Here we go again!! Christmas Market River Cruise on the Danube for 2025!

Hey you guys! We were so overwhelmed with the response for our 2024 Christmas Market River Cruise that sold out in 2024 that we decided to hold space for 2025 as well! These Christmas Market sailings are INSANELY popular and sell out more than a year in advance. We are thrilled to have gotten space on the December 10-16, 2025 Magic on the Danube Sailing starting in imperial Vienna and ending in the lovely Nuremburg.

Imagine sipping your mulled wine while shopping in this glittery winter wonderland!

You will be in great hands and travelling with Mere and Stac our Luxe + Wander Founders!

Here is your chance to travel with us! Limited Space!

Experience the Magic of The Rhine River Christmas Markets with Luxe and Wander Travel December 9-13, 2024 on the incredible Amadeus Riva!!

'Tis the season to be merry and bright, and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than by embarking on a magical journey through the enchanting Rhine River Christmas Markets? Luxe and Wander Travel invites you to join us for a holiday adventure like no other!

December 9-13, 2024 we will be hosting a 5-night sailing on the Amadeus Riva from Cologne, Germany to Strasbourg, France! We have very limited availability - only 10 cabins! This ship is already sold out for Christmas Markets 2024. But we have the exclusive opportunity for you to come along with us! First come, first serve, $150 off per person when you book by November 30th, 2024! Pricing starting from $1020.00 per person.

Can’t you smell the chestnuts roasting?

The Rhine River, with its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. As you cruise along its banks, you'll be transported to a world of twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the sound of carolers filling the air.

ITINERARY -

DAY 1 Cologne - Arrival Dinner and Welcome Reception

DAY 2 Koblenz to Rudesheim - Koblenz Walking Tour; Mulled Wine Party on Board; Rudesheim with Music Cabinet Museum

DAY 3 Speyer - HIEDELBURG CASTLE and CHRISTMAS MARKET; Speyer Walking Tour and Christmas Market

DAY 4 Strasbourg - Wintry Alsace and Obernai; Strasbourg Christmas Market

Day 5 Strasbourg - Breakfast and Disembarkation

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Suites & Staterooms

• Luxury accommodation in an outside river-view stateroom of your choice: Spacious Mozart Suites with a walk-out balcony, stateroom cabins on Mozart and Strauss Decks with drop-down Panorama Retractable Windows offering a wide-open view (except Amadeus Brilliant)

• Individual climate control and in-room safe 

• Choice of bed configuration in all categories (double or twin bedding)

• Bottled water in every stateroom

Gourmet Dining

• Gourmet dining featuring breakfast, multi-course lunches and dinners with menu choices (including vegetarian options), afternoon tea and late-night snack

• Free-flowing red & white wines from Europe’s famous wine regions, beer & soft drinks with every lunch and dinner onboard  

• Coffee and tea available 24 hours a day in the Amadeus Club

• Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner and Captain’s Gala Dinner

An Array of Amenities

• Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard

• Onboard fitness center open 24 hours a day

• All gratuities on board are included in your cruise fare

Voyage of Discovery

• Personalized service of an experienced, multilingual AMADEUS Cruise Director 

• AMADEUS digital audio system for all guided excursions 

• Variety of enriching onboard programs, including fascinating lectures, cooking demonstrations, local cultural performances, and music by our onboard musicians 

• Complimentary use of onboard bicycles for independent exploration 

• Onboard fitness center open 24 hours a day

• All port taxes, embarkation, disembarkation and lock fees included in your cruise fare

*Add all offered tours for $292 per person or 1 tour per stop for $189.

Contact us to secure your spot! Ladies, grab a girlfriend and let’s go to France and Germany for a magical Christmas adventure!

Weekly Wander: Our favorite Adults and Couples Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica

We love the laid back feel of Jamaica! The hospitality, the clear water, the soulful food and vast terrain! That coupled with the affordability of the destination makes for a perfect getaway for anniversaries, honeymoons and any other romantic reason you can think of! Can we show off some of these amazing resorts for just a minute, I’ll even include some price points to give you an idea of budget! (Please keep in mind these are sample dates, we can customize an date range and budget that works for you)

Couples Resorts are the founders of the all-inclusive concept, family owned since 1949! Couples is exclusively for couples - so you will only find king beds! Couples has a comment to sustainability and environmental respect that has kept their footprint relatively small - and it’s exactly what we love about it! There are 4 couples resorts to choose from in Negril, San Souci and Ochos Rios Jamaica. All of their properties are extremely lush creating privacy for those romantic getaways. Couples Resorts has some very rare TRUE beachfront walkout suites where you step directly from your patio onto the beach with the ocean just steps away! Leave your windows cracked at night for the ocean breeze and that sweet ocean lullaby. Couples Resorts price point can range anywhere from $3000 - $7000, depending on resort, time of year, length of stay and room category.

Couples Swept Away

Premier Beachfront Suite
Sample Pricing: Includes your all-inclusive stay and airport transportation, excursions and motorized watersports.

November 6-11, 2023 5 Nights Stay
Package Price Total: $5,487.60

Pricing does not include airfare. All rates and availability are subject to change at any time.

Moving on… Another absolute stunner of a Couples Only resort is …you guessed, Sandals Resorts. Probably the most recognized name in the Caribbean! Sandals Founder, the later Chairman, Butch Stewart was a marketing genius and his legacy lives on with 20 properties on 10 islands in the Caribbean. Sandals has combined traditional Caribbean feel with modern amenities and innovations! With so many resorts, it can be overwhelming to choose the right resort that matches your travel style and personalities! Of course, we are here to help with that!! One of the standouts for us is Sandals Butlers. These butlers are trained by the English Professional Guild of Butlers and are just a What’s App or Phone call away for anything you may require during your stay - need your clothes ironed for dinner? No problem! Dinner reservations, room service at 2am, reserved cabanas complete with your personal stocked cooler and lunch delivered is standard service. Be sure your butler will go above and beyond all of your expectations! Sandals Resorts price point can range anywhere from $4000 - $20,000, depending on resort, time of year, length of stay and room category - those Over the Water Bungalows are usually the first category to sell out, so book early!

Sandals South Coast brand new Rondoval Butler Suites showcasing that Sandals Innovation.

With 7 sandals resorts throughout Jamaica there is something to choose for each personality and budget.

