Snapshot Vacations

Stress-Free Group Travel Planning: How to Plan a Group Trip Everyone Will Love

I’ve been planning more group trips lately as families have begun planning reunions, birthday parties, and other events.

Group travel can be magical…exploring a new city with friends, celebrating with family, or bonding with colleagues during a corporate retreat. But let’s be real: planning a group trip can quickly turn stressful as you juggle budgets, opinions, and logistics.

With the right strategies, though, group travel planning doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are proven tips for creating a trip everyone will enjoy:

Start Planning Early

When it comes to how to plan group travel (or travel in general), the earlier you start, the better. After all, prices can fluctuate and hotels and venues can book quickly. Set the foundation with:

Destination discussions: Is the group leaning toward beaches, mountains, or a cultural city experience? Budget expectations: what is everyone willing to pay? Preferred travel style: Luxury resort, budget-friendly hotels, or something in between?

Tip: Create a shared Google Doc, group chat, or travel planning app to keep all details in one place.

2. Assign a Group Leader (or Two)

Every successful group vacation needs a leader to keep decisions moving. This person helps manage deadlines and prevents endless back-and-forth debates. If your group is large, having two co-leaders can be even better and help divide the workload.

3. Choose Accommodations That Fit Everyone

One of the biggest group travel tips is to prioritize lodging that balances comfort and togetherness. Instead of scattered hotel rooms, consider:

Villas or vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms. All-inclusive resorts for built-in dining and activities. Cruises for hassle-free travel between destinations.

Tip: I know I’m biased but a travel advisor can often secure group discounts, perks, and room upgrades, making the stay smoother and more affordable.

4. Plan Activities (But Leave Downtime)

The secret to stress-free group trips is balance. Schedule one or two group activities daily, like a wine tour or guided excursion, but leave space for free time. This way, everyone gets a mix of structured fun and personal exploration and no one is overwhelmed.

5. Simplify Group Travel Finances

Money can be the trickiest part of group vacation planning. Avoid awkward situations by:

Using apps like Splitwise to track shared costs. Pre-paying for major expenses like accommodations and tours. Having one person handle deposits to streamline payments.

6. Work With a Group Travel Specialist

Here’s the easiest way to guarantee an stress-free group trip: let a professional handle the details.

As a group travel advisor, I can:

Negotiate group rates and perks you can’t get on your own. Manage logistics for flights, transfers, and accommodations. Provide one central contact so you don’t become the “unofficial travel agent.”

With expert help, you can focus on making memories, not juggling tasks.

Ready to plan your next group adventure? Contact me today. I’ll take the stress out of planning so you can enjoy every moment of your trip!

Los Angeles in Style: An Accessible Luxury Traveler’s Guide

I was just reading about some upcoming autumn deals and a hotel in Los Angeles was one of the deals.

Ah, LA…full of sunshine, glamour, and possibilities…

If you are California dreaming but you don’t want to spend all your savings on your fall trip, check out these tips:

1. Stay in Boutique Hotels with Big Personality

Skip the overpriced Beverly Hills chains and check into chic, smaller properties. They can often deliver high design, great amenities, and a local vibe at a fraction of the big-name rates.

2. Indulge in Oceanview Dining Without a Crazy Pricetag

Smaller restaurants can still give you million-dollar views and fresh seafood without the stratospheric bill of Nobu Malibu.

3. Private Tours but With Better Pricing

Book with small local companies for “semi-private” experiences like Griffith Observatory night hikes, street art walking tours, or behind-the-scenes studio tours at Warner Bros. They still have the exclusive feel but at a better price. Also check out deals on Viator.

4. Get Thrifty!

Yes, you can walk Rodeo Drive but if you want to actually shop, try thrifting for curated secondhand designer pieces at much better prices.

5. Nights Out That Don’t Break the Bank

Check out rooftop bars like High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin in Venice or Perch downtown. You’ll get the city lights and sophisticated cocktails without super expensive cover charges.

6. Spa Day!

Try places like a Korean spa, where day passes give you hours of relaxation for under $30.

7. When You Go Matters

Visit midweek for the best hotel and restaurant deals and to avoid LA’s weekend crowds. Also consider the cost of transportation. Is it cheaper to do a ride share or rent a car? Valet fees are no joke.

Current deals in LA:

Beverly Hills, CA: 4th Night Free at L’Ermitage Beverly Hills
Book before 9/30/2025 for stays now through 12/30/2025, blackout dates apply

The Beauty of Off-Season Travel

The ideal time to travel depends on the destination. Time of year can affect the type of weather you experience and the type of activities you can do on your trip. Of course, spring, summer, and holidays tend to be massively popular times for vacationers to travel, but there’s a lot to be said for off-season or shoulder season travel. “Off-season” is the period of low tourism and the “shoulder season” is the period between low and high tourism.

