travel agent Archives - Unique Journeys LLC

Host a Virtual Travel Party

Mar 9, 2023

Here are two options how for hosting a virtual travel party.

Planning a River Cruise with friends? A great way to have a virtual travel party as you count down the days until your adventure begins.

Virtual on Zoom or in-person works if you live close enough.

As you and your friends are waiting to embark on your cruise, you can still have a fun travel-themed party to get excited about your upcoming trip virtually. You can do this monthly until the day arrives for your great adventure.

Here are some ideas:

Choose a cruise theme: Select a theme that reflects the cruise you will be taking, such as a tropical island or Caribbean cruise.
Set the scene: Decorate your space to fit the theme. You can use nautical decorations like anchors, fishnets, and shells, or create a tropical atmosphere with palm leaves, flowers, and bright colors.
Dress up: Encourage your traveling friends to dress up in cruise-inspired outfits, such as beachwear.
Serve cruise-inspired snacks: Serve snacks and drinks that fit the theme of your party. You can serve tropical cocktails, seafood appetizers, and desserts with a beachy twist.
Talk about activities: Each of you shares choices of what you have found you can do while on your cruise. (Ask others what they did for ideas or go to Google).
Play music: Create a playlist of music that fits the theme of your party. You can also include songs that you will hear on your cruise.
Make a countdown: Create a countdown to your cruise by making a calendar with the number of days left until your departure. Text your friends with a gif that lets them know you can’t wait for the trip and spending time with them.
Send each other items you can use on your cruises, such as suntan lotion, water bottle, power bank, or sunglasses.

The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the company of your friends as you get excited about your upcoming cruise.

2nd option for those who like to travel but have not determined their next destination is a virtual travel-themed party can be a fun way to bring people together and explore the world from the comfort of your home. Cultivating relationships is one of the most important things in life.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose a location you would all like to travel to in the future. It is always nice to talk with a travel agent.
Choose a theme: Select a specific location or type of travel, such as a beach vacation, a safari adventure, or a European tour.
Send invitations: Send virtual invitations to your guests, including the theme and any dress code suggestions.
Decorate: Set up a background that fits the theme of your party. You can also encourage your guests to decorate their backgrounds or wear costumes.
Plan activities: Come up with some activities that fit the theme of your party, such as trivia games, virtual tours, or photo sharing. You can also have a virtual scavenger hunt, where guests search for items related to the theme in their homes.
Serve themed snacks: Serve snacks and drinks that fit the theme of your party. For example, if your theme is a beach vacation, you could serve tropical cocktails and beachy snacks like fruit skewers or shrimp cocktail.
Play music: Create a playlist of music that fits the theme of your party. You can also ask your guests to suggest songs that remind them of the location or type of travel you are celebrating.
Share memories: Encourage your guests to share their own travel memories or stories during the party. You can also create a virtual photo album of your past trips and share it with your guests.

Remember, the most important part of hosting a virtual travel-themed party is to have fun and enjoy each other’s company, even if, more important if you can’t physically be in the same location.

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.

7 Things to Consider Before Traveling

Feb 8, 2023

Check out the 7 Things to Consider Before Traveling

Plan your budget

If there were no costs involved to travel, everyone would be traveling the world. The first place to begin in planning where you want to travel to. That will help you determine your budget. How long are you staying? How are you getting there, flying, train, or car?

Found this free download to help you create your travel budget.

Free Download from upgradedpoints.com for creating your Travel Budget. They suggest two different styles of budgeting.

Currency

Depending on your location, the currency could be a real issue. One this to keep your eye on is the exchange rates. Check conversion rates before you head out on your trip. A big mistake travelers make is exchanging their money for foreign currency before they reach their destination. The best place to typically exchange is at the ATM at your location. Hard to believe, but you could lose money if you exchange at your local bank before you travel.

Remember to let your bank know when you are traveling, so they don’t put a hold on your bank accounts and affect your availability. Also, let your credit card company know you are traveling to avoid holds and disruption of your available credit limit.

Accommodations

You have options, and many of them, when it comes to where you plan to stay. When working with a travel agent can save you a lot of heartaches choosing your accommodations if choosing a hotel. How important is a 5-star hotel to you? Maybe a 3-star may be just fine. There are Airbnb options, Swapping of homes, Couch Surfing (short-term lodging), Bread and Breakfast, and, of course, hotels and motels. Don’t make big mistakes; always do your research.

Know and be comfortable where you plan to stay.

