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Travel insurance companies just like your homeowner's, car and health insurances, are governed by state insurance commission rules, requirements, and practices. In order to get reimbursed on a claim, travelers must know it's a viable claim and provide the proper documentation for a successful claim to be paid. AVOID THESE MISTAKES SO YOU GET PAID ON YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE CLAIM: By avoiding the following mistakes, you will enable yourself to get paid on legitimate claims and to be paid more quickly. Not Reading Your Plan I am going to start with #5, "Not reading your plan" because I feel it's the first thing people should do. We suggest to all of our clients to skim over your policy when you receive it so you have a bit of familiarity with your coverage. Reviewing it could mean the difference in decisions you make, knowing something unexpected is covered, and knowing if you have a valid claim. For instance, there are over 20 reasons to file a "trip cancellation" claim, but it's not open-ended and when people stumble upon a situation where they will not be covered, they get frustrated. Discarding Receipts Number 1 is "Discarding receipts." It's easy to lose paper when moving around, unpacking, packing, and cleaning out what you feel you don't need. If necessary, try to get an envelope from your cruise ship or hotel. Or travel with an envelope or Ziplock bag to keep important papers. It could be one little piece of paper that cannot be replaced that keeps you from getting paid on your claim. Not Filing a Report I feel that reason that #2, "Not filing a police report," should be "Not filing an appropriate report" because sometimes it's a matter of an airline, car rental, hotel, or cruise line report. Be sure the report is on that entity's letterhead. Not Visiting a Physician I still recall a big unpaid claim from long ago because a client did not follow #3, "Not visiting a physician." She flew to Italy a few days before joining a motorcoach tour. Two nights before the tour, she got sick and felt much worse the day before the tour. She was afraid to see a local doctor, changed her airline ticket, and flew home the next morning so she could be back into the U.S. to be seen. The hotel offered to get an English-speaking doctor for her, but she'd refused. She asked someone at the hotel to "tell the tour guide when they come that I was sick and went home." She didn't call the insurance company (always call the insurance company for assistance or a heads up which is mentioned in the policy). Nor did she call our office. Had she called us or the insurance company, we could have made it clear to see a doctor immediately before making any other plans. And the insurance company could have assisted her, too. She recovered from being sick, but she made many mistakes, lost a long-awaited trip, and a lot of money. We never want to see a client be sick, miss a trip or lose money. Please use her story for your benefit. Not Sending the Necessary Documents Number 4, "Not sending the necessary documents" is one we have often seen hold up claims. While that does circle back to not having receipts or reports for claims having to do with issues during the actual trip, it's sometimes travelers not following the directions given to them when they opened a trip cancellation claim. In the case of trip cancellation, not sending a copy of your trip confirmation, canceled checks or bank statements for trip payments and even people sending in "doctor's notes" from their physician or their immediate family member's physician rather than having the claim form affidavit completed with needed details will hold up reimbursements. Do you still need to purchase travel insurance? Visit Travel Insured for a quote and to purchase your policy or contact your travel specialist at Connie George Travel Associates We want to see you enjoy that long-awaited vacation. But if something unexpected comes up, we want your process of filing a claim to be as hassle-free as possible and one that leads you to a quick payment. If you found the tips in this article to be helpful, please let us know by clicking on the ♥ below? Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S. If you want more see more travel tips, promotions and travel ideas, visit and "like" our Facebook page.

