Travel Blog
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Travel Blog
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You may be planning to get engaged or get married this year in Austin, TX. There are many things to consider before planning a destination wedding. You both need to agree on a destination and a date. Many destination weddings can be booked at least 15 months in advance to give your family and friends plenty of notice and time to pay for their trip to help celebrate your special day. Here is more information that can help.
Start planning your next dream destination wedding today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch!
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Here are some great reasons on how a travel agent can help you with your next trip in the Austin, TX area.
Start planning your next dream vacation today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. Arrive early at the airport in Austin, TX- Having your bags checked in and clearing security early allows you more time to relax, read, play games or talk with other passengers. Check you flight status - Always check you flight status and print your boarding pass. Pack snacks- The eateries at the airport will have long lines so pack your favorite breakfast taco with you with your empty water bottle, nuts, jerky, etc. Once you have cleared the TSA lines then you can fill your bottle up and enjoy your taco. Stay cool - There is no need to get up set or yell at an agent or flight attendant. It won't get you anywhere any faster. Being kind to the airport and airline employees creates good will. (It sure helps with karma) Prepare kids - Make sure you have enough diapers, snacks, and shows on electronics. You want them to be content and not bother others. Have a disability? Call TSA. Travelers with disabilities or medical conditions and their families can call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before flying to ask questions about screening policies and get assistance at checkpoints. Extras to bring - Charged battery for your electronic devices, head pillow and some noise-canceling headphones. Start planning your next dream vacation today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. Peru is rich in history, cultural traditions, and archaeological sites. Peru is located in the western and central part of South America. It is the third largest country in South America and one of the 20 largest countries in the world. The country has 3 main regions according to the traditional method of dividing the country by altitude: coast, mountains and jungle. It is easy to travel to from Austin, TX. When traveling to Peru you do need to come into Lima "City of Kings" to get acclimated to the altitude at least for one night. You are encouraged to chew coca leaves when you pick up your bags. There is also coca candy that is recommended to use as well. We had the pleasure of exploring Lima. Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru. It is located in the central coastal part of the country overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We walked down to their shopping mall and beach area where many love to surf. Peru is known for surfing. Picture by Tina Valdez While visiting the main square (Plaza Mayor) where the Government Palace, City Hall and Archiepiscopal Palace are located there was a ceremony going on honoring the military at the Cathedral. They had many different branches of military being honored. Pictures by Tina Valdez If you like to shop there is an Indian Market that you should check out. There are some great items to bring back with to Austin such as alpaca sweaters, purses, scarfs, leather items, wood items made from olive trees, local artists, plus much more. Pictures by Tina Valdez Our next stop was to the Sacred Valley. We visited the indigenous market of Pisac. The village's old town is an Inca-era grid of cobblestoned streets and adobe buildings. Here natives come to town to exchange or buy products. In the 1st picture below you can see the big stones that are angled at the door. There is no mortar holding them together. They are carved to interlock with each other and be able to withstand earthquakes. The Inca moved them from the quarry to the location they are in now. The 2nd picture is the water coming down from the Andes mountains for folks to use. The 3rd picture are buildings on the side of the mountain where the Incas used to store their crops to keep them cool and away from the sun. Pictures by Tina Valdez We hiked the Ollantaytambo ruins, a massive Inca fortress with large stone terraces on a hillside. Major sites within the complex include the huge Sun Temple and the Princess Baths fountain. Mt. Bonnell in Austin is similar if you want to experience something close to home. Pictures by Tina Valdez Our next adventure was to Machu Picchu "The Lost City of the Inkas." We took the Vista dome train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. We saw beautiful views of the Urubamba River and snow cpped Andean mountain range. Machu Picchu is one of the most energetic and spiritual places in the Inca civilization. