Cruise Archives - Unique Journeys LLC

How to Plan a Multi-Generational Family Vacation

Jun 13, 2021

Tips on How to Plan a Multi-Generational Family Vacation.

Do you struggle to get the entire family together? Would you love to finally organize a trip for all members of your family? Think of all fun you can have fun while spending time with each other?

A family vacation can be a fantastic experience; however, it needs to be very carefully planned before it ends up being a stressful nightmare. Keep reading to read our top 6 tips on how to plan a multi-generational family holiday!

Start Planning Way in Advance

The first step in planning a multi-generational family vacation is making sure that you are all on the same page. That is the reason why you need to start planning way in advance. First, the more people will be traveling together the more difficult it would be to coordinate the best time to go. Secondly, though, planning ahead of time also means that you would have enough time to discuss what each person’s expectations are. If you live in the same city, plan dinners where the main topic to discuss will be the upcoming trip, if you live far away from each other, plan family calls and have an agenda and topics to cover, such as the destination, how long are you going for, when are you taking the holiday, etc.

Build the Excitement

We would really stress the benefits of getting the children involved in the planning. Anyone who is invested in the trip will be more willing to go along with others and what they want to do. Purchase magazine articles, other sources periodically to get everyone excited and engaged with the planning process. You could even rent movies or DVDs about where they are thinking of going. Zoom meetings are also a good way to get everyone involved. If you are going on a cruise, you could have a zoom meeting with a representative of the cruise line, if going to a resort, there are quite a few YouTube videos you can access. Give the children that are old enough an “assignment” to find out interesting facts about where they are going. Then they can look for them when they get there and also so that they can report their findings in one of the planning meetings. Also, if you are going somewhere where there is a foreign language, everyone can try to learn some basic phrases and words. Also, learning about the different cultures and customs they children might encounter and why they are different from theirs so that they will have respect for the differences and understand that everyone has different beliefs, customs, etc. Maybe they can also find some recipes for local cuisine and try them out.

Have a Budget

When there are multiple people involved in a holiday, one of the most important topics is the budget. It is best to set a budget at the first stages of planning the holiday. If you are going on a multi-generational holiday, this means you will be traveling as a group. Group travels, though, can be expensive. Do not stress out too much, though, just have an honest discussion and determine what each person’s budget for this trip is. It is also a good idea to divide the expenses into different categories and maybe each person can pay for a different category.

Inclusives the cost is pretty well-known upfront and there will be very little outlay once you have paid for the trip. You might have to pay for drinks or excursions, but these would be at your own discretion and not something everyone would have to do. On AMA Waterways, for example, all shore excursions are included in the price. On most cruises, you can pay for your gratuities with the cost of your cruise too. Drinks are extra outside of meals, but then those who don’t drink won’t have that bar tab to worry about.

Find Balance Between Activities and Rest Time

One of the most difficult aspects of planning a multi-generational family holiday is deciding on the itinerary and the activities and places you would like to do and see. While there can be members of the younger generation, who would love to spend the entire day scuba diving or hiking, there might be elderly, who would prefer more time to relax and rest. It is important to remember that you need to make compromises and you are taking this trip so you can spend more time together. It is a good idea for each person to come up with a shortlist of what they would like to do during the trip once the families have decided on your destination. You can then have a common discussion and choose 1 or 2 items from each person’s list.

Do not be Afraid to Ask for Help

Planning a multi-generational family holiday can be extremely time-consuming, tiring, and stressful. It is important to remember that one person cannot make the arrangements for a few families. So do not be afraid to ask for help. You can either go to some of the other family members who can assist or if you are all too busy and occupied and find it too difficult to coordinate, you can even discuss the option of getting a travel agent, who would organize everything for you. A travel agent could actually save you money on this trip of memories.

Protection

We recommend purchasing insurance, as this pandemic has shown us that insurance is very important. We encourage everyone to take out insurance. We feel this is still very important going forward.

