Traveling to Amsterdam is always an Exciting Adventure

Let's start with the do's and don'ts to make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

DO:

1. Explore the Canals: Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, we encourage you to take a boat tour or rent a bike to leisurely explore these beautiful waterways. Take a canal cruise, rent a pedal boat, or simply stroll along the canal belt, known as the Grachtengordel. Each canal has its own charm, and you can discover hidden gems and picturesque spots along the way.

Visit the Museums: Amsterdam is home to some world-class museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Make sure to explore these cultural gems to get a deeper understanding of Dutch art and history. Including Rembrandt's "Night Watch."

Sample Dutch Cuisine: We encourage you to savor traditional Dutch dishes like haring (raw herring), stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs). You can also visit local markets to try some fresh cheeses and other delicacies. Delve deeper into Dutch gastronomy by highlighting some must-try dishes. We recommend local treats like poffertjes (mini pancakes), croquettes, Dutch apple pie, and the traditional Indonesian-influenced rijsttafel (rice table) for a unique culinary experience.

Take a Day Trip: Amsterdam is ideally located for day trips to nearby attractions like the beautiful tulip fields of Keukenhof or the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans. You can enjoy the scenic countryside just a short distance away. You can take a short train ride to the charming city of Haarlem or visit the fascinating Anne Frank House in nearby Amstelveen. Additionally, the picturesque village of Marken and the historic city of Utrecht are also within easy reach.

DON'T:

1. Forget to Watch for Cyclists: Amsterdam is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, and cyclists have the right of way. You are reminded to look both ways before crossing the street and be mindful of bike lanes. Always look out for bikes, use designated pedestrian crosswalks, and avoid sudden movements without looking around.

Overindulge in "Coffee Shops": While Amsterdam is famous for its lenient stance on cannabis, we remind you to approach the "coffee shop" culture responsibly. We encourage you to be aware of your limits and respect local laws. Consuming cannabis is only legal in licensed establishments and to be mindful of personal health and safety.

Rely Solely on Credit Cards: Some smaller establishments in Amsterdam may prefer cash payments, so carry some euros to avoid any inconvenience.  It's always good to have some cash on hand, especially when shopping at local markets, smaller cafes, or paying for public transportation like trams or buses.

Disrespect Local Customs: Remind your readers to be mindful of Dutch customs, such as greeting with a handshake, being punctual, and taking off shoes when entering homes or certain establishments. Here are some cultural norms and etiquette to foster a positive experience for you. Greet locals with a polite "Hallo" or "Goedemorgen," observe recycling practices, and avoid walking in designated bike lanes.

When you are ready to take a trip to Amsterdam, contact us at 909-990-1124. We are ready when you are.

Why Cruises Are a Great Multi-Generational Vacation Idea

Why Cruises Are a Great

Multi-Generational Vacation Idea 

Planning vacations can be tricky–especially when trying to accommodate all your family’s interests and needs. If you’re stuck on where to head for your family vacation this year, look no further than a cruise! Cruising is the ideal multi-generational vacation for all members of your family to ensure that everyone has fun at their own pace!

Something for everyone

The best reason to go cruising with your family is the never-ending entertainment options! No matter what you and your family enjoy, you can feel confident that there is always something that each member of your family can have fun doing. While each cruise ship is different, there are some staples that most cruise lines typically offer:

●      Watch a show: Cruise lines pay to have actors, singers, and entertainers come along for the ride to perform in nightly shows. In fact, you can even check out some Broadway shows (like Mamma Mia!) on Royal Caribbean’s ships. The best part? All these shows are included in the price of your cruise fare! And they’re the perfect opportunity to have fun with the family or keep it just to the adults.

●      Have a spa day: For family members looking to relax, the spa is the perfect destination. Cruise ships offer spa treatments and packages ranging from facials to massages and more. If you don’t want to spend the extra money on a treatment, simply head into the sauna to sweat it out!

●      See a movie: Almost all ships will offer nightly movies out on the outdoor decks. It’s a great opportunity to watch a film, hear the sounds of the ocean, and gaze up at the gorgeous night sky above! Plus, you can bring any food or drinks from the buffet or casual restaurants.

●      Take a dip: If you’re going cruising, you'll have to take advantage of the pools and jacuzzies on board! Ships will have at least one pool on the lido deck featuring one or more hot tubs adjacent to the pool. Some ships will also have a second pool at the back of the ship to overlook the water. By the pool, you’ll be able to soak up the sun, grab a bite from the food stands, and rinse off in the outdoor showers at the end of the day. If your whole family wants to lounge by the pool, make sure to get there early enough to snag chairs next to each other before it gets too busy! For your more adventurous family members, some ships will even have water slides to keep the fun going all day long!

