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Switzerland 2024 Let’s be honest—this world can feel like a scary place. Between the 24/7 news cycle, global events, natural disasters, strikes, and everything in between, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure. But for me? Travel has always been the one thing that brings me peace. Real, soul-level peace. There’s something magical about arriving in a new place—a country I’ve never stepped foot in, a city full of unfamiliar streets, or even a beach I’ve only seen in photos. Immersing myself in these places is my version of therapy. It’s my happy . It’s my fuel. And it makes me laugh every time someone says, “I just love traveling with you on Facebook!” when they haven’t seen me in a while. That never gets old, and it always reminds me why I share what I do—it connects people to the beauty of this world, even when they’re sitting at home. I’ve worn many hats in my adult life (I’ll forever be thankful for my “growing-up” Pier One period—some of you know what I mean!), but nothing has ever lit me up quite like travel has. It's been enriching, humbling, and healing. Whether I’m crafting the perfect itinerary for a client who has no clue  where they want to go or finding a hidden gem for someone who’s been to a destination ten times already, travel advising gives me purpose. But let me be real: This job isn’t always sipping piña coladas on the beach. It’s working around the clock. It's putting out more fires than the local fire station. It ’s flight cancellations, weather delays, travel strikes, indecisiveness, and expectation vs. reality moments. Since the Pause , the landscape of travel has changed so much. And I believe this new wave of advisors—those who have entered the industry recently—are more equipped than ever to roll with the punches. We’ve learned to adapt quickly, navigate the chaos, and keep our clients calm in the storm. We don’t just book trips. We manage emotions, logistics, and life’s unpredictable twists. As I enter my fourth year of owning Michelle’s Destinations and 18th year as an advisor , I want to pause and say: I’m still here. I’m still showing up. I’m still booking, guiding, and helping clients—new and returning—find their own version of happy  through travel. Have I made mistakes? 100%. And any business owner who says otherwise is stretching the truth. But I learn, I grow, and most importantly, I own  them. So, why use a travel advisor? Because we are your advocates. Your planners. Your troubleshooters. Your cheerleaders. When the unexpected happens—and it often does—we are the ones on the phone at midnight figuring it out so you don’t have to. We turn “I don’t know where to go” into “That was the best trip of my life.” We see the details you don’t, and we make sure your experience is as smooth, safe, and enjoyable as possible. Travel has given me more than stamps in my passport. It’s given me perspective, friendships, healing, and a deep love for the human experience. I hope, in some small way, it gives you that too. So here’s to finding your happy . Whether it’s on a sun-drenched island, a cobblestone street in Europe, or a quick getaway close to home—I’m here to help you get there. Let’s plan something beautiful together.

Start 'Em Young: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Travel As a mom, a travel agent, and someone who’s had the joy of helping families plan unforgettable adventures for years, I can tell you this: wanderlust starts young. Some of the best travelers I’ve met—yes, even the kids who are calm through customs or thrilled about museum visits—didn’t just wake up one day travel-ready. They were raised  that way. If you want your kids to grow up curious about the world, confident in new places, and even helpful when it comes to planning your next trip (yes, it’s possible!), here’s what I’ve seen work wonders—both in my own family and with clients over the years: 📚 Let Them Plan Hand them a guidebook or even just a few links and say, “What looks fun to you?” You’d be surprised how excited kids get when they’re involved in picking a restaurant or pointing out something they saw on a map. Some of the most memorable family trips I’ve helped plan were shaped by a kid’s random request—from “Can we eat where the locals eat?” to “I read about this castle, can we go?” 🧳 Let Them Pack Give your kids a packing list and let them take ownership. Sure, you’ll want to double-check that a swimsuit made it into the suitcase, but trusting them to pack their favorite shirt or pajamas gives them confidence—and honestly, it teaches responsibility way faster than a lecture. 🍭 Build in Little Treats When I was planning a family’s long-haul trip to Europe, I suggested a fun pre-flight tradition: give each kid a small amount of local currency to pick out a treat or souvenir once they land. It keeps them engaged, excited, and gives them a bit of autonomy. It doesn’t have to be expensive—just something they own . 🌍 Normalize Other Cultures Want a confident traveler? Help them feel connected to the world even when they’re home. Encourage shows, books, or games that explore different countries. Growing up, many of us played Carmen Sandiego or flipped through National Geographic Kids—we were learning, even if we didn’t realize it. 