Tips Archives - Unique Journeys LLC

Top 5 Tips for Traveling with Pets

Oct 31, 2022

Top 5 Tips for Traveling with Pets

Traveling with pets can be fun and joyful but also difficult and challenging. We know the excitement of sharing your travel experiences with your furry friends, though, and that is why today we have prepared our list with the top 5 tips for traveling with pets!

Know Your Pets and Make Sure They are Ready for The Trip

By far, the most important thing to consider when planning a pet-friendly holiday is whether your animal is actually ready for the challenge. For example, if you have a new small puppy, it might be too early to take them on vacation. Moreover, you should always consider your itinerary and activities and ensure that you have enough time to spend with your pet. Sometimes it is best to know your pet’s personality and know if they would be better left home and safe.

Get your Paperwork Ready

Once you are past the first step and you are sure that the holiday you are planning is suitable for your pet, you should start working on getting their paperwork ready. If you do not have previous experience traveling with your furry friends, you might quickly discover that special travel documents take a while to collect. Ensure that your pet has a travel passport, as well as all necessary health certificates signed by their vet. Always check your destination’s vaccination requirements and the airline’s boarding procedure.

Choose the Best Travel Crate for Your Pet

One of the most important elements to remember is the comfort and safety of your pets during the actual travel phase. It might be heartbreaking, but this means having a confined space, such as a travel crate. Try to experiment with crates before your trip to ensure you have the correct size. There is no need to overdo it, but it is also a good idea to add a toy or two in the crate, which will provide your furry friend comfort and relief if needed.

Pack all the necessary supplies

Besides the travel crate and their favorite toys, your pet would benefit from having the most common and necessary supplies you use even at home. A leash with identification tags, some food, fresh water, and comfortable bedding are some of the items worth having on your packing list. It might seem excessive at first, but these supplies will help you massively to prepare for a stress-free pet-friendly vacation!

Find the Correct Accommodation

Last but not least, one of the top 5 tips for traveling with pets is ensuring they are as comfortable as possible and feel safe and at home even while away. Finding the correct accommodation, which is not only pet-friendly but will also provide additional perks for your furry friends, is a great way to do so. Make sure to go above and beyond for your pets, and do not just count on the pet policy listed on the website. Give your accommodation a call, and double confirm the expectations, and requirements, but also any benefits they might offer!

Now that you have our top 5 tips for traveling with pets, do you think you are ready to start planning your next pet-friendly vacation?

You may be 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.

Travel Tips for Fun In The Sun

Aug 31, 2022

Travel Tips for Fun In The Sun

Are you headed for fun in the sun for your vacation? The worst thing you can do to ruin a long-awaited and planned vacation is not to be prepared with the essentials to have fun in the sun. Whether you are headed for the beach or on a cruise with excursions on islands, go prepared. You may be embracing a vintage town meandering down the main street with ice cream or beverage of choice, but have you prepared protection from the baring sun? Not to mention willing, the day away on the beach reading a book will provide a healthy dose of Vitamin D and an unhealthy dose of sun exposure. Here are four summer travel tips to help you stay safe from the rays while having fun in the sun.

Wear Sunglasses – Protective Eyewear

Sunglasses are a nonnegotiable fun-in-the-sun staple because the sun’s intensity over time can permanently damage the eyes. Ultraviolet rays harm the cornea and lens, leading to cataracts and eye cancer. Besides looking for an attractive pair, you feel good in and will wear daily, choose sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Don’t be fooled by polarized lenses — this indicates they cut glare but say nothing about UV protection. You may even want to purchase an extra pair if you lose one on the excursions. Don’t fall for the myth that dark lenses are better. They are only better if they offer 100% UV protection. Experts point out that this is the time bigger is better, with beautiful designs that wrap-around are the best to offer full protection from every angle.

Apply SunScreen

It may be obvious but often forgotten. Be sure to bring water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen offering a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 for daily wear is truly your best friend. Don’t leave home without it! Make sure the sunscreen you are using has active ingredients such as oxybenzone and zinc oxide, respectively, to safely and effectively protect the skin. Consider which form of sunscreen you prefer as you’ll be more inclined to use it, be it lotion, spray, pump, or stick. Again don’t forget to make sure it is water-resistant if you plan to be in the water at all. If you’ll be outdoors all day, use SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours. Stock up on fun SPF 30 lip balms, too, because lips are also vulnerable to cancer-causing rays.