Here’s why it’s sometimes nice to take a off-season or shoulder season trip:

Cost:

Traveling when it’s not a high tourism period will often save you money on flights and on hotels. Since the demand for accommodations and flights are lower, you can get great deals.

And for many destinations, you can still get the same great weather and experiences that you would have gotten during high season.

Less Crowding:

Are you tired of visiting places and feeling overwhelmed by the number of tourists around you? Imagine taking tours or strolling through historic areas without the crush of tourists.

You also have a better chance of getting certain reservations or doing certain activities without being on a waitlist.

More Authentic Interactions:

With less tourists around, you also have a better chance to have more authentic interactions with the locals in your chosen destination.

💡 Tip: Think about pairing off-season travel with a mid-week departure to save even more.

Top Things to Do in London (and Fast Facts/Hidden Gems)

I don’t know if I’ve written about this here, but London is one of my favorite places to visit, whether solo or with family and friends. Full of charm and packed with things to see and do, London is always a fun getaway. And the best part is, no matter how often you go, there’s always something new to discover.

I was doing an itinerary for someone’s London trip a few weeks ago and it made me reminisce about some of the places I visited while I was there. If you’re new to the city, it’s always fun to hit the well-known attractions and then spend time looking for hidden gems. It’s also fun (if you have the time) to do a few day-trips to locations near London.

But without further ado:

Here’s your ultimate quick guide to the British capital’s best experiences…plus some fun trivia and secret spots:

Must-See London Attractions

Tower of London & Crown Jewels: Over 1,000 years of history and priceless royal jewels.

British Museum: Free entry and packed with world treasures like the Rosetta Stone.

London Eye: Soar above the city for skyline views. (I have photos from the first time I did this.)

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard: A royal ceremony worth seeing.

West End Theatre: Catch world-class performances.

5 Fun Facts About London

Big Ben is the bell, not the clock.

London’s buses weren’t always red; different routes had different colors before 1907.

The city has over 170 museums (many are free!).

Trafalgar Square hides the smallest police station in London.

London Bridge is not the ornate one, that’s Tower Bridge.

A Few Hidden Gems to Explore

Leadenhall Market: a location that Harry Potter fans will recognize.

God’s Own Junkyard: A neon art gallery in Walthamstow.

Sky Garden: Free panoramic views in an indoor oasis.

🔔 If you’re going to London in the next few months, reach out to me! If you stay before January 2026 and for at least three nights, you get 20% off.

💡 Travel Tip: Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking!

Destination Highlight: The Maldives

Picture this: turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye can see, white sandy beaches so soft they feel like powdered sugar, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Welcome to the Maldives, a slice of heaven in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Where Is the Maldives?

Located southwest of Sri Lanka and India, The Maldives is an archipelago made up of 1,192 tiny coral islands grouped into 26 atolls. Only about 200 of these islands are inhabited, and many are home to luxurious resorts that occupy their own private island . You heard that right: an island just for you and your fellow guests.

Why Travelers Fall in Love With The Maldives

1. Amazing Beaches and Waters

If the word “tropical” had a capital city, the Maldives would be it. The beaches are pristine, the waters are calm, and the lagoons are dotted with overwater villas that make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a travel magazine. (I know you’ve seen the photos.)

2. Diving and Snorkeling Paradise

Beneath the surface, the Maldives is an explosion of color, from coral gardens to manta rays, reef sharks, and sea turtles. The crystal visibility makes it one of the best diving spots in the world.

3. Luxury Meets Privacy

Many resorts in the Maldives take luxury to a whole new level. Think private infinity pools, personal butlers, glass floors to watch fish swim below your villa, and dining on a sandbank under the stars.

4. Romantic and Relaxing

It’s no wonder the Maldives is a honeymoon hotspot. The seclusion, sunsets, and serene environment make it the ultimate place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself or someone special.

Best Time to Visit

The Maldives enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to April during the dry season. Expect endless sunshine, calm seas, and postcard-perfect skies. May to October is the wet season, with higher humidity and occasional storms, but also lower prices and fewer crowds.

Getting There

The main international gateway is Velana International Airport (Malé). From there, your resort may be accessible by speedboat or a breathtaking seaplane ride over the turquoise waters — an experience in itself.

Where to Stay

Now you know I wouldn’t leave you without a accommodation recommendation. If you’re looking for privacy and luxury, you should try Baros Maldives. Vacationers have praised the food and the variety of activities available, including a dive center and other water sports. The resort offers private villas with pools and a stunning view of the ocean.

Whether you want to do sunrise yoga or go on a dive trip, the Maldives has something for everyone. Contact me for current specials.