🌐 Language = Confidence I always recommend introducing kids to the basics of a language before a trip. Even just “please,” “thank you,” and “hello” can spark confidence and respect. Bonus points if they get to use it to order gelato or croissants! 🥐 Give Them Trust On one trip, a client shared how her seven-year-old was in charge of going down the street in France to pick up croissants for breakfast. It was just a few blocks—but the pride in that child’s face said it all. Giving your kids small responsibilities while traveling (even if it's just navigating on Google Maps or ordering their own food) gives them a sense of place and independence. 🎒 Let Them Be the Tour Guide I’ve started suggesting this to parents with older kids: assign a day or a location to your child. Let them do some research ahead of time and share facts or stories when you get there. One client said their son planned a mini “walking tour” in Rome, and now he’s begging to plan their next adventure. It’s that spark of ownership that makes them excited to learn and explore. 🍛 Make Room for Adventure (and Chicken Nuggets) Encourage kids to try something new at each meal. One bite. That’s it. No pressure to love it—just to try. And if the rest of the meal is fries and chicken fingers? That’s okay too. Travel should be exciting, not stressful. 🧘‍♀️ Build in Downtime I always remind families to pause . Not every moment has to be scheduled. Kids (and adults!) need space to wander, nap, or even play with a stick in a random park. The “unscripted” moments are often the most magical. Raising kids who love to travel is about more than booking flights and checking off landmarks. It’s about trust, curiosity, shared memories, and giving them space to grow. As a travel advisor, it’s one of my greatest joys to help families start that journey together. Want help planning your family’s next adventure—or just want to know where the best kid-friendly gelato shop in Florence is? I’ve got you. ✈️💼

By Shelly Ramirez, Certified River Cruise Expert After sailing the rivers of Europe and Egypt, and preparing to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey down the Amazon in just two weeks, I can confidently say: there’s something truly magical about river cruising. It's not just about the destinations—though those are stunning—it's about how you experience  them. River cruising offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, comfort, and ease of travel that many of my clients are surprised to fall in love with. Even those who swore they'd never cruise have changed their tune after one of these unforgettable journeys. And as someone who only trusts professionals when it comes to travel planning, I bring that same standard to how I guide my clients toward the right river cruise experience. Here’s why I believe river cruising isn’t just for cruisers—it’s for curious travelers  who want more out of their vacations. 1. It’s the Best Way to Experience Multiple Cultures in One Trip Exotic destinations like Vietnam and Cambodia are rich in history, tradition, and flavor—but they’re also far away. A thoughtfully planned itinerary like Avalon Waterways’ 22-day Bangkok to Hanoi trip offers not only a cruise down the Mekong but meaningful overnights in cities like Luang Prabang and Siem Reap. You’ll explore bustling markets, sacred temples, and rural villages, all without packing and unpacking at every stop. 2. See Places Like Myanmar Before They Change Forever Destinations like Myanmar are rapidly evolving, which makes now the time to see their authentic charm. On AmaWaterways’ Mandalay-to-Bagan sailing, guests visit everything from centuries-old pagodas to local workshops and Buddhist monasteries. You’ll feel like you’re stepping into a living postcard—and with expert guides and curated experiences, you don’t have to worry about navigating it on your own. 3. Save Big in High-Cost Destinations Like Paris Let’s talk value. Cities like Paris come with a high price tag—hotels, dining, attractions, you name it. But with luxury lines like Uniworld and Crystal offering multiple overnights in the city (often docked within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower), your river vessel becomes a floating hotel with an unbeatable view. Add to that the exquisite food, excursions, and cozy atmosphere onboard? It’s a no-brainer. 4. Find Your Niche with Special Interest Cruises Whether you’re a wine lover, a history buff, or a fan of the holidays, there’s a themed river cruise for you. Imagine celebrating Christmas in Germany with mulled wine, handmade gifts, and snow-covered markets—or cruising the Mississippi during the holidays, complete with bonfires and Cajun-style dinners. There’s even a Civil War cruise led by a descendant of Jefferson Davis! River cruises bring history, culture, and community to life in a way that’s hard to match. Ready to Rethink the Way You Travel? If you’ve ever said, “I’m not a cruise person,” you might just be a river  cruise person. With smaller ships, immersive excursions, and the kind of personal service that makes you feel like family, it’s a style of travel that feels less like a vacation and more like a discovery. And with my firsthand experience—from the Danube and Seine to the Nile and soon, the Amazon—I’m here to help you navigate every step with confidence. Let’s find your perfect river journey—whether you’re a cruise skeptic or a curious traveler looking for something new.