Sandals Ochi- Butler Village Honeymoon Romeo & Juliet One Bedroom Villa Suite with Private Pool Sanctuary

Sample Pricing: Includes your all-inclusive stay and airport transportation, excursions and motorized watersports.

November 6-11, 2023
Total Package: $7,770.50

Airfare is not included. Rates and availability are subject to change at any time.

New Disney Promos for Fall and Winter! Give the Gift of Magic this Holiday Season!

Let’s Wander to the Happiest Place on Earth for this week’s blog! Short and sweet and keeping you up-to-date on the latest promos and what is new coming to the Disney Theme Parks! Let’s Go! What is happening NOW?!

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Party now through November 1st, 2024!

It’s not too late to book your stay and tickets for the coveted Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween! Going on NOW through November 1, 2024! This is perfect for a long Fall weekend! The party is a separate ticketed event where the Magic Kingdom park closes exclusively for party guests! Stay until midnight, dress up in your favorite costumes, trick-or-treat around the park, enjoy shorter attraction lines, special parades and events through out the park! Take a look at some of the LW kids enjoying the Mickey’s not so Scary Halloween Party!

Party Dates and accomodations are Limited, contact out Luxe + Wander + Magic Team today to book your stay and party tickets!

Disney has just announced their Play, Stay and Enjoy a Disney Dining Promo Card This Holiday Season—and Beyond! For arrivals most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023; November 25 to November 29, 2023; December 9 to December 25, 2023; and arrivals most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024!

Guests get up to a $1,000 Disney Dining Promo Card when they purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package that includes:

This is a perfect add on to give you some value to your Fall and Winter trips - perfect to combine with Special Party Dates! These dates and room categories are limited and can be hard to find if searching on your on - let’s help you take the guess work out of matching the promo to your stay!

Mickey loves to party! Much like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Mickey also invites guests to come and enjoy exclusive park time on select nights in Magic Kingdom starting November 9th through December 22nd, 2024. Who does love snow in Florida, hot cocoa with cookies, Jingle Cruising and guest appearance by SANTA!!

Making magical memories we will certainly never forget during the most magical time of year! Let us help you coordinate your party dates to take advantage of the Play, Stay and Dine Promo!

As if those weren’t exciting enough! We also have a new promo for Disney+ Subscribers! Disney+ subscribers can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023.

Celebrate the holiday season—with an unforgettable stay at The Most Magical Place on Earth.

Disney+ subscribers can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays select nights, October 22 through November 2, 2023 and November 26 through December 25, 2023. Book online—and get ready for a great getaway.

Important: There is a procedure to booking this package, proof of subscription in required!

COMING SOON…. some AMAZING new things coming at Disney World Resort in Florida!

• Did you know starting in January 2024, you will no longer need to make Park Reservations?! Whoohoo!!!

• DINING PLANS ARE BACK!!! For stays January and beyond for guests staying in Moderate and Deluxe Resorts are able to pre-purchase your dining plans! We couldn’t be more thrilled to see this amazing value come back to Disney! Make it an all-inclusive stay!

• Big changes coming to Epcot Park! Make Way for Moana and Journey of Water Inspired by Moana will open on Oct. 16, 2023!  Journey of Water is a new walk-through experience located within World Nature – the EPCOT neighborhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty and balance of the natural world.   Also on Oct. 16 – Moana will arrive in World Nature and make her first appearance in her own dedicated space near Journey of Water. 

If you have been contemplating a Disney Vacation, Fall and Winter is the time! The weather is fantastic and with so many new attractions and events it truly is the most magical time to visit! We would be honored to book your next Magical Getaway!

No one gets more excited about Disney than this crew! We are your Authorized Disney Vacation Planners and recognized by the walt Disney Corporation as an Earmarked Silver Agency. Not to mention we were recently asked to be the Grand Marshalls of the Disney World Fantasy Parade! Not to toot our own horn, but we know a thing or too about planning Disney Vacations! It is not as easy as just showing up to Magic Kingdom for a day in the park, there are a lot of ins and outs that go into making your vacation time valuable and enjoyable!

5 Reasons Southerners (and everyone else) Feels at Home in Jamaica

Jamaica is known for its warm hospitality, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture, which can make it feel like home to people from all walks of life. Here are five reasons why Southerners (and everyone else) will feel right at home in Jamaica:

1. Southern Hospitality Meets Jamaican Warmth: Southerners are renowned for their hospitality and friendliness, and Jamaicans share a similar spirit. Visitors to Jamaica often find themselves welcomed with open arms by locals who are eager to share their culture and traditions.

2. One Love, Respect, and Soul Food- From hearty soups and spicy stews to mouthwatering jerk dishes and savory beef patties, Jamaican cuisine offers a taste of home for Southerners and everyone else. It's a fusion of flavors that warms the soul, just like the hospitality and unity symbolized by 'One Love' in Jamaica."

3. From the Mountains to the Sea! Just like the South, Jamaica has it all!

Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Negril are three popular tourist destinations in Jamaica, each offering its own unique experiences and attractions. Here's a brief overview of the differences between these regions:

1. Ocho Rios:Mountains

   • Natural Beauty: Ocho Rios is known for its lush, tropical landscapes, including the famous Dunn's River Falls, which is a popular attraction where visitors can climb the cascading waterfalls.

   • Adventure Activities: It's a hub for adventure activities like zip-lining, river tubing, and bobsledding at Mystic Mountain.

   • Culture: Ocho Rios offers opportunities to explore Jamaican culture through visits to historical sites like the Columbus Park Museum and the nearby Fern Gully rainforest.

2. Montego Bay (MoBay): City and Beach Life

   • Beaches: Montego Bay is home to some of Jamaica's most beautiful beaches, including Doctor's Cave Beach and Cornwall Beach.

   • Nightlife: It has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.

   • Shopping: The city offers excellent shopping opportunities, especially at the popular "Hip Strip," known for its duty-free shops.

3. Negril: Laid Back Beach Living

   • Seven Mile Beach: Negril boasts the famous Seven Mile Beach, known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters.

   • Sunsets: Visitors come to Negril to witness some of the most spectacular sunsets in Jamaica.

   • Relaxation: It's a laid-back destination, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. Negril is also known for its cliffside resorts and the famous Rick's Café for cliff diving.

