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Welcome to Kilian Travel & Lifestyle, where luxury meets adventure. Contact us for exclusive travel packages, private driving services, excursions, cruises, and sporting events. We create memories that last a lifetime.

Blog posts: Travel tips, destinations and advice on travel

Weekly Travel Suggestion
Japan with Princess Cruise
Travel dates: Oct.1st-Oct.19th 2026
18 days, 14 ports, 3 sea days

Japan is one of the most current popular travel destinations

Japan somehow manages to be ancient and futuristic at the same time. You can be walking through centuries-old temples in the morning and eating ramen in a neon-lit city that night. The food is unreal, the cities are clean and easy to navigate.

Seeing Japan by cruise ship makes it even better. You unpack once, wake up in a new city every few days. This cruise is very similar to the one I took last year, and it was one of those trips that just worked. Great flow, amazing ports, and a perfect introduction to Japan.

Contact me to schedule your trip to Japan: Explore@kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

Let's get started in planning your trip to Japan, on this date or any future date

Travel Updates/Sign up to receive our newsletter

We work with almost any large tour travel company-at no cost to you.

This is a partial list-please contact me to take care of the details with your desired tour company:

Amtrak/Railbookers

Apple Vacations

Backroads

Daytrips

Exoticca

Room Res

Tauck Tours

Trafalagar

We can help you book your cruise to any destination:

River and Ocean cruises

USA and European Cruises

Ama Waterways,Oceania, Princess,

Ritz Carlton Yacht collection

Royal Caribbean, Virgin, Viking-we work with all cruise lines.
Adult only
Family friendly
LGBTQ

Email me to set up a time to plan your next cruise (at no cost to you) explore@kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

Travel Links:

Already have a trip planned? Use these links to book airport/hotel transfers in advance. Private driving services, front of the line, plus day trips and excursions in the US and abroad.

Airport/Hotel Transfers-contact me directly/multi stops allowed

**Activities: Helicopters, cooking classes, cave tubing sailing, front of the line tours, bike tours, etc

**This is an affiliate link you can use for tours, transfers, hop on/off, boat rentals, luau's etc.

I earn a commission at no cost to you.

Be sure to check out our travel ideas page to help you get started in planning your next memorable vacation

"Travel Insights"
Recent Podcast w/Ed Diaz

Our Story

How to Pick the Best Stateroom on a Large Cruise Ship-For First Time Cruisers

(Stability, fewer steps, and fewer regrets)

Choosing the right stateroom can make a big difference in how much you enjoy a cruise—especially on today’s larger ships. A little strategy upfront can mean better sleep, less walking, and a smoother ride overall.

Best Location for Stability
If motion is a concern think middle of the ship and lower decks.

Least Walking to Elevators
On large ships, walking adds up quickly—especially after a long day ashore.
Look for cabins near the midship elevator bank.

Pay Attention to What’s Above and Below You (This one is often overlooked.)
Try to choose a stateroom with other cabins above and below.

For additional details on picking the right cabin: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#cruisetravel #cruiselife #emptynesters #luxurytravel #luxurytravelagent

Are you a single woman over 50 and hesitant to travel solo? Or married and your partner no longer wants to travel?

And you are hesitant to go it alone? I am here to encourage you- to take that first step book that first trip and live your best life💕

It’s hard, I get it! But honestly once you get past traveling alone for the first time you will start to prefer it:)
No agendas
Flexibility
No waiting for anyone else
You pick the destination
Sleep in or get up early-it doesn’t matter it’s your time
Traveling alone builds confidence
Make new friends

#luxurytravelagent #solotravelover50 #solotraveller #womenthattravel #50isjustanumber

Pickleball and Travel
What started as a backyard family game has now rolled into the international travel world. From ocean decks to hotels, resorts and all inclusive stays-let the games begin.

Pickleball fits any travel vibe. It’s inherently social; you’re not just playing-you’re meeting fellow players, trading stories and creating community.

And for solo travelers this is an easy way to connect on your first travel day.

And just think about those vacation calories you burn off😉.

