June 2024 Newsletter
Happenings
Let's talk about Alaska Cruises! I fell in love with Alaska when I did my own cruise and land tour two years ago. I experienced so many popular sights while I was there: viewed Mendenhall Glacier, watched whales bubble netting, visited a bald eagles and raptors sanctuary, rode the White Train Pass in Gold Rush country, sailed in Galcier National Park, and safaried in Denali National park. It was one of the best trips ever.
Here are some fun tidbits about Alaska cruises:
Approx. 70% of first time cruisers choose Alaska as there first cruise.
The Alaskan cruise season is shorter than other destinations (typically April through September) and demand is high.
The entire can family revel in iconic Alaska like sweeping glaciers and snow-capped mountains as well as unforgettable animal encounters.
Balcony staterooms are a must. Seeing magnificent glacier views, not to mention sea lions and otters, from the privacy of your own cabin is paramount on an Alaskan cruise.
There is an array of family-friendly shore excursions. Check out my blog for more details on what activities you can do at the different cruise ports in Alaska.
Alaska cruises tend to book up a year in advance. If you are thinking about an Alaska cruise in 2025, contact me today. Rooms go quickly due to the shorter cruise season and balcony rooms always go first.
-Anne
V&V Travel Info
OUT OF OFFICE
I am getting ready to hit my busy travel season. I will be out of the office a few times this summer.
July 23- August 5, 2024
I am off on the Silver Shadow to Canada and New England with Silversea cruises. I was thrilled to be invited on a special cruise for top preforming travel agents. I will be starting in Quebec City and making my way to Boston. I am certain there will be lobster rolls are in my future. I can't wait to experience this luxury brand.
August 22-30, 2024
I am off on a family vacation to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. I haven't been to many of the national parks out west and am looking forward to experience it with my family.
While I won't be completing new quotes during these dates, I will be available to my traveling clients.
Trip Requests
Here are some of the 2024, and 2025 trip requests I worked on this past month:
Hawaiian Honeymoon- A new client reached out to me about planning their honeymoon. They were unsure what type of honeymoon they wanted so we had a quick call to discuss Italy and Hawaii. After putting together an itinerary for both options they decided on Hawaii. They are off to explore both Oahu and Maui. They will get to visit Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond head, drive the Road to Hana, and enjoy some much needed beach relaxing time.
Italy Small Group Tour- The sister of one my clients contacted me about planning an Italy trip. We discussed traveling independently and traveling with a tour guide. She decided that having a tour guide would allow them to have a more relaxing experience but she wanted a small group tour. Most group tours are about 45 guests. I was able to find a tour that had a max of 22 guests. She will be traveling to Venice, Bologna, Florence, Pisa, Rome, and Pompeii.
Friends Group trip to Aruba- My client contacted me about a trip she wanted to plan with her group of couple friends. They knew they wanted to visit Aruba together. We explored a few options to make sure we had the right resort before she made the final decision. Within 24 hours, she had 5 other couples join in on her group trip. They are going to love the beaches of Aruba.
Antigua Honeymoon- The brother of a honeymoon client reached out to plan his own honeymoon. After an in person consultation, we explored some different Caribbean island options. They selected Sandals Grande Antigua. They are going to love the expensive beach and blue water.
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.
June/July 2025 - Scotland and Ireland- Limited rooms remain for Scotland. Join me on an adventure to Ireland and Scotland and learn about the classic folklore and see the stunning landscapes that makes these two countries unforgettable. Reserve your spot here.
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 - Spring 2025
Costa Rica - Winter/Spring 2026
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.
