Nancy Luechtefeld, Author at Unique Journeys LLC

About Nancy Luechtefeld

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Nancy Luechtefeld has contributed 61 entries to our website, so far.

River Cruising on the Rise

Sep 7, 2023

Excited to share an intriguing perspective about river cruising being on the rise. Drawing from my rich travel experiences as owner of Unique-Journeys, a distinguished player in the field, particularly with AMA Waterways, I invite you to consider why embarking on a river cruise at this juncture could be remarkably rewarding.

Serene waters at your leisure

Allow me to delve into the rationale behind this assertion. We are seeing a substantial increase in River Cruise travel through insightful information from other respected travel experts as well.

Over the past year, We have seen up to 53 percent surge in bookings for river cruises; unpacking this phenomenon reveals a multifaceted explanation. The initial surge can be attributed to the collective eagerness to rekindle the travel flame after the era of pandemic-induced restrictions. However, the plot takes an intriguing twist. A shift in preference is discernible, with travelers displaying a heightened aversion to the chaos of large crowds and endless lines associated with conventional cruise experiences. The allure of river cruising becomes evident as a serene alternative, wherein the tranquility of the journey takes precedence over the hustle and bustle of mass tourism.

The Importance of Loved Ones:

It’s prudent to view this from the perspective of post-pandemic social dynamics. Reuniting with loved ones and embracing shared experiences have assumed paramount significance. River cruises, characterized by their intimate setting, enable travelers to forge genuine connections with fellow passengers and the crew. This personalized rapport enhances the overall experience manifold.

New Experiences:

For those who have traveled the popular ways to the Caribbean, an appetite for new experiences emerges. In this context, river cruising acts as a gateway to uncharted territories, allowing exploring unexplored locales and embracing the allure of the unknown.

Restrictions Removed:

Furthermore, this moment is an inflection point for individuals contemplating river cruising but hesitating. Barriers have diminished with the pandemic’s grip receding and travel restrictions removed.

Life is too Short:

One must confront the “someday” syndrome head-on. The pandemic served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the pitfalls of deferring cherished experiences indefinitely. The urgency to seize the moment has highlighted the importance of embracing opportunities as they arise.

Travel While Healthy:

As we have conversations with clients, they share the desire to savor life’s offerings while in the prime of health and vigor. River cruising, characterized by a more leisurely pace, aligns perfectly with this aspiration. The ability to explore picturesque towns, sidestep the clamor of tourist hotspots, and partake in unhurried guided tours resonates strongly with those seeking a more immersive and contemplative travel experience.

River Cruises are Addictive:

Many are so captivated by these incredible cruises that they commit to future excursions while still on board. This sentiment is not an indictment of the current journey but an eloquent testament to the allure of river cruising itself. Imagine gliding past iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or through the shadows of ancient castles – such moments imprint indelible memories.

Experience Deep Culture:

The allure of river cruising extends to port visits, which foster authentic cultural immersions. Unlike conventional cruises, which often gravitate toward well-trodden locales, river cruises unveil the lesser-known facets of a region, whether it’s a vibrant festival, a local market, or the inviting embrace of an artisanal winery.

Building or Rekindling Relationships:

The proposition of considering a river cruise at this juncture resonates on multiple levels. It aligns with a discerning traveler who values intimacy, authenticity, and seizing the moment. Tranquil waters, meaningful connections, and transformative experiences are beckoning. So, if you’re contemplating an extraordinary voyage that seamlessly combines relaxation, camaraderie, and exploration, the realm of river cruising awaits your exploration.

Here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

River Cruises, a Journey to Remember

Aug 10, 2023

River Cruises genuinely create a Journey to Remember

As a seasoned travel agent with an adventurous spirit and over two decades of expertise in the industry, I am beyond thrilled to share my most unforgettable experiences aboard AmaWaterways’ river cruises. Having personally cruised on many of these breathtaking river journeys, I can attest to the unrivaled comfort, luxury, and excitement that awaits you. From the moment you step aboard their elegant ships, you’ll be whisked away on an extraordinary journey that weaves relaxation, indulgence, and captivating discoveries into one extraordinary tapestry. Join me as we delve into the exceptional ship amenities and accommodations that make AmaWaterways the epitome of river cruise experiences. There is a multitude of fabulous cruises celebrating and partaking in different events, such as the wine cruises with 60+ departures and culinary experiences; they have teamed with Ancestry for cruises to research your roots, Christmas Markets (my personal favorite), Tylip Time, which showcases Keukenhof in the spring with over 7 million tulips, they have music Centrix cruises, etc. The options are endless. Let’s have a conversation.