For the full article and a list of cruise lines and hotels offering pickleball: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

My pickleball travel adventures:
@princesscruises Diamond Princess Japan
@theritzcarltonmarinadelrey

#travelblogger #luxurytravelagent #womenthattravel #travelsolo #emptynesterstravel

Art & Wine Festivals Worth Traveling For | USA
Summer for me equals food and wine events. Taking the time to stroll through an outdoor market meeting artists, sampling unique foods and tasting new wines.

Why I love festivals like these:They’re not just events—they’re experiences. They tell the story of a place through art, wine, music, and community… and they’re the perfect excuse to turn a weekend into a getaway.

Here are some U.S. art & wine & traditional festivals that are absolutely worth planning a trip around in 2026:
Albuquerque, NM | October 3-11
Ann Arbor, MI | July 16–18
Aspen, CO | June 19–21
Napa Valley, CA | July 4-19
Park City, UT | August 7-9
Santa Fe, NM | September 23-27

For additional details and links: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#travelblogger #winefestivals #artandwine #winelovers #foodies

Sunday Fun
Hiking is my therapy! And hiking with friends means great conversations, laughter and healing.
@pointreyes_prnsa
@tobysfeedbarn
@palacemarket

#sundayfun #sonomacounty #girlfriendtime #50isjustanumber #getoutandlive

I love to share my wine country with all of you🍷

Absolutely loved our tasting this past week. The views are next level! The wines? Truly incredible across the board, each one better than the last🍷

Thank you Coursey Graves Estate Winery for hosting us💕

#sonomawine #sonomavalley #winetasting #womenthattravel #travelbloggers

Staycations are the best-no traffic, fuel fee’s, travel costs and a great way to appreciate where you live💕

A staycation is one of my favorite ways to recharge:
💆‍♀️Spend the day at your local resort and enjoy a spa vacation
🥾Try a new hiking trail-not your usual spot
🍽️ And one of my favorites-instead of lunch at one location. Pick an area in your local city with several restaurants in walking distance and have lite bites at multiple new restaurants

#staycationideas #lovewhereyoulive #womenover50 #emptynesters #travelideas

Having fun with AI this morning. I have enjoyed so many of my IG friends AI pics that I thought I would try a few.

What I love about this is when you like a photo but you don't like the background you can refresh it with AI and not toss the pic.

What do you think? Do you prefer to see natural pics on social or the glammed up AI pics?

#aipics #ageisjustanumber #50isjustanumber #womenover50 #kckilian

Thinking about a Sonoma Getaway?
Sonoma isn’t a do all things kind of destination. It’s a slow down, wander a little, stay for one more glass kind of place. Two scheduled tastings is ideal-three can be a bit much.

What makes Sonoma special is the balance. It’s polished without being pretentious. It’s quiet mornings, fabulous food and wine and hiking trails and outdoor living.

For my recent blog on traveling to the wine country and restaurant suggestions: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

@imagerywinery
@laurelglenwine
@talismanwine

#winecountryliving #sonomavalley #winetasting #womenthattravel #travelbloggers

It’s not too late to plan your dream getaway🛥️
September 12th-19th 2026
Gourmet Stars and Vineyard Tours/Croatia by Yacht

This reel is from my trip to Croatia in 2025-one of my favorite travel adventures of all time.

And you can go too-just a few cabins left. Details at kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#yachttravel #luxurytravelagent #travelover50 #travelbloggers #midlifejourney

Follow me if you believe life is just getting started-adventure doesn’t have an age limit and you are curious, still dreaming and still going.

Let’s rock the coming years together-inspiring,supporting, caring and believing. And of course traveling✈️

We’ve got this!

#inspiringwomen #confidentwomen #womenover60 #ageisjustanumber #kckilian

Sip Your Way Around the World: Cocktails & Wine by Destination

It’s never just about the drink—it’s about the moment, the place, and who you’re with.

Every destination has its own flavor:
✨ Italy = Aperol Spritz
✨ Mexico = Margarita or Paloma
✨ France = Champagne (or a French 75 if you’re feeling festive)
✨ Cuba = Mojito
✨ And here at home in Sonoma/Napa… a perfect glass of wine 🍷

@barcelona
@watergrill
@downtownjoe
@eldoradosonoma

For additional suggestions: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#traveltips #winecountryliving #travelmoments #50andthriving #kckilian

Sometimes the best rest isn’t a big, faraway trip-but just a simple getaway close to home.