I woke up early today to a perfect morning. It was a crisp 64°F outside with a soft breeze, endless blue sky, and sunshine. A perfect morning to enjoy coffee, mindfulness, gratitude, and prayer out on my balcony. Closing my eyes and taking in the breeze and the singing of the birds brought back a memory of my first “vacation” by myself. Not one that you’re going to expect from a travel agent. Instead, I could smell the burning wood of a campfire and the earthy scent of the woods that then slowly ushered in one memory after another of a long-ago summer week at Camp Cherith in the Poconos, circa 1973. Along with my closest friend from Pioneer Girls and church, I was finally at the camp that I had looked forward to for months. I imagine my parents had to work hard on the budget for me to have this trip. It was my first time away from family for a week and my first-time camping. “The best things in life are the people we love, The places we’ve been, And the memories we’ve made along the way.” -author unknown While I didn’t recall a lot of details, I closed my eyes and smelled the smells, heard the laughter, and recalled snapshots of a wonderful week. The photos and short videos in my mind were of archery and horseback riding, both also firsts for me. Of walks and swimming, Bible studies, and sing-alongs. And of the Camp Store where I bought a souvenir, a camp t-shirt that I recall wearing many times over those next couple of years. I probably haven’t thought of that summer camp trip in decades. What a beautiful gift this morning when a few minutes of being still and mindfulness brought back memories through my senses. Many things to reach back and be thankful for from the opportunity of the camp to family that supported me going on the trip to the counselors, the experiences and now the memories. A lot of gratitude shared in prayer. Our vacations give us well-needed breaks, but they are so much more. Whether it’s a camping trip, cruising down the Nile, or seeing the wildlife during an African safari. They all shape us, give us insight into ourselves, teach us, and sit in a place in our minds for as long as we have memories. Time may take away the smaller details of our trips, but no one can take away our experiences and memories. Those are the after-effects of vacations that you get to keep. If this article made you think about your own travel memories and how important they are to you, would you share some love with us by clicking on the ♥ below? Happy traveling! - Connie

Have you visited a local McDonald’s Restaurant when traveling outside of your area? I can practically hear some of you saying, “I don’t go on vacation to eat at McDonald’s.” But not so fast, my friends! I’m not one to tell people to stay in their comfort zone and expect things like home when traveling. There’s always camping in the backyard for that. In fact, I want you to experience local culture. Even if that means mustering up courage, taking a deep breath and stepping in slowly. I’m here to tell you, whether your preference is stepping into the water one inch at a time or finding the deep end to dive into headfirst, McDonald’s can be a good place to include while traveling. Let me backtrack for a moment. I love this photo of sheep “dining” on grass at a McDonald’s in Wales for a couple of reasons. While humans have had to “step back,” we’ve seen wildlife leap forward. The murky water of Venice is now appearing as beautiful blue glass hosting swans, dolphins and jellyfish. In cities around the world, deer, mountain goats, monkeys and big cats have been photographed strolling along streets. And sheep visit a McDonald’s. This photo also prompted my memory of a trip to Hawaii along with a travel tip I’ve been wanting to share with you. At the age of 20, I ended up at a Honolulu McDonald’s. It was nearby my hotel and offered a cheap dinner. I was on a budget in Hawaii, trying to eat only two inexpensive meals daily so I could afford to sightsee during the day and go to clubs at night. No judging! These were a couple of my travel priorities at that age. It was the first time I learned that the chain’s menu wasn’t only what I knew back in Pennsylvania. Among my familiar choices were local options. I recall trying something new though I don’t remember what. But I do remember that I bought a set of four smoke-glass cocktail promotional glasses there that each had a different outdoor Hawaiian scene sketched into the glass. I had those for many years. Not convinced yet that you should step through the Golden Arches for lunch on your next trip? Let me share some incentives for you. Needed Facilities A meal break from exploring also gives you access to a public restroom and probably free Wi-Fi. Lighter on Your Budget How inexpensive your meal is will depend on the area you’re visiting, but it’s a sure thing that the cost will be lower than dining at a regular restaurant. Perhaps that helps you travel within your budget or maybe that opens your wallet up a bit for an even nicer dinner. McDonald’s With a twist--- eating like a local You may find tortillas, pita bread, rice, seaweed, lamb, shrimp, spam, curry, Kosher or vegetarian with local vegetables and fruits as part of your entrée, side or dessert. What’s on the menu may reflect the appetite of the locals and be influenced by popular nearby ingredients. You can even wash down your food