Luxurious Accommodations

Picture yourself in a realm of pure opulence, surrounded by breathtaking river vistas as you embark on your AmaWaterways adventure. Drawing from my firsthand experiences, I can confidently say that their staterooms and suites redefine luxury on the water. As a travel agent who has personally indulged in these lavish accommodations, let me share my genuine excitement about their comfort and elegance.

You DESERVE the BEST!

Personalized Service

AmaWaterways’ dedication to personalized service goes beyond extraordinary – it’s a heartfelt journey of hospitality. From the warm welcome by the crew to the attentive butler service for suite guests, every moment is infused with warmth, making you feel like royalty throughout your sojourn.

Thoughtful Details

Prepare to be enchanted by the carefully curated details that grace each stateroom. The cozy ambiance, well-designed layouts, and modern amenities create a sanctuary of tranquility and elegance, ensuring your river cruise becomes your to escape from the ordinary.

Insider’s Tips

As your seasoned travel agent and fellow river cruiser, I’ve experienced firsthand the hidden gems aboard these remarkable ships. Allow me to be your guiding compass, helping you navigate the many stateroom options and ensuring you find the perfect one that aligns with your dreams and desires.

Onboard Amenities

Hold onto your hats as we whisk you to an experience like no other. The onboard amenities offered by AmaWaterways have a magnetic charm that leaves you craving more.

Cultural Enrichment:

Immerse yourself in captivating conversations with local experts as they weave tales of ages past into the vibrant tapestry of the present. AmaWaterways’ unwavering commitment to cultural immersion will ignite your curiosity, enrich your heart and soul, and awaken a passion for exploration like never before.

Tailored Experiences

My journeys on these floating havens have taught me that each traveler is unique and every adventure should be crafted to reflect your heart’s desires. Together, we’ll handcraft an itinerary reflecting your passions and interests, making every experience a bespoke masterpiece.

Exclusive Offers

Unlock the door to hidden delights secured by my personal connections with AmaWaterways and the travel industry. I’m devoted to ensuring you enjoy exclusive perks and promotions, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to your AmaWaterways river cruise.

With boundless enthusiasm, a wealth of experience, and an adventurous spirit, I wholeheartedly recommend AmaWaterways for a river cruise voyage that will forever be etched in your heart. My journeys with them have ignited a genuine passion for their unparalleled service, luxurious accommodations, and enriching activities.

Join me as we embark on a river cruise adventure that will take you beyond the boundaries of imagination.

Together, we’ll discover a wealth of personalized experiences, handpick the perfect stateroom, and create unforgettable moments that will leave you yearning for more. AmaWaterways’ river cruises transcend the notion of ordinary vacations – they are captivating journeys that will awaken your senses, reignite your love for exploration, and revitalize your spirit. So, let’s set sail on a remarkable river experience with AmaWaterways, and together, we’ll create memories that will dance in your heart forever.

We would love to help you plan your next vacation. Our passion for travel is River Cruises.
Considering taking a cruise, here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

EXPLORING AFRICA WITH AMA WATERWAYS

Jul 20, 2023

Now is the time for exploring Africa with AMA Waterways. Chobe National Park is in the northern part of beautiful Botswana and is home to Africa’s largest elephant population and one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in the world. Embark on a safari of Chobe National Park on the ZAMBEZI QUEEN.

Explore Africa with AMA Waterways on the Zambezi Queen

Your luxury home on the Chobe River

An All-Day Safari

After a full day of exploring the park through the Chobe River, AmaWaterways takes guests along other parts of the park via open-top 4×4 vehicles (the open-tops offering a chance for optimal, unobstructed photographs).

Each method of safari will give you a distinctive perspective and all-around feel for the park. Naturally, driving through the park allows the safari to search a wider span and more easily follow game in motion. It also gives closer consideration to the flora and fauna. The park is so massive it is usually categorized into four subdivisions. The Serondola area of the park, also known as the Chobe Riverfront, is flush with a dense woodland of mahogany, teak and other hardwoods – along with the lush floodplains near the Chobe River.

Another fun feature of this trip is enjoying a delicious picnic-lunch served up under the trees. And you never know, perhaps a few small local guests may be seen nearby or overhead!