●      Take an educational class: Did you know that many cruise lines offer courses in skills such as cooking, photography, videography, languages, and lectures on a variety of topics? This is an amazing offering that every member of your family can take advantage of to learn something new while out at sea!

Freedom to explore

When on a cruise, the ship will usually make several stops (otherwise known as a port of call) at different countries/locations along the route. During these stops, you are free to head off the boat and explore the destination. Many cruises will also plan excursions for port days that you can participate in with the whole family. While you’re always able to hop off the ship on port days, you also have the freedom to stay aboard a typically less crowded ship. When a cruise ship is docked, most people get off to relax on the beach or explore the area which means the pools are less crowded and the spas usually offer a discount.

The freedom to explore or relax on port days makes cruising ideal for family members of all ages. Plus, if your family does decide to split up for the day, you can always meet back up at night for a delicious dinner on the ship and some nighttime entertainment! 

Meals for foodies and picky eaters alike

It’s not uncommon for a family to have different food preferences and dietary restrictions which can make planning meals difficult. On a cruise, you don’t have to worry about any of that! Many people say the 24/7 access to delicious food and drinks is one of the best parts of cruising, and they are not wrong! From buffets to ice cream shops to fully loaded bars, you can truly never go hungry (or thirsty) on a cruise.

Quality family time

Unlike other vacation options where you spend a lot of time on your feet, cruises are a great opportunity to really get some quality time with all your family members. You will be stuck on a boat together after all! From pool days to excursions at your stops to spa treatments and dinners, there is plenty of time to catch up with your family and have some fun together. Most vacations do not offer this level of time spent together which makes cruising the ultimate multi-generational vacation idea. 

Ten Reasons to Visit Dubai

Ten Reasons to Visit Dubai 

If you’re tuned into the world of travel or have scrolled through social media lately, chances are you’ve probably seen loads of people either traveling to Dubai or planning to travel to Dubai. So, why is Dubai such a popular vacation destination? This city has more to offer than meets the eye and boasts something for every member of your travel group!

1.     Delicious food

Dubai is truly a melting pot of cultures which makes it any food lovers’ dream. From Thai to Turkish to Japanese to the country’s own Emirati cuisine, there is always an option for any craving you may have. While Dubai does offer a range of foreign cuisine, don’t miss out on trying some of the amazing Emirati dishes the city has to offer. A few must-try foods include samboosa, Arabic coffee, chebab, and luqaimat.

2.     Security of safety

In 2020, Dubai was ranked one of the safest cities in the world for travelers. The crime rate (especially directed at tourists) is extremely low, and the city is heavily monitored. As with traveling to any international destination, just be smart about your decisions and always be mindful about following local laws and regulations.

3.     High-end shopping

You can’t talk about Dubai without mentioning the insane shopping options the city has to offer. In fact, Dubai is home to the second-largest mall in the world, The Dubai Mall, that is not only known for its shopping but also its offering of entertainment from an ice rink to an aquarium. The Mall of the Emirates is another huge mall boasting over 500 stores and is most famous for its indoor ski slope. And while there is no shortage of luxury shopping in Dubai, make sure to visit the city’s famous night market to stock up on good food and beautiful textiles.

4.     Booming art scene

Dubai has never been known for its art scene, but it has been steadily growing throughout the past few years. Because Dubai is known for being extravagant, you can be sure that the art lives up to the same hype. The stunning exhibitions and galleries are truly a must-see for any art lover or simple admirer alike.

5.     Turquoise beaches

The city and the beach? What more can a traveler ask for?! Dubai is known for its gorgeous turquoise beaches spanning over 600 miles of sandy shores. There is a mix of private and public beaches for you to visit! If you do decide to relax on the gorgeous beaches of Dubai, just remember to be respectful of the country’s customs. Only wear a bathing suit when you’re on the beach or by the pool and do not take any photos or videos on public beaches.

6.     Easy transportation

Being one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world, Dubai makes it really easy to get around. The best way to get to your destination is by taxi or Uber as the prices are relatively low and it’s usually the quickest route. Dubai also has an amazing metro system that services almost 50 stations including the airport. You can also travel by boat if you’re looking to cross the Dubai Creek. It’s super cheap and the views are unbeatable. While you can rent a car in Dubai, it’s not usually recommended for tourists as navigating the city can be difficult for first-timers.

7.     Breathtaking skyline and architecture

You’ve most likely seen pictures of Dubai’s incredible skyline, but nothing compares to seeing it first-hand. The architecture of Dubai is truly one-of-a-kind with tall buildings and unique silhouettes. Make sure to view the skyline at night for a truly breathtaking view.