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Huayna Picchu is 2,693 metres (8,835 ft) above sea level, or about 260 metres (850 ft) higher than Machu Picchu (Oldest and Sun Gate). We had the pleasure to experience hiking to the top of Huayna Picchu. It is 1, 410 steps to the top. It was steep! This was a big accomplishment down in the books. Pictures by Tina Valdez Our next stop was to Cusco. It is a city in the Peruvian Andes, where it once was the capital of the Inca Empire, and is now known for its archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture. Plaza de Armas is the central square in the old city, with arcades, carved wooden balconies and Incan wall ruins. The baroque Santo Domingo Convent was built on top of the Incan Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), and has archaeological remains of Inca stonework. During the Inca period the stones were covered with gold. The cathedral is a real piece of art that holds hundreds of paintings. Spaniards built on top of the Inca stones and tried to destory the work the Inca's did. Stone Pieces (Incan Epoch- XIV-XV)-These pieces of Andesite, Diorite and Limestone are some architectural elements found in this complex. They were used in the construction of walls, water, canals, and ceremonial niches. These pieces demonstrate the technology and quality of the workmanship known to the Tawantinsuyo stone workers. We visited the Historical Center of Cusco called Sacsayhuaman. They are still uncovering many stone formations in the area. It is an Inca complex surrounded by walls that are made by fitting stones tightly together without any mortar. The largets stone is 128 tons. These are massive stones that the Incas put together. Our next stop was to check some local textile work at Tectile Sulca. This is were you will find some great baby alpaca items. Baby alapca is soft and cool to touch and will maintain your body temperature once you put the item on. Their products are made with the material, instruments and in the same way that they are made by their culture ancestors. Here is a lady sharing the weaving process. There are two types of alpacas. One is long hair and the other is short haired. Here are some samples of the beautiful work they have. They will dye the alpaca wool the colors they want. It can take 6 to 8 months to finish a piece or longer. There are sweaters, pillows, table mats, blankets plus more that you can bring back to Austin with you. Pictures by Tina Valdez Our next treat was visiting and having lunch with a local family. Marco and Adi have a beautiful home decorated with a yard full of gorgeous flowers. The food was fabulous! We enjoyed avacado salad, pasta, potatoe fries, quinoa tortillas, large corn on the cob, beef stew, and vegetables. They made us feel so welcomed. Adi sings opera and shared a song with us. Marco shared his little village he had built on the property. It was adorable. It was a joy to spend some time with them. Another jewel we got to visit was a local silver shop. They had some wonderful jewerly pieces to pick from. There were rings, bracelets, pendants, ear rings and more to shop around through. Here are some of the stones and shells they work with. Great gifts to bring home to loved ones in Austin, TX. Cusco has two markets and plenty of shops for you to enjoy. We stopped in at the San Pedro Market to find tons of fresh fruit, homemade breads, vegetables, meats, nuts and more much like the farmers markets we have in Austin. Guinea pigs are a popular source of meat for Peruvians. Our adventure in Peru was a great experience. I would recommend it. Is Machu Picchu or the painted mountain on your travel list? #ExperienceTravelin can help you with your trip to #Peru. We are a travel agency near Austin,TX. Start planning your next dream vacation today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. As I get ready to travel from Austin, TX I always start considering what I will need for my adventure a month or so in advance. It gives me some time if I need to purchase anything specific for the trip if I don't already have it. As I think about things we need to pack I always advise to pack several days in advance before you travel instead of the night before. I will follow my own advice in order to not forget anything. Items one, two and three are important to have in your carry-on to ensure they don't get lost in your luggage. 1. Phone + Sandisk in Phone for additional memory + Charger + Headphones- Most I believe will agree. What would we do without our phones? I always make sure I have a charger that I can plug my phone into so I can keep going with my trip. I use an ACCELLORIZE portable charger. I don't have to plug it into the wall and wait. You can plug up to 2 phones in at a time and not miss a beat. If your phone allows you to add a sandisk you won't have to worry about not being able to get all the pictures and videos you want while you travel. 2. Wallet + Cash-This is important when traveling internationally. It is best to have cash on hand to be able to exchange your currencies and avoid the ATM fees. Another great reason to have cash on hand is for cash only services. Be sure to research beforehand how much you should bring. 3. ID/Passport/Visa-You should know in advance what kind of documents are needed for your trip when leaving Austin, TX. You don't want to wait until the last minute to rush for a passport or apply for a tourism visa. It is important to make sure your passports are valid 6 months past your return date of your trip. These items get forgotten often when traveling and are important to have at all times. Not all states' driver's license are not compliant with TSA's travel requirements. 4. Comfortable shoes-There is always plenty of walking in the airports as the connections can be miles apart. You want to take care of your feet when traveling so you are not miserable and can enjoy touring your destinations. It amazes me that women will wear high heels in the aiports. There is no way I could run in them with my suitcases to make my connection if things are delayed. 