with a beer in some countries! Here are a few samples of what you may find as a temporary or permanent food when traveling: Lobster rolls in New England Haupia (a local coconut dessert) Pie in Hawaii Aloo Wrap, Salsa Bean Burger and multiple rice bowl options (with and without chicken nuggets) in India Chicken McWings and McKebab, a sandwich wrapped in flatbread instead of a sesame seed bun in Israel McMullet breakfast sandwich of refried beans, cheese and salsa on an English Muffin in Mexico Enjoy the aspect of the local foods and eating practices where you’re visiting. Local Culture In addition to the food, take the opportunity of rubbing elbows with the locals to see what families and workers are like in a natural setting. The clothes, the way they “queue up” (line up), ordering, eating, interacting. Take it all in! Instagram-Worthy Meals, especially unique foods, make for great photos for Instagram and Facebook. Even better, document your trip with a selfie of you with something unique that you’re trying. Whether you step in slowly or dive in headfirst at that nearby McDonald’s while you are away, I invite you to stop by our Facebook page and post that you saw this blog, share about your experience and a photo of you with your Mickey D’s meal. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to share some love with us by clicking on the ♥ below? And if you are interested in more travel tips and information, visit and "like" our Facebook page. Happy traveling! -Connie

What if one good thing about being quarantined is that it offers opportunities to try new ideas and enjoy hobbies and causes we feel passionate about, but don’t typically make time for in our normallhy hectic life? I’m as stressed as everyone else over COVID-19 and with the added issues of how it affects those of us with travel industry careers. But I’ve learned that I’m at my best and am the most empowered when I look for some benefits in a bad situation. It doesn’t mean I want this problem. Just that I want to see some good out of it. From March 23rd through April 5th, we posted five daily ideas on our Facebook page to beat the boredom of being fully or partially (for those working essential jobs) isolated at home. Whether you are reading this blog during the isolation of "spacial distancing" or at some other time, perhaps you'll want to try someting new. Here's the accumulated list from our page: 3/23/20 1. Learn a new word each day. Try using it in a conversation. 2. Start a goal list (mental, physical, spiritual, educational, home. Break it down to major and short term. Add action steps and timetables. 3. Get in touch with a family member you don’t get to talk to regularly. 4. Teach your dog a new trick. 5. Change your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries if you didn’t on Daylight Savings. 3/24/20 6. Cook a big pot of stew, soup or sauce so you can share or freeze the leftovers. 7. Fix something that’s broken 8. Phone a friend 9. Take a walk and listen out for what you can hear. 10. Enjoy taking a virtual tour of five U.S. national parks. 3/25/20 11. Check on a neighbor 12. Join a virtual book club 13. Clean your email inbox- purge outdated mail, unsubscribe, set up spam filters 14. Multi-task exercise with doing your spring yard cleanup 15. Practice forgiveness Bonus: Now is a good time to book your fall foliage tour. This Classic Fall Foliage by Globus is one example of what we can look at for you. 3/26/20 16. Clean out your phone by removing apps you don’t use 17. Read a book you’ve wanted to get to 18. Start learning Tai Chi 19. Do some adult coloring 20. Handwrite an actual letter or thank you note to someone 3/27/20 21. Enjoy a long bath 22. Learn to crochet or knit on YouTube 23. Binge watch your favorite TV series 24. Memorize a quote, scripture or poem that is meaningful to you 25. Dance to favorite tunes from when you were a teenager Bonus: If you’ve been interested in channeling your inner Mark Twain, talk to us about a Mississippi River Cruise on an American Cruise Lines’ ship. 3/28/20 26. Re-arrange a room 27. Laugh with longtime great comedians 28. Write a “cookbook” of your favorite recipes and cooking tips to pass down in your family 29. Start a daily devotional routine. They are available online free for all major religions. 30. Give your dog a bath 3/29/20 31. Set up a phone, Facetime or Zoom “wine & chat” date with a friend (substitute wine with your favorite beverage) 32. Find positive groups to join on FB to build a more uplifting news feed 33. Learn at least five words or phrases in multiple languages 34. Write a list of what you would do if you won a million dollars 35. Start a daily balance exercise routine 3/30/20 36. Write a Haiku poem. It’s three lines. First line has 5 syllables, 2nd line has 7 syllables, 3rd line has 5 syllables. 37. Try a science experiment (let your inner child out if there’s no kids at home… who’s around to judge?) 