Solo travel is easy, right? You go where you want, stay where you want and do what you want. But what happens when you’re going someplace with a group of people? Here are some travel trips for a hassle-free group getaway… Budget:Not everyone has the same pocketbook. Make sure to pick flights and hotels that […]
Category Archives: All – Vacation Inspiration
Alaska, All - Vacation Inspiration, Cruise, JoAnn, Travel Agents, Uncategorized
The Story Behind Jo Ann’s Alaska Picks
About 20 years ago, I began promoting travel to Alaska. Each year I would select a specific date and itinerary that I thought was the best; block group space with the cruise line and offer it to travelers inquiring about Alaska. By doing this, I knew I could provide discounted pricing. In the past I […]
I had the pleasure of visiting Italy this summer and it was in a word, Bellissimo! Our family spent two whirlwind nights in Rome and managed to fit in a tour of the Colosseum, a pasta making class, the Trevi Fountain, lots of delicious food and of course, gelato. We also did an early morning […]
All - Vacation Inspiration, Christmas Markets, Europe, Germany, Krislanny, River Cruise, Travel Agents
Christmas Market Beverages
Glühwein, translated to “mulled wine”, is a delicious hot alcoholic drink made from red or white wine as the base and spiced with seasonings. I heard a lot of people describe as “hot sangria”, and if you’ve ever had Spanish sangria, you would agree. It was the perfect drink that kept you warm while walking […]
All - Vacation Inspiration, Christmas Markets, Europe, Krislanny, Travel Agents
Christmas River Cruising
I recently had the opportunity to sail aboard the Emerald Dawn Star Ship through the Rhine and Main River with the itinerary being centered on Europe’s Christmas Markets. As a fellow Christmas fanatic, I was super excited to visit these European cities and get a front seat look into how each one prepares for and […]
After my month-long visit to Venice, Italy, I have reaffirmed my love for this beautiful country! Italy was always a dream of mine as a little girl, and it’s safe to say, it did NOT disappoint. Italy absolutely lives up to its name and I’m sure anyone who visits this country, will know exactly what […]
All - Vacation Inspiration, Christmas Markets, Meridith, River Cruise, Travel Agents, Uncategorized
Festive Season in the Heart of Germany
The European Christmas Markets exceeded my expectations and there is no better way to see them then on a river cruise. I sailed on Tanquility II with Avalon Waterways. The Festive Season in the Heart of Germany was a 6-day cruise sailing from Nuremberg to Frankfurt. In Nuremberg there is plenty of guided sightseeing to […]
All - Vacation Inspiration, Business Travel
Being Sustainably Responsible When Traveling for Business
Sustainability is a growing concern for businesses. Doing the right thing for the environment saves precious natural resources and is part of being a socially responsible corporate citizen. If you’re a business traveler, or one who helps decide where your employees travel, there are ways that you can adjust your company’s travel policy to support […]
Traveling to Europe during the “off season” (November through March) has a few drawbacks offset by many advantages. The disadvantages are that some popular attractions will have shorter hours or be closed altogether. The weather can be iffy or downright terrible, but if you’re prepared with proper clothes and shoes you can be comfortable. And […]
Did you know that the Galapagos Islands were the first location in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site? This honor, bestowed in 1979, has not been taken lightly by the Ecuadorian government. Strict rules for the protection of this unique environment ensure that this pristine wonderland remains unspoiled. But how best […]
Destination weddings are not for everyone, but if you have family and friends who enjoy travel, and if you have time to plan the wedding well in advance to ensure that as many people as possible can attend, it just might be the answer for you. This is an especially good option for people who […]
Viking River Cruises focuses on destination dining. The menu on board offers regional cuisine along with classics, there is something for everyone. Viking uses locally sourced ingredients to prepare their food. You have the opportunity to explore new cultures through food while on the ship. If dining al fresco is your thing, you will enjoy […]
Experience Cusco at night by taking this small group walking tour of the city. You’ll stroll through the city with a local guide who is committed to sharing his knowledge about the city he loves. This 4-hour tour begins at the Plaza de Armas, the location of the Cathedral of Cusco, famous for its baroque […]
This past summer (2022) I visited 5 countries in Europe in 5 weeks. I had the pleasure of sailing with Viking River Cruises on the Danube River. This river cruise checked off 3 out of the 5 countries! This was only a week long and I felt like I was able to see so much […]
All - Vacation Inspiration, Christmas Markets, Europe
When visiting the Czech Republic you’ll most certainly visit Prague. 
And when in Prague, do as the Czechs do – eat, drink and socialize! It’s wise to avoid the usual tourist restaurants, they can be crowded and pricey. There is a wide variety of Czech food tours that are well worth the cost. You’ll have an experienced guide who knows the local favorite spots to […]