5. Water Bottle- Yes, a water bottle. Make sure it is empty going through security and then you can fill it up with the filtered water stations available in the airports such as Austin. It is important to stay hydrated when you travel! I prefer a water bottle that is BPA free and has a loop on the lid so you can hang it on your purse or belt loop so you are hands free. Bringing your own bottle allows you to have water wherever you go. 6. Hand Sanitzer- There are many different scents and sizes. When you travel you are exposed to many germs. You can't always wash your hands with water so it is great to have a back up. 7. Cross-body purse- I always travel with a cross-body purse when I travel. They come in many styles. I keep the most important items in my purse such as my wallet, passport, head phones, phone and charger. I store my purse in my back pack that usually goes under the seat in front of me. This way if I need anything I can easily get to it when I am on the plane. 8. Power Adapter and Night Light- When traveling internationally you'll probably need a power adpater. I recommend the TUMI adapter. Many a times you are in your room and it is hard to find your way around in an unfamiliar place. I recommend taking a small night light. One that will come on when the lights go out and turn off when the lights come on. 9. A Change of Clothes, Deoderant, Toothbrush/paste, compact poncho, and medication- You should pack these in your carry-on in case you miss a connecting flight, if your luggage is delayed or if your flight is cancelled leaving you without your luggage. 10. Printed Travel Documents- You want a printed copy in case there is no internet or Wi-Fi. It is good to keep hotel phone numbers and confirmations available in case of any issues that come up. I provide printed documents but can provide electronic copies as well. Start planning your next dream vacation today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. Have you wanted to visit Hawaii? It is a great destination for families or couples to experience from Austin, TX. The islands offer an array of experiences different from each other. There are a few ways to visit the islands. The more all-inclusive way is by cruising the 4 main islands Maui, Kaui, Kona, and Hilo. The Norwegian Pride of America is the cruise line that is dedicated to help you see the most of Hawaii at one time. I would suggest coming in a day before. Rent a car to get yourself around when you arrive. Consider a luau the night you arrive and visit Pearl Harbor to its fullest before you cruise the next day. There are several tours available that just share the memorial. Your missing out on seeing the Pacific Aviation Museum, the Battlefield Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum. There is a lot of history to learn about. You can also get your picture taken at the shop near the USS Bowfin Museum. Your picture will be on the newspaper article about WWII. It is nice to have a piece of history to take home. When you arrive to the Norwegian’s Pride of America at least 2 hours before it departs you can start by grabbing yourself a snack or drink before checking things out. You have the choice of taking your luggage on yourself or you can let the cruise line take it to your room for you. You will have to wait at least 3 hours before your luggage arrives to your cabin. If you allow the cruise line to take care of your luggage make sure you have a small carry-on bag that has your medications, change of clothes, passports and other important items. You will be called to do a muster drill so pay attention to where you need to be for that. Your Room Key will provide some of the information on where you need to show up. Once the muster drill is done the ship will get ready to head out. You can head to the pool deck where everyone will watch as you pull away from the dock. Once you are at sea you can eat dinner or see a show or whatever suits your fancy. You are on your way to experience the great islands of Hawaii! The other option is to select a specific island or two you want to explore. Hawaii does not offer all-inclusive resorts to stay at. Some may offer breakfast everyday for your stay but then you are on your own to explore the islands and enjoy the local food and hidden gems. Many resorts offer small kitchens where you can cook yourself with the local foods you purchased. Let the fun begin! Maui is known as the “The Valley Isle.” It is the second largest Hawaiian island. You will spend almost 2 days here. It is known for its beaches, the migrating humpback whales and the sunrise and sunset from Haleakala. The Iao Valley State Park is a top attraction with the lush valleys and burbling streams. If you like shopping you can browse the local shops, restaurants and historic sites in the charming town of Wailuku. East Maui is where you can brave the road to Hana if you dare. This winding road and narrow bridges provides some awesome views of lush rainforests, gorgeous waterfalls and a black and red sand beach to enjoy. South Maui has miles of sandy beaches for lazy days and romantic nights. The west side of Maui is known for its charming towns to its championship golf courses. Upcountry Maui is where many will watch the sunrise from the peak of Haleakala. Kaui is named after the Wiliwili trees, which once lined its picturesque harbor On "The Garden Island," nature is truly the star, from the dramatic mountains of Kokee to the cool rainforests of Haena. On the North Shore enjoy the dramatic natural beauty of