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.

​

I recently attended the largest invite only conference for top Travel Advisors in the travel industry.  It was Ascend by ALGVacations in Cancun, Mexico (Apple Vacations, Funjet Vacations, Travel Impressions, United Airlines Vacations, Southwest Airlines Vacations).  This is my 4th year in a row being invited to this conference.  

This got me to thinking... How do you go about choosing a Travel Advisor?  What is important to you as the traveler in choosing a Travel Advisor?  I think you should try to find one that keeps up to date on all things in the industry.  Find an Advisor that continues their education on destinations and resorts in those destinations.  Traveling to and touring resorts is THE best way to keep fresh on what is going on.  This helps us qualify our clients on what resort is best for them.  Attending conferences like Ascend not only gives us updates on resorts and destinations (it's not just Mexico at the conference), it also lets us network with so many destinations, tour operators and destination management companies.  Above all, I also get to network with so many other travel agents.  We have a great community in our industry and although we are technically competitors, we believe there is enough business to go around!  I have so many Travel Advisor friends now from this conference that it is now our yearly reunion! 

We also have a ton of FUN!!  ALGV really knows how to put on a show!  From SNL Alumni to Run DMC as the performer at our farewell party at Hard Rock Cancun, we Advisor's know how to work and have fun! 

Introduction: When it comes to exploring the world, the possibilities are endless. From adventurous backpacking trips to luxury resort getaways, travelers seek diverse experiences. One increasingly popular way to discover captivating destinations while enjoying the comforts of a floating boutique hotel is through river cruising. Offering a unique blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery, river cruises have emerged as an enticing option for travelers seeking an unforgettable journey. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of river cruising and explore the reasons behind its growing allure.
Unveiling the Charm: Unlike traditional ocean cruises, river cruises take passengers along the tranquil waters of rivers, providing an intimate experience and access to picturesque landscapes that larger vessels cannot reach. As you set sail on a river cruise, you'll find yourself immersed in the heart of charming cities, hidden towns, and cultural gems along the riverbanks.
The Journey: River cruises are carefully curated to ensure a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration. From the moment you step on board, you'll be greeted with exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and delectable cuisine. While the cruise ship gracefully navigates through the waterways, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in the serenity of the surroundings, watch the ever-changing scenery, and unwind on sun decks or balconies. The intimate size of river cruise ships allows for a more personalized experience, with fewer passengers and a higher crew-to-guest ratio.
Immersing in Culture: One of the most remarkable aspects of river cruising is the ability to dive deep into local culture. As the ship docks in various ports, you'll have the chance to disembark and explore enchanting cities and towns. Expert guides accompany passengers on guided tours, unveiling the rich history, architectural wonders, and cultural heritage of each destination. Whether it's strolling through a charming village in the heart of Europe or witnessing ancient ruins along the Nile, river cruising offers an authentic and immersive cultural experience.
Scenic Splendor: River cruising grants unparalleled access to some of the world's most breathtaking natural landscapes. As the ship meanders through rivers like the Danube, Rhine, Mekong, or Amazon, passengers are treated to a constant panorama of picturesque vistas. From rolling vineyards and fairytale castles to lush rainforests and towering cliffs, the ever-changing scenery becomes an integral part of the journey, captivating travelers with its beauty and tranquility.
Culinary Delights: Food lovers rejoice, as river cruising is a gastronomic delight. Onboard, talented chefs craft exquisite dishes inspired by regional cuisines using locally sourced ingredients. The culinary experience aboard a river cruise often reflects the destinations visited, allowing passengers to savor the flavors of the regions they explore. From wine tastings in renowned vineyards to cooking classes led by master chefs, the dining experience on a river cruise is an integral part of the journey, immersing travelers in the local culinary traditions.
Conclusion: River cruising offers an alluring blend of luxury, exploration, and cultural immersion. With its intimate ambiance, breathtaking scenery, and curated experiences, it provides an ideal way to discover the world's most captivating destinations. Whether you're drawn to the historic waterways of Europe, the exotic landscapes of Asia, or the wildlife-rich rivers of South America, a river cruise promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, set sail on a river cruise and let the tranquility of the waterways guide you through a captivating voyage of discovery.

Full disclosure - I did use AI to create this.  Obviously it sounds nothing like my other blogs!  I wanted to try it out and see how well it would work as I want to start blogging more!  I promise I will be typing my own from now on though as I do want to give my perspective, not a textbook perspective! However I did just go on my first River Cruise in March and loved it! 

ALG Vacations recently had their yearly Ascend travel conference in Cancun, Mexico.  Jacki Marks with ALGV had a co-host for their take on the Jimmy Fallon show and it was Carsen Kressley and I was chosen for a meet and greet!  He is hilarious and I highly recommend following him on any social media and watching anything he is in!  

It was a great few days of touring resorts and then learning in breakout sessions and meeting with tons of suppliers!  It was great to be back together!  

Check out all my pictures and videos on my social media! 
https://www.facebook.com/bluewatertvl
Instagram @bluewatertrvl 
Twitter @BlueWaterTvl 
​

Wow!  What a year this has been right?!!  Not what I expected personally or as a business owner.  It's been a tough year working countless hours cancelling and rescheduling trips.  Hours sitting  on hold.  Hours answering emails from clients with questions and of course, complaints! All of this to make a LOT less money than compared to last year.  In case you don't know... travel agents don't get paid unless you travel.  So when a trip is cancelled, we make $0!  So it's been a challenging year to say the least.  

However, things are coming around and travel is starting to pick up!  Let's be honest everyone is ready to get out of their houses.  So I took a couple trips to check it out.  One in July and one in September.  Here is my account of travel during this time to Mexico! ​

So today is "Travel Tuesday"...  I hear there are a lot of good deals out there.  Mainly on airfare.  Do you believe in Travel Tuesday? 

As a Travel Professional, I've never ran across better deals today than I do any other day.  I specifically priced a Cancun vacation I priced yesterday to see if the price had actually gone down.  It hasn't.  It actually went up because the "Black Friday" sale is over now and there is no promo code to apply. 

Don't get me wrong, I would love to have a day of the year (or more) where there were spectacular deals and I would sit at my computer and book trips all day long!   :) 

​If any of you out there found some special deal today, I would love to hear about it!