Just Enjoy, Have Fun and Create Memories Together

It is highly possible for some pressure to arise during the trip if some people are feeling left out. If this happens remind everyone why you have planned this multi-generational family holiday. It is to relax, enjoy, have fun, and most importantly to create memories together. Especially, if you only rarely see some of these people, it is vital to make the most of your time together and remember that you will only have this time now. Take photos, laugh, entertain each other, and create memories, which you will cherish long after you have gone back home.

If you choose to cruise this article may be of interest.

If you are perusing river cruises 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.

5 Tips How to Save Money For Your Next Vacation

Mar 5, 2021

5 Tips How to Save Money For Your Next Vacation

Are you dreaming of heading on your next vacation, but struggling as you do not have the funds for it? We have all been there because let’s be fair traveling can be an investment, although it is worth every penny for the experience and memories.

There are a few amazingly simple and realistic ways how you can get the money that you need and that is why today we are sharing the 5 tips on how to save money for your next vacation. Keep reading and you will be surprised how easy it is!

Start early and tell your travel agent what you are looking for so they can monitor sales and specials.

The more information you give them, the better they are able to help you. They may be able to show you alternatives that will be just as good and may save you money. They can also let you know the best time of year to go to certain destinations in order to get the best price, such as spring and fall shoulder seasons. Experience counts.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Step one of saving money for your next vacation is not just setting a budget, but also making sure that you stick to it. One of the best ways to get started is creating a spreadsheet with different categories, which you are spending money on each month. Make sure that you add every single dollar that you spend to the relevant category and you will quickly notice how much of your salary goes into unnecessary purchases. It would be great if you can first track your spending for two or three months. Once you have a good idea of this, you can proceed to the next step, which is calculating the budget for each category by eliminating the small purchases you are making every month like buying a coffee on your way to work.

These are relatively small, but when combined they add quite a lot to your overall spending for the month. When you finally have your budget set, make sure that you keep tracking every purchase you are making. The best idea is to subtract them from the final budget for a particular category and once you reach the 0, make sure to mark it in red. Having the large red cell should be a good reminder that you are aiming to save money for your next vacation!

Create a Savings Account dedicated for Travel

After you have your budget set, you can proceed to stage 2 of how to save money for your next vacation. Go to your bank and create a savings account, which is completely dedicated for your travels. Be strict with yourself and make sure that even if you need additional money during the month, this will be a bank account you will not dip into. You should also make sure that at the beginning of each month, once you get your salary you transfer some funds from your main account to your savings account.

Start small and plan well with only transferring the amount you can afford. The idea is not to have the full amount you need for your next vacation immediately. This is a long-term tip how to save money and once you have a good understanding of how much money you can put aside each month, you can make these transfers automatic.

Cancel any Non-Essential Subscriptions

We bet that you have at least a few subscriptions that are either non-essential or you can certainly live without. A lot of times, people would get a subscription or even just a trial that would then result into a monthly subscription without even having the need for. It would be great if you can get your latest bank statements and go through every single transaction that has been made, as this is the best way to find out how much money you are paying throughout the month for different subscriptions. Be savage and cancel everything, which is non-essential. If you are having doubts and thinking how convenient it is to get meals delivered straight to your home, think about how much better you will feel when you are sunbathing on the beach and sipping on a delicious cocktail, instead!

Eat at Home

Once you have started tracking your monthly purchases, you will notice how much money you are spending on eating out. It is inevitable because most people think that cooking at home is very time-consuming and it is much easier to grab some food on your way home. The results from eating at home and even creating lunch boxes for work, however, can be noticed very soon after you have made this a habit. One of the best ways to get motivated to eat at home more often is to track how much money you have been able to save in the first month after you have started this habit using your budget spreadsheet. Then transfer this additionally saved amount straight into your saving accounts dedicated to your travels. You will be surprised how fast it will start growing.