Exploring Africa with AMA Waterways on a land safari

Imagine yourself being this close to the magnificent animals of Africa

While Exploring Africa on AMA Waterways discover A Rich Culture

AMA Waterways is well-known for providing it’s passengers with the cultures and traditions of the country they are cruising through. This is especially true on your Africa cruise, where you will get to know and interact with a crew that has a rich culture and is eager to share it with you. With a ship that only holds 28 passengers, you will have the opportunity to interact with every member of this remarkable crew.

Exploring Africa with AMA Waterways and the rich culture thee

Your friendly and knowledgeable crew is waiting for you.

Exploring Africa with AMA Waterways through Food

So much of how we experience a destination comes through culinary experiences and some of
the best engagement with clients comes from sharing recipes from the regions we sail. The culinary staff on the AMA Zambezi Queen will astound you with their knowledge of the regional cuisine.

• Plenty of Potjie for Everyone – Potjiekos – this traditional South African stew cooked
over an open fire – connects family and friends with savory comfort food. The literal
translation to potjie is simply “small-pot food” and it can be prepared in numerous
ways.

Exploring Africa with AMA Waterways and enjoying native cuisine

After a full day of adventures-how can you resist?

Marvelous Malva Pudding – This traditional South African delicacy forever
remains a local favorite as one bite of this pudding summons fond memories from
childhood for many in the region. When sailing on one of our Africa Safari and Wildlife
cruises, our expert chefs prepare this scrumptious treat on board.

What a great way to end a traditional meal.

Your Bucket List is Calling

As a river cruise specialist, I will put together the best itinerary and the best date for you to realize the dream of exploring Africa with AMA Waterways. You can find all the exceptional itineraries on my website: https://www.amawaterways.com/agent/uniquejourneys/

If Covid taught us anything, it’s not to put off important things in our life. Being with family and friends is precious and the connections need to be preserved. Travel is another important piece as shown in my previous article: https://unique-journeys.com/travel-is-important-for-your-mindset/

Now is the time to start making plans because we have all learned the lesson that putting things off doesn’t work. Call me and we can get started.

Wine Lovers Top Destinations

Jul 11, 2023

Join us for wine lovers’ top travel destinations that are renowned for their vineyards, wineries, and wine-related experiences. These regions offer beautiful landscapes, cultural richness, and exceptional wine-tasting opportunities. Here are some of the world’s top travel wine destinations:

Napa Valley, California:

Napa Valley is a legendary wine region known for its world-class wineries, picturesque vineyards, and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the region’s famous Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and other varietals and enjoy fine dining, hot air balloon rides, and spa retreats.

Bordeaux, France:

Bordeaux is synonymous with exquisite wines. This historic region produces some of the finest red wines in the world. Visitors can explore the vineyards, visit prestigious châteaux, and taste renowned Bordeaux blends. The city of Bordeaux itself offers a vibrant culinary scene and architectural marvels.

Tuscany, Italy:

Tuscany is a dream destination for wine lovers. Known for its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and charming medieval towns, Tuscany produces iconic wines such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Visitors can tour vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and indulge in Tuscan cuisine.

Mendoza, Argentina:

Nestled at the foot of the Andes Mountains, Mendoza is Argentina’s most famous wine region. It is renowned for its Malbec wines, which thrive in the region’s high-altitude vineyards. Travelers can visit wineries, participate in wine tours, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding.

Douro Valley, Portugal:

The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest regions in the world. It is famous for producing Port wine, a fortified wine enjoyed worldwide. Visitors can cruise along the Douro River, visit vineyards, and explore the beautiful terraced landscapes.

Marlborough, New Zealand:

Marlborough, located on the South Island of New Zealand, is synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc. Its cool climate and maritime influence create wines with distinctive flavors. Travelers can experience cellar door tastings, bike through vineyards, and enjoy scenic hikes in the region.

Cape Winelands, South Africa:

Cape Winelands is a breathtaking South African region renowned for its world-class wines. It features stunning vineyards, historic estates, and award-winning wines. Visitors can enjoy tastings, cellar tours, and explore the vibrant towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl.

Barossa Valley, Australia:

Located in South Australia, the Barossa Valley is famous for its Shiraz wines. Visitors can explore the region’s historic wineries, indulge in gourmet food experiences, and enjoy the stunning scenery of rolling hills and vineyards.