the cliffs of the Napali Coast. Kaui is known for its premier golf courses. Kona offers the quintessential Hawaii experience. Sunny, warm weather and crystal blue waters entice visitors to partake in a variety of surfside fun. Snorkel amongst a kaleidoscope of tropical marine life. Take a surfing lesson, a kayaking trip or head out to deeper waters for some deep-sea fishing. Hilo is like one giant greenhouse with spectacular tropical flowers at every turn. Visit the town's well-preserved historic buildings, which date back to the turn of the century and showcase Hawaii's unique architecture. Just 30 miles away the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the home of the active Kilauea Volcano. Check out the 80 foot Waianuenue (Rainbow Falls) and Peepee Falls. You can also enjoy the Hilo Farmers Market downtown Hilo for exquisite produce and local crafts. Hawaii is a great destination here is the US and easy to get to from Austin, TX and I encourage you to experience it. You won’t be disappointed. Let us help you with your next Hawaii trip! Start planning your next dream vacation today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. River cruising is a vacation on water similar to the ocean cruising. There are similarities to ocean cruising. They are floating hotels with great amenities, unpakcing once, no worries about finding a hotel or restaurant each night, and walking up to your new destination almost every day. There is no driving, no second guessing the GPS, no wrong turns or stress. Cruising is a fantastic way to travel from Austin, TX. River cruising is far more intimate and inclusive with less than 190 passengers. From the time you check-in, to getting your room key and your trip to your cabin is much shorter and personal than on a big ship. Ocean cruising has check in times, lines, and quese that you need to follow. Ocean Cruisers can have up to 6,000 people. On a river cruise you have the opportunity to really get to know your fellow passengers and make new friends. You can do the same on ocean cruising but it is usually a lot more difficult. It is easy to travel from Austin, TX to cruise to your destination of interest. River Cruises can travel to the heart of the country where the big ships can't. Many times you dock a short distance from the city center so it makes it easy to get off the ship so you don't have to wait in long lines like you do on the big ships. With fewer people on board, tour groups are smaller and a lot more interactive. If you have ocean cruised before you know that the port can be far from city center. Example: The port of Valencia,Spain is about 2.5miles from city center. You have to be shuttled or take a taxi. As you know it takes many people to man a large cruise ship. You many see one or two of them throughout the cruise. With a river cruise you will become very familiar with all the crew and director of the ship. Many don't cruise because they dread getting sick. The ships do have stablizers to help eliminate motion. On a river cruise you won't have to worry about this at all. No patches, dramamine, etc. The river cruise just glides on the river and there is land visible all around. This helps you get your bearings compared to the open seas. Cruising offers a great value, the biggest bang for your buck. Your accomodations, meals, entertainment and transportation between ports are included for one price. There are many cruises that have more inclusions like excurisons and amenties than others. There are many to choose from. There is a cruise suited for just about every budget and for everyone. What are you waiting for? Start planning your next dream vacation today! Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. Bora Bora is one of the few places on earth that everyone hopes to experience in their lifetime—and once you see it, it will leave you with an ever lasting impression. To begin your fabulous journey you will have to start by stopping in Papeete, Tahiti since this is where all the flights enter and depart from. It is in the same time zone as Hawaii and only 8 hours from Los Angeles. You just need a 2 hour flight from Austin, TX to LAX to get you going. Tahiti is known as the "Queen of the Pacific" which is why it is best to stay a least one or two nights in Tahiti before you head off to Bora Bora. Papeete, Tahiti is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers you a chance to purchase black pearls, head to Vai'ete Square like a local after sunset while the waterfront promenade comes to life when you get to enjoy some great gourmet food trucks. Bora Bora is less than one hour away by plane from Papeete, Tahiti. You will be able to enjoy some gorgeous views from above in the sky. You will want your camera with you! It will be the one place you can see at least 7 different shades of blue water. It is amazing. Once you arrive on the small island known as the "Motu Mete" you will be greeted with a smile and a fragrant flower lei and transferred to your Bora Bora resort. Bora Bora is known for its over water bungalows. It does offer beach bungalows and garden villas with their own private pool. There are many options to consider. You can enjoy experiencing many activities in the lagoons by snorkeling, diving, fishing, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, jet skiing and don't forget the shark and ray feeding plus more! Here is a brief video for you to see and to get excited about your next trip to Bora Bora. Contact us for your next trip from Austin, TX. www.experiencetravelin.com Start planning your next dream vacation today!