4. History - Out of Many, One People.

Jamaica's history is a captivating tale of diversity, resilience, and cultural fusion, captured by its national motto, "Out of Many, One People." Encapsulating the idea of unity in diversity and reflects the nation's rich cultural tapestry. It signifies that despite Jamaica's history of colonization, slavery, and immigration, the people have come together as one nation, embracing their various ethnic backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs to create a harmonious and inclusive society. The motto celebrates the strength and unity that arise from diversity, promoting a sense of belonging and togetherness among Jamaicans of all backgrounds. It serves as a reminder of the nation's commitment to unity and cultural acceptance.

5. Toes in the Water, Butt in the Sand, Cold Red Stripe in my Hand…

Jamaica is a whole vibe all on it’s on, something we can all relate to. From the sounds of the steel drums to all forms of Reggae, it’s a way of life you have to feel to understand.

In Jamaica, life is about living and respecting those around you. Live and let live.

Mi Ire. One Love. Respect.

Silver Birds are always a must hear!

Welcome Back to the Weekly Wander: Your Passport to Luxury Escapes and Vacation Inspiration

Dear Wanderers and Seekers of extraordinary experiences,

After a long hiatus while our world was turned on it’s axis we are delighted to welcome you back to the Weekly Wander, your cherished portal to a

world of opulence and adventure. In a fast-paced world, where the demands of everyday life can often overshadow our deepest desires to explore, we invite you to reclaim a precious five minutes of respite.

Picture this: you, a cozy chair, perhaps a glass of fine wine or cup of joe at your kitchen table and the promise of a remarkable journey in the form of a short escape. The Weekly Wander is your invitation to momentarily step outside the humdrum of daily existence and set your sights on the world's most alluring vacation destinations.

As a luxury boutique travel agency, we understand that life's true richness lies in the experiences we collect, the memories we treasure, and the places and people that feed our souls. Each week, we craft a narrative that transports you to a new corner of the globe, where luxury knows no bounds and the art of discovery is elevated to an exquisite level.

Whether you're an avid traveler in search of fresh inspiration or looking to plan your next Couples getaway or Family Vacation, our Weekly Wander promises to take you to the corner’s of the earth

Join us on this enchanting journey as we unveil the world's most exclusive escapes, share insider tips from our team of experts, and delve into the artform of true Luxury Travel, Romantic Escapes, Multi-Generational Family Vacations, Adventure-Packed Itineraries, Theme Park Experiences and Culturally rich Itineraries. Allow us to be your trusted guides, curating unforgettable experiences that leave a mark on your heart and enrich your life.

So, as you embark on weekly voyages with us, may you find respite from the mundane, inspiration to explore, and a newfound passion for the extraordinary. It's time to let your dreams take flight once more and we are honored to help you turn your dreams into reality. We thank you for stopping by and for entrusting us with your vacations also while supporting our small business and mission.

Many Cheers,

Luxe + Wander Travel Co and Team

Considering a National Parks Trip for Spring Break or Summer? Our 5 Top Picks for 2023!

Did you know here at Luxe + Wander Travel Company we can create extensive National Parks itineraries for you and your family with varying ranges of activity levels? We do!! And even have an in-house National Parks Specialist, Utah Native - Annalisa Rowley! If you are thinking about a Spring or Summer 2023 trip, NOW is the time to start planning availability is limited! And here are her top pics for must-see national parks trips:

“The old saying “There’s a first time for everything!” usually accompanies events you may not want to repeat, but isn’t that saying at the heart of why we travel and look for first time experiences with scenery, culture or experiences? Having that first experience sometimes leads to repeat trips or at the least a desire to have the experience again, but you have to have that first time experience to get the ball rolling (my computer just randomly started playing “Baby Come back” by Player as I was typing this...hint taken) Some of the most popular travel experiences this year have centered around first-time travel experiences in many of the National Parks here in the United States. Travel to National Parks offers that “first time” experience and yet a sense of familiarity as you see the park rangers, the park maps, and familiar National Park Service signage.” - Annalisa Rowley

Here are 5 reasons you should consider visiting theses National Parks:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2. Yellowstone National Park

3. Zion National Park

4. Rocky Mountain National Park

5. Grand Teton National Park

-This list also happens to be the National Parks ranked in order of visitor numbers for 2020.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park. The most popular spot within the park is Cades Cove, which is a beautiful valley area with many historical structures to visit. The 11-mile loop through the area gives visitors great opportunities to view black bears.

Yellowstone National Park deserves a visit, if only because it’s the world’s first national park. Fortunately there are many more reasons to visit as well. Surprisingly, the most popular attraction at Yellowstone isn’t Old Faithful, although it draws a large crowd, the “must see'' spot is the Upper Geyser Basin, where you can see the largest collection of hot springs in the world!

Zion National Park was first a National Monument, before becoming a National Park. This park boasts the most in a lot of areas. The most unique, the most dangerous hike, as well as the longest free standing arch. The most popular hike also happens to be the most dangerous, Angels Landing. The views are amazing, but not for the faint of heart!

Rocky Mountain National Park has 60 peaks, so if you want to consider checking off your summitting skills this park is a great place to visit. Another option that won’t require your hiking boots is taking a tram to the top of Prospect Mountain. Hiking is the main attraction here, so if you are looking to expand your experience with mountaineering, this is your park! Grand Teton National Park is located just outside of Jackson, Wyoming. This beautiful mountain range was created thanks to earthquakes and glaciers. The iconic landscape is stunning, and offers many types of activities in the park from hiking, river rafting, wildlife viewing and relaxation at its best!

Whether you are looking for an amazing Lodge style accommodations, hotels, Glamping and everything in between Luxe + Wander has you covered! Contact us for a complimentary consultation for all of your leisure travel needs.

Luxe + Wander Top 10 Luxury Destinations for 2021

Were your travel plans derailed in 2020? Looking to upgrade your experience in 2021? We have complied a list of our top 10 favorite luxury resorts and can’t wait to show you! Not only are these our personal favorites in the luxury space these are all destinations that are open, safe and ready to welcome you! Let’s go!

#10 Grand Velas Riviera Maya - Family All-Inclusive Resort

Take a peek at Grand Velas Riviera Maya where the Caribbean Sea meets the Yucatán Jungle!  A distinguished member of The Leading Hotels of the World and Recipient of the AAA Five Diamond Award.

This family all-inclusive resort is no ordinary all-inclusive experience. Grand Velas is a revolution in luxury, personalized service, gastronomy from world renowned chefs, kids clubs and entertainment! 