38. Organize your music playlists 39. Unjoin Facebook groups that don’t benefit you 40. Organize those packets of old printed photos Bonus: Some of our clients have said planning a future trip right now gives them something fun to work on during this stressful time. What dream trip for this fall or next summer do you want to look forward to? 3/31/20 41. Learn a line dance to Uptown Funk 42. Start or get back to journaling 43. Make a homemade gift for someone 44. Grab an instructional book you’ve had at home or a YouTube video to learn something new 45. Sing along with your favorite songs 4/1/20 46. Play a (nice) April Fool's prank on someone in your home. 47. Organize your digital photos 48. Learn the KonMari Method of decluttering 49. Learn a new way to play Solitaire 50. Clean out your wardrobe 4/2/20 51. Write down positive-reinforcing scriptures and quotes to post around your home where you can see them and a few where you’ll only come across them occasionally as a pleasant surprise. 52. Unfriend or unfollow “friends” who bring too much negativity to your Facebook news feed 53. Clean out your closets- toss / donate / keep & organize 54. Build or update your LinkedIn profile 55. Watch a Ted Talk 4/3/20 56. Write at least three affirmations that you say regularly 57. Start or work on a blog for your job, hobby or cause you are passionate about 58. Exercise with a live-stream workout 59. Do something on your “To Do List” so you can check it off. 60. Be kind to your houseplants- repot & prune 4/4/20 61. Learn and practice Creative Visualization 62. Be creative – do an art project 63. Learn a new language 64. Practice mindfulness 65. Try a new recipe 4/5/20 66. Create a vision board 67. Meditate 68. Give yourself a mani/pedi 69. Enjoy a warm bath with your favorite beverage and book/music 70. Connect with a past teacher, mentor or leader with a card, letter or email to thank them for how they affected you Bonus: When you feel the time is right to plan your next tour or cruise, we’re here for you. Meanwhile, think about what you would like to do. Look at the destination on the internet. Dream. And when you are ready to turn that dream into a goal, contact us. Feel free to share on our Facebook page any of your experiences with any of these tasks. Happy Traveling.... because we ARE going to get through all of this with a "new normal" that will be good which includes traveling! Remember #TravelWillBeBack Happy Traveling! - Connie P.S. If you found any ideas in this article to be fun to try, feel free to click on the ♥ below and share the page with a friend who may enjoy a new idea, hobby, or class.

Yay! Celebrity put an end to carrying your tote bags, backpacks and purses around the ship during those first hours onboard. I always felt like I was visiting rather than vacationing when schlepping that stuff around the ship. If all goes smoothly with Homeland Security (or the government of your embarkation country), you may be on your Celebrity Cruises’ ship as early as 11am or shortly afterward. But if you are an experienced cruiser, you know that ship cabins usually aren’t ready until 1pm or shortly afterward. That means an hour or two tethered to your stuff. Dragging it with you on elevators, up steps and through the buffet. Changing into your “pool clothes” in a public bathroom and stowing your stuff by the lounge chair you found at the pool. Dealing with the weight over your shoulder as you try to explore the ship. Squeezing an Extra Hour or Two into Your Vacation Last year, Celebrity began offering early access to your cabin in order to drop off your luggage and truly “let the fun start!” I want to share with you what you need to know so you can fully enjoy this feature along with some ideas for taking advantage of your new freedom from hauling your luggage around. Until your cabin is fully prepared, there will be a “Room in Progress” on the door. Your cabin or suite will have been cleaned, but not prepped with all documents and items. The last details to be loaded into your cabin are gifts and notices (i.e. dining assignments, order confirmations, papers). Once your cabin is fully ready, the sign will be removed from your cabin door. While the cabin preparation is still in progress, you can access your cabin to drop off your luggage, change clothes and take photos before your cabin has the “lived in” look. Lock up your cash, credit cards, jewelry and identification in your cabin safe. You should not linger in your cabin while its preparation is still in progress as your cabin steward is trying to quickly finish his/her cabins. Take advantage of not having to lug your bags around: Explore the ship! Have lunch! Go for a drink! Relax by the pool! Make any needed dining and spa reservations! Elevators can be backed up during embarkation, particularly since people are boarding with their hand luggage that takes space in the elevator. Now that you’ve dropped off your luggage, consider taking the stairs if you are able. After all, you’re not dragging your luggage and those steps now will help alleviate dessert guilt later. A Celebrity Cruises' Sales Rep's Top Two Tips I asked our Celebrity Cruises sales rep for her biggest advice for our clients regarding the early cabin access. She offered: “Don’t be concerned if gifts and notices aren’t in the cabin until the “Room in Progress” sign is off the door.” “Go have lunch, meet with anyone you have to connect with for reservations and explore the modern luxury of your ship.” Go…. Have fun…. Get started on that vacation as soon as you can board your ship! Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S. If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below. For more tips, "like" our Facebook page. We also have a Facebook women's travel group and a group devoted to Galapagos cruising.

