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Thinking About Europe? Let’s Build an Itinerary That Actually Fits You
Europe is an incredible destination — and it’s also one of the easiest places to feel overwhelmed while planning.
If you want a trip that feels intentional (not rushed, not random, and not over- or under-planned), I can help curate a personalized European itinerary built around you.

Leigh Morrow
1 day ago2 min read


Why Holland America’s Legendary Voyages Really Are Legendary
Every once in a while, an itinerary comes along that makes me pause and think, this is something truly special.

Kenneth Reece
3 days ago3 min read


What's Actually Included on a Cruise?
I hear two big misconceptions about cruising all the time. Either people think it is completely all-inclusive, or they assume you have to pay for absolutely everything once you get on board.
The truth sits somewhere in the middle, and it also depends heavily on which cruise line you choose.

Christine Hardenberger
Feb 122 min read


A Thoughtful Way to Experience Hawaii: 17 Nights Around the Islands
One beautiful way to experience Hawaii is on a 17-night Circle Hawaii cruise, sailing roundtrip from San Diego aboard Holland America Line’s Koningsdam. This sailing departs January 9, 2027, and offers a relaxed, immersive way to see several Hawaiian islands in one journey.

Kenneth Reece
Feb 103 min read


The Best Time to Visit Italy (Hint: It's Not Summer)
Italy is always incredible, but there’s a certain time of year when it just feels right.

Leigh Morrow
Feb 52 min read


Dreaming About Your Next Cruise?
Lately, I’ve also been spending a lot of time thinking about just how much I love ocean cruising—and how perfect it can be for so many different kinds of travelers.

Kenneth Reece
Feb 32 min read


Our Most Important Travel Tip
How about we let you in on our #1 money-saving travel tip... and it's probably not what you think!

Elizabeth Perry
Jan 292 min read


How to Choose the Right Vacation for Your Family
Choosing the best vacation for your family can be a stressful and time-consuming decision. You want it to be memorable, but also in budget, but also have something everyone will enjoy, and so on. If you're caught up in endless internet searches and still don't know where to start, here are the questions you need to ask yourself in order to determine the best vacation destination for your family!

Elizabeth Perry
Jan 272 min read


Discover More at the Caribbean's Most Unique Island - St. Lucia
There are certain things that you're probably expecting on a Caribbean vacation, like white sand beaches, beautiful blue waters, and warm sunshine. The island of Saint Lucia offers all of these, but there are so many more things to do in Saint Lucia that many visitors don't expect!

Elizabeth Perry
Jan 223 min read


River Cruising - The Best Way to Visit Europe?
A river cruise lets you sail into the heart of incredible cities and picturesque towns, giving you access unlike any other vacation.

Elizabeth Perry
Jan 202 min read


Why Family Vacations Feel Stressful — And How to Fix It
Family vacations don’t magically become relaxing just because you left your driveway. They become relaxing when the stress leading up to the trip isn’t quietly draining every ounce of your energy before you even pack a suitcase.

Shannon Lindmeyer
Jan 154 min read


The Best Cruise Lines for Food Allergies: How to Cruise Safely and Stress-Free
Traveling with food allergies can feel like planning a high-stakes operation—especially when you’re setting sail for days at a time with limited control over what’s served. But here’s the good news: cruising can be safe, delicious, and even relaxing if you pick the right cruise line and know a few insider tips.

Christine Hardenberger
Jan 133 min read


Why PTO Is Essential for Your Family
A Minnesota Dad’s Guide to Taking the Damn PTO Without Guilt, Drama, or Apologizing to Your Out-of-Office Email

Shannon Lindmeyer
Jan 84 min read


PSA: Please Don’t Google the Phone Number—Call Me First
Why Googling Phone Numbers Can Go Wrong

Betsy Walker
Jan 63 min read


The Truth About Cruise Cabin Bids
If you’ve ever poked around your cruise reservation and spotted one of those “Make a Bid to Upgrade” emails, you’ve probably wondered if it’s worth it. The short answer: sometimes. The longer answer? Let’s walk through it so you know exactly what you’re getting into.

Shelly Bishop
Jan 12 min read


What Is an All-Inclusive Resort—And Why Can’t You Book One in the U.S.?
It’s a question I hear all the time: “Why can’t I just book an all-inclusive resort in Florida, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico?”
If you’ve ever wondered what “all-inclusive” really means—or why it’s a staple of Caribbean vacations but nearly nonexistent in the U.S.—this post is for you.

Kathleen Anckner
Dec 30, 20253 min read


Best Ports for First-Time Cruisers
A No-Nonsense Guide for Families Who Just Want a Great First Vacation Without Guessing

Shannon Lindmeyer
Dec 18, 20253 min read


Don’t Let Stress Be Your Souvenir
No one heads off on vacation hoping to bring home stress as a souvenir. But when you’re exploring a new place, it’s easy to feel a little unsure.

Kenneth Reece
Dec 16, 20252 min read


The Truth About Resort Recommendations: What You Need to Know
One of the questions I get asked often is: “Do you recommend every resort you tour?” The answer is simple—no, I don’t.

Betsy Walker
Dec 11, 20252 min read


Tips for Iceland's Blue Lagoon
Recently, I finally checked off one of Iceland’s most iconic experiences: soaking in the milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon. And let me tell you, it’s just as otherworldly as the photos make it look. If you’re planning your first visit, here are some insider tips to know before you step foot in this geothermal paradise.

Kathleen Anckner
Dec 9, 20253 min read
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