TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL VACATION

Jun 3, 2023

For any trip, there are certain tips for a successful vacation that will apply. One of the most important from my perspective is to engage a travel agent who can help you with planning. Whether you want to go on your own, take a tour or cruise, they can help you navigate the ins and outs of your destination.

That being said, there are still some tips for a successful vacation that you can and should take responsibility for.

Research

When you meet with your travel advisor, it can be a great help if you have done some preliminary research. Here is another great use of a list. You can sketch out the places and things you most want to see or do. Making this a family or group project will help you narrow down what is important to everyone. Some things that might be done by only certain members of your group. This will have the effect of energizing everyone about the trip.

Planning

I’m a big proponent of lists. You will certainly end up with several checklists. There will be dates to remember such as deposits, final payments and details to check off when they are completed. Even if you have a great travel agent, you will want to make certain you are on top of the schedule.

If you are planning on travelling outside the United States, you need to make certain all your documents are current and correct. Most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six (6) months after your trip. Another little thought of item is that your passport must be in good repair. No rips or spilled coffee stains. Make certain you have any information on additional documents needed, such as visas or vaccinations.

Have Passport Will Travel

Put a copy of your contact information inside your suitcase. If it doesn’t arrive when you do, they can look inside to find out the owner of the luggage. Another thing which is becoming more common, is to put a tracking device in your luggage. That way, you will be able to see” where your bag is.

Make copies of your itinerary with phone numbers of when and where you will be with someone at home. You should also carry a copy of your passport information with you in the event your passport is lost or stolen. This will give the authorities the information they need to issue you new documents. Leaving a copy at hone with someone is also a good idea.

The day for your departure has finally come. You have checked off all the items on your list and you are ready to go. Here are some more tips for a successful vacation. They are just as important as itms packed in your suitcase.

Patience

One of the first things you should pack is your patience. Travel can sometimes be trying and you need to believe that everyone is trying their best and being impatient does no one any good.

You also need to understand that when you enter a different country, their time frames and cultural norms may not be yours. In order to have a successful vacation you need to “go with the flow”.

That brings up some other tips:

Respect

Noted, every country and region has their own way of doing things and their own viewpoint of events. Even though you may disagree with their point of view, you are a visitor in their region and should respect their right to their beliefs.

Common Sense

This is another intangible you should pack along with your suitcase. Everyone on vacation wants to have a fabulous time, but in order to do that, there are certain precautions you should take in order to make that successful vacation a reality.

You are a tourist and no matter what you do, you will stand out as a tourist. You might stand on a street corner reading a map or stare at your phone or other device. There are, however, some things you can do to make yourself less vulnerable.

There are pickpockets and thieves everywhere in the world. Leave your shiny and expensive jewelry at home. You won’t impress anyone and thieves will literally rip them off you.
Don’t carry large sums of money and flash it around. Take only what you think you will need for the day and leave the rest in your hotel, cabin, etc.
Women should invest in a good cross-body bag and men can use a money belt so that your money is available, but not easily parted from you.
Be situationally aware. While you want to explore, you shouldn’t venture into an area that has few people or is not well lit. You wouldn’t do that in your hometown and you shouldn’t do it on your vacation where you don’t know areas well.
If you are staying at a hotel or sailing on a cruise ship, take a card with you that has their address and contact information. If you do get slightly disoriented or lost, you can use that to communicate with a taxi driver even if you don’t know the language.

You are taking all the precautions and you are having a great time. Here are some further tips for a successful vacation:

Courtesy

When you go into a shop instead of leading with “What does this item cost “, begin your conversation with a greeting in their language. Even if you don’t get the pronunciation perfect, people respect the fact that you are trying.

Another aspect of courtesy is about taking photos. If you are taking pictures of a large scene, that is one thing, but if you are taking pictures of individuals, it is customary to ask permission and even give a small gratuity for their participation.

You should also not snap photos in area which many people consider sacred, such as places of worship. When you visit such sites, they usually are open and people are there to practice their religion. To them it isn’t a tourist area, but a place of contemplation and you should honor that. Ask someone in authority if you can discreetly take photos.

Curiosity

Everyone likes to talk about themselves, so ask questions of the locals. Ask them about their town, family and community. If you are in a restaurant, ask if they mind sharing a table and giving you some insight into the area. They most likely will be glad to do it and you will be rewarded with information and insight into their way of life.

Taking the time before your vacation to organize and meet deadlines and then following some simple, straightforward guidelines will ensure that you have a successful and enriching vacation.

