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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

Inspiring Women to Travel Together
Small Group Travel April 2027 & May 2028

Come Travel With Me

I’ve been thinking about creating a couple of special trips for women who want to see the world, share the experience with great women, and make some pretty fabulous memories along the way.

Vietnam — April 2027
I’m looking into putting together a small group trip to Vietnam. The history, culture, food, scenery and incredible beauty of this country have been on my travel radar for a while.

Croatia — May 2028
After my last trip to Croatia, I knew I wanted to go back. Imagine beautiful coastal towns, crystal-clear water, incredible food and wine, and a group of women enjoying it all together. I’m exploring the possibility of putting together a private yacht trip for all of us in May 2028.

These trips are still in the planning stage, so this is your chance to get in early.

Interested in Vietnam, Croatia, or possibly both? Reach out and let me know. I’m creating an interest list and will share updates as the details come together. No obligation at this point, I just want to see if there is interest in this kind of travel.

Because we’re not getting any younger—and I really don’t want us to keep saying “someday.” Let’s go. ✈️

Already have a group you travel with? I can help with that too Contact me to schedule your next vacation: Explore@kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

Photos from my 2026 Yacht Cruise to Croatia

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

Wine Country Living🍷
Summer fun in Grass Valley! ☀️💦 Cool, refreshing days on the South Yuba River, my brother and I act like children when we are together😂.

Family time and enjoying a little outdoor wine country living—just two hours away.

@sierranevadafoothills
@grassvalley
@southubariver

#winecountryliving #northerncalifornia #summerfun #timewithfamily #ageisjustanumber

Old School SF Birthday
Celebrated my birthday the old-school San Francisco way.❤️🎂

Started with the world-famous Buena Vista Cafe for an Irish Coffee (or two😉), then wandered around Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 and, of course stopped to see the sea lions.🦭

I honestly hadn’t been down there in years, and it was such a reminder of just how much I love our city. Sometimes the best birthday celebrations are the ones that take you back to the classics.

We finished at House of Prime Rib, a family favorite and family tradition for over 50 years❤️

@thebuenavistacafe
@fishermanswharf
@pier39
@houseofprimerib

#celebrateyourbirthday #birthdaygirl #irishcoffee #ageisjustanumber #50isjustanumber

Self-care day well spent! ✨ Fresh haircut + highlights, a relaxing reflexology massage, and I left feeling absolutely amazing and refreshed. 💆‍♀️💇‍♀️ Finished the day with happy hour and lots of laughs with the girls! 💕🍹 So grateful for days like this!

@brewstersbeergarden

#SelfCareDay #GirlsDay #FeelingGreat #Reflexology #happyhourtime

Why Marriott? Let me tell you a little story…
On my recent trip to Los Angeles, I stayed at the Courtyard in Sherman Oaks. I chose it because it was clean, comfortable, conveniently located and affordable. And honestly, I didn’t need much more — I was spending most of my time out and about and really just needed a good place to sleep at the end of the day.

But that same trip also reminded me of why I like Marriott so much. Not every trip calls for the same kind of hotel.

I’ve stayed at The Ritz-Carlton in Marina del Rey when the beautiful setting and amenities were part of the experience. And then there’s The St. Regis in New York, where the old-world charm and history are part of what makes the stay memorable.

Three very different hotels. One Marriott family.

So I’m starting a three-part series sharing my thoughts on Marriott, the different levels of hotels under their umbrella, and how I decide what makes sense for each trip.

I’ll be sharing the series here over the next few weeks, but if you want the full story — including all the Marriott brands and my take on when I’d choose each one — head over to my website. kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#MarriottBonvoy #MarriottHotels #TravelTips #luxurytraveladvisor #womenthattravel

Some friendships just pick up right where you left off. ❤️

Lisa and I have been friends since high school, which means we’ve been through kids, loss, divorce, changes, and all the messy, wonderful stuff life throws at you.

We may not see each other in person as often as we’d like, but somehow when we’re together the conversation just picks right back up.

That’s the best kind of friendship❤️

@stanleysrestaurant
@shermanoaksgalleria

#confidentwomen #independentwomen #ageisjustanumber #50isjustanumber #highschoolfriends

Road trip to LA? 🚗

Yes, I could have hopped on a plane and gotten there faster… but sometimes the slower way is the better way.

A road trip gives you time to catch up with a friend, think about life, listen to a good book, and just enjoy the miles going by.

And honestly? I think we could all use a little more of that. ❤️

What’s your favorite part of a road trip?