Paris is a city where life unfolds with an effortless grace. During a recent visit, I found myself captivated by the way Parisians savor their days. There's a palpable sense of contentment in their slower, more deliberate pace. The city's layout invites you to explore its central parks, which buzz with activity on Saturdays and lunch breaks, where families and couples are scattered, relishing their time together. In Paris, time seems to run at a more relaxed rhythm. Locals step away from work for a full hour to enjoy lunch, and you’ll find signs on doors announcing their break times. Conversations with grocers, bakers, and mail carriers often feel like interactions with family, reflecting the city's intimate, small-town atmosphere. Each district in Paris offers a unique charm, and my dream is to spend a few months wandering down every street. A brief visit is simply not enough to fully absorb the essence of this enchanting city. To truly experience Paris, one must embrace its slower pace, immerse in its culture, and appreciate the simplicity of life. Venturing beyond central Paris, the surrounding towns each hold historical significance and a similar way of life, brimming with art, gastronomy, and theater. The gentle whispers of the wind through the streets and along the Seine create an almost magical ambiance. Walking the same paths as Hemingway or touching a door dating back to the 1600s adds to the city's allure. Parisian life celebrates the art of sitting and strolling, and adapting to this way of life can be a transformative experience. It might take a few days for our usually hurried selves to fully embrace the joy of lingering over a meal or getting lost in the city's charming streets. Allow yourself the freedom to meander and savor each moment in this timeless city. Until Next time Paris!

"Stay Healthy, Stay Happy: A Travel Agent's Guide to Wellness on Vacation" Introduction As a travel agent, I understand the excitement and joy that come with planning a vacation. However, amidst the thrill of exploring new destinations, it's crucial to prioritize your health and well-being. In this guide, I'll share valuable tips on how to stay healthy during your vacation so that you can make the most of your travel experience. 1. Plan Active Excursions One of the best ways to stay healthy on vacation is to incorporate physical activity into your itinerary. Plan excursions that involve walking, hiking, or biking. Whether it's exploring a city on foot, trekking through nature trails, or cycling along scenic routes, staying active will not only keep you fit but also allow you to discover hidden gems in your destination. 2. Choose Healthy Eating Options Sampling local cuisine is an integral part of any vacation, but it doesn't mean you have to abandon your healthy eating habits. Research restaurants that offer nutritious options and include a mix of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins in your meals. Don't forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in warmer climates. 3. Prioritize Rest and Relaxation While it's tempting to pack your itinerary with activities, it's equally important to prioritize rest and relaxation. Ensure you get enough sleep to recharge your energy for the next day's adventures. Consider scheduling downtime for activities like reading a book by the pool, enjoying a spa day, or simply taking a leisurely stroll on the beach. 4. Pack a Wellness Kit Prepare a wellness kit to have on hand during your travels. Include essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a basic first aid kit, and any necessary medications. Being proactive about your health can help you avoid common travel-related issues and ensure a stress-free vacation. 5. Stay Mindful of Your Mental Health Vacations are a time to unwind, but it's essential to be mindful of your mental health as well. Practice mindfulness through activities like meditation or yoga to alleviate stress. Disconnect from work emails and social media periodically to fully immerse yourself in the present moment. 