Planning a trip can be time consuming. It should be fun and exciting
Don't get stressed. The last thing you want is to be frustrated with the mountains of information, sites, tools, apps, etc. that can be used to help plan your next trip. Truth be told, I sometimes plan nothing more than the flight to my next destination and just sort of figure out the rest when I get there.
If you aren't quite that adventurous, no worries. I put together a list of some of my go to sites, links, tools, and apps. I've used all these myself and can attest they are pretty user friendly, economical and informative. Just shoot me an email or message if you run into issues and I can help or redirect you in any way I can.
“Investment in travel is an investment in yourself.”
No time to sit and research? We offer travel booking services. You let us know what sort of escape you need, timeframe, budget and we will take care of the rest. We can create itineraries, arrange transportation, flights, hotels, etc.
top sites for booking flights, hotels and more....
Expedia - extra perks for booking using the app
Hotels.com: The Obvious Choice. Book now and save!
Southwest Airlines - hands down my fav domestic airline
top sites for booking tours, events,transportation, etc...
Top sites for booking budget travel ACCOMMODATIONS...
Couchsurfing - Find a place to crash and connect with locals
Workaway.info - Volunteer and work in a cultural exchange program around the world.
STA Travel - Student discounts for 18-26 year olds
“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”
top sites for booking cruises...
Anyone versed in the travel industry will tell you that cruises are a whole different animal when it comes to reserving these trips. I was trained in travel and tourism, so I know a few secrets about the travel industry. I assure you, although the upfront cost of booking a cruise seems expensive and out of reach for some, it really is not anymore $$$ than any other vacations.
Once you start adding up the costs of transportation, hotel rooms, food, drinks, entertainment etc. of a "normal" trip on land you see that it is just as or MORE costly than a cruise (all inclusive). There are several packages, discounts and loyalty programs for cruise lines that can make it worth while.
Cruising is not for everyone, it does have it's drawbacks, the lack of freedom on the itinerary and time constraints at port cities can get annoying, but often times, first time cruisers will fall in love and take many more in their lifetime. I sure did.
My best suggestion for your first cruise is to try a short 3-5 day cruise. Just enough time to have a bit of fun but not feel too overwhelmed. Typically booking through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line can help with finding the best trip tailored to your needs and wants. Stick to one cruise line and you will continue to be pampered and given the royal treatment time and time again.
My personal favorites:
Royal Caribbean
Disney (costly $$$ but worth it)
“A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions. ”
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”