Fun Fact: Christmas Chronicles 2 was recently filmed here!

Coming in at #9! The Caves Negril, Jamaica! 

Understated luxury with 12 rustic cottages perched cliff-side on the West End of Negril only minutes from 7 Mile beach! 

We love this property for romantic escapes! We can set up Private Cave dining or a sea view massage at the spa! And who wouldn’t want to have your Rum Punch in the signature Blackwell Rum Bar, we are sure this was a popular spot for pirates. 

#8 Family All-inclusive  - THE NICKELODEON RESORT PUNTA CANA!!! 

We LOVE this resort, not because it has something for everyone and the kids love it!! We love this resort because it has major Mom-Appeal! The Nickelodeon resort is beautiful in every way, the subtle character nuances are not over the top giving you just enough of a whimsy touch! 

All of the kids activities like the water park and kids club are in their own separate area of the resort! So that when the kids are kids club Mom and Dad can relax in luxury! 

The restaurants are beautifully designed and the cuisine is just as thought out. We love the gourmet inclusives you get at The Nick like the Machete Burger at BRGRS PH! Trust us on this one!

And of course, the daily slimings! 

#7 Montage Kapalua Bay - Lahaina, Hawaii

With residential style accommodations this resort is perfect for friend groups and family travel with 2,3 and 4 bedroom residences. As well as 1 bedroom accommodations for honeymoons and romantic travel. 

Beachfront + 5 Star + Lahaina = Montage Kapula Bay. The perfect solution to bring you out of you 2020 haze and into the Aloha Spirit. 

#6 Anantara Veli Maldives. - Adults Only

When you have to have the real deal over-the-water bungalow experience this is quintessential adult only luxury. 

This is your hideaway from reality for those that want to surround themselves with all the shades of blue.  For adventure seekers, you can snorkel with Whale Sharks, Nurse Sharks, Sting Rays, Turtles and Dolphins. Then wind down with spa treatments and 5 Star gourmet dining.

#5 Resort at Pedregal Los Cabos

Be transported through Mexico’s only private tunnel to a world of breathtaking views at this Waldorf Astoria property. You will be welcomed with a margarita, complimentary bottle of tequila and fresh guacamole served daily to your suite. We personally think that’s as good as it gets! 

High level touches abound with your personal concierge taking care of all of your requests. Every room and suite has its own private plunge pool, you never have to leave your room. And with these views why would you want to?

Resort at Pedregal is magic! You have to see it to believe it! Put Pedregal on your list and let Luxe and Wander take care of the rest! 

#4 Jade Mountain, St. Lucia; Adult Only All-Inclusive

This all-inclusive is in a class all by its self! Voted Best of the Best year after year by Condé Nast and Travel + Leisure. There is a good reason for that. 

Jade Mountain is a piece of artwork placed beachfront directly in front of the famous Pitons, giving guests the absolutely most stunning views in the Caribbean. 

All suites are open air, blurring the lines of indoors and out.  Architecturally designed for privacy. No two suites are the same, making your experience completely tailored to your specifications! You can even make you own chocolate in the Chocolate Lab made with fresh cocoa beans.

#3  Secret Bay, Dominica 

Dominica, the largest of the Windward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean, know as “The Nature Island” for those seeking authentic cultural experiences off the beaten path. 

Secret Bay is the #1 resort in Dominica and most recently named #6 Hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure. This resort is comprised of residential style villas complete with Villa hosts, on-call chef, personal concierge and local guides. 

For those adventurous couples and families looking to disconnect from the world, because of its secluded beaches and intimidate collection of villas, Secret Bay is the most coveted destination! 

#2 Hermitage Bay, Antigua; Adult Only All-Inclusive

One of our all time favorite adult-only boutique all-inclusive resorts nestled in the hillside of Hermitage Bay. 

Perfect for honeymooners and couples that want a relaxing, private escape. With 34 bungalow type suites you have your choice of private hillside or beachfront suite. 

Enjoy a farm-to-table rotational menu that changes daily and nightly entertainment. You will not find a friendlier or more helpful staff with their philosophy of “travel is the antidote, tell me your problem and I will write your prescription.” The heart and soul of Hermitage Bay. 

Finally our #1: Casa de Campo - La Romana, Dominican Republican - All-Inclusive Options Available

For 5 decades Casa de Campo has been a second home destination for discerning families and couples. 

Welcome Home. With 7,000 acres to explore you can spend your days with as much or as little as you like.  Casa de Campo is comprised of a small boutique resort and over 2,000 Villas with all-inclusive options. Every villa and suite has its own golf cart to wander to every corner of this unique property.

A resort community like no other with it’s own private island, Catalina Island; Private Beach and Beach Club, 8 World Class restaurants, Equestrian Center, Shooting Center, Spa, 3 Pete Dye Golf Courses including Teeth of the Dog and Altos de Chavon a 16th Century Mediterranean Village replica. 

We are a Casa De Campo certified agency and would love to plan your visit! 

Are you ready to get away?! Don’t go it alone - never leave home without Luxe + Wander! Now more than ever we are behind your vacation making sure you are up-to-date with the everchanging protocols and travel requirements! Lean on us, we are the professionals and we are here to help! Let’s start planning today!

Are you itching to travel yet... where can you go?!

Who is ready to travel? Where can you go? How can you get there? What is the testing requirements? When is the world going to open? We all have so many questions and we are here to give you a glimpse of where you can go RIGHT NOW and what you have to do to get there! It really isn’t as hard as you think!

Green means GO! In the graphic below from kayak.com we can see what countries are open and allowing visitors right now (even if that means you have to quarantine when you get there) and the pink countries are partially open!

So what does that mean for travel and tourism? If you are willing to strap on a mask, get on a plane, have your temperature checked, answer questions about your health and possibly take a COVID test 3-7 days prior (depending on the country) then you can safely travel. The girls at Luxe + Wander have been dipping our toes back in the proverbial sand and are starting to travel again in Mexico and the Caribbean and we have had many successful client trips in the past 2 months as well! So it VERY possible to travel and do it safely!

Here is a list of vacation destinations that are open to US citizens and we can help you get there!

• Mexico - NO COVID testing required

• Dominican Republic - NO COVID testing required

List of Caribbean Countries that do require a negative COVID test prior to entering and online health authorization form.