6. Embrace Local Wellness Practices Explore and embrace local wellness practices unique to your destination. Whether it's trying a traditional spa treatment, joining a local yoga class, or participating in cultural activities that promote well-being, incorporating local wellness traditions can enhance your overall travel experience. Conclusion As a travel agent, my goal is to ensure that your vacation is not only memorable but also contributes to your well-being. By planning active excursions, choosing healthy eating options, prioritizing rest, packing a wellness kit, staying mindful of your mental health, and embracing local wellness practices, you can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling travel experience. Remember, a well-balanced vacation is the key to returning home feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Safe travels and stay healthy! ✈️🌴🏞️

Greetings, fellow travelers! As a passionate travel agent, I recently had the incredible opportunity to explore the enchanting Dreams Macao in Punta Cana, and let me tell you, it was just what the doctor ordered. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, this resort offers a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure. Join me as I take you on a virtual journey through my unforgettable experience at Dreams Macao! Arrival and First Impressions: From the moment I stepped onto the resort grounds, I was greeted with warm smiles and a refreshing tropical drink. The check-in process was seamless, and the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. The lobby's elegant decor set the tone for the luxury that awaited me during my stay. Accommodations: Dreams Macao boasts a variety of accommodation options, from spacious suites to swim-out rooms overlooking the pristine pools. I had the pleasure of staying in a beautifully appointed suite with a breathtaking view of the turquoise Caribbean waters. The attention to detail in the room's design and the comfortable amenities made it a true home away from home. Our room was a Preferred Club Partial Ocean View! Our view was just a slither of the Ocean but the room was stunning! Dining Delights: One of the highlights of my trip was the culinary experience at Dreams Macao. The resort features an array of international restaurants, each offering a unique and delectable menu. From the fresh seafood at Oceana to the savory Mexican cuisine at El Patio try the chili relleno, you will thank me every meal was a feast for the senses. The all-inclusive dining options ensured that my taste buds were treated to a diverse array of flavors throughout my stay. Punta Cana can be hit or miss with food. I was pleasantly surprised. They even offered a Petite Chef, cooking school for younger ones ! Activities and Entertainment: For those seeking adventure, Dreams Macao has an abundance of activities to choose from. Whether it's snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, please note this is a surfing beach, so snorkeling will be with an excursion. participating in beach volleyball, or enjoying live music by the pool, there's never a dull moment. The resort's entertainment team goes above and beyond to keep guests engaged and entertained, ensuring there's something for everyone, no matter your age or interests. Relaxation and Wellness: If relaxation is your priority, Dreams Macao has you covered. The world-class spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, and the serene beachfront provided the perfect backdrop for unwinding. I took advantage of the yoga and meditation classes offered, leaving me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Of course I had to get a Massage! They have a great SPA this is not to be missed Conclusion: In conclusion, my stay at Dreams Macao in Punta Cana was nothing short of magical. The combination of luxurious accommodations, delectable dining, exciting activities, and serene relaxation made for an unforgettable experience. As a travel agent, I wholeheartedly recommend Dreams Macao to anyone seeking a tropical paradise where dreams truly do come alive. Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a family in search of fun and relaxation, this resort caters to all, ensuring a vacation that will be etched in your memory forever.