Star of the Seas

If you’re craving a fun cruise, Royal Caribbean has a new ship that might be just what you’re looking for. Their latest ship, Star of the Seas, sets sail this month and includes six water slides and seven pools. Every sailing stops at an award-winning private destination, Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Royal Caribbean has upped the entertainment ante with an ice arena and an aqua theater with performers doing stunts under a towering waterfall.

Ready to set sail? Here is the All-In Deal, good until 10 PM Thursday 8/7/2025:

+ Up to $800 off

+ 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free

+ Up to 40% Off Onboard Extras

Terms and conditions apply.

Go to my intake page to book before the sale ends!

What You Need to Know About EES and ETIAS

What’s that saying? Change is the only constant? There are always changes when it comes to travel rules and regulations which is why it’s always important to stay on top of your documentation game. I was going to post on a different topic this week, but going with the documentation theme (see the posts from the last two weeks) I decided to share information about the EES (the Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System.

What is the EES?

The Entry/Exit System is a system used to register non-EU nationals traveling for a short stay (defined as 90 days within any 180 day period). The Entry/Exit System will be used each time visitors cross the external borders of several European countries. This system is applicable to non-EU nationals and for those who do not need a visa to travel for a short stay in the European countries using the EES. It is expected to launch in October 2025. More details will come out prior to the system launch.

What is ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System is a pre-travel authorization system developed by the European Union (EU) to strengthen border security. The ETIAS system streamlines entry for tourists, business travelers, and short-term visitors. It’s a mandatory online screening for travelers from 60+ visa-exempt countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, who wish to enter certain countries. Once approved, the ETIAS authorization will be valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

What are the Requirements for the ETIAS?

In order to apply for an ETIAS, according to the ETIAS site, you need a valid travel document which should not expire in less than three months and shouldn’t be older than ten years. You will need to provide personal information, travel document details, details about your travel plans, and any details regarding criminal convictions, etc.

When Does It Go Into Effect?

According to the EU website, it will not go into affect in the first half of this year, but it is expected to roll out soon. The EU will provide information and updates about the start of ETIAS a few months before it launches.

Is There a Fee?

The application fee is 7 EUR for applicants between the ages of 18 and 70. Those outside of that age range are exempt from payment. “Others who are exempt are family members of EU citizens or of EU nationals who have the right to move freely through the European Union,” according to the EU website.

Be Prepared!

Things are constantly changing and it’s important to stay updated on current policies. If you have a European trip coming up in the next several months, it might be helpful to check this website on a frequent basis: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/index_en.

For any assistance with your vacation plans, please fill out a contact form.

REAL ID

The REAL ID deadline is coming up: May 7, 2025. Do you have yours?

The REAL ID act was passed in 2005, which set minimum security standards for identifications like drivers licenses. According to the Department of Homeland Security, this means that a REAL ID is necessary for domestic flights, entering certain government buildings, and nuclear power plants.

Since most states and territories are in compliance with the REAL ID move, you may already have one. If you do, you’ll have a star in the upper right hand corner of your driver’s license. According to Homeland Security, if you have “an enhanced driver’s license” (which are used in five states), this will be an acceptable alternative to the REAL ID. An enhanced driver’s license will have the word “enhanced” at the top. If you don’t have a REAL ID or an enhanced driver’s license, you will have to get one by May 7th or possibly have issues with domestic flights- including delays, additional screening, or inability to get on your flight. If you are under the age of 18, the Homeland Security website, says you do not have to present this ID if you are traveling with a companion with acceptable ID.

REAL ID is useful for domestic travel. Any international travel or border crossings will still require a passport, so having an up to date passport will still be helpful.

You will have to make an appointment with your local DMV to get your new ID. Luckily, you can fill out some of the required forms online before you get there to save time. For your appointment: You’ll want to gather documents that prove your identity like a birth certificate or a passport. You’ll also want to have your social security card handy, and you’ll need 2 proofs of address like a utility bill or a bank statement. You should make sure all names match on all your documents- with no abbreviations or nicknames.

If years of domestic and international travel (and time spent as a travel agent) have taught me anything, it’s that it’s never a bad idea to ensure your travel documents are acceptable and up to date. When planning your next vacation, it’s a good idea to check out TSA.gov and see which travel documents are required.

Happy traveling!

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Ready to book a trip? Head on over to the Contact page and let’s get started planning your next awesome vacation!

The Importance of Having the Right Documents When Traveling

I still remember being pregnant, waddling through the airport to get to my gate after having to take an Uber all the way back home to get my correct passport. While packing, I accidentally grabbed my old passport, instead of the one with my new married name on it. My husband was at the gate, persuading them to wait for me, telling them that I was almost there. And I actually made the flight- but short of breath and with my heartbeat hammering in my chest.

Traveling is an exciting experience, whether you’re jetting off on a dream vacation, taking a relaxing cruise, or hopping on a train for a quick weekend getaway. But before the fun begins, it’s important to make sure you have the right travel documents.

