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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 Inspiration
Viking Danube River Cruise
Travel dates and length of stays vary-2027 availability is becoming limited on many popular itineraries.

Viking River Cruises-such an incredible travel experience!

One of my favorite things about planning travel is discovering itineraries that make me want to pack my bags too.

I recently booked this Viking River Cruise for my clients sailing from Budapest to Passau, with beautiful stops including Vienna. And it was an itinerary worth sharing, as all Viking river cruises are:)

River cruising offers a wonderful way to experience Europe's storybook towns, castles, vineyards, and local culture—all while unpacking just once.

Whether you're dreaming of this itinerary or one of Viking's many other river journeys, it's an unforgettable way to see Europe at a relaxed pace.

Contact me to schedule your next vacation: Explore@kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

Let's get started in planning your Viking Cruise (We work with all cruise lines at no cost to you.)

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

Travel Links:

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

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

Click on the **links below to reserve your next excursion:

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

**Tours by Locals

**These are affiliate links 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

Weekly Travel Inspiration
Viking River Cruises-such an incredible travel experience!

One of my favorite things about planning travel is discovering itineraries that make me want to pack my bags too.🧳

I recently booked this Viking River Cruise for my clients, sailing from Budapest to Passau, with beautiful stops including Vienna. And it was an itinerary worth sharing, as all Viking river cruises are:)

River cruising offers a wonderful way to experience Europe's storybook towns, castles, vineyards, and local culture—all while unpacking just once.

Whether you're dreaming of this itinerary or one of Viking's many other river journeys, it's an unforgettable way to see Europe at a relaxed pace.

Contact me to schedule your next vacation: Explore@kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#cruisetravel #rivercruises #womenthattravel #liveyourbestlifenow #kckilian

Travel Insurance the Pros and Cons

Travel insurance is one of those things most of us don’t think much about… until something goes sideways. I’m not here to sell it, recommend a specific policy, or tell you what you should do.

This is simply a few things to think about as you plan.

The Pros:
For many people, travel insurance is about peace of mind. It can feel reassuring to know there’s a safety net in place, especially when you’ve invested time, energy, and money into a trip.

Some travelers appreciate:
Medical issues covered while traveling
Having an extra layer of protection “just in case”
Coverage with trip cancellations or interruptions due to illness, weather, or family emergencies

The Cons:
Travel insurance isn’t magic, it can be pricey (if it ends up not being needed) and it doesn’t cover everything.

Things to keep in mind:
Each policy is different. Coverage varies widely.
Fine print matters. A lot. What’s covered—and what isn’t—can come down to very specific wording.
Pre-existing conditions may or may not be covered, depending on the policy and timing.
Some travelers assume something is covered… and find out too late that it’s not.

For the full article and additional travel blog ideas and tips: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#cruisespecialist #luxurytravelagent #travelblogger #traveltips #womenthattravel

Girl time matters: shared adventures matter, laughing over wine, booking trips together, trying new things locally and globally, and saying yes to experiences we once put off.

Cheers to the friends who travel beside us, meet us for a last minute plan, and cheer us on in this season of life. And to trusting ourselves enough to make space for what’s next💕✈️

Life is too short not to make time for each other.
@point_reyes_seashore

#womenover50 #50isjustanumber #ageisjustanumber #kckilian #inspirationalwomen

It’s Never “Too Late”-It’s Just a New Chapter

Somewhere along the way, we’re quietly told that career changes have an expiration date. That after 50 we should settle in and be grateful for stability. But here’s the thing: stability doesn’t have to mean standing still.

I started my career in travel at 56. Not because I had a five year plan but because I love to travel and want to share my passion for travel with friends and clients.

But that wasn’t my only shift.

After moving to a small town, I realized something else once the kids are out of the house meeting new people gets…tricky. You don’t have school pickups, sport schedules, or built in social circles anymore. So I picked a fun part time job at a winery.

Low pressure. High reward.

What I didn’t expect was this amazing cast of co-workers who turned into lifetime friends-the kind you actually hang out with outside of work. After hours filled with great conversation, new experiences and laughter.

Feeling blessed in Sonoma🍷

@benzigerwinery

#winecountryliving #sonomacounty #napavalley #luxurytraveladvisor #womenover50

Yes, I own cute strappy sandals.
No, they did not make the trip.

Travel me chooses sneakers every time. Cute? Debatable. Comfortable? Absolutely. And I can walk all day, climb stairs, wander aimlessly…in comfort.

