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People often ask me what makes a trip unforgettable. Is it the five-star hotel? The perfect weather? Flying first class? Honestly, I don't think it's any of those things. For me it's the anticipation. 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. T

There comes a point when the best gift you can give your friends isn't another dinner out—it's a shared adventure. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday (perhaps turning 50? 60? 70? or?), planning a reunion, or simply deciding it's finally time to take that trip you've been talking about for years, there are incredible destinations that are made for laughter, long conversations, great wine, and unforgettable memories. Float Above New Mexico If you've ever dreamed of

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? Once you answer that, the destination usually becomes much easier. Step 1: How Much Time Do You Have? This is often the biggest deci

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. Every policy is different, and what works for one traveler may not work for another. This is simply a few things to think about as you plan. The Pros: Why Some Travelers Like Having It For many people, travel insurance is about peace of mind. It can feel reassuring to know there’s a safe

If you follow me you know that I love sports travel. I have been to the Kentucky Derby, Super Bowl, US Open, World Series. Top on my wish list is The Masters Tournament. If you too have always dreamed of attending your favorite Major Sporting Event, we can help with that. We offer travel packages only, no individual tickets. 2027 Major Sporting Events (just to name a few, we represent most of them) The Super Bowl February 14th The Masters April 5-11th Kentucky Derby May 1st G

Every year around this time, I start sharing fall trips (one of my favorite times of the year to travel) 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 my schedule and reduced pricing on lodging. But 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,

(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 (or you just prefer a calmer ride), think middle of the ship and lower decks. The ship’s movement is felt most at the front (bow) and back (aft). Midship cabins experience

Somewhere between ordering a cocktail and figuring out what shoes to pack, pickleball became the unexpected travel companion. What started as a backyard sport has officially made its way onto cruise ships, into resorts, and across destinations worldwide. Pickleball is easy to learn, wildly social, and one of the few activities where strangers become friends before you even know their last names-and bonus the paddle is easy to pack! Cruise lines were quick to catch on: pickleb

Summer for me equals food and wine events and outdoor concerts. 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

Last year was full-on travel mode. Planes, packing cubes, airport lounges… This year looks a little different. I’m putting some serious love into the house, slowing things down a bit, and trading long trips for shorter, closer-to-home adventures. I’ve realized something important: you don’t always need an overnight bag to feel like you’ve gotten away. When I’m craving a reset but don’t have the time (or energy) for a full trip, I lean hard into staycation fun—and it’s become

Sonoma isn’t a do-all-the-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. And because we are a little more casual in Sonoma than Napa-many of our tasting rooms do not require reservations. If you want to add a third you can find a "walk ins welcome" winery, there are plenty. But with just two reservations you are not overscheduled and rushing from one to another. An

In the fall of 2022 one of my most special trips was meeting my son in Barcelona. Somewhere between wandering the Gothic Quarter and lingering over late dinners, I was introduced to the espresso martini. Not exactly Spanish by origin—but somehow, in that moment, it became part of the experience. That’s the magic of travel… it’s not always about where something comes from, but where you discover it. Since then, I’ve paid a little more attention to what each destination pours b

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 m

Choosing the right cruise: start with where you want to go When people start planning a cruise, they often get pulled into comparing cruise lines, ship ratings, dining options, and onboard luxury. And while those things absolutely matter, they shouldn’t be the starting point. The truth is simple: The best cruise for you begins with the destination—not the ship. Start with Your “Why” Before you even look at cruise lines, ask yourself: Do I want to relax on a beach with a drink

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 . And that’s where a seasoned travel advisor makes all the difference. 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 w

Wine travel is about so much more than what’s in the glass—it’s about slowing down, connecting, and experiencing a destination through its flavors, landscapes, and people. Whether you’re planning your next girls’ getaway, milestone birthday/anniversary, or a luxury escape, these destinations deliver unforgettable tasting experiences. Of course I have to start with my home territory-what can I say I am very loyal and the wine industry is struggling.(The wine industry is going

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

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. For many women, choosing a destination that gives back just feels right. It adds purpose to the passport stamps. Costa Rica – Eco-Tourism That Protects Communities

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. Here are a few suggestions to consider for your next European adventure. Annecy, France Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is quietly b

Every winter I hear the same thing from my East Coast friends: “I can’t feel my face.” Meanwhile, those of us on the West Coast are complaining about rain and calling it “brutal.” Perspective is everything. 😄 It's true! We are weather wimps. No matter which coast you’re starting from, one thing we can all agree on—sometimes you just need warmth, sunshine, and a reason to stop checking the weather app. Here are a few favorite warm-weather escapes, broken down by coast and bu