Having the right documents not only ensures a smooth journey, but also helps you avoid delays, missed connections, denied boarding, or even fines. Every mode of travel, whether it’s flying, cruising, or traveling by train, has its own set of requirements, and being prepared can save you time as well as a stressful run through a busy airport.

Flying Domestically

If you’re flying within your home country, you’ll typically need a valid government-issued photo ID. In the United States, for example, TSA requires travelers to show a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport, military ID, or state-issued ID. Without proper ID, you may not be allowed to board your flight, no matter how short the journey.

It’s also a good idea to have your boarding pass printed or available digitally and to keep a copy of your flight itinerary handy.

Flying Internationally

International flights come with more documentation requirements. The most important item is a valid passport. Make sure your passport is not only valid at the time of travel, but also that it won’t expire within six months of your return date; some countries require this for entry.

In addition to your passport, you may also need:

Visa(s): Depending on your destination, you may need a travel visa, which must be obtained in advance or upon arrival. Proof of return travel: Some countries require evidence that you’ll be leaving within a set time frame. Vaccination records: Especially after COVID-19, some destinations may require proof of vaccination or a negative test result. Travel insurance documents: While not always mandatory, it’s wise to carry proof of coverage, especially when traveling abroad.

Visas: What You Need to Know

A visa is an official document or stamp placed in your passport that allows you to enter, stay in, or leave a particular country. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and where you’re going. Some countries allow you to obtain a visa on arrival, while others require applying weeks, or even months, in advance. Visas can be tourist, business, work, or transit-related, so it’s important to know what kind you need. Failing to obtain the proper visa can lead to denied entry, fines, or even deportation. Always check your destination’s embassy website or consult with a travel advisor to ensure you’re meeting all the requirements.

Cruising

Cruise travel often falls somewhere between domestic and international travel. For closed-loop cruises (those that start and end in the same U.S. port), a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID may be sufficient. However, many cruise lines strongly recommend a passport, even for closed-loop cruises, in case you need to fly home from a foreign port due to an emergency. And again, you may need a passport that doesn’t expire within 6 months of your return date. While booking a cruise for a client, we ran into this issue, and I advised her to get a new passport while there was still time before her cruise departure. No one wants to show up for their cruise and be turned away due to a documentation issue!

If your cruise includes stops in foreign countries, you may also need visas for those ports. Always check with your cruise line to confirm what documents are required for your specific itinerary.

Train Travel

For domestic train travel, such as riding Amtrak in the U.S., you’ll typically need a government-issued photo ID. If you’re traveling internationally by train – such as within Europe or between Canada and the U.S.- you’ll need your passport, and possibly a visa, depending on your nationality and the countries you’re visiting.

No matter how you travel, having the right documents is essential. Do your research well in advance, double-check expiration dates, and keep physical and digital copies of everything. Travel should be about creating memories, not dealing with a bunch of hassles. This is another reason why travel advisors are great to have- with an advisor, you’ve got another set of eyes while planning your trip and getting your documents together. Check out the Getting Started page to find out how I can help you build your next great vacation!

Traveling with Pets

Taking your furry family member on an adventure? Whether you’re flying across the country or heading on an international trip, traveling with pets requires careful planning to keep them safe and comfortable. Here are some travel tips to help you and your pet have an easy, happy trip:

Pre-Flight Prep

Before booking your flight, check the airline’s pet policies. Each airline has different rules regarding carrier size, pet weight limits, and fees. Some allow pets in the cabin, while others require them to be checked as cargo. Once you’ve confirmed the requirements, schedule a vet visit to ensure your pet is healthy for travel. Some destinations require specific vaccinations or health certificates, so be sure to gather all necessary paperwork. Lastly, pack essentials like a collapsible water bowl, favorite toys, and a cozy blanket to help your pet feel at home in transit.

At the Airport

Choose an airline-approved, well-ventilated carrier that gives your pet enough space to sit, stand, and turn comfortably. Before heading to the gate, take your pet for a walk or play session to burn off excess energy. Also, locate the airport’s pet relief areas so your furry buddy can have a potty break before boarding.

During the Flight

While it may be tempting to give your pet a sedative, most vets advise against it as it can affect their breathing. Instead, use natural calming aids such as pheromone sprays or a familiar-smelling blanket. Offer small sips of water and speak to your pet calmly to reassure them. Covering part of the carrier with a light blanket can also help reduce stress.

Post-Flight Tips

Once you land, allow your pet to stretch and move around in a safe space. Keep an eye on their behavior—if they seem stressed or disoriented, provide extra comfort and patience as they adjust to their new surroundings.

With the right preparation, flying with pets can be a smooth and easy. Happy travels!