Whether you want to keep a bit active or you are looking for a full work-out that will have you “feeling the burn,” Symphony of the Seas gives you lots of options. This newest of Royal Caribbean International’s ships was christened in November 2018. She was the much-anticipated “sister” to her other Oasis-class ships: Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas. Symphony of the Seas offers you 19 eateries. There are nine complimentary dining options included in your cruise package and ten which are á la carte or have a set fee. With 19 places to eat, we felt it was appropriate to share 19 ways to work off those great meals. 1. Shoot some hoops on the full-size basketball court. 2. Go ice-skating in the Caribbean on the ship’s deck 4 rink. 3. Climb one of the 43-foot rock climbing walls. 4. Stroll Central Park’s walkways. 5. Run the covered track on deck 5. One lap equals a half mile! 6. Prefer to take a walk instead of a run? Symphony of the Seas is 1,188 feet long. That’s a little over 3 football fields long; almost a quarter mile. Walk the length as much as you like. 7. Play a round of mini golf. 1. Practice your surfing on one of the FlowRiders. 2. Get your feet moving with some salsa dancing in Boleros. 3. Play Skee Ball in Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade on The Boardwalk. 4. Or fly over The Boardwalk as you zip line 9 stories above. 5. Practice planking on your balcony. 6. Climb the steps and then race down Ultimate Abyss, the 10-story dry slide. 7. Get wet and crazy riding down one of the three waterslides that make up “the Perfect Storm.” 1. Play a game of laser tag “Battle for Planet Z” in Studio B. 2. Splash, swim or do your water exercises in the ship’s four pools. 3. Work out in a fitness center the size of many land-based gyms. 4. Skip the elevator and use the steps to get between her 18 decks. 5. Explore her ports by walking, swimming or choosing an active excursion. Symphony of the Seas alternates between Eastern and Western Caribbean ports of Perfect Day at Cococay, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Jamaica, Labadee, Roatan, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and San Juan. I hope you enjoy many of the dining AND activity options on this amazing ship. We would enjoy helping you book your Royal Caribbean cruise vacation. Give us a shout at 610-532-0989 or info@cgta.com. Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S.If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below. For more tips, "like" our Facebook page.

What most people call “winter months” or “first quarter of the year,” we in the travel industry call “Wave Season.” It’s a decades-old reference that I believe started in the 1980s. The term was based on the “wave” of cruise bookings that always flowed in (bad pun intended) immediately following the holidays. Over time, the period has gone from being a busy time for most of the travel industry to representing about 50% of the year’s bookings being made during this three-month timeframe. It’s also been adopted by land package and motorcoach tour operators who want to aggressively market to be sure they also gain their share of vacationer’s budgeted funds. But what does this mean to you? Here are pros and cons that a sharp travel consumer will want to know: Pro: Consumer Awareness I’m a huge believer in educated consumers being the best consumers. “Wave Season” brings attention by way of educational articles and news segments. Read between the fluff and skip the “if it bleeds, it leads” junk and instead pay attention to what you can learn about destinations, cruise lines, cruise ships and cruising tips. Cons: Hold Times This time of year, a consumer or travel advisor can get through to a cruise line by phone in minutes or we could sit on hold long enough to read half of Tolstoy’s “War and Peace.” Two of my more memorable hold times in the past week were 46 minutes and nearly two hours. The way for you, as a traveler, to avoid wasting your time is to hire a travel advisor so we can work by online agent portals and phones on your behalf. One of the many benefits of hiring a travel professional is so you can spend your time doing more fun and productive tasks. Cons: Staffing Since three months of the year carry such a high volume of calls, most cruise lines have a lot of newly hired, sometimes seemingly barely trained, inexperienced agents on the phones. While the lower hold times are appreciated, the downside is a lot of misinformation, increased chances of errors and time on hold while the agent is checking answers with a supervisor. Carlos from my office and I were recently talking about how much easier it is for long-time travel advisors to know a cruise line agent is unsure of what they are saying or is giving wrong information. I often appreciate our “gut feelings.” They’ve protected our clients and me many times. Cons: Availability With so many bookings over a short period, availability goes quickly. Particularly when you’re looking at the nicest or least expensive accommodations, popular sailing times and best promotions. The earlier you plan, the better your options will be. Pro: Good Deals Cruise lines can predict a lot about the year by their first quarter bookings. Aggressive promotional deals