Sell any Unused Items

Last but definitely not least, on our list of the 5 tips on how to save money for your next vacation, we will talk about selling any unused items. We all have them and if you start decluttering your house, you will quickly find out how many items you have that you are either not using or you have completely forgotten about. We bet that you will find kitchen gadgets still in their boxes somewhere in your attic or clothes hanging in your closet still having the tag on. These are great items that you can go ahead and sell. Nowadays, there are many different platforms and apps you can use to organize and plan your sales. This is a great tip not only to earn some money but also to clean your house!

Which of the above-mentioned 5 tips on how to save money for your next vacation will you try first?

If you are perusing river cruises to make a 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 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.

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.

5 Things to Pack When Going on a Cruise

Dec 31, 2020

5 Things to Pack When Going on a Cruise

Are you planning a cruise vacation filled with great memories?

Are you already thinking about the main essentials that you need to pack? If yes, keep reading as we are sharing the 5 things to pack when going on a cruise and we are revealing more than the basics such as swimsuit,

flip flops and passport!

Binoculars

You might be surprised by our first choice of items to pack when going on a cruise, but a small pair of binoculars is a must-have in the open ocean. You might be thinking that everything it is to see is endless blue waters, but you are wrong. Along the way, you can see various marine creatures and birds. Not only this but as you are sailing through the sea you can see various small islands further in the distance, which would be difficult to notice with a naked eye. Trust us, you will witness a whole new world with just a small pair of binoculars.

Sunscreen and Aloe Vera

We bet that during your cruise you would want to spend most of your time outside on the deck and enjoying the warm sunny days. Be sure to pack the combination of strong tropical sun rays and continuous ocean breeze will certainly feel pleasant and refreshing on your skin until you go back to your cabin and look at the mirror. The sun in the middle of the ocean can be extremely dangerous and you can get sunburnt extremely quickly. That is the reason why tons of sunscreen, as well as various lotions with Aloe Vera, are among the top 5 things to pack when going on a cruise.

Sea Sickness Medication

The worst thing that can happen while you are enjoying your cruise holiday is to get seasick. Those who will be taking an international trip and sailing through the open ocean should know that there is a high chance that the ship will meet some strong and rough waves. Most cruises are prepared for situations like this and they would have some medications for the passengers. Even still, it is always a good idea to pack your own and know that you are well prepared. This is certainly one of the must-haves of 5 things to pack when especially if this is your first cruise ever.

Water Shoes

One of the main things that you would want to pack when going on a cruise vacation is to swim in the refreshing waters and enjoying various activities across the tropical beaches you will be visiting. Even some tropical beaches, however, do not have the sandiest beaches, and sometimes walking barefoot is not advisable. In other places, on the other hand, it is necessary to wear water shoes when snorkeling. If you are going on a longer cruise, it might be a challenge to research every pit stop along the way. So better be safe than sorry and pack a pair of water shoes with you!

Waterproof Phone Case

Finally on our list of the 5 things to pack when going on a cruise is a waterproof phone case. Taking a cruise vacation involves a lot of water and sand. At the same time, though, we are sure that you would love to take as many photos as possible and capture all the fun moments, that is the reason why you need to also consider using some protection for your phone. Not only will you be able to still use your touch screen and camera, but a lot of phone cases nowadays are even meant to be used underwater. Always check the manufacturer’s notes when getting a waterproof phone case, though.

Did you consider these 5 essential things to pack when going on a cruise?

Which one of these were you most likely to miss packing to go on your cruise?

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 a 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 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.

AMA WATERWAYS = LUXURY ON THE RIVERS

Dec 8, 2020

AMA Waterways = Luxury on the Rivers? AMA means love. Having cruised with them on four separate occasions and sent many clients on their journey of a lifetime, I can say that AMA personifies that. From the moment you decide on your dream cruise, you will experience the values that have made them the river cruise experts.