Wear Protective Gear

Don’t make your water-resistant sunscreen do all the work. Look for clothing made with sun-protective treated fabric labeled UPF 30 (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) or higher, advises The Skin Cancer Foundation. Dark colors, dense weaves, and synthetic fabric offer superior protection. Shade yourself with a wide-brimmed hat so sun rays won’t find any part of your face, shoulders, chest, and back of the neck. Pack a cute sun umbrella for that glorious day exploring the town on foot.

Use a Cover Up

You have many choices, and a long-sleeve rash guard swimming ensemble will go a long way to ensure you don’t end the day with a painful sunburn. Look for saltwater and chlorine-resistant fabrics with a protection level of UPF 50+. No need to compromise on style either, as plenty of attractive options are available. These make smart choices, especially when engaging in snorkeling, scuba diving, or kayaking, where reapplying sunscreen can be difficult. And don’t forget when lounging by the pool with your margarita at your side to throw on a sensible UPF 50+ coverup to keep harmful rays at bay.

5 Tips for Traveling with Pets

Feb 1, 2022

Traveling with Pets needs some preplanning.

Do you have furry friends that you would like to take along with you when going on vacation? Traveling with pets is not always easy as there are many elements to note before you make any plans. Keep reading as today we are sharing the best tips on how to safely travel with pets!

Medical Documents

By far the first and most important tip on traveling with pets is to ensure that they have all the necessary medical documents. You would want to be well prepared in case of emergency so a great idea is to also have a copy of all the records on your phone. In addition to that, if you are flying abroad you must also check if your destination has a particular vaccine requirement or would need a “pet passport”, which includes your pet’s entire medical history. If this is the case you would want to make an appointment with your vet as well to discuss any additional vaccines that would be needed.

Is your Pet Suited for the Trip

As we are speaking of taking your pet to the vet and discussing their current health situation, something else to carefully consider is what type of trip are you taking. You need to make sure that your pet is suited for the holiday you are planning. For example, if your itinerary includes a lot of popular attractions and indoor spaces that do not allow dogs, you would be forced to leave your pet in your accommodation – that might not be a good idea, as some pets get stressed during traveling as well. You really need to carefully consider if your pet is suited for the type of trip you are taking – not only from physical and mental well-being but also if they will actually get to be with you and enjoy the holiday!

Get a Pet ID

If by any chance you have not gotten your pet the proper identification, now is the time to do it. You want to make sure that your pet has a tag with their name and your cell phone. For extra safety, we also strongly suggest microchipping your pet. It has been proven that the procedure is completely simple and safe, however, it gives you additional peace of mind! The chip goes beneath the skin and when scanned it immediately provides the owner’s information to ensure a much faster reunion! There is nothing worse than losing your pet in a new, unknown, and foreign environment for both you and your furry friend. If you are planning on traveling with pets, make sure to get them the ID!

Your Pet Needs to be Comfortable

We bet that you are preparing all the necessary accessories and gear for yourself to feel comfortable. Next, you would have to do the same for your pet. If you are traveling by plane or train, you would need to get an approved pet carrier. Make sure that it is both large enough and well ventilated so that your pet can feel cozy and safe. Do not forget to introduce your pet to the carrier a few weeks before you take the trip. If you notice any signs of discomfort, make sure to change it or even alter your travel plans. What is more, you would need all the necessary leashes, water bowls, even toys. The best way to be prepared for taking your pet along the journey is to consider it as another party that needs all the necessary elements to be comfortable.

Book a pet-friendly accommodation

Last but definitely not least, it is absolutely vital that you book pet-friendly accommodation. Depending on your destination, these might be difficult to find, so be patient and get ready to do a lot of research. Sometimes, you would need to give a place where you are staying a call to confirm if they will be able to accommodate your furry companion. You would need to take into account the additional fees you might have to pay for bedding as well. Getting a room, which is close to the exit or has a little balcony area is also strongly advisable so you and your pet will have easy access to the outside!

Traveling with pets might be difficult at first and it definitely requires a lot more research. Taking your furry friend means that you need to prepare for all the necessary safety and comfort measures. At the same time, though, traveling with pets can be an extremely special and unique experience that you would deeply cherish for years to come! Here are 11 Tips for Traveling With Your Pet, According to a Veterinarian.

You may be 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.

Top 5 Train Rides in Missouri

Oct 29, 2021

Top 5 Train Rides in Missouri

If you are a train-lover, Missouri is one of the best places to go. There are many different train rides around Missouri that offer short or long rides. Some have themed days, others have amazing four-course meals, and almost all have beautiful sightseeing. Here we will discuss five of the top train rides around Missouri.

Best Dinner Train: Silver Chef, Branson Scenic Railway

The Branson Scenic Railway is known for its Polar Express train ride during the Christmas holidays, but it can also be enjoyed any time of the year. This train starts and ends in Branson, Missouri, and travels through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. A normal round-trip excursion costs between $2-$29 depending on age.