offering discounted rates and extra perks can benefit savvy travelers looking for the best value for their vacation budget. Check out a few examples of the promotions running right now: Royal Caribbean International- Buy One, Get One 60% Off! Plus, 30% Off the 3rd/4th Guests, Kids Sail Free and Up to $150 Instant Savings. Book by 1/31/20. Princess Cruises- “Best. Sale. Ever.” Gives you a Premier Beverage Package (alcohol, sodas, coffee!), Wi-Fi and Gratuities on cruises starting in April 2020. Book by 2/29/20. AmaWaterways- Save up to $1,500 per stateroom on 2020 sailings and receive a $300 onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings. Book by 3/31/20 If you are ready to plan your vacation, it’s time to catch the wave! We’d be happy to help you navigate the options so you can get the best value for your money. Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S.If you found this article helpful, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below. For more tips, "like" our Facebook page.

The good news is that there’s no bad time to explore Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands! But when is the best time to visit the Galápagos Islands? It’s more of a choice of when best fits your interests. There are three considerations: * Weather * Preferred Activities * Preferred Wildlife Since the equator runs through the Galapagos Islands region, the temperature doesn’t vary greatly throughout the year. There is a rainy season and a dry season. While there are destinations people will choose primarily based on rainy and dry seasons, cruising in the Galapagos is not one of them. And since the Ecuadorian government strictly limits the number of people who can enter the Galapagos National Park, neither season will be overly crowded. Rainy / Wet Season - December through May Expect air temperatures of low-70s to mid-80s and blue skies with sunshine between showers. There’s an average of 2-4” of rain per month during this time, producing lush, colorful foliage. You’ll experience warmer water temperatures averaging 76°F which makes it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. And calmer seas for smoother waters for cruising. Some animal highlights during parts of this season are green sea turtles, giant tortoises, waved albatross, penguins, land iguanas, flamingos starting to nest, turtle and tortoise eggs hatching, the new vibrant colors of the marine iguanas and the famous blue-footed boobies doing their mating dance. Mid-December through mid-January is considered the peak tourist time during the wet season. Dry Season – June through November The dry season brings temperatures of upper-60s to low-80s and some wind. Rainfall averages under an inch during most of these months. Days are more likely to be overcast. The Humboldt Current flows along South American coast bringing along colder waters at an average of 72F. Those wishing to enjoy the ocean for their personal pleasure or to see more marine life will likely want to wear a wet suit which is often provided by cruise ships. Sailing may be a little rougher. The Humboldt Current also brings up nutrient-rich water from the ocean’s floor to surface which draws an abundant variety of tropical fish which, in turn, draws more marine life and birds. Some additional wildlife highlights of the dry season are humpback whales, whale sharks, and dolphins as well as penguins, lizards, sea lions, and their pups and the giant tortoises. Mid-June through early September is considered the peak tourism point during the dry season. When it comes down to it, there are always some species of fish, mammals, and reptiles living between the various islands of this archipelago which are mating, being born, and are active. At any point in the year in which you are fortunate to be experiencing the Galapagos Islands, you are sure to have an amazing and memorable experience. What best fits your specific interests is your best time to visit the Galápagos Islands. Just prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, interest in the Galapagos Islands was growing in leaps and bounds. The more people travel, the more of the world they want to explore. Now that the world is reopening, interest in the Galapagos has jumped back into this high level of interest. And multiple small ships are available to fit the interests and exploring lifestyles of visitors throughout the entire year. Would you like to discuss partnering with us to plan your Galapagos cruise? Click here to request your complimentary consultation call. If you would like to learn more or chat about cruising the Galapagos Islands, we have additional resources for you: Galápagos Cruisers Online Community Galapágos Destination Guide Sample Galápagos Islands Cruise/Tour itinerary that includes Quito, Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cuzco Galápagos Islands Resources What NOT to Pack for Your Galápagos Luxury Cruise When you are ready to book your personal incredible experience to the "Enchanted Island," do it with a Galápagos Islands specialist. I look forward to my agency being the one that introduces this incredible area to you. Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S.If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below and sharing it with a friend.