While the ships themselves are elegant and tastefully appointed, it is the crew that really makes your cruise magical. They go beyond service to make you feel as if you are a valued member of their family. They see it as their mission to make this the best experience you can have. I have experienced this myself. A waiter remembering I like hot tea with breakfast rather than coffee; a crew member walking with a passenger to make certain they can navigate cobblestones; the hotel manager going ashore at a market town to buy local treats for the entire ship. These are just some of the examples of why AMA Waterways = Luxury on the Rivers. You will find your own reasons when you step onboard an AMA Waterways ship and experience that special love.

So, let’s discover all the ways AMA Waterways defines luxury on the rivers!

RUDI SCHREINER IS THE HISTORY OF AMA WATERWAYS : Sometimes an idea comes to you from somewhere you least expect it. A journalism assignment had Rudi designing and building his first ship, which was a raft he then sailed on the Amazon River. From there he decided to go into travel. In 1992 the Rhine-Main-Canal was completed and the AMA story begins. Rudi Schreiner, who has been dubbed “The Godfather of river cruising” is the architect for creating this innovative luxury river cruise company. He teamed up with Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy to make his dream come true. While Jimmy Murphy has passed away, the company is lucky to have his son Gary on board as one of its leaders.

AMA Waterways Luxury River Cruise Co-Owners

Meet the Architects of AMA Waterways Luxury River Cruises

THE SHIPS: There are 17 ships in the AMA Waterways fleet at this time and each one has been designed and created for the rivers and itineraries they will sail on. In addition to their regular fleet, you will see that Rudi is always innovating and introducing new concepts to river cruising.

Some of the elements common to most of the fleet are:

- Panoramic Lounge with bar
- Piano and dance floor
- Walking track
- Whirlpool, fitness room and bicycles for exploration
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Hair salon and massage services (Additional costs apply)
- The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant with glass-enclosed kitchen and tasting menu
- Breakfast and lunch featuring regional cuisine
- Exquisite multi-course dinners made with fresh local ingredients
- Hand-selected wine, beer and soft drinks with meals—plus a Sip & Sail cocktail hour
- All-day tapas menu and afternoon tea, 24-hour coffee station
- Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs
- Dinner, Captain’s Cocktail and Gala Dinner

AMA Magna-

With AMA Magna Rudi realized another of his dreams: to build a larger river cruise ship. She is twice the width of traditional European river ships and offers more personal space, more unique dining venues, and more leisure opportunities. She is redefining the river cruise experience! Most accommodations are spacious suites measuring 355 to 710 sq. ft. with full balconies. In addition to the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table, AMA Magna introduces two enticing new dining venues: Jimmy’s, a family-style restaurant named for AMA Waterways’ late Co-Owner Jimmy Murphy, and the Al Fresco Restaurant, with retractable windows and outdoor seating.

Both a sun-deck pool and whirlpool invite guests to refresh and enjoy the views. AMA Magna’s Zen Wellness Studio is an expansive space with a fitness center, two massage rooms, and a refreshing juice bar.

Golf Anyone? Imagine if there was a way to combine luxury river cruising on the iconic Danube with the opportunity to indulge your passion and play golf. AMA Waterways has created the perfect package to enable you to do just that. On the AMA Magna you can take advantage of the Exclusive Concierge Golf Program. Not only will you have a choice of excursions in every port, you will have the opportunity to play up to 5 rounds of golf at some of the leading championship courses on the continent.

AMA Waterways’ Exclusive Concierge Golf Program is available on select Romantic Danube and Melodies of the Danube cruises sailing aboard the AMA Magna.

AMA Dahlia-

Next year will see the return of AMA Waterways to Egypt with the introduction of the AMA Dahlia. The stunning AMA Dahlia is an inviting 68-passenger ship offering 18 standard staterooms and 16 magnificent suites. There are also a wealth of amenities that will surprise and delight you, including a heated sun-deck swimming pool and bar. These are in addition to the standard amenities throughout the fleet.

Marvel at scenic Nile River views in luxury, enjoy regionally inspired entertainment, and savor the flavors of both local and Western cuisine on board.