• Jamaica

• Antigua and Barbuda

• Aruba

• Bahamas - starting November 1st

• Bermuda

• Grenada

• Puerto Rico

• St Barts

• St Kitts and Nevis - starting November 1st

• St Lucia

• St Maarten

• St Vincent and the Grenadines

• Turks and Caicos

• US Virgin Islands

• Costa Rica - starting Nov. 1

What about if you want to travel outside the US and Caribbean? Are there any other destinations accepting US Citizens? The answer is YES!! You do have to have a negative COVID to enter the following countries: Brazil, Croatia, Dubai, Egypt, Kenya, Zambia, Turkey, Montenegro, French Polynesia - Tahiti and Bora Bora as well as the Maldives. If you have a little more time to spend you can also visit England, Scotland and Ireland but you will have to quarantine for 14 days once you arrive.

We are here to answer all of your travel related questions as well as plan you upcoming vacations! We love our clients and are passionate about their safety when traveling! We want to take a moment to thank all of our loyal clients that have entrusted us with their precious vacation memories this year, we are excited to see all of you traveling again very soon!

HOT TIP: Don’t delay booking summer travel for 2021! There are some amazing deals right now, but there is also limited availability from all of the travel that had to be rescheduled from 2020. Call us today to get started at 843.697.2224!

Stacy and Meredith - Co-Owners and Travel Experts!

Thank you for Wandering with us!

How is Coronavirus effecting current and future travel?

The question remains how is the Coronavirus going to effect your travel plans and what can you do about it in the coming days and months ahead. Please know our clients and their safety is always our number one priority and it is always our goal to share with you facts about travel industry warnings and safety issues. We are taking this very seriously and want to advocate for you to get the best possible option for you and your family.

First, know the facts and where to go to get the the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus and travel warnings. The CDC is the first stop in finding out the most accurate information in this constantly changing environment. You can visit the CDC’s website here for information on what the Coronovirus is, how it spreads, what countries have confirmed cases, travel warnings and frequently asked questions. As of today, the CDC has three levels of travel warnings: Level 1 being low threat, Level 3 being a high threat. Those countries that are Level 3 currently are China, Iran, Italy and South Korea the CDC’s recommendation is to avoid unnecessary travel to these countries at this time. Japan as at a Level 2 warning recommending enhanced precautions when traveling to Japan. A Level 1 warning is now in affect for Hong Kong recommending to practice normal precautions in that area. There are currently no other countries listed with warnings and are not recommending cancelling or postponing travel plans to any other regions. Another resource for you is the World Health Organization website to have a second place for fact-finding and updates with accurate information. We also always point our clients to the State Department’s website for current information on all travel advisories issued for American citizens. It is imperative to arm yourself with the facts so you can make the most informed decisions regarding your families safety when traveling.

What are supplier’s doing to help during this health crisis? Across the board, we are seeing supplier after supplier step up and make accommodations for travelers during this time. Cruise lines and airlines are taking increased precautions such as health screenings before boarding, more detailed and consistent deep cleaning, you can expect buffets to no longer be self-service to limit contact. Some suppliers are also making concessions for travelers by waving change fees and allowing you to change dates of travel without penalty. They understand this is an uncertain time with an ever changing climate and are willing to work with you in most cases.

I have travel insurance, is this going to protect me? Travel insurance will help you if you were to become sick during travel. However, unless you purchased a Cancel For Any Reason waiver on your policy at the time of booking insurance companies are not covering trip cancellations due to fear of a threat caused by the Coronavirus or travel bans. We are recommending to each of our clients booking future travel to purchase a Cancel For Any Reason waiver in addition to their base travel insurance policy.

How can we help you navigate this season? Please be assured as your travel advisors we are always in your corner and looking out for what is best for you and your family. We are here to lead you to the most accurate and up-to-date travel advisories, help you change your travel plans if necessary and help you find answers to your travel related questions. As for now, we are taking normal precautions, using good sense and still traveling to non-effected countries without trepidation. We are looking forward to an amazing high travel season! Now, don’t go licking any door handles!

Top 5 Honeymoon and Anniversary Destinations for 2020!

Here at Luxe + Wander Travel Co. we see a lot of brides and I do mean A LOT! We have been in Bridal Show season and have had the opportunity to touch base with over 1,000 brides in January as they are busy trying to prepare for their weddings and honeymoons! They spoke and we listened! Here are the Top 5 Hottest Destinations for Honeymoons and Anniversaries for 2020! And as we all know every bride wants something a little bit different…

1. EUROPE - “The Bucket Lister“

   When we started in the Wedding biz most everything was all about the Caribbean, but the 2020 bride isn’t always looking for a beach getaway! She is wanting to see the world and she wants to see it all! She wants to start in Europe where the new couple can take the rail together seeing as many countries as possible … France, Britain, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Croatia and even Spain. There is no stopping this bride, she wants to celebrate her nuptials with history, cultural and delights in the food and wine scene. This is where we come in, we meet briefly with each bride and find out what is most important to them and their fiance to make sure we stick with the budget and still meet their preferences curating an experience is seamless from start to finish. Friendly to budgets $5-10K

2. St.Lucia - “The Adventurer”

St. Lucia is a complete classic honeymoon destination, perfect for those couples looking to relax and seek adventure. St. Lucia offers the beaches, rain forests, lush cocoa plantations, the iconic Pitons, volcanoes and waterfalls nestled in the jungle. Truly something for everyone! Our honeymooners have loved staying at Sandals Grand St. Lucian in Rodney Bay for its fabulous beach and lively atmosphere, nestled right next door Pigeon Island where you can hike to the peak for amazing views. If you are looking for something a little more exclusive, celebrity honeymooners love Jade Mountain for it’s open air luxury suites and 180 degrees piton views. Friendly to budgets $6k and beyond!

3. Antigua - “The Beach Lover”

Antigua is famous for having 365 beaches, one for everyday of the year! Making it the perfect escape after many long and busy months of wedding planning to relax and unwind. Antigua is an affluent, safe island with heavy English influence. Voted World’s Most Romantic Resort year after year Sandals Grande Antigua steals the hearts of brides wanting beachfront, couples-only all-inclusive option. For those wanting a more private getaway Hermitage Bay Resort offers bungalows on the beach or Hillside suites with private pools - are freeing standing for the ultimate in private honeymoon oasis! Friendly to budgets $6-12K.