8.     One-of-a-kind desert expeditions

There are three total deserts in the UAE–Al Badayer, Rub’ al Khali, and Liwa Oasis. Liwa Oasis and Al Badayer are the closest deserts to Dubai being about a 3 ½ hour drive and half an hour drive respectively. If you’re looking to go desert driving or quad biking, look no further than Al Badayer with its famous dunes. You can also camp under the stars and wake up to the gorgeous sunrise over the sandy desert. Liwa Oasis is a bit of a farther trek but is totally worth it to get an authentic taste of living in the UAE. Liwa Oasis is home to crucial farms and pastures and aside from being beautiful, it really immerses you in the world of desert living.

9.     The tallest building in the world

The Burj Khalifa is Dubai’s most popular sightseeing attraction boasting over 150 floors and standing at over half a mile tall. You can go inside the tallest building in the world and head up to the 148th floor to see stunning views of the city. This is something you won’t want to miss when in Dubai.

10.  Incredible nightlife

Dubai has a vibrant nightlife scene suited for all party lovers. There are gorgeous and luxurious nightclubs and bars that range from a more chill vibe to all-out partying. Make sure to pack your dancing shoes when heading to Dubai!

Dubai is a never-ending city of culture, beauty, and fun which makes it the perfect travel destination for anyone looking to explore an exciting destination. Once you visit Dubai, you’ll want to go back again and again!

Preparing for International Travel

Preparing for International Travel

Depending on where you’ve decided to go, international travel is a big deal.  Believe it or not, your travel days can take a lot out of you.  Here are just a few tips on the best ways to prepare for an international trip. Suppose you're not quite ready for international travel, no worries. You can use these tips whenever you're getting ready for your next trip.

So Let’s Discuss!

Sleep

Rest is a given. In general, a good night’s sleep is a good thing.  But, you should definitely try to get an ample amount of sleep the night before your flight. If you think this or sleeping on the plane might be an issue, bring some melatonin for your flight. You want to feel rested when you get to your destination, not grumpy and sluggish because of the lack of sleep.

Dress in your Comfy Clothes

You will be sitting in a tight spot for hours at a time! You won’t want to wear something tight or have a zipper/button poking into you. Be as comfy as possible. But don’t worry, it's very possible to keep it comfy and cute at the same time.  Pair your comfy loungewear with some great accessories, a lovely colorful top, a 5-minute face, and prepare to travel comfortably in style.

Pack Light

Pack only the things that you need. I get it. Sometimes you aren’t sure what to pack due to planned activities or weather conditions, but the last thing you want is to haul an extra-large suitcase that is bulky and heavy.  Not fun. Pack only what you need to make things easier. A great rule of thumb, if you’re not sure, leave it home.

Get TSA Pre-Check/Global Entry

If you haven’t heard about TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry, you are in for a special treat. Think of Global Entry as a Disney FastPass for the airport. This perk will help you cut the line at security and customs. No more waiting in long lines. You’ll have extra time to walk around the terminals for your last stretch, potty break, or Starbucks fix before your flight.

Put Eyes on Your Passport.

Days or even weeks before you’re scheduled to leave, locate your passport.  Make sure you know exactly where it is. Don’t assume and wait until the last minute to pull it out.  One of the worst feelings is discovering your passport is not where you thought it was hours before your trip.

Arrive at the Airport Early

Most airports suggest that you be at the airport two hours before you depart, but nowadays, you may want to get there even earlier for international travel.  If you have any Covid-19 related documentation to present, (i.e. tests, attestation statements, health waivers, etc.), you will not be able to use a self-service kiosk, and you’ll be in for long lines and wait times.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle with you that is empty BEFORE you go through airport security. You can find a fill-up station or water fountain to fill it up for FREE. You must stay hydrated because the air cabins are extremely dry, and you want to avoid getting a dehydration headache.

Devices, Devices, Devices

When it comes to devices, be sure to bring headphones to cancel out the noise for a more enjoyable flight experience, a laptop/tablet to watch some movies that you download from your favorite streaming account, and an extra charger so you’ll have plenty of juice.

Travel Apps

There’s an app for everything that you can think of, such as maps, translation help, staying in touch with your airline, and much more.  Try adding your airline's app for flight updates and in-flight entertainment, the mobile Passport app for expedited customs options, and Viator to coordinate activities and tours while you're on vacation.

Airport Lounges:

Have a long layover?  Consider purchasing time in an airport lounge.  Listen, those Delta, United, and American airline lounges are not exclusive to cardholders.  If they have space, simply pay to enter and get your relax on!

When you’re ready to take your next international trip, contact me to help you plan, and remember these tips when it’s time to go.