May 2023 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 have been increasing these last few months. Passports processing is taking approximately 10-13 weeks (unless you pay for expedited processing for 7-9 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.
Don't delay this step if you need to apply for your first passport or if you need to renew. Give yourself plenty of time before your trip to ensure your passport arrives in time.
-Anne
V&V Travel Info
I will be cruising the Mediterranean in October 2024. This is going to be a once in a lifetime trip.
Join me on an adventure to these exciting cruise ports:
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Kusadasi, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Mykonos, Greece
Santorini, Greece
Sea Day
Messina (Sicily), Italy
Naples, Italy
Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Nice/Monaco (Villefranche), France
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
*Port stops subject to change
Space is limited and is first come, first serve. Deposit of $250 per cabin. Reserve your cruise stateroom here.
Trip Requests
Here are some of the 2023 and 2024 trip requests I worked on this past month:
Anniversary Celebration in Cancun - A client reached out looking for options for their 20th wedding anniversary. After looking at a few options in the Caribbean they settled on Haven Riviera Cancun in an Ocean Front Swim Out Junior Suite. They are going to love this spectacular room and celebrating their milestone anniversary.
Italy Adventure - If I could only plan Italy trips for the rest of my life, I would. It is my favorite European country. My clients will be visiting Florence, Sorrento, and Rome. I was even able to find them a White Lotus‑esque hotel in Sorrento. I can't wait to hear all about it when they return.
25the Anniversary Disney Wish Cruise - A referred client wanted to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary with a cruise. Living in Florida, they had lots of options but only one perfect option, a Disney Cruise. They were married at Disney and Disney Cruise Line is also celebrating their 25th year at sea. I don't think there is a better cruise match for this family.
Aruba Trip - My clients are heading to Aruba for a repeat trip with family and friends. They loved the island so much they wanted to go back. Aruba is known for it's stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and cooling trade winds. They are going to have a great time in the Caribbean.
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?
April 2024 - Egypt (SOLD OUT) and Jordan (4 spots remain)- Two tours back to back. In Egypt we will be touring the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Abu Simbel, visiting the Egyptian Museum, cruising for three nights on the Nile, and spending time in the Valley of the Kings. In Jordan we will be spending one night in a Bedouin Camp, touring Petra, floating in the Dead sea, and experiencing a 4x4 excursion in Wadi Rum. Join me on this adventure! Reserve your spot on the Jordan tour here.
October 2024 - Mediterranean Cruise 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. Reserve your spot on this cruise here.
Potential Trips TBD:
Germany/Austria - Summer 2024
Panama Canal Cruise and Costa Rica - Spring 2025
England and Scotland - Summer 2025
Europe Christmas Markets - Winter 2025
African Safari - Summer 2026
If you are interested in joining me on one or all of these trips, please reply to this email.