4. Riviera Maya, Mexico - “The Culture Seeker”

For those, like me, that love a short plane ride, budget friendly and steeped in rich Mayan cultural Mexico is for the bride that wants her cake and to eat it too! Riviera Maya not only offers the environmental friendly Eco Parks for exploring the jungles, cenotes and Mayan Ruins and some of the worlds most beautiful beaches. This destination still draws a whopping 6 million guests a year from all over the world making Mexico one of the top destinations in the world. Our #1 honeymoon resort for adult-only, all-inclusive in Mexico goes to Unico 2087 - hands down! Perfect for the couple that wants everything included from mixologist prepared cocktails and gourmet bites to excursions and spa treatments - it’s all included! For those seeking to a more private, make your own fun kind of luxurious honeymoon we love Chable Maroma, nestled in the Mayan Jungle with luxurious presidential suites and private pools. Friendly for budgets $3k-10K !

5. Bora Bora “The Exotic Dreamer”

I think there is a part of every bride that wants to be whisked away to a remote island somewhere in an over -the-water bungalow for a week or more - I know this because they tell me so. But for a few lucky brides we are honored to help make their dream a reality! Our motto is, “If we are doing this, we are doing it right” if you want over-the-water bungalows in the south Pacific we think you should get just that! Our brides have been blown away by the Intercontinental Bora Bora — this one speaks for itself. Friendly to budgets $10K-$15K.

No matter where you want to go for your special getaway we have you covered! Let us take care of the logistics to get you there, you just pack your bags and don’t forget your passport - we have the rest covered.

Summer HOT Deals for Adult Onlys!!

Just in time to warm you up on this cold winter day we have some HOT, HOT deals that wanted to share for our Weekly Wander! If you have been thinking about a Caribbean getaway (just for the adults this time) now is the time to jump on killer savings! Sandals resorts has limited availability and dates for the following resorts, room categories and dates! These deals expire next Wednesday, so don’t wait to give us a call to get your vacation booked! Call anytime 843.697.2224 or send a message to info@luxeandwander.com. In addition, to these discounted rooms you will also be eligible with a 6 night stay to combine with the current Red Hot Winter Sale promo to receive with your booking:

• 30-minutes Couples' Massage AND a Catamaran Cruise for two! Now that’s a HOT deal!

**These prices include airfare from GSP, but we can certainly accommodate other gateways and length of stay to meet your needs. Please note the following prices and availability are subject to change at anytime.

SANDALS NEGRIL - Caribbean Beachfront Walkout Grande Luxe Club Level Room w/ Patio Tranquility Soaking Tub
The contemporary-styled bedroom open to a large patio featuring coral stone floors, a dining area, and Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, where you can relax and admire the tropical views or walk directly onto the beach. At night, listen to the ocean against the shore, and enjoy a nightcap in the comfort of your romantic suite complete with a luxurious bathroom featuring a freestanding marble bathtub and rain shower with mosaic tile floors. As an exclusive Club Sandals suite, a dedicated concierge is available to handle any special requests and reservations such as spa appointments.
Room View: Beachfront, Oceanfront, Oceanview

July 6-12, 2020 6-Nights
*Package pricing includes roundtrip airfare from GSP, airport trasnfers and your all-inclusive stay for 2!
Total Vacation Package: $5,217.58

OR
August 3-9, 2020 6-Nights
Total Vacation Package: $4,006.90

SANDALS GRENADA - Pink Gin Beachfront Club Level Room
A large suite consisting of a living area with a sofa, chairs, cocktail table and bar. The bedroom boasts a king size bed, ivory patika marble floors and smart TV. The bathroom has a water closet enclosed in frosted glass, extra-large basin with backlit mirror, Carrera marble vanity and walk in shower with white subway tile and glass accents. There is an overhead shower and wall-mounted dual controls. The bathroom is further enhanced with pebble accented walls and Italian porcelain plank floor. There is also a window looking into the bedroom. Club Sandals service included. All rooms feature either a patio or a balcony. Room View: Beachfront, Oceanfront, Oceanview

July 14 - 20, 2020 6-Nights
*Package pricing includes roundtrip airfare from GSP, airport trasnfers and your all-inclusive stay for 2!
Total Vacation Package: $5,040.10

SANDALS REGENCY LA TOC ST LUCIA -  Sunset Bluff Penthouse Oceanview One Bedroom Butler Suite with Balcony Tranquility Soaking Tub

Situated on the penthouse floors along the Sunset Oceanview Bluff, these newly renovated Love Nest Butler Suites grant stunning top-floor views of the sea and tropical hillsides. The master bedroom features a king-size bed, HD Smart television, and large windows framing unforgettable views of the sea. The en-suite spa style bathroom features modern finishes, a backlit mirror with long vessel sink, shower, and free standing soaking tub. Relax in the comfort of a spacious, modern living room appointed with custom crafted furnishings, an additional HD Smart television, fully stocked bar, and plush seating. Outside the living room is a furnished private balcony including a bistro set and Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, where you can enjoy al fresco dining with the ocean as your backdrop. Butler Elite and 24-hour room service are included. Room View: Oceanview

August 7-11, 2020 6-Nights
*Package pricing includes roundtrip airfare from GSP, airport trasnfers and your all-inclusive stay for 2!
Total Vacation Package: $6,222.86

Have a group of 4 couples that want to travel together?!

SANDALS OCHI - Butler Villa with 4 One Bedroom Suites and Private Pool

These delightful standalone private villas are perfect for those traveling in small groups. Surrounded by lush mango groves and wild orchids, each building is equipped with 4 one-bedroom suites that are generously proportioned and comprise an expansive bedroom and living area equipped with beautiful hardwood furniture, flat screen TV's, and marble en-suite bathrooms with shower/tub combination. In addition to a separate fully-stocked bar with premium liquors, each suite is finished with an oversized balcony or patio beside the villa's private pool. Butler Elite and 24 hour room service is included
Room View: Pool, Tropical Garden

August 10-16, 2020 6-Nights
*Package pricing inlcudes your transfers and all-inclusive stay per couple!
Total Vacation PER COUPLE: $2,692.00 (AIRFARE NOT INCLUDED)!!!

Your group will love Sandals Ochi if you are looking for a lively atmosphere, make sure to check out the secret Rabbit Hole Speakeasy while your there! Shhhhhh… This is an amazing deal for a butler category room!