Traveling with carry-on only means tough love. Shoes have to behave. Travel hack: I pack a top or shoes I’m already over and “accidentally” leave them behind…which somehow creates room for a new purchase😉

Sneakers over sandals.
Blisters are not invited on vacation.✈️

#travelover50 #ageisjustanumber #luxurytravelagent #kckilian #carryononly

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

Japan is one of the most current popular travel destinations, for so many reasons: the culture, the beauty, the history, the food🍣

Seeing Japan by cruise ship makes it even better. Multiple ports and only unpacking once🧳

We can help you plan your next dream vacation at: kiliantravelandlifesyle.com

@princesscruises

#luxurytraveladvisor #cruisetravel #travelbloggerlife #womenthattravel #womenover50

Why I’m Already Planning Fall Travel-when summer is just getting started

Every year around this time, I start sharing fall trips and people always ask why. Short answer: because the best fall travel doesn’t get planned in the fall. It gets planned now; when there are affordable flights available on your schedule, reduced pricing on lodging, and time to make it exactly what you want.

The real reason I love fall travel—especially the stretch after Thanksgiving and before Christmas the hugely reduced crowds.

Yes, depending on where you go, the weather might not be “perfect.” But in exchange? You get space.

I’ve wandered through Barcelona with no lines at Sagrada Familia—which still feels slightly unbelievable. A visit to Montserrat without crowds, no buses almost a personal experience instead of a checklist stop.

And in Cancun, fall meant warm days, fewer people, and the kind of relaxed resort energy everyone hopes for but doesn’t always get. And the best part, you did not have to put a towel down at the crack of dawn to get that desired pool chair-score!

So when I talk about fall trips in the summer, it’s not about jumping ahead. It’s about giving yourself options.

If you would like help in planning your next trip whether its a cruise, a Tauck Tour, Backroads any large company. Or if you prefer smaller European companies we work with them too.(We are compensated thru the travel company at no additional cost to you.)

And guess what? Travel companies like working with agents, we take care of all the additional details.

My email:
explore@kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

Solo traveler? I can help with that too!

#luxurytravelagent #luxurytravel #travelblogger #womenthattravel #travelover50

Summer Sunday Fun😎

A perfect day attending the Marin Magazine Summer Kickoff party-spectacular views, a great dance band, fabulous food and wine🍷and friends. What more could a girl ask for💕

@cavallopoint
@marinmagazine
@visitsausalito
@sausalitoliquor

#sundayfun #womenover50 #summerevents #summerfestivals #goldengatebridge

What Golf Has Taught Me About Life
I am not good at golf.
Let’s get that out of the way😊

But I love it. I keep showing up, I keep swinging, and every once in a while…I hit THAT shot-the one that makes me think, okay maybe I’ll keep this up:)

Golf has taught me a lot about life:
✔️You don’t have to be great to enjoy something
✔️Progress is rarely linear
✔️Some days are rough, some are fabulous
✔️And quitting early guarantees you miss the fun

It’s humbling, frustrating, and weirdly empowering all at once. Kind of like life in our 50s and beyond-still learning, still trying, still finding joy in the process.

Happy Friday⛳️

#50isjustanumber #golflover #kckilian #golﬂife #womenover50

One of my favorite summertime activities-our local Tuesday Night Farmer’s Market😎

Local musicians
Fresh produce
Artisans
Food trucks
Wine, of course

A great way to connect with friends and family😎

#sonomaplaza #sonomavalley #farmersmarkets #localfun #summerfun

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

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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

Travel Insurance: Worth It… or Worth the Risk?

Now is the Time to Reserve Your 2027 Major Sporting Event Travel Packages

Why I’m Already Planning Fall Travel-when summer is just getting started

Weekly Travel Inspiration
Viking Danube River Cruise
Travel dates and length of stays vary-2027 availability is becoming limited on many popular itineraries.

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

Travel Insurance: Worth It… or Worth the Risk?

Now is the Time to Reserve Your 2027 Major Sporting Event Travel Packages

Why I’m Already Planning Fall Travel-when summer is just getting started

Weekly Travel Inspiration Viking Danube River Cruise Travel dates and length of stays vary-2027 availability is becoming limited on many popular itineraries.​

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 Inspiration
Viking Danube River Cruise
Travel dates and length of stays vary-2027 availability is becoming limited on many popular itineraries.

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