#RoadTrip #CaliforniaRoadTrip #TravelOver50 #TravelTips #girlstrip

The Shoulder Season: My Favorite Travel Time

Think Italy in April or October, Portugal in May or September, Greece in May or September, Spain in spring or fall, or the French Riviera in September.

Shoulder season isn't necessarily about finding the absolute cheapest possible trip. It’s about getting more for your travel dollar. Maybe that means a better hotel in a great location. A nicer room. A longer stay. A smaller group tour.

Fewer people can be just as valuable as saving money.

Join me in September in Portugal!

#luxurytravelagent #luxurytravel #europeantravel #rivercruise #womenthattravel

One Thing Every Great Trip Has in Common
Have you ever noticed that a vacation almost begins the moment you book it?

There's something special about that moment when a trip goes from "maybe someday" to "we're really doing this!" Suddenly you're looking up restaurants, what excursions to do, wondering which shoes to pack, saving photos of cities I will be visiting, and counting down the days.

The vacation has already begun. When I have a trip planned, whether its a two day trip or a two week trip, it makes day to day living even better. Having something to look forward to is part of the vacation. The joy of having something wonderful to look forward to.

#vacationplanning #luxurytravelagent #travelover50 #womenthattravel #travelinspired

✨ Girls' trips just hit differently.

Sure, a beach vacation is always a good idea...but what about floating over hundreds of colorful hot air balloons in New Mexico? Chasing fall colors through Vermont? 🍂
🌊 Watching giant waves crash along the coast of Portugal? Wandering through tulip fields in the Netherlands🌷 or sipping wine in Sonoma with your best friends?🍷

Sometimes the destination is only half the fun—the memories you make together are what you'll talk about for years.

I rounded up some of my favorite girls' trip ideas (both here in the U.S. and abroad), including the best times of year to go. If you've been saying, "We really should plan a trip," consider this your sign.

🎈 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
🍁 Fall foliage road trip
🌊 Portugal
🌷 Netherlands
🍷 Wine Country
🎄 European Christmas Markets

For additional dates and details: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#GirlsTrip #TravelWithFriends #WomenWhoTravel #TravelInspiration #girlsweekend

Choosing a Travel Destination When There are so Many Options
With so many incredible places to explore, choosing can actually become the hardest part of planning a vacation. Europe? The Caribbean? Mexico? Africa? A cruise? A train journey? Mountains or beaches? Luxury or budget-friendly?

Instead of asking, Where should I go? I like to start with a different question...
What kind of trip do I want to have?

Step 1: How Much Time Do You Have?
This is often the biggest deciding factor.
Long weekend (3-4 days): Stay closer to home or choose a destination with nonstop flights.
One week: Mexico, the Caribbean, parts of Europe with direct flights.
Two weeks or more: Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, or longer cruises and rail journeys.

Step 2: What's Your Budget?
Every destination can be experienced in different ways, but having a realistic budget helps narrow your choices.

Step 3: What Kind of Weather Makes You Happy?
Not everyone dreams of the beach.

Don't choose your vacation based on what everyone else is doing.
Travel is personal.
The "best" destination isn't necessarily the one all over social media. It's the one that fits your budget, your schedule and your interests.

For my cheat sheet on choosing a destination: kiliantravelandlifestyle.com

#travelblogger #travelover50 #womenthattravel #travellife #travelinspired

Marin & Sonoma Women at Work members💕 I created this group 10+ years ago to celebrate and support women in business.

If you follow me for travel you might be wondering what networking has to do with travel. For me, everything.

Each month we meet to share ideas, celebrate wins, offer encouragement, and remind each other that none of us has to figure it out alone. Being surrounded by people who inspire you makes you a better business owner-and a better person.

Just a few of the members pictured
@heather.carpenter.99
@dirtydeedsdesign
@suzannagratz
@sandra_luna_real_estate
@angelalowry7
@homeloans.by.kathlene

#womenbusinessowners #womensupportingwomen #Inspiringwomen #midlifewomen #agingwithattitude

One of my favorite things about wine country living is discovering the smaller, family-owned wineries that you might otherwise drive past. (In fact I did many times:)

Spent some time at @canihan_wines recently, and it was one of those afternoons that reminds me why I love living here. Fabulous reds, a Viognier that completely surprised me (in the best way), a barn setting with beautiful vineyard views, and the kind of casual relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to stay for just one more taste🍷

Sometime the best wineries are the ones that only a few friends know about-tucked away waiting to be discovered.

Cheers to finding hidden gems🥂

@canihan_wines

#winecountryliving #sonomawinecountry #sonomavalley #liveyourbestlife #winetasting

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

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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

Spend Your Money Where it Matters-Marriott Part 3

Which Marriott Is Right for You? — Part 2 ✨