Experience is a great teacher, and sometimes the lessons are hard ones. Some of my lessons have taught me what to include in a “first aid travel kit” that always comes with me on trips. I'm sharing some essentials for a travel first aid kit that you'll want to toss into your carry-on or check-in luggage. Your kit may vary according to your body’s needs and any medical conditions you have. Here’s a list of over-the-counter medications you may want to include: Alcohol wipes – In addition to having some in your kit, it’s a good idea to have in your bag for when you’re out and about. Antibacterial ointment – Don’t let a minor cut become a major problem. Neosporin is a great option. Anti-diarrhea medication – Imodium or Pepto-Bismol can come in handy if you get a stomach bug or eat something that disagrees with your belly. Antihistamine – Very helpful in case of a mild allergic reaction. Anti-itch or hydrocortisone cream – Great to have on hand to stop the itch of a bug bite or a rash. I bring a small tube of Gold Bond. Anti-motion sickness medication – Good to have on hand if you have motion sickness issues. Band-Aids – Blisters on my heels from sneakers that apparently weren’t broken in well enough became my lesson in making sure these were always in my kit. Decongestant – They are a huge help with my ears when flying. Mild laxative – Changes in routine, foods, and alcohol intake can affect another one of your bodies “routines. ” Pain/fever medicine – From a headache to a mild sprain, this is on my “don’t leave home without it” list- Tylenol or Motrin Whether you consider them as part of your “travel health kit” or on another packing list, be sure to include these “preventative care” items- sunscreen, insect repellent and hand sanitizer. I prefer to put my "travel budget" toward experiences that build memories instead of packing so many of the above items are purchased at Dollar Tree. I've even written an article with 49 packing items that can be picked up for only $1.25 at Dollar Tree. Other items I have I like to have with me or tweezers, a safety pin and a pack of matches. These items can come in handy for all sorts of things such as removing a tick, popping a blister or getting a splinter out. If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below. For more tips, "like" our Facebook page and share this article with friends so they don't have to learn about travel first aid kits the hard way. Happy traveling! -Connie

Your travel documents are in order, and you’re on your way to a much-anticipated vacation or conference. Don’t allow your trip to go down the drain because of a passport disaster. These simple tips of caution and planning can take you a long way… literally! Your passport isn’t in good condition. A passport that’s been wet or is ripped, scribbled on or has other damage can result in your being refused entry into a country. Sometimes it doesn’t take much damage to be refused. A well-used passport that has no blank pages. Your passport should have at least one empty page for a Customs or Border officer to be able to stamp. If not, you can be refused entry. A too-soon expiration date. Some countries require that your passport must be valid for 30 days, three months or even six months past the end of when you are scheduled to be visiting. If you don’t meet the requirement, you would be refused entry. You left your passport behind. Sounds too obvious, but we’ve had people who couldn’t board a ship or get to their destination because their passport… was safely laying on their bureau at home. Everything else you could forget can probably be purchased, but not that precious little blue book. You’ll be denied boarding the ship or plane. Travel insurance covers many possible situations that can cause loss to a client, but it does not reimburse you for a vacation or lost trip investment due to any of the above situations. Your insurance company may have a concierge or “travel assistance” department that you could call to see if there is some way in which they can assist with which steps to take. If you purchased travel insurance with a “cancel for any reason” (typically a full or partial refund, but often comes with a stipulation on the cancelation being a day or two prior to the trip start date), you may receive some type of benefit or future trip credit, but I would consider that an exception rather than the rule. For further information regarding passports, visit the “U.S. Passports” section of the U.S. Department of State’s website. Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S.If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below. For more tips, "like" our Facebook page and feel free to share this article with friends. #PASSPORT #TRAVEL #TIPS