By Shelly Ramirez, with a lot of writing help from Dawn Lanham! I just returned from an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. This resort was very majestic, hence the name Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres. While there I just knew that this was a property that I needed to blog about. Let me start from the beginning. My group had a total of fifteen agents from four different states, so this resort had some impressive things to do and it did just that. We stayed in the Excellence Club where we received our bracelet/room key and our butler, which I will speak more about in a minute. We arrived pretty early so we were escorted to the breakfast buffet with such a huge variety and selection, but this is just the start of the food that was offered there. Before I talk about this I want to back track to what the Excellence Club has to offer The Excellence Club has its own check in area with lounge chairs and lovely, big bathrooms. As I mentioned it is here that we received our butler, so let me speak briefly about what the job of our butler is. Each butler is assigned to twenty to twenty-five rooms, so they stay very busy. They are more like a concierge; however, they will not unload your luggage, but they will draw you a bath and have it waiting for you after a long day or whenever it is you would like one drawn up for you. We could not quite check into our rooms yet since we arrived early as previously mentioned, so I am going to throw in a traveling tip here. I packed my swimsuit in my backpack, so I was able to change and head to the pool early. It gave me a little more time to relax before our 4 p.m. tour of the property to see the rooms including the swim-out rooms and the plunge pool rooms. Side note: these rooms would be an amazing treat for honeymooners or those celebrating their anniversaries. They were just spectacular. Since we were staying at the Excellence Club and I am on the topic of rooms, let me just add the room selections found here. There is the Majestic Club room, as well as family sections. They offer a limited number of connecting rooms and rooms with trundles, but know that these rooms can’t be guaranteed, but surely an option that most definitely needs to be mentioned. The next thing I want to talk about is the beach and the ocean because while touring the rooms all of us were just drawn to the water. We could not wait to explore it. The beauty had us mesmerized. The beach alone was such a refreshing change because it did not have any sargassum. The sun grew hotter each day, but we could not and would not stay away. We chose to soak up Vitamin D and relax to the sounds of the sea. So much more to discuss, so let me me see if I can hit on it all. I will continue on with the Vitamin D route and talk about the pools. Each pool had its own activities from Bingo to Corn Hole or maybe some Jenga or even a little trivia; you definitely had options. Since we are on the subject of entertainment at the pools, let’s talk about the resort’s other entertainment options. The entertainment events were later in the evening, but so well worth the wait. You want to know when the show is…well, you guessed it…there’s an app for that. This app will tell you if there is a party or an event you should attend. But if you choose not to use the app or you can’t find anything, your handy dandy butler can guide you to where you need to go. I mentioned our huge breakfast buffet with plenty of choices. Well, let me add some more meals for you. Because let’s be honest, the food sometimes can make or break a place. Let me tell you, it was not a deal breaker for us. Not only did you get buffets for breakfast, but you got them at lunch as well and they were AMAZING. The choices for dinner, though, were even better! The steak and hibachi restaurant was hopping every night. The final thing I want to address are your day trips. I know many people like to go do different fun events outside of the resort, so I want to speak briefly about the day trips. Day trips are easy from this area. Please note though, that some of the trips can take up to two to three hours each way. Our day trip was to Isla Mujeres which we visited on day two. I have visited this little island several times, even staying there in 1988. It has changed a lot but still has the same coastal charm just with more tourists. Renting a golf cart or scooter is the way to get around while there. The island is only a couple blocks wide and seven miles long. North beach is a huge draw for mega yachts and is the beach to be seen. The southern point has Mayan ruins and a beautiful sculpture garden. Prices are negotiable on the island and haggling is encouraged; expect to pay about half of the cost shown on any particular item. Beach massages, hair braids, painted pottery and hats are just a few of the fun things that are there and ready for you! All in all Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres is a solid property and I will be sending more and more to it.