Don’t wait, you will miss out on these prices! Promotion Expires Wednesday Jan 29th, 2020! Contact us today to get your couples get away booked!! Thanks for wandering with us!



Hello Cap Cana: Part Two "Hidden Gem"

Now that the new year is under way we are so glad to be back to regularly scheduled programming and back to escaping reality LOL! Do you have a 5 minutes to wander back to Cap Cana with us? Because I have a hidden gem I want to share with you!

A few years ago I was touring resorts in Punta Cana, we had been on our feet in the hot Caribbean sun for 3 days looking at resort after resort. We were exhausted but we had to go a little further out to see the last resort in a newly developed area called Cap Cana. Honestly, I was expecting to see more of the same - boy was I wrong! We were transported to place I could have never imagined, Sanctuary Cap Cana.

What we found at Sanctuary blew our minds, this adult-only all-inclusive resort is designed after a Spanish Colonial Town, complete with it’s own Castle perched on a cliff. I mean, am I dreaming!

A small, boutique property with only 300 suites that include Ocean front private Villas, Suites in the Castle, suites in the Colonial section - something to meet every style and preference. Everywhere you turn on the grounds of Sanctuary you will find stunning architecture and beautiful artistic nuances in every nook and cranny.

I fell in love with this little slice of paradise and vowed to return. A year after my first visit I did come back and brought my husband to celebrate our anniversary. We stayed in one of the Castle Suites, which is Sanctuary’s upgraded concierge level rooms, you have private access to the rooftop pool on top of the castle, upgrade amenities, butler service and private lounge. We spent our time moving from one pool to the next then to the ocean and back to the pool - ya know it’s tough life on resort!

Shortly after our visit there, I received word that Sanctuary had been bought by another company so I immediately started digging to make sure nothing would happen to my hidden sanctuary - pun intended! I was so thrilled to learn that Hyatt had bought Sanctuary and hand plans to expand and to close the resort for a full make over! Fast forward to our visit in December, we were able to tour the newly renovated property and it is even more magical than before! The best part of our tour was running into our butler from our stay 2 years prior, he immediately remembered us and asked if he could accompany us for the last part of our tour - I mean talk about going the extra mile!

I don’t want to share too much with you because I want you to be amazed when you go but here are a few peeks of my favorite spots on property! Prepare to be amazed…

Sanctuary has a private beach for their guests to enjoy, but if you go past the castle there is access to the long stretch of Juanillo Beach, perfect those long walks! When you stay at Sanctuary you will have full access to 6 restaurants on resort and as added bonus inclusion you will also have access to the restaurants at Sanctuary Town with 9 additional unique venues that are open to the public.

Sanctuary is just that, a place to hide away, relax and be pampered. I hope you have enjoyed getting a sneak peek at this special property and of course if you would like more information and to get your next retreat booked please call us and we will take care of everything from start to finish!

Thanks for wandering to Cap Cana with us!

2020 Bucket List Dreams

2020 is here and the season of planning for spring and summer travel is upon us! If you are wanting to plan for Spring Break, call us today space is filling up everywhere! If you are looking for summer let’s chat soon for best rates and availability! If you are planning for Christmas 2020, let’s talk today - rates are climbing!

So here we are, a new year for travel dreaming, and boy do we love to dream! In this Weekly Wander we want to share with you our top 5 Bucket List destinations for 2020, come wander with us for a few minutes! And maybe you’ll find your next vacation inspiration!

1. Beaches Turks and Caicos - The Ultimate in Family All - Inclusive! The most gorgeous beach and water you have ever seen and something for everyone in the family! Waterparks, Scuba Diving, Water Sports, All Dining and Beverages, Entertainment, Camp Sesame with the Sesame Street Characters and four villages of accommodations to suite varying budgets! Beaches has something for you!

2. European River Cruise - The idea of sailing along the amazing rivers of France, Hungary, Germany Netherlands just to name a few! We have our eyes set on the Rhine and Danube! The iconic rivers and their castles and UNESCO World Heritages sites make us want to grab our camera and passport and run to the nearest airport! If you want to see Europe from a unique perspective and have a front row seat to all the amazing sights, sounds and tastes see it from the river - the life blood of the cities.

3. Anguilla - As Caribbean experts this small, Eastern Caribbean island has alluded us and has peaked our interest for a trip of our own to find out what all the fuss is about! Anguilla is know for its 35 astonishing white sand beaches, exquisite resorts and gourmet restaurants with a French and European Flare. If you like quiet amazing beaches and dining at nice restaurants Anguilla is an island you should consider too, perfect a romantic escape!

4. Cabo!! Cabo is always a good idea! If you love Mexico as much as us you have to visit Cabo this year! Think everything that makes Mexican architecture beautiful and add in modern chic and you have Cabo. Everywhere you look there is something beautiful to see! We love Cabo for luxurious couples only romatic retreats, lively adult only group getaways and even for families! We are super excited about the brand new Hard Rock Los Cabos - your kids will love the waterpark and Music Lab to make their own remixes!

5. Tour of Italy - Touring Italy is still a Bucket List item for so many and there are a million reasons why! We love the idea of a Monograms Tour of Rome, Florence and Venice! Hitting the highlights but taking a slower pace to really take in the history, architecture and culinary scene completely curated to your specifications. From your airport private transfer to meeting your Local Host to give you the best places to eat and visit so you aren’t wandering aimlessly, to VIP access to attractions without waiting in line for hours, to luxurious accommodations and a navigation app to help you around the cities your trip will be seamless! The best part about is we have several budget ranges to make your dream a reality! Let us help you with Italy, no reason to go it alone!

We would love to help you plan your next vacation! We are a full service travel agency and can get you anywhere in the world your heart desires. Our concierge services are completely free to you when you book your trip through Luxe + Wander Travel Co. We know travel planning can be overwhelming, let us take care of that for you! Thanks for wandering with us through our Top 5 Bucket List Destination!

Hello Cap Cana! Part 1

Welcome to this week’s Weekly Wander, are ready for a little 5 minute escape? This one is a good one!