Unique Journey –https://www.unique-journeys.com is here to be your partner in planning the perfect vacation enabling you to relax and enjoy your time collecting memories. Here is an article which highlights some of the reasons you need a travel agent to help you realize that perfect trip of a lifetime. https://unique-journeys.com/why-you-need-a-travel-agent.

BON VOYAGE

THE REASONS TO LOVE VISITING VIENNA

Sep 6, 2021

Let’s talk about the reasons to love visiting Vienna. It’s a city with a rich historical and cultural history, but also one that loves to have fun. Just enter one of the excellent coffee houses, experience great art, or go to one of the many and varied festivals. I have visited this historic city many times and I still find a host of things to love.

MUSIC, HISTORY, FOOD-ALL REASONS TO LOVE VISITING VIENNA

Music

If you love classical music, you know that Vienna has been synonymous with music and was home to Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Johann Strauss. This outstanding musical heritage has been preserved right to the present day. There are many opportunities to experience the music made famous by these composers all over the city in classic venues.

Vienna is a city steeped in tradition and one of the most well-known is the Vienna Boys Choir. It is one of the oldest musical organizations and performs regularly in Vienna. If they have concerts scheduled when you are there, it’s a must see.

History

The history of Vienna is on display throughout the city and easily accessible. It includes historic building, statues and monuments and even the iconic coffee houses. History is alive here and waiting for you to discover it.

Lippizaners – These are the magnificent white stallions who, along with their riders perform in one of the most beautiful setting you can imagine. If you visit Vienna, you can experience this wonderful performance for yourself.

I promise you will be spellbound at the magical experience and it’s one you won’t forget. They are part of the Spanish Riding School based in Vienna. These beautiful horses have a rich history, not only of memorable performances, but how they were saved in World War II.

You can also take various tours to give you a full picture of the historic institution. The training schedules are open to the public and you can take a backstage tour which includes the stable area. Here you can see the horses up close and personal. I have done this tour several times and learn something new each time. What a fun way to spend time before a performance.

Beautiful home of the Spanish Riding School

St. Stephens Cathedral – Consecrated in 1147, this church has seen many triumphs and tragedies, but continues to be a beacon for the faithful and is a beautiful testament to the resilience and perseverance of Austria and the citizens of Vienna.

Ringstrasse – This is considered the most beautiful boulevard in the world and is home not only to many of Vienna’s best-known sights, such as the Imperial Palace, the Kunst historisches Museum and the Natural History Museum, the Vienna State Opera and Parliament. Magnificent palaces, extensive parks and important monuments also line the “display window” of the former Danube monarchy.

Statues and Monuments – The people of Austria and Vienna don’t shy away from the unpleasant aspects of their history. There is one statue of particular note I was shown on a tour of the city which highlights this. It acknowledges that all history is worth noting. It relates to the Holocaust and serves as a reminder to all generations that some things must be remembered and avoided at all costs.

Vienna respects all of their history

Mozart Statue in Vienna’s central cemetery

Food

All that history, sightseeing and culture will most assuredly give you an appetite and this is the city for you.

Vienna is a city steeped in their own “coffee culture”. A description from the website for Cafe Central, one of the most famous and beautiful of the coffee houses in Vienna. seems to say it all:

Can you speak the language of coffee?

Any Viennese coffeehouse worth its salt, won’t serve you a pot of coffee and there certainly won’t be a frappuccino in sight. The Austrian capital has a coffee culture all of its own, with a few rather unusual creations. First things first: When a native of the city talks about “Obers” they mean cream. “Schlagobers” is fluffy whipped cream. It is served in a dollop known locally as a “Gupf”. “Schlag”, which also means a punch, is the Viennese word for whipped cream, so if the waiter asks if you want “Kaffee mit Schlag”, you don’t need to worry about getting a black eye. A “Grosser Mokka” (large mocha) is topped with a proper “Gupf” of whipped cream.

Christmas and Christmas Markets-One of the Best Reasons to Visit Vienna

As beautiful as Vienna is the rest of the year, Christmas is a magical time and one of the best reasons to love visiting Vienna. There are Christmas Markets galore and each one has a distinct character. One thing they all have in common, however, are the Gluhwein booths. Each vendor has their own “secret” recipe. Each year also features an original design for their mugs. You can keep your souvenir mug or return it and receive a refund on your purchase.