The only thing I find disappointing about cruising to Barbados is that it’s not on more cruise itineraries. Located in the southeastern part of the Caribbean, it’s too far to be reached on a seven-day sailing from Florida. You need to hop on a ship in San Juan or go for a longer cruise from the continental U.S. There’s plenty to see and do in Barbados with its white sand beaches, blue ocean water, welcoming people, delicious Bajan food, great shopping, and considered the birthplace of rum. There's more than enough to choose from when cruising in for a day or staying for longer on the island. I've pulled together eight top picks based on my personal experience and feedback from our clients who have cruised to Barbados. Our suggested 8 attractions to consider visiting when you have a day in Barbados: Harrison’s Cave – During your 20-25-minute tram ride, you will pass by stalactites and stalagmites, underground streams, pools and a 40-foot waterfall which plunges into a lagoon. You’re guaranteed to be wowed by this natural wonder. Flower Forest – Fifty-three beautiful acres of paths through lush vegetation. Stroll through flowers and trees including a seven-acre wild garden for intoxicating views and wonderful photography opportunities. Mount Gay Rum – This rum factory offers a choice of five tours ranging from $15 – $70. Learn about the history and heritage (and even how to pair rum!) with one of these activities- Signature Rum Tour, Super Premium Rum Tasting Tour, interactive Cocktail Tour, Rum & Food Pairing Tour, or their Live Station Bajan Buffet Lunch Tour. Farley Hill – The hilltop mahogany tree-filled grounds overlooking the Atlantic coast are breathtaking, making it a comfortable and beautiful spot to explore nature. Even the mansion, once regal but later destroyed in a fire serves as a backdrop for an area to be explored. Officially designated by HM Queen Elizabeth II as a national park prior to Barbados gaining independence from Britain, the house had been used in filming Island in the Sun in 1957. Barbados Wildlife Reserve – Located across from Farley Hill, the reserve is filled with indigenous animals. Some can be more obviously seen while others are more likely to be found if you walk slowly, quietly, and look for them in their habitat. The most popular of the inhabitants are the popular green monkey. Earthworks Pottery – Unique, rustic locally crafted pottery on display and available for purchase. Visit and chat with one of the many potters employed in this scenic location overlooking the harbor. This appeals to those who enjoy the art of pottery, meeting with local artisans or are interested in building your collection of unique dinnerware and other stoneware. The Boatyard on Browne’s Beach – One of the best of many terrific beach options in Barbados and located only a 25-minute walk or a 5-minute cab ride from the cruise ships. White sandy beach with calm water offering a ton of water sports and activities. There is a restaurant and bar for your convenience. Bridgetown – Enjoy the one-mile walk to downtown Bridgetown. Along the way, take in the views, do some shopping, notice the local culture and people. Street markets are a wonderful way to people watch so slow down, relax and enjoy the moment. Have lunch in one of the excellent restaurants along with a local Banks Brewery beer or a drink made from one of the island’s rums. Let’s get busy planning your cruise day in Barbados! Happy Traveling! -Connie P.S.If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below. For more tips, visit and "like" our Facebook page.

Unlike some bad1980’s hairstyles that I’m grateful haven’t circled around again, these “Ten Commandments for Travelers” from the early1980’s are timeless. Follow this advice and you are bound to have a wonderful vacation and be the type of traveler who leaves a good impression. Ten Commandments for Travelers Thou shalt not expect to find all things precisely as they were at home, for though hast left home to find things different! Thou shalt not take anything too seriously for a carefree mind is the cornerstone of a good vacation. Thou shalt not let other travelers get on thy nerves, for thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself. Thou shalt not worry, for he that worrieth hath little joy. Thou shalt not judge all people of a country by one person with whom though hast had a problem. Blessed are they who can wait and smile for they will enjoy themselves. Thou shalt do only somewhat as the natives do. Thou shalt carry your Passport with thee at all times in a safe place. Nor shall ye pack it in thy suitcase, for it is said that a man without a Passport is a man without a country. Thou canst be welcome in every land. Treat thy hosts with respect and thou shalt be an honored guest. Bless thy travel agent for s/he worketh hard on thy behalf. Happy traveling! -Connie P.S.If you enjoyed this article, please share the love by clicking on the ♥ below and feel free to share it with friends. For more tips, "like" our Facebook page.