A few days on the California coast, ocean views, fresh air, childlike joy from skipping😉 and suddenly everything feels lighter.

Wherever you are there is beauty waiting just down the road😎

@visitcambria
@nepenthe.bigsur
@bigsur
@carmel

#californiacoast #weekendgetaways #simpleluxury #womenthattravel #emptynesters

One of the things I love most about being a travel agent? The flexibility to live life while creating incredible experiences for others.

Last week, that meant taking a road trip along our stunning California coastline-while working when needed, but also soaking in the beauty, the ocean air, and those spontaneous stops that make travel so special.

Travel isn’t just what I do…it’s how I live✈️

@theritzcarltonmarinadelrey
@marinadelrey_ca

#luxurytravelagent #travelagentlife #californiacoast #californiadreaming #womenthattravel

Sonoma Wine Country is so much more than just great wine🍷

Yesterday I spent my morning volunteering at the Jack London State Park and it was the perfect reminder of everything else this beautiful region offers-peaceful hiking trails, scenic state parks, stunning California coastline and our breathtaking redwood groves.

We love our wineries🥂but the next time you visit leave a little room in your itinerary to explore🥾

Happy Friday and cheers to a fabulous weekend😎

@jacklondonpark

#winecountryliving #50isjustanumber #sonomawine #womenthattravel #communityservice

The World Cup Experience: More Than a Trip, It’s a Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey

😮A surprise to many is that I love sports travel.

🐎There’s just something about the energy, the people, and the feeling of being part of something bigger. I’ve experienced it at the Super Bowl, and the Kentucky Derby, and it’s exactly why I’m so passionate about helping clients experience events like the World Cup 2026.

⚽Let’s Talk Honestly—Yes, It’s Pricey
World Cup travel is in high demand, and pricing reflects that. Between game tickets, accommodations, and logistics across multiple cities, this is an investment.

🧳Through my travel partners, these World Cup packages (packages only, no individual tickets) are designed to take the stress out of planning while elevating the entire experience.

To learn more about our travel experiences: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#worldcup #sportstravel #travelover50 #travelover60 #kckilian

There’s something truly special about spending a day wandering around Sonoma Plaza😎

As a travel advisor, I encourage my clients to go beyond the big name stops and experience the heart of a destination. In Sonoma, the heart lives in its locally owned shops, family owned restaurants and tasting rooms.

You’re not just buying a souvenir-you’re supporting a dream, a family, and a community.

✨Travel tip: ask shop owners for their favorite nearby lunch spot or hidden gem winery. “Insider” recommendations are often the highlight of travel.

@sunflowercaffe
@signofthebear
@sonomaplaza

#sonomaplaza #sonomawine #shoplocally #luxurytraveladvisor #womenwhotravel

Cheers to embracing life at 50+💕

There’s something powerful about this stage in life.✨
Women over 50 are no longer waiting for “someday”. We are embracing change, redefining what we want, and finally putting ourselves first.

This is the season to say yes to new experiences, indulge your curiosity, build meaningful connections and yes indulge in fabulous luncheons on a week day😉

@eldoradosonoma

#womenover50 #embracechange #itsnottoolate #emptynesters #womenover60

Choosing the right cruise? Start with where you want to go-not the ship.

It’s easy to get caught up in luxury, ratings, and sticking with your favorite cruise line. But what if that line doesn’t go to your dream vacation…or doesn’t fit your travel dates?

Sometimes the best choice is shifting your mindset-being open to a different cruise line that gets you exactly where you want to be.

Because at the end of the day, you won’t remember the ship as much as the places you experienced along the way 😎

#cruisetravel #womenthattravel
#princesscruises #luxurytravel #travelbloggerlife

There is more to Napa than our wineries🍷

Downtown Napa is often missed by tourists traveling to the wine country. Our downtown is vibrant with shops, restaurants, beer gardens, coffee roasters, live music, river walk😎

And our weather is so conducive to outdoor dining, stroll the river walk and find just about any style of cuisine. Casual dining, Asian influence, steak and seafood, Italian…

Be sure to stop by Downtown Napa on your next visit.