Call 512.355.1817 or complete this form and we will be in touch. The World is Now More Accessible Than Ever - Explore and Enjoy It! Twenty percent (62 million) of the U.S. population has some form of disability, and the number of these individuals is increasing daily. These people need to, want to, and can travel from Austin, TX. If you’re part of that twenty percent, a world of travel awaits you. Travel professionals such as myself who are accessible travel advocates certified by Special Needs Group, the leading global provider of special needs equipment for the travel industry, have unique, specialized knowledge about how to help individuals with disabilities enjoy a wonderful, hassle-free and memorable trip. Here are some tips to help you get started from Austin, TX. Outline your travel needs
Take time to evaluate the logistics of your trip in relation to your ability to keep pace. What modes of transportation will you be usingfrom Austin, TX? Airplane, motor coach, train, ship, transit vans for ground transfers? Make a list, referring to relevant brochures, your trip organizer or travel agent to make sure you don’t miss anything. Now, make a list of your specific requirements. Be honest: what types of special needs equipment do you depend on at home in Austin? What do you use or need (or wish you had!) when shopping, sightseeing locally, dining out or going to the movies, attending concerts, the theater, street fairs or sporting events at home? Can you hear and see clearly without special auditory equipment or visual aides? How far can you walk without a rest break? Are stairs difficult? Can you get in and out of the tub or shower at home in Austin, TX without handgrips or other assistance? Travel, whether solo or in a group, is no time for roughing it or trying to “tough it out.” If a wheelchair, scooter or portable oxygen will make your trip easier, place that item on your list. Many people who do not use wheelchairs or walkers at home feel more comfortable using these mobility aides for tour and excursions. In fact, most of Special Needs Group’s wheelchair and scooter rentals are to individuals who only use such aides when traveling. Plan Ahead If you already own a scooter or portable oxygen, it’s important to know the policy and procedures for bringing that equipment onboard all the transport vehicles included in your itinerary, from planes to taxis to ferry boats. Does that transport have a way to stow your scooter or wheelchair from Austin, TX? Is oxygen allowed on board? Some airlines prohibit certain types of batteries, such as wet cell batteries, or oxygen cylinders. Airlines operate under strict rules, so there may be packing procedures to follow if they do allow the equipment. Keep in mind, most airlines need at least 48 hours’ notice to make special arrangements, and be prepared to fill out forms. Overall, cruise ships are more lenient in allowing oxygen, but some disallow certain types of oxygen. All require that the oxygen be delivered to the ship, and that you have enough for the entire voyage. Oxygen may never be brought aboard in your luggage from Austin, TX. Requirements vary, so check your cruise line for proper instructions. Again, documentation and paperwork are required. Whether you are headed from Austin, TX for a cruise ship, hotel or all-inclusive resort, double check for wheelchair access at that venue, plus any venues you will be visiting on the trip. Confirm that accessible hotel rooms, resort accommodations or ship staterooms are available for your travel dates. The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing fully accessible accommodations. And early booking increases your chances of securing a ground floor hotel room or cruise stateroom near the elevator, if these issues are important. Check on the access to public rooms, restaurants, bars, toilets, the swimming pool, hot tub, beach area and other amenities. Are there TDD phone devices? How will you get in and out of the shower or bathtub? Are there flashing lights to accommodate hearing? Braille room numbers? Knowing in advance the scope of your needs gives you time to arrange advance rentals of any necessary equipment, scheduled to arrive when you do. Everything from scooters, lifts, ramps, TDD kits and special mattresses, including special needs cribs, is available for rental. Will road travel or car excursions be part of the trip from Austin, TX? Many car rental companies have vehicles that are modified for drivers or passengers with mobility limitations. Check ahead to make sure a suitable vehicle will be available for your travel dates. If you will be hiring a car or van, make sure the company is aware of your special needs. When traveling with a limitation or disability, full travel insurance for medical coverage abroad and trip cancellation insurance are even more important and strongly advised. Please feel free to visit with us more on your needs from Austin, TX. We look forward to assisting you so you have a wonderful trip. |
AuthorI love to travel and explore the world. My goal is to help others actually experience their desired destination(s) whether they are traveling solo or as a group. The world has so much to offer. Archives
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