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Unplanned Moments Happen: How Travel Insurance Saves the Day!

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Travel insurance is an essential part of planning any trip, whether you're heading to a bustling city or a remote destination. There are many reasons travelers secure travel insurance, and it’s worth considering what’s most important for your needs. Here are a few scenarios to think about: Remote Destinations: If your travel plans take you to areas far from major medical facilities or transportation hubs, insurance can be a lifeline. Family Considerations: Travelers with older parents or family members might need to cancel a trip unexpectedly or return home early. Non-Refundable Costs: Whether it’s a cruise, a flight, or a package deal, non-refundable bookings are a significant financial commitment. Personally, I’ve encountered all these situations. With parents in their 80s, I’ve had to plan for the possibility of canceling or cutting a trip short.  Then there was my friend who went hiking Mont Blanc in France last August and wiped out on the first day. That photo is actually h...
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REAL ID Requirements Start May 7, 2025

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Starting May 7, 2025 , all air travelers aged 18+ will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly within the U.S. What You’ll Need: REAL ID Driver’s License : Look for a star at the top. Enhanced Driver’s License : Look for a flag on the card. Other IDs : Acceptable options include a U.S. passport, passport card, or federally approved ID. How to Check: Contact your state DMV to confirm if your ID is compliant. Visit Homeland Security’s website for an interactive tool. Avoid travel delays by checking your ID now and upgrading if needed. For details, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID page . Make sure travel identification is in check before your next adventure!
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It's London Calling!

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I'm back from an incredible trip, where I experienced both the hustle and bustle of London, one of the busiest cities in the world, and the beauty of the English countryside. London: A City Like No Other! My hubby and I kicked off our journey in the heart of London, one of the world’s most iconic cities. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and regal atmosphere, we couldn’t wait to dive in. Of course, we visited must-see landmarks like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, London Bridge, and Piccadilly Circus. But it was the hidden gems that gave us a deeper connection to the city. One of the highlights was  Borough Market , an outdoor market with over a thousand years of history. What makes this market special is the incredible array of food and its commitment to sustainability and community. Though I typically avoid revisiting the same spots twice, the market's variety and atmosphere drew me back three times—an absolute must for foodies! For a different side of Lon...
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Haunted Happenings: A Guide to October Fun in New Orleans

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When you hear “New Orleans” most think of Mardi Gras. But if you’re into Halloween, vampires, zombies, ghouls, and goblins, a trip to New Orleans in October is just for you! In fact, Halloween is the second busiest holiday in the Crescent City and is voted in the top 13 places to celebrate Halloween in the world. Our daughter spent four years in college in NOLA (New Orleans, LA) so we had plenty of opportunities to dig deep into what the city offers. Visitors should definitely include fabulous Cajun and Creole cuisine, phenomenal jazz stops, and a trip to the iconic French Quarter. But to make the most of your Halloween holiday, here are some thrilling additions to jazz up your itinerary. Cemetery Tours For a hauntingly fascinating experience, head to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 near the French Quarter. This 45-minute guided tour will take you through the city's famous above-ground crypts and introduce you to New Orleans' unique burial traditions. Tours run throughout the day, b...
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Location: New Orleans, LA, USA
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Escape to Colorado: A Perfect Blend of Adventure and Relaxation

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I recently had the pleasure of spending time in beautiful Colorado - a state that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and serene relaxation. My husband and I have always wanted to attend a concert at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, known for its natural acoustics and breathtaking views. So we decided to turn this long-held dream into a summer getaway while also exploring the surrounding area of Beaver Creek, Colorado, a destination that promises cooler temperatures and an even cooler vibe.  During the summer, this area has a constant schedule of events – concerts, performances, art shows, bike races, and farmer’s markets to name a few. There literally is something for everyone! Our stay at the charming Poste Montane Lodge was nothing short of delightful. Nestled in the heart of Beaver Creek Village, this quaint, historic lodge exudes the warmth and hospitality of a traditional European inn. The convenience of having everything at our doorstep, from gourmet dining to bouti...
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Savvy Traveler Tip: Gearing Up for Your Next Adventure

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Are you ready for your next big adventure but lacking essential gear? I've been there too. From hiking the ancient trails of Machu Picchu to exploring the frozen landscapes of Iceland, having the right equipment can make or break your trip. And who doesn't love a bargain, especially if you don't plan to use the gear often? On my Machu Picchu hike, I wanted pants with zip-off legs that converted to shorts to adjust to the changing temps. In Iceland, water and windproof snow pants and travel towels for the thermal hot springs were on the list. While traveling through Europe, I needed a secure, anti-theft cross-body bag to guard against pickpockets. Let me say that although I wish I got paid to promote these products, I do not. These are just two of my favorite go-to sites for gearing up: 1 . Travelon Travelon products are awesome! Based in Chicago, Travelon sells cleverly designed luggage, totes, wallets, purses, carry-ons, and many more travel accessories. Not only are Tr...
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How Do Travel Agents Make Money?

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In my new career as a travel advisor, I’ve been asked several times how I make money. Let me tell you how it works. Commission Structure Many travel components such as hotels, tour companies, and car rentals, include built-in commissions for agents. Even companies like Expedia and VRBO have agent fees built in.  For example, when you book a hotel stay for $1000 through a travel agent, a percentage of that amount is paid out to the agent by the hotel. Importantly, the guest pays the same $1000 regardless whether they book directly or through an agent. Hotels and other providers often prefer direct bookings—they retain more profit. Airfares and Fees Airlines are a different story. Unlike other travel components, airlines typically do not offer commissions to agents on airfares. Therefore, agents may charge a nominal fee for their ticketing services. This fee covers the agent's time and expertise in finding the best flights and managing the booking process. International trave...
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Savvy Traveler Tip: Keeping Tabs on Your Bags

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Tracking your checked bags while traveling can be a game-changer. Not only does it provide peace of mind, but it also helps you and the airline retrieve your luggage if it gets lost. Here are a few ways to keep track of your luggage: Good: Keep Track of Receipts and Tags Always save your baggage claim tags and receipts. They contain vital information that can assist in locating lost bags. Better: Use Airline Apps Many airlines offer tracking services through their apps. Check in using the app and monitor your bag’s journey. American, United, and Delta all offer tracking and Southwest added this feature last October. Best: GPS Trackers Devices like Tile or Apple's AirTag can be placed in your luggage to track its location in real-time via your smartphone. More on GPS trackers.   Released in 2021, Apple’s AirTag quickly caught my attention. I bought AirTags and clip-on holders from Amazon, securely attaching them inside our luggage. They immediately became a travel mu...
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Location: Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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Turning Pickleball Into a Vacation!

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Sports Vacations are Trending For years, golfers have been globe-trotting to play on the world's most scenic courses. Now, it's time for pickleball enthusiasts to join in on the fun! Imagine playing your favorite sport in stunning locations across the country, combining your love for the game with a memorable travel experience. Last summer, my husband and I did just that by signing up for a pickleball camp in Bozeman, Montana. Not only was it a refreshing escape from the scorching Arizona heat, but it also gave us the chance to extend our trip and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park, marvel at Old Faithful, and encounter diverse wildlife - think buffalo, wolves, elk and even a grizzly! There are several camps to choose from these days literally all across the country so you can travel to amazing destinations staying active along the way. We chose LevelUp Pickleball Camps based on a friend's recommendation and couldn't have been happier. The...
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Location: Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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