@downtownjoes
@morimotonapa
@napayard
@wilfredslounge

#napawine #winecountryliving #napavalley #sonomavalley #travelbloggerlife

Choosing a Travel Agent Over AI
In a world where AI can plan your trip in seconds, it’s easy to wonder—do travel agents still matter?

AI is a fantastic tool. It can generate ideas, outline itineraries, and give you a quick snapshot of a destination. But travel isn’t just about information—it’s about experience.

Living in the wine country, I see this play out all the time.

🍷When I meet visitors exploring Napa or Sonoma County, I often ask which wineries they’re visiting. Almost without fail, I hear the same names—the ones with the biggest marketing budgets and the easiest reservations to find online.

And while those wineries can be lovely, they’re often just the tip of the iceberg.

✔As a travel advisor, I take the time to understand how you like to travel—what excites you, what you want to avoid, and what kind of moments you’ll remember long after you return home.

#luxurytravelagent #travelblogger #getoutandtravel #travelover50 #travellife #womenthattravel

Happy Monday from Sonoma😎
If you follow me you know that I love the outdoors and that hiking/long walks are my therapy. And today I wanted to include some of my favorite local spots; well worth visiting if you are in the area🍷

@thesebastiani
@capoisetta
@scoopsicecream
@sebastianiwines
@eldoradosonoma

#winecountryliving #sonomaplaza #sonoma #smalltownliving #norcal

Feeling incredibly grateful to have been included as a speaker at “Getting to Know You”-an inspiring evening of connection and collaboration.✨

Sharing space with nearly 100 amazing women from nonprofits, business, and academia was truly something special. The energy, the conversations, and the support in the room were a powerful reminder of what happens when women come together with purpose.

Building connections one event at a time💕

#inspiringwomen #womeninspiringwomen #kckilian #networkingevents #confidentwomen

Celebrating ☘️ Wine Country Style
@sonomapub

Clearly I need to get something green for next year😉

#winecountryliving #sonomavalley #womenover50 #stpatricksday2026 #sonomaplaza

Traveling solo? But interested in joining a small group?
Celebrate the joy of discovery with like minded people who share their spirit for adventure. We have partnered with a well known travel company whose focus is to support independent solo women travelers with an interest in joining a curated small group tour with every detail cared for.

Share experiences, stories, and conversation with fellow travel enthusiasts. Plan now for 2027 travel-these curated small group trips sell out way in advance.

2027 Small Group Travel
Japan 13 day/land tour
Japan has been a popular destination for travel the past couple of years and I can tell you from my recent trip it does not disappoint!

Sample itinerary: multiple-night stays in premier hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone & at a hot springs resort & spa in Gero Onsen.

South Africa, An Elegant Adventure
12 Day/land tour
South Africa offers rare and powerful spell bounding landscapes, world class urban luxury, breath taking beaches-and big game safari!

Sample itinerary: Private game drives with skilled rangers and trackers during four nights at private game reserves, two nights in Victoria Falls...

Greek Isles
10Day/small ship
Absolutely stunning ship and a fabulous way to travel the historical cities of Greece.

Sample itinerary: 7 night cruise includes Mykonos, Delos, Santorini, Patmos, Monemvasia, Ephesus. Sail aboard Windstar's wind surf, 24 meals, some excursions, and transfers included.

To learn more about these destination and additional travel suggestions: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#travelmore #luxurytravelagent #solotravel #travelover50 #emptynesterslife

❤️On International Women’s Day, we celebrate all women—the leaders, the dreamers, the caregivers, the entrepreneurs, the ones lifting others up, and the ones still finding their way.

Every woman’s story matters. Every step forward matters.

Here’s to supporting, encouraging, and celebrating each other—today and every day. 💜

#internationalwomensday2026 #inspiringwomen #confidentwomen #womeninspiringwomen #womenofimpact

Travel is not a reward for working, it’s education for living
Anthony Bourdain

He believed that travel helps reshape one’s understanding of life…

And I could not agree more✨

@visit.croatia

#womenwhotravel #travelbloggers #travelsmart #emptynesters #midlifetravel

Lesser-Known (and yet very desirable) European Destinations to Add to Your 2026 Travel List

When we think of Europe, it’s easy to picture Paris (a favorite of mine), Rome, and London first. And while they are iconic for a reason, many travelers—especially those looking for a more relaxed vacation—are discovering Europe’s lesser-known destinations that still offer culture, beauty, and charm without the overwhelming crowds.