Rioja, Spain:

Rioja is Spain’s premier wine region, known for its exceptional red wines. Visitors can explore traditional wineries, known as bodegas, and sample Rioja’s Tempranillo-based wines. The region also offers stunning landscapes, charming villages, and delicious cuisine.

Piedmont, Italy:

Piedmont is home to renowned Italian wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. Visitors can explore picturesque vineyards, visit family-run wineries, and savor the region’s famous truffles and cuisine. The charming towns of Alba and Asti are also worth exploring.

These wine travel destinations offer unique experiences, from vineyard tours and tastings to gourmet dining and cultural immersion. Each region has its own distinct wine heritage, traditions, and flavors, making them ideal destinations for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a blend of beauty & history.

Care to make it easy and enjoyable to cruise?

Consider AmaWaterways. They are renowned for their wine-themed river cruises, particularly in Europe. They collaborate with prestigious vineyards and wine experts to provide guests with onboard wine tastings, wine-pairing dinners, vineyard visits, and wine-focused excursions. I would love to share more with you about what we offer.

CHANGES COMING FOR FUTURE TRAVEL-BE READY

Jul 7, 2023

Changes are coming for future travel-be ready and be aware of what these changes mean to you and your travel experience.

THE END OF AIRPORT LINES

There are now various systems coming that will usher in a shorter airport line experience.

Biometrics– This is the process of identification (automatically verifying one’s identity via fingerprints, facial recognition or iris scans). While somewhat controversial, it is quickly becoming the technology of choice at airports worldwide.

The European Union plans to roll out an automated entry-exit system in 2024. They uses fingerprints and facial images to identify foreign travelers and streamline border control checks.

Emirates has created a “biometric pathway” at Dubai International Airport that enables passengers to pass through immigration and boarding without presenting their documents.

Airlines are also adopting biometric identification.

While it is becoming more common in airports, American airlines are also adopting their own systems. American Airlines, United and Delta have been experimenting with biometric check-in. Also, bag drops and boarding gates at select airports for the last couple of years.

The End of Lost Luggage?

Has this happened to you? You arrive in a foreign country only to spend the first day of vacation stocking up on underwear, toiletries and essential clothing while your luggage takes an unexpected detour.

Travellers are turning to devices like SmartTags, Tile Pros and AirTags to keep track of their belongings. Others opt for sophisticated suitcases like the Samsara’s Tag Smart, which includes an integrated AirTag that syncs with Apple’s Find My app and uses Bluetooth to track the bag’s location.

In the not too distant future, we’ll likely see digital bag tags containing RFID transmitters. These will replace paper tags– an evolution that would save time at check-in while simultaneously making tracking and identifying luggage easier for airlines.

Alaska Airlines, Lufthansa and Qatar Airways, and some other airlines, have partnered with Dutch digital bag tag pioneer BAGTAG. Such products enable travelers to register and activate their luggage tag at home, then drop luggage at a self-service kiosk and track it via an app.

This is surely a growing field and other providers will be entering the marketplace. This is also an area where AI make make it’s presence known.

CHANGES COMING TO TRAVEL-ACCOMMODATIONS

Eco Friendly Hotels

Not all of the new travel developments are on the technical side. Hotels are now becoming more eco friendly without sacrificing the design and comfort of their properties.

The Hilton Hotel chain opened the Hotel Marcel New Haven, (View Here) as part of their Tapestry collection in May of 2022. 1,000 PV panels on the roof power the day-to-day operations of the hotel.

Changes coming to travel - solar panels at hotels

Power from the sun

Even in the Arctic Circle, changes are coming that will reduce the impact on the environment. When it opens in 2024, the Six Senses Svart Hotel (view here) will not only be solar- powered, but will have a zero-waste restaurant and efficient waste and water management systems. This hotel aims to help eco-minded travelers responsibly explore the polar region.

Language will no longer be a barrier-This is not something coming in the future, but is here now.

Google’s Pixel BudsP can either translate what’s being said directly into your ear or share a transcription so you can follow along.

The company has also been working on wearable augmented-reality glasses that display translated text on the lenses in real-time.

Another company, Mymanu, also offers auto voice translation via its CLIK S earbuds.

All of these new ideas should bring us closer to loving travel again and giving us a greater understanding of the people we share this world with and help make travel as enjoyable as it was in “the good old days”.

As a traveller myself, I can’t wait to see these changes and be able to help my clients realize the joy of travelling again. Contact me at https://www.unique-journeys.com and let’s get started on exploring our world.