Enjoying a cup of Gluhwein with friends

Thus fortified with a hot mug of Gluhwein, you can wander among stalls loaded with great homemade gift ideas, delicious sweets and hearty sausages. What more could you ask for. This isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a family tradition among the locals and you will see families and their wide-eyed children taking in the sights just as you are.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin planning a cruise to include visiting Vienna. Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price. Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible. Contact me and together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, here is a must read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience you will want to contact expert Nancy at Unique Journeys. I will assistance you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. Here is an article on why you need a travel agent. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

CRUISING THE RHINE AND MOSELLE

Aug 26, 2021

On October 26th I will be cruising the Rhine and Moselle rivers and would love to have everyone join me on this great cruise. Starting in Amsterdam, we will cruise down the scenic Rhine River and on to the Moselle, which has been called the most beautiful river in Europe.

AMSTERDAM

Welcome aboard The AMA Lucia, for the start of our cruise of The Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle.

Enjoy a stroll over many of the picturesque canals in Amsterdam

There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and we will get to enjoy some of them on our canal cruise. View the narrow houses, built that way because of taxes. Be amazed how goods were transported to the upper floors. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and you can see it in action in the homes that line the canals.

After our introduction to Amsterdam, it’s time to set sail. What a great time to meet our fellow travelers and acquaint ourselves with The AMALucia, our luxury home for the next 7 days.

COLOGNE, GERMANY

We start our cruising on the Rhine by going to Cologne. This is the home of one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. One of the most interesting sites in the Cathedral is the display which houses the remains of the Three Wise Men. https://www.koelner-dom.de/.

Also on the tour is the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Old Market and the Heumarkt. Most of the ports on this cruise feature wine, but here in Cologne beer is king. Why not make a quick stop at one of the many local pubs and sample the famous Kölsch beer. It’s only made in Cologne While you’re at it, you should sample the reibekuchen, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce.

While I appreciate a good glass of beer, what I love above all else is chocolate. I truly enjoyed visiting the chocolate museum in Cologne. Not only was I able to indulge there, but I was persuaded to bring home something for friends and family. Why not join me in my quest for the perfect piece of chocolate. https://www.schokoladenmuseum.de/en/

RÜDESHEIM

On our way to Rudesheim we will pass through the Rhine Gorge. Arguably this is one of the most scenic passages on the river. We will glide by some of the dozens of castles that line the banks and have the opportunity to take some truly spectacular photos from the sun deck. Once in Rudesheim, we have several choices of excursions.

Drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, and afterwards, be treated to a wine tasting.

For a more active adventure, we can hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River to admire the Rheingau.

Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum charm you. What a delight this tour was. In this age of all digital, it was wonderful to see and hear these mechanical devices still working as they were intended. https://www.smmk.de/pages/de/willkommen.php

On the way back to the ship we can stop at one of the cafes in town. Here we can indulge in one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. It’s ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. YUM! A great end to another wonderful day on the river.

Enjoying the view

MAINZ – LAHNSTEIN

As we arrive in Mainz, we can join a walking tour of the many historic treasures. Included is one of Germany’s most important churches, St. Stephan’s Cathedral; home to the famous Chagall stained-glass windows. These magnificent windows were created by Chagall in hopes they would help heal the wounds left by WWII. As you gaze at them, you will see his deep commitment to that. This was the last commission of his life and his lifelong friend Charles Marq was tasked with finishing what he knew he couldn’t.

“For me a stained glass window is a transparent partition between my heart and the heart of the world”

Marc Chagall Quote

Another alternative is a walking tour of Mainz’s Old Town with a visit to the Gutenberg Museum. Here you will learn more about the German visionary’s inventions and have an opportunity to admire two of his original mid-15th century Gutenberg Bibles.

For a more active adventure, go on a guided bike tour through Mainz. (See you back at the ship) Later in the day, cruise to Lahnstein. Cap the day off with a visit to Lahneck Castle.

MOSELLE VALLEY – COCHEM

Spend the morning taking in the beauty of the Moselle on this scenic stretch of the river before reaching Cochem with its half-timbered houses and Reichsburg Castle.

We can join a guided tour through the castle and then walk through its Old Town. If you aren’t in the castle mood, let’s take a different adventure and tour one of Europe’s oldest working mustard mills. We can sample Cochem’s famous mustard. For those of you wishing to have a more active exploration of the area, you can hike up to the Reichsburg Castle or go on a guided bike tour through Cochem.

BERNKASTEL

Walk through Bernkastel’s colorful Old Town center and past many medieval and Renaissance buildings on a guided tour that also includes a winery visit and tasting.

Hikers can opt to trek up to the ruins of Landshut Castle, which dates all the way back to the 9th century and cycling enthusiasts can choose to join a bike tour along the Moselle.

LUXEMBOURG – DISEMBARKATION – PARIS

All good things must come to an end so we now disembark the ship, bid farewell to our crew and prepare for our return flight home.