Annecy, France
Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is quietly becoming one of Europe’s most talked-about destinations

Bologna, Italy
Often overshadowed by Florence, Rome, and Venice, Bologna is quietly becoming one of Italy’s most beloved destinations

Ljubljana, Slovenia
Europe’s Most Charming Hidden Gem. Small, elegant, and incredibly picturesque

Porto, Portugal
While Lisbon gets most of the attention, Porto is quietly winning hearts

For additional location details: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#travelblogger #luxurytravelagent #travelover50 #travellife #travelinspired

Travel with heart ✈️💛
Over the years — and especially living in wine country where we’ve seen the impact of fires and community rebuilding — I’ve come to believe that travel can be something deeply meaningful. It can support recovery after disasters, uplift local women-owned businesses, and help communities rebuild stronger than before.

As women travelers, many of us are looking for more than just a getaway.
We want travel that feels:
✨ Safe
✨ Meaningful
✨ Empowering
✨ Community-focused
✨ Supportive of local & women-owned businesses

Uganda, Africa
My dear friend Melissa has a group of 19 currently visiting her nonprofit in Africa. Their mission: to improve the lives of children and youth through quality education, health and economics.

For the full article and destination suggestions: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#womenthattravel #travelbloggers #travelagentlife #womenover50 #ageisjustanumber

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Follow us on Instagram

@kckilian

How I got started in travel

I was traveling home alone after a visit with my son in Europe. And while on the plane I started to plan additional trips. And what better way to organize trips than to become a travel agent. And yes there are perks for being a travel agent-contact me if you would like to join our team.

So welcome to Kilian Travel and Lifestyle, where we turn your travel dreams (and mine) into unforgettable adventures. With a lifelong passion for exploring the world, we focus on creating personalized experiences that perfectly fit your lifestyle.

Why hire a travel agent? Because your time is valuable. With insider knowledge, exclusive connections, and a personal touch, we plan trips designed around what matters most to you. At no cost to you, we are compensated through the travel company.

Warmly,

Karen

Blog posts: Travel tips, destinations and advice on travel

How to Pick the Best Stateroom on a Large Cruise Ship-For First Time Cruisers

Why Everyone (Including Cruise Lines & Resorts) Is Loving Pickleball Travel

Art & Wine Festivals Worth Traveling For Summer & Fall 2026 | USA

Weekly Travel Suggestion
Japan with Princess Cruise
Travel dates: Oct.1st-Oct.19th 2026
18 days, 14 ports, 3 sea days

We work with almost any large tour travel company-at no cost to you.

Travel Links:

Be sure to check out our travel ideas page to help you get started in planning your next memorable vacation

"Travel Insights"
Recent Podcast w/Ed Diaz

Our Story

Follow us on Instagram

Blog posts: Travel tips, destinations and advice on travel

How to Pick the Best Stateroom on a Large Cruise Ship-For First Time Cruisers

Why Everyone (Including Cruise Lines & Resorts) Is Loving Pickleball Travel

Art & Wine Festivals Worth Traveling For Summer & Fall 2026 | USA

Weekly Travel Suggestion Japan with Princess Cruise Travel dates: Oct.1st-Oct.19th 2026 18 days, 14 ports, 3 sea days

We work with almost any large tour travel company-at no cost to you.

Travel Links:

**Be sure to check out our travel ideas page to help you get started in planning your next memorable vacation**

"Travel Insights" Recent Podcast w/Ed Diaz

Our Story

​

Follow us on Instagram

Weekly Travel Suggestion
Japan with Princess Cruise
Travel dates: Oct.1st-Oct.19th 2026
18 days, 14 ports, 3 sea days

Be sure to check out our travel ideas page to help you get started in planning your next memorable vacation

"Travel Insights"
Recent Podcast w/Ed Diaz