Mode of Transportation

On a cruise ship or riverboat, you don’t need transportation unless you want to navigate and explore ports. However, if you are flying into an area and plan to sightsee, how will you get around once you’re there? Taxis in many countries are the best mode of transportation. For longer distances, consider renting a car. Check these out before you fly into your location. Be an educated consumer. Should you choose to go backpacking and you are traveling between different countries in Europe, you may want to go for a Railpass. If not on a cruise to Hawaii, you might be required to take short flights to go from island to island. Also, remember that some locations (like Hawaii) might require short flights or ferry rides.

Electronics

This is an area most travelers don’t consider their electronics and how they will use them. You will probably need an adapter to charge your electronics, depending on your location. Wise to check out your phone plans and what they cover, or you could be quite surprised at your phone bill when. You return. Wifi could become your friend when communicating with people back home instead of your phone.

Culture

You want to be aware of customs in certain areas so as not to get yourself in trouble. Before you head out, research the do’s and don’ts of your destination. For instance, are there certain gestures, words, or actions that might be considered offensive that is different from the US? Are there different laws? Are there common tourist scams? Will there be any cultural events while you’re there? Do you know what percentage they typically tip? Is it different from what you are used to? You might not even think of many things, but it’s simple enough to research the do’s and don’ts of any country. For example, in Dubai, here are some. Do Not Dress Inappropriately. Cuss In Public and do not Take Photographs Without Permission.

Travel Insurance

Working with a good travel agent would make sure you are aware of the need for travel insurance. Especially since the pandemic, it is highly recommended. It protects your travel plans because of injury, illness, cancellations, theft, loss of luggage, and much more. It is not required but highly recommended. Go prepared to know that there is a good chance something could go wrong but be prepared and protect yourself. Talk to your travel agent, as they can tell you stories that would make you cry. Just be educated and protected.

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?

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.

10 Simple Travel Tips

Apr 21, 2022

Here are 10 simple travel tips to make your trip amazing. Be sure and check them out before you begin packing for your next adventure.

Be Cautious Don’t OverPack

Bring essentials don’t overpack. It just makes your travel more difficult especially if you have transfers or if you are not taveling to one location for the entire trip. Pack interchangeable outfits so you have variety. Example: 3 pairs of jeans for the week, not 7.

Bring Earplugs

Another great travel tip is to bring earplugs. Not many think about earplugs but they can be extremely useful for a multitude of reasons. For a long-haul plane ride, you may want to get some rest, and earplugs come in handy. (Some airlines provide them) Depending on where your room is located, such as close to the elevator or the pool, earplugs are the perfect solution for noise. Another option would be sound-canceling headphones, which help if you have loud people on your flight.

Don’t Overdue Your Hair and Body Products

Again, take just the necessities. Many people think they have to bring all their shampoo, conditioners, lotions, and body wash. These items really take up a lot of valuable packing space in your checked bag. They also should be packed in sealable plastic bags to protect the rest of your items in case they spill. It’s not a date it is vacation. Remember, if they are in your carry on you are only allowed containers of 3.4 oz. or less. They must all fit in a quart-sized bag and you are only allowed one bag per person. For more great tips about flying restrictions Click here. There is no real need to bring your own with you (unless you have a specific skin condition).

Carry a Small Towel

The hotel will supply large towels for all your needs but when sightseeing you can get wet or need to dry yourself off. A small towel is easy to carry and perfect for your needs. You might want to carry one of the fast-drying towels.

More Travel Tips

Bring a First Aid Kit

Don’t forget a travel first aid kit. Make sure it includes the essentials such as anti-acids, band-aids, antiseptic cream, Benadryl, and aspirin.

Bring Your Backpack

Staying with the theme of not over-packing, make sure your backpack is lightweight. When choosing what to take with you in the backpack don’t fill it to overflowing as your back will not be your friend after a couple of hours. You might want to consider testing the weight of your backpack and making sure it is not overpackedMore Tips

Bring a Small Journal

This is a huge travel tip. This journal is a great place to document your day; what you saw and what it meant to you. When you get back home from this amazing trip and you saw so much you will forget what day you did what and exactly where each photo was taken.

Bring an Extra Memory Card

Don’t forget an extra memory card for your camera and extra batteries. The worst place to be is viewing something spectacular and having to take time to delete photos to make room for more. Worse is if your batteries are not fresh and you miss that perfect photo. Plus make sure you bring a Universal Converter to be able to charge your electronics no matter where you travel. A power bank can be a great investment if you have multiple items to charge and you aren’t in a place where you can plug your devices in.

Pack A Light Jacket or Wrap

Don’t forget a jacket or wrap. Even on the plane, it can be cool or temps can change quickly. Nothing is worse than freezing and trying to enjoy a beautiful sunset or on a cruise.

Create a Packing List

Packing lists are really the only way to make sure you don’t forget anything before you leave. You can create your own customized list or there are many on Google.

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.