If visiting between April and October, couples and families can also enjoy a four-course dinner train, which leaves every Saturday at 5 pm. The dinner train runs from $69-$79.

Best Train for Themed Events: St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern Railway

The St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern Railway offers 2-hour roundtrip rides every Saturday at 1 pm on their ninety-five-year-old railcars. The train starts and stops in Jackson, Missouri. The train rides start between $10-17 for a normal Saturday ride, to $28-45 for a dinner train ride.

They also offer many themed events monthly, which can include Murder Mystery rides, Santa Express, dinosaur train, Chocolate Express, and a Historical Ghost Train. Check out their website for more details and themed events happening this month!

Best Train for a Short Ride: The Belton, Grandview, and Kansas City Railroad

The Belton, Grandview, and Kansas City Railroad is in Belton, Missouri. It is a short train ride at only 45 minutes round trip. Train lovers will enjoy the 1920’s passenger cars and the 1950’s locomotive train rolling through Old Towne Belton. Train rides are $12 for all ages 3 and up.

Best Train for Sight Seeing: Missouri River Runner, Amtrak

The Missouri River Runner goes between two major cities, St. Louis and Kansas City. If you are a lover of wine, it also stops off in Hermann, Missouri’s wine country. And for all the history buffs, it has a stop in the city of Independence, which is President Harry S. Truman’s hometown. The entire ride from St. Louis to Kansas City can take a little less than 6 hours. Tickets can be purchased on the Amtrak website.

Best Train for Kids: Wabash Frisco and Pacific Railroad Association, Glencoe

Visit the Wabash, Frisco, and Pacific Railroad for the most unforgettable miniature train ride. Hop aboard the 12-inch gauge steam railroad and travel the 2 miles through the woods and next to the Meramec River. The full round-trip ride takes about 30 minutes. Tickets are $20 for a full passenger car, and each passenger car can fit up to 5 people.

After enjoying your train ride you may be 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.

Top 5 Travel Apps

Sep 5, 2021

Here are the top 5 travel apps you will need.

Not only has the travel industry changed considerably in the last few years, but so are our habits when it comes to planning and organizing our vacations. If you would like to fully maximize your time and make sure that you can easily start planning your trip from your phone, keep reading as we are sharing the top 5 travel apps that you need!

SkyScanner

Skyscanner is definitely one of the top travel apps and the best platform to search for cheap and affordable flights. Their app is user-friendly, easy to use and it is worth having if you would like to have quick access to the best flight deals to your dream destination. Make sure to click the notification button if you would like to receive alerts as soon as there are any price changes to the flights you are looking to book.

HotelTonight

For all spontaneous travelers, HotelTonight is one of the top 5 best travel apps that you need to have! Just enter your location and the app will give you all last-minute discounted rates on hotels in your area. You can look for everything from luxurious boutique hotels to small guest houses and your reservation takes just a few minutes to complete. They have friendly and professional 24/7 customer support, HotelTonight is a travel app you need to have on your phone!

Trail Wallet

If you are traveling on a budget, you definitely want to download the Trail Wallet app. You can easily set up your budget for the day and all you would have to do after is enter your expenses. The app even has a new feature, where you can just take a photo of your receipt and it will automatically track it for you. Not only is the app available offline, but it also has close to 220 currencies, which makes it one of the top 5 travel apps that you need and can easily use anywhere in the world!

CityMapper

Once you reach your destination, one of the most difficult tasks is to navigate your way around. That is why having CityMapper on your phone is a huge convenience. Within the app, you can find public transportation options in all major cities in Europe, the USA, Asia, and Australia. Just enter your start and end location and the app will give you all possible transport options with prices, duration, and detailed information on your route!

AllTrails

AllTrails is one of the top 5 travel apps, especially for those of you who prefer nature’s peace and quiet! With a total of 200,000 curated paths, the app is the perfect option to find trails near you. If you are concerned about not having service, it is a good idea to upgrade to the pro version as you would be able to download offline maps, which you can easily follow even when you do not have a call service. Another benefit of the pro version is that percentage of every membership is used to protect our Planet!

Bonus Tip

Before heading on your next vacation, do not forget to scan all your personal documents, such as passport, driving license, visas, etc., and add them to your Google Drive! This is an easy way to ensure that you will have access to any identification document at any time, in case something happens. This is such an easy way to be prepared for the unexpected, but it is often neglected by tourists.

Are you ready to download these top 5 travel apps that you need to book and organize your holiday? Install them now and enjoy a hassle-free vacation!

If you are 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.