BUT WAIT! I’m taking the post-cruise extension that gives me two nights in Reims so that I can indulge my other passion (besides chocolate) – Champagne.

When we disembark in Luxemburg on our journey to Reims we will have a walking tour of Luxembourg and then visit The American Cemetery and Memorial, which is the final resting place of General George S. Patton. Once checked into the hotel in Reims, I think I will set out to explore this ancient city including the Cathedral Notre Dame de Reims, which has seen the coronation of many French Kings. https://www.cathedrale-reims.com/ So much history and beauty.

Today, it is on to driving the route of champagne. Along this route are some of the most famous names in champagne; Epernay, Veuve Clicquot and Moet et Chandon. All this and driving through a beautiful countryside.

After checking out of the hotel, on the way to Paris there is a final tour in Reims of WWI sites such as the Belleau Wood American World War Monument.

We are in a different world today that we were last year and for this reason it is more important than ever to depend on the knowledge and expertise of a travel agent. I am committed to making sure you have the most up-to-date information available to make your vacation what you have dreamed it to be. We have all waited to be able to travel and now is the time to savor the joy of travel with friends and family. To that end, I have created several articles with tips to help you with the decision-making process.

Here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. Contact me at Unique Journeys. I 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.

Let’s Get Cruisin’

EXPERIENCE THE WINES OF BORDEAUX

Feb 22, 2021

Experience the wines of Bordeaux on a Taste of Bordeaux cruise with AMA Waterways. You can start your journey by flying in Bilbao, Spain and ending in Paris or the reverse. Doing the pre and post-cruise extensions is a great way to extend your cruise, but if you are short on time, you can fly into and out of Bordeaux for your 7-night cruise. In either event, you will find that AMA Waterways has planned terrific stops along the way so that you can experience the full range of vineyards, wineries and other significant places of interest.

What an awesome itinerary through the different wine regions of Bordeaux

Cadillac

While touring the vineyards and learning about terroir, you will also learn about the “noble rot”. It may not sound appetizing, but it creates a great Sauterne, which you will be able to taste for yourself.

You may also have the opportunity to experience the great European tradition of the weekly farmers market. Why not pick up some bread and cheese to take back to the ship to share with your new friends. You will also find a French specialty known as Canele. Impossible to eat just one.

Experience local markets on your Taste of Bordeaux Cruise

You will also have the chance to visit a castle that has been in the same family for 700 years. Roquetataillade is a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. As spectacular as the castle is, you will marvel at the chapel with its Moorish influence.

Pauillac

On your cruise to Experience the Wines of Bordeaux, you are now entering the the Medoc Region. Pauillac is the gateway to this region which is home to some of the most beautiful and famous wine estates. This is your chance to experience a wine tasting of Grand Cru wines and to learn about the history associated with Grand Cru. There are several choices for your shore excursions, but they all end up with you tasting some great wines.

Bourg/Blaye

Once in Blaye you can see the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE of the 17th century citadel. You say you want a little more action? How about biking around the town!

You can either bike from Blaye to Bourg or enjoy the comfort of the ship as it sails there. AMA Waterways has arranged for an exclusive wine festival in Bourg. Here you can meet and mingle with the local wine growers while sipping on their local wines and enjoying live music and perhaps some dancing.

Libourne

Just when you thought you have seen the best, you will arrive in Libourne and a visit to Saint-Emilion. Perched on a hill, it has great views, great wine and an underground church. You will visit the monolithic church which was carved out of a single piece of limestone and the venture under the Church to explore the catacombs and caves. Now it’s time for another wine tasting since this region has their own brand of wine based on the distinctive terroir. Some of the production of wineries in the region is so small that they don’t export any of their wines. This is a great opportunity for the wine connoisseurs to take home a great wine that no one else is able to get. You can also bring back stories of your experience of getting up close and personal with the people who have created this great wine. What great bragging rights.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise. Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price. Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible. Contact me and together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, here is a must read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience you will want to contact expert Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assistance 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.

Egypt

Feb 22, 2021

LUXURY RIVER CRUISING COMES TO EGYPT

Luxury river cruising comes to Egypt beginning in September, 2021 . You will cruise the Nile River for an unforgettable vacation experience. It is the longest river in the world and many of the antiquities of the old world are located near it’s banks.

Cairo Skyline on your luxury nile river cruise

Enjoy Cairo from your deluxe hotel on the Nile River

BEGINNING THE EXPERIENCE

As a first class start to your adventure, you will be met at the airport by representatives of AMA Waterways and they will accompany you to your deluxe Four Seasons hotel. Everything has been arranged for your three-night stay.