Traveling, while fun and exciting, can have its ups and downs and unpredictable events. One of the big ones: your flight getting canceled. It's always stressful when you find out your flight has been delayed or canceled. So what do you do? 1. Don't Panic! Flights get canceled all the time! While at the moment it's super stressful, airlines are very used to dealing with these events, so you are in experienced hands. 2. Find either a gate agent or your airline's customer service desk. They will have all the information you need to get you where you need to go. 3. Attitude is everything! Know the saying "You catch more flies with honey"? This also applies to how you treat airline staff when trying to rearrange your flight schedule. You will be stressed, but they are there to help you, so be kind. 4. Don't let it ruin your trip! This one is super hard, we know. A canceled flight is like rain on a parade. But take a deep breath and remember: you're going to get where you're going, even if it takes a bit longer. Don't let a delay ruin your amazing vacation! 5. Keep a record of what is happening. If worse comes to worst and you have to receive a voucher for your trip, make sure that the voucher is right for you! Keep track of why your flight was canceled, your itinerary, boarding passes, etc. to make sure you are compensated correctly and fully. So what can you do to prepare for these sorts of things before you even leave for the airport? 1. Consider travel insurance! One of the best ways to protect yourself and your vacation is by purchasing travel protection ahead of time! This way, if things go very, very wrong, you're not at the total cost of your trip and instead, can use the money or credit you receive to book yourself another vacation in the future! 2. Download the airline's app in the Apple App or Google Store. The app will keep you posted on what kind of delays or cancellations are happening and may help you learn about them before they're announced in the airport. 3. Don't delay! Once you find out your flight has been canceled, get a move on to get in line to get your trip taken care of before the line gets too long. 4. Contact us! If you give us a heads up that your flight has been canceled, we can work with you to help you navigate getting a new ticket or refund. We're in your corner, so keep us informed! We hope these tips will help you and yours during the busy holiday travel season! Stay safe travelers!

First of all, let me start by simply stating that four days was not long enough to enjoy this amazing city. I went to #Paris with my family in May and we were only there for four days. The time there was unforgettable; however, I left not completely satisfied. This lack of satisfaction wasn’t the fault of the city, but due to the fact that I know there were many more places I didn’t get to experience. Let me tell you what I did experience, and the love that grew in me while I was there. First of all, I walked and I walked a lot, so the first and foremost advice I will give you is that you need to make sure you have great walking shoes. This does lead me to my second piece of advice, which is, when you do want to use a means of transportation, make sure you check for an Uber first. You can almost always find one, and it is a little more cost efficient than the taxis. We stayed in St. Germain, also known as the Latin District, which is a very lively area. There are great food choices and pop-up shops. It is also in close proximity to #NotreDame, and you most definitely do not want to pass up the opportunity to take in this historical piece and enjoy the art. Before I get too far into the places my family and I visited, let me give you a little information about the food. Who doesn’t want to know what a 20 year old thought about the food? First of all, the food wasn’t limited to just French food, but I did enjoy the crepes I got every evening. The food was really good. France is like a melting pot of people and cultures, which means you have more options than French food. There are a plethora of varieties, and all are good. You can walk down the street and smell fresh bread, all kinds, all day long and the wine (I can talk wine since the legal drinking age is 18) the wine was easily attainable. You had access to it every time you turned around, literally. I would have to say the food is top notch; on the other hand, the menus could be a little confusing, so if there is an app for that make sure you download it. My favorite places that I visited were one, the #EiffelTower, of course. If you are scared of heights, there is no need to worry because it is enclosed with windows. At night, it lights up in golden lights and on the hour it has a really awesome lighting effect. The Louvre was interesting. You need a couple of hours to take it all in. I am going to be honest with you here. I appreciated the Louvre, but I wouldn’t need to go back; however, it is something that you really should not miss and I most definitely do not regret experiencing it. It did lead me to the next thing I thoroughly enjoyed, which is The Avenue des Champs Elysees. When asked why I liked this so much, I just said, “Because it’s a cool street. It is straight with a roundabout. It runs from the Place de la Concorde to the #ArcdeTriomphe. It is full of culture and great, modern shopping. One of the things that appealed to my dad, brother, and I were the “at least” ten different motorcycle shops. Another thing that made me love this city so much was just the different architectural styles and designs. The city style was so unique and it just drew me in. Some of the streets were cobblestone.The sights and sounds are so overwhelming but amazing as well. I will say, planning is key. Another thing I experienced was the gypsies and refugees.There seemed to be more than we have here, or at least more than I have experienced. But again, this leads to the uniqueness of the beautiful place. If you get the opportunity to visit Paris, do it. I would go back in a heartbeat.