THE UNIQUE ITINERARY

AMA has put together an unparalleled 11-night Nile River cruise and land experience that includes exquisite cuisine, authentic experiences, and the extraordinary service for which AMA Waterways is renowned.

On the luxurious, newly designed AMA Dahlia you explore ancient wonders, such as the beguiling Temple of Luxor and the mystifying Valley of the Kings and Queens. Plus, come face-to-face with the last survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza. This unforgettable itinerary includes exclusive experiences, such as a private tour of the tomb of Queen Nefertari and a private lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace. Uncover the many mysteries and secrets that have shaped Egypt’s past and continue to influence the future of this remarkable land.

AMA Dahlia defines luxury on the rivers with AMA Waterways

Sail the Nile on the Luxurious AMA Dahlia

THERE’S MORE: AMA Waterways has put together several pre- and post-cruise packages to destinations in the region. If you have always wanted to see Dubai and the world’s tallest building, you can spend 3 nights there before the cruise. You can also do this and have a post-cruise 4-night stay in Israel.

Another choice is to have 4 nights in Israel with the 3 nights pre-cruise extension in Jordan.

What an extraordinary opportunity to see more of this ancient and historical part of the world.

An extraordinary visit to Petra is yours on the extension of your Nile Cruise with AMA Waterways

Zambezi Queen-

This ship was designed and created in 2009 to sail exclusively on the Chobe River. It’s small size, accommodating only 28 passengers, ensures unobstructed views of the wildlife from anywhere on the ship.

Imagine the photos you can take on your Chobe River cruise.

With AMA Waterways, there are five unique itineraries that include the 4-night cruise on the Chobe. With the Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise, you can spend time in Cape Town and experience the world renown Victoria Falls on your 10-night adventure.

If you have always wanted to take a luxury rail trip, the Rivers & Rails of Africa tour will start in Cape Town, include your cruise and Victoria Falls and transport you to Johannesburg on the elegant Rovos Rail in an upgraded deluxe suite. You will have 13 nights of exquisite luxury on land, on your cruise and on the wonderful Rovos Rail.

Want to experience life in the bush? You should consider the 13-night Wildlife & The Falls itinerary. It combines Johannesburg, Victoria Falls and 3 nights in Kruger National Park. You will have morning and afternoon game drives, with only 6 guests in each vehicle to guarantee an opportunity for once in a lifetime sightings of the animals in their natural habitat.

If you want to savor this trip for longer, I suggest either the 15-night Stars of South Africa or the 17-night Golden Trails of East Africa.

Whichever option works best for you, this is the trip of a lifetime and now is the time for you to check it off your bucket list.

AMA Douro-

In 2019 Rudi and his team launched the AMA Douro to sail exclusively on The Douro river and explore Portugal and Spain. While she only has 51 staterooms, she exemplifies the same standards of luxury and service as others in the fleet.

There are two exciting 7-night itineraries: one exclusively in Portugal and another that includes the country of Spain. On both cruises you will experience the Port wine tastings, historic places that have been the destinations of pilgrims for hundreds of years and the wonderful tradition of Flamenco.

AMA Dara-

Envision Vietnam and Cambodia and you think of the exotic Mekong river, ancient temples and a culture very different from our own. You will experience all these and more with an AMA Waterways cruise. I will always remember when Jacqueline Kennedy visited Angkor Wat to fulfill one of her “lifelong dreams”. At that time, it was not something you or I could do. Rudi Schreiner and AMA Waterways have now made it possible for us to make this journey on the intimate 124-passenger AMA Dara.

You will visit rural villages, colorful markets, and a monastery, where you will receive a special Buddhist blessing. Delve into the peaks and valleys of Cambodia’s history in the Royal Palace and National Museums of its beautiful capital, Phnom Penh. Witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies, and be treated to authentic experiences, including rides via oxcart, tut tut and trishaw. On this transformative journey, the Mekong truly reveals a vibrant world along its shores.

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.