March 2024 Newsletter
Happenings
Let's talk applying and renewing your passport. If you have a trip coming up in the next 6 months, now is the time to send in your application for your first passport or check your passport's expiration dates.
Processing times at the Passport Offices are still taking longer than normal. Regular processing time is taking 6-8 weeks while expeditated is taking 2-3 weeks. If you haven't applied for your passport yet, don't delay.
For those that have an existing passport, now is the time to take it out and ensure it is not damaged or expired. Your passport must be machine readable to board the plane. Ensure there is no water damage, torn pages, or tattered ends.
As a general rule, passports must be valid for six months beyond the date the traveler will re-enter the United States. The U.S. has signed agreements with a number of countries to waive this requirement. However, many airlines have their own rules and require 6 months of validity beyond the date of exit from the visiting country. Save yourself some disappointment and renew your passport at least 6 months before it expires.
-Anne
V&V Travel Info
**Out of Office April 18-28, 2024**
I am headed out on another adventure! I will be spending some time in South America. I will be exploring Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls (a Natural World Wonder), Sao Paulo (UNESCO World Heritage site), Ilha Grande, Christ the Redeemer (a World Wonder), and more! This will be my 6th World Wonder. Only one more to go!
The food, wine, beaches, and culture of these two amazing South American countries are a must for every traveler to experience. I have not been back to Iguazu Falls since Tim and I originally travelled the world, and I’m really excited about this one. This time we will get to see it from the Brazil side as well. Follow along on Facebook.
Trip Requests
Here are some of the 2024, and 2025 trip requests I worked on this past month:
Croatia Birthday and Anniversary Tour - A referred client reached out to me about planning their first trip to Europe. After a consultation call, I presented them with a few cruise, tour, and even a cruise tour option to consider. They choose a guided tour that will start in Zagreb and end in Dubrovnik. Along the way they will visit Plitvice Lakes National Park to see the 16 interconnecting lakes, see Diocletian's Palace, sightsee in Hvar and view the first public theatre in Europe, and tour the Franciscan Monastery in Dubrovnik. This is a full adventure.
French Open - I had a client contact me as they had just booked tickets to the French Open and they needed to fill in the days around their tickets. They will be starting in Athens, Greece for some Greek Mythology. Then head to Naples, Italy to visit Pompeii. Then head to Paris for the sites and French Open. This will be a trip to remember.
Disney Parks and Cruise - My clients are headed back to Disney and will be visiting Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studio while staying in a Little Mermaid Room. I know their daughter will love the room but let's hope her little brother isn't too disappointed. After a few busy park days, they will love cruising on the Disney Wish. This trip will be a magical experience.
Jamaican Honeymoon - A referral contacted me this month about planning their upcoming honeymoon. They knew they wanted a great beach, yummy food, fun activities, and a relaxed tropical vibe. They decided on Couples Swept Away in a Premier Beachfront Suite. They are going to love being steps from world famous 7 Mile beach and enjoying all the jerk chicken they can get their hands on.
My Groups
II love hosting group trips. Here is where I am heading in the coming year(s). Which one do you want to join me on?
October 2024 - Mediterranean Cruise SOLD OUT- 10 day cruise on Norwegians newest ship the Viva. Visit Greece, Turkey, Italy, and France. Start the cruise in Athens, Greece and end in Rome, Italy. This is an outstanding itinerary.
December 2025- Europe Christmas Markets- I have one extra 5% off coupon to share with a couple. 7-night European Christmas Markets River Cruise on the AmaMagna December 14-21, 2025. Reserve your spot on this cruise here.
Potential Trips TBD:
Belize - Winter/Spring 2025
Costa Rica - Winter/Spring 2025
Scotland and Ireland - Summer 2025
African Safari - Spring/Summer 2026
Egypt and Jordan - Rescheduling
If you are interested in joining me on one or all of these trips, please reply to this email.