What a first full day you will have!

First off is a visit to the famous Egyptian Museum, home to 120,000 artifacts on display. The Museum is home to the priceless treasures of Tutankhamen and Pharaonic art. If you have never seen a mummy, now’s your chance.

You will begin to understand what an amazing civilization the early Egyptians had and why their influence is seen to this day.

The great Egyptian Museum is part of the luxury river cruise experience in Egypt

Just one of the beautiful exhibits at the Egyptian Museum you will visit in Cairo

I bet viewing all these spectacular ancient artifacts has made you hungry. It’s a good thing lunch is next on the agenda. AMA Waterways has arranged for you to eat lunch at the famous Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant in Khan El Khalili Bazaar.

Before you return to your hotel, you will visit the summit of the Citadel of Saladin’s courtyard and from here you will enjoy a breathtaking view across the city and the Pyramids of Giza. What a finish to your first full day in Cairo.

seeing ancient sites is part of a luxury cruise in Egypt

The Beautiful and historic Mosque of Muhammad

Discovering the Ancient Sites at Memphis

You will stand in awe of the Great Sphinx, carved from one solid piece of stone and be amazed by the famous step pyramid of King Zoser, which is the oldest pyramid on earth.

Once again AMA Waterways has arranged a lunch to remember; Mena House, a palatial hotel in the shadow of the Great Pyramid is just that place. A great lunch and a great view; the perfect end to your time in Cairo.

AMA DAHLIA-THE SHIP BUILT FOR LUXURY RIVER CRUISING IN EGYPT

The AMA Dahlia has been built specifically for luxury river cruising on the Nile. It will only hold 68 passengers, so you will be sure to get an in-depth vacation experience. AMA means love and you will experience it the moment you see the stunning AMA Dahlia.

The Beautiful AMADahlia made for sailing in Egypt

THE GUIDES

With this itinerary your guides are with you through the entire 7-day cruise and any extensions you have chosen. They are experts in all things Ancient Egypt and will give you wonderful insights into all the sites of the area.

A good guide can make the difference between just visiting a place and gaining an understanding of what it means to the history and culture of an area. AMA Waterways has mastered the art of providing the best and brightest guides to accomplish this.

ROLLIN’ ON THE RIVER – THE NILE THAT IS

Today you head for Luxor to start your luxury AMA Nile River cruise. While your ship is docked in Luxor, you will have the opportunity to visit the Temple of Luxor. This temple took hundreds of years to complete. Here are many tombs cut into solid rock such as the Tomb of King Tutankamun, where his mummified remains are still on display.

Exclusive Access – A Hallmark of AMA Waterways

AMA has also secured exclusive access to the tomb of Queen Nefertari. This is just one example of what sets a cruise with AMA Waterways apart. Not many have this access and AMA Waterways includes it with your cruise AT NO EXTRA CHARGE.

Once you depart Luxor, you will experience all the magnificent sites the river has to offer. This truly is the cradle of civilization Everything created by this society seems to be gigantic, such as the Colossi of Memnon, the four statues of Ramses II, each measuring over 70’ high and the Great Sphinx. These are all truly awe inspiring.

Ramses II

THE EXPERIENCE CONTINUES-LUXURY ON THE RIVER TO LUXURY ON LAND

Your vacation doesn’t have to just be about a luxury river cruise. If you want to experience more from this part of the world, AMA Waterways has some exceptional pre and post-cruise options.

DUBAI-If you have always wanted to see Dubai, then this 3-night pre-cruise extension is for you. Once you land, you have a city tour and a desert safari with a bbq dinner. On your next day, you will visit Abu Dhabi.

JORDAN-This 4-night pre-cruise trip includes a city tour of Amman, a visit to Jerash, Madaba, Mt. Nebo and, last but not least, a visit to Petra, made famous in the moving Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. You saw it at the movies, now you can get up and personal.

Imagine the creators of this

ISRAEL-History comes alive here for Christians, Muslims and Jews. While you are here you can see Old Jaffa, Jerusalem; Bethlehem, with the Tomb of King David and the Walled City; tour the Machne Yahuda Market and the Israel Museum.

On your last day you are treated to an extraordinary visit to Masada and the Dead Sea, the lowest place on the earth. Bring your suit and give floating a try. After lunch, you will return to your hotel, awash in memories of this historic land.

Going to Israel is one of the options when on your luxury river cruise to Egypt

Once-in-a-lifetime moment in the Dead Sea

If you have always dreamed of a trip that takes you into the past while seeing the vibrant cities of today, then this is your chance to see it with AMA Waterways.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise. Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price. Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible. Together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, 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.