  Although she is massive, getting around is very easy and the elevators are a plenty!! There is so much entertainment and area of fun on board for adults as well ask the kids!  I do believe this ship may be more for Adults!!  

The aqua show, the ice rink show, games at the pool, a comedy theater, casino, Boardwalk area with slides, Central Park, the Royal Railway experience and so much more!! I was on ship for 4 days and there is no way I could see and do everything!! 

Perfect Day at CocoCay has waterparks and slides for the kids and an adults only beach with an infinity pool and bar!  

It has been a while since I was on such a big ship and I was very impressed!! 

See more pictures and videos on our Facebook page. 
​https://www.facebook.com/bluewatertvl

The Fairytale Fantasy of the RhineCruising along the timeless rivers of the world has understandably become one of the most desirable ways to travel today. Yet with so many alluring waterways, it can be difficult to choose where to make your splash. Do you choose by country? By sights? By unique experiences? When you choose the romantic Rhine River – with its 800 miles of winding whimsical wonder – you choose all of the above.

Enchanting Scenery and Historic Landmarks:Rhine River cruises reveal breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, medieval castles, and charming villages lining the riverbanks. Each day unveils new sights and offers opportunities to explore historical landmarks, museums, and vibrant local markets.

Intimate Connection: Designed from the bottom up for comfort, space, and room to dream, each Avalon Waterways Suite Ship® consists of 80% Panorama Suites—offering the widest view in river cruising. Larger suites result in fewer passengers, so you’ll never feel crowded anywhere on board.

Accessible Exploration: Rhine River cruises navigate small ports and picturesque villages off the beaten path, providing an authentic taste of local life. Here are some of the small ports and towns you might encounter while cruising the Rhine River:

• Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany: This picturesque town is known for its historic old town, vineyards, and the famous Drosselgasse, a narrow lane filled with wine taverns and live music.
• Colmar, France: Colmar is a beautifully preserved town with a medieval old town that looks straight out of a fairytale.
• Breisach, Germany: This town is the gateway to the Black Forest region, known for its dense forests, picturesque villages, and delicious Black Forest cake.
  
  

Culinary Delights: Embark on a gastronomic adventure with locally sourced cuisine celebrating regional flavors. While you take in the lush countryside panoramas, Avalon’s innovative chefs bring the passing view to your plate.
Some examples:

• The beef Avalon serves you comes from a farm in Slovakia.
• The honeycomb on your breakfast buffet is from local farmers in Austria and Hungary.                                  
• Breads on board are sourced from local bakeries throughout your sail.
  
  

Wellness Enrichment: Elevate your well-being during your Rhine River cruise with Sky Deck hot tub, fitness center, and complimentary bicycles. Enthusiastic Adventure Hosts lead enriching activities like yoga, hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Avalon Waterways, where each day unveils enchanting landscapes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable connections along the Rhine River.

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