Have you ever been to a place that you immediately felt at home, a place where you can breathe life in and every worry melts away? Cap Cana is that place for me, the first time I visited in 2017 I fell deeply and passionately in love. I remember touring resorts all over the Dominican and Cap Cana was our last stop. We were tired, hot and hungry but as soon as we pulled into the boutique community of Cap Cana it had my attention, like a mirage in the desert. Hello GLORIOUS Cap Cana! This unique development was built on the Eastern most tip of Punta Cana about 10 years ago right off the beautiful Juanillo beach. This very affluent and gated community houses several deluxe resorts, residential condominiums, eco parks and a large yacht marina. The best part it’s only 10 minutes from the airport so you do not have to wait long for paradise!

This was my third trip to Cap Cana and definitely not my last, our goal this time was to visit a few brand new resorts, re-visit a newly renovated resort and spend some time on Juanillo Beach. Let me tell you about this beach, although the words will never do it justice. Nevermind - I’m just going to show you, check out my favorite beach and it’s trees…I’m pretty sure Jack Sparrow has run down this beach a time or two!

See what I mean? I mean have you ever seen a beach with so much character! The white packed sand, the width and the trees, oh those trees … can you tell I stand on the exotic beach camp? I will chose you Juanillo over and over again!

We were welcomed home again to Secrets Cap Cana, this resort is about 3 years old and was even better this time with it’s matured landscaping and amazing staff. This property is an adult-only romantic getaway resort with all the amenities of home. We stayed in a Preferred Club Ocean View Junior Suite, I highly recommend upgrading to Preferred Club at this resort. Although, the room differences are minimal - the extras take the cake! Preferred Club rooms are premium locations on the property with the best views, the Preferred Club pool is a private oasis surrounded by Bungalows and that amazing beach - it’s an intimate area so you are well taken care of by wait staff all day long. Preferred Club has private beach access with it’s own bar and wait staff as well. Shoutout to our Butler, Wilson, who took care of us while we were on property, thanks for the bottles of champagne in the room every night - you totally get me! And cheers to the entertainment staff for playing Beach Volleyball and Water Polo with my husband every day so I didn’t have to! Here are some shots from our stay at Secrets Cap Cana. I would love to send you here!

We also had the extreme pleasure of touring the new nextdoor neighbors of Secrets, Hyatt Zilara for adults and Hyatt Ziva for families. These two new kids on the block just opened November 1st of this year and we were super impressed! The two resorts side side-by-side and are like fraternal twins. The adult-only resort is recognized by it’s sleek straight, rectangular lines at every facet - the pools, the room decor, the lobby every detail is so thought out! Hyatt Ziva, the family side can be differentiated by circular patterns and curvy lines, for example instead of a straight edge infinity pool Ziva as a circular infinity pool - what you find on one side you will find on the other. Adults from the family side can come over the the adult only side at anytime you just have to leave the kids on the family side (they have amazing kids club and a waterpark to take care of that). The restaurants were incredibly themed, even a replica of the Orient Express inside of their Indian restaurant, you can dine inside the rail car! Like I said the details were impeccably thought out at every turn! We are super excited to have a fabulous options for families in Cap Cana finally! Take a look at the brand new Hyatt Ziva and Zilara Cap Cana, as always service with a heart!

I have one more property to show you, but it will have to wait until next week! In the meantime, here is a sneak peek of Sanctuary Cap Cana. We would love to plan your next vacation adding value and VIP status to your experience!

Sneak peek of Sanctuary Cap Cana! Come wander with us next week to learn all about Sanctuary!

Thanks for wandering with us, we hope you enjoyed your 5 minute escape!

So thankful for our Luxe + Wander family and getting to share the world with you!

It’s that time of year again where we practice our gratitude! We at Luxe + Wander have so much to be thankful for this year! We are grateful for our all of our wonderful clients who trust us with their vacations and their precious memories. This is not something we take lightly, planning your vacations is our complete honor! We are so grateful for our Luxe + Wander family - Meredith, Stacy, Erin, Jared, Anna, Audrey, Courtney and Amy! We love our team and everyone’s unique strengths paired with one common bond of servicing our clients with professionalism and passion for people and places! We are blessed and thankful to have visited places all over the globe this year with our families and travel industry friends. We are so grateful for this world that is our’s to explore!

Our team loves to travel with a purpose! To bring knowledge and connections back to our clients and of course make memories with our own families! This year we have visited some of the most beautiful far off places and some that are near and dear to our hearts close to home! So thankful to get to experience: DisneyLand in California, Disney World in Florida, Universal Orlando, Riviera Maya Mexico, Cabo San Lucas Mexico, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Jamaica, Punta Cana, Turks and Caicos, St. Thomas, Bahamas, Key West, Puerto Rico, South Carolina Beaches and Las Vegas! Here are a few of our favorite memories from our team’s travels!

And most of all thank you for wandering with us every week and for trusting us to book your vacations. Our business grows when our clients share the word about our services. Thank you for your referrals, you truly drive our business! As always, we are here to create that next vacation for you and your family!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving from your friends at Luxe + Wander!

Dreaming of Italy! You too?

Happy Wednesday Wanderers! I hope you are all having a productive week and crushing your goals! I am dreaming of Italy this morning - the wine, the vineyards, the food - oh the food, the coast, the cobblestone, the shopping, the history - ok, ok I’m getting carried away back to the point. I have a special personal connection with Italy - it has my best friend! Literally, my great great friend took a job in Florence, Italy last year and I am living vicariously through her until I can get there to visit! How great is it to have a friend that knows the area and speaks the language to help you navigate in a foreign country and know all the best local spots? I know I am blessed and that everyone doesn’t have that connection in Italy. But I may just have a solution for you…

When most travelers dream of going to Italy they romanticize this perfect dream vacation in their mind. Then the actual reality can be more of frustration than romance when they get there and realize not many English speakers are willing to help you if you get on the wrong train and waste a day trying to navigate your way back. Only to be swindled by a cab driver, wait in line for hours to see the Michelangelo then wander back and forth trying to find a suitable restaurant for dinner when you are tired and hungry. That’s the reality of Italy without a good plan, but thankfully there is a better way.

One of the best parts of my job is meeting specialized staff and suppliers from all over the world to be able to curate seamless experiences for our clients. We have an amazing trusted supplier in Italy that takes all the guess work out of logistics and even gives you a go to person the entire trip to help with anything you need. We schedule a private driver to meet you at the airport, your driver greets with a sign with your name and whisks you away to your hotel pointing out landmarks along the way. Once you get settled into your hotel your local host that we have prearranged comes to greet you at the hotel and gives you some ideas for dinner as well as their phone number to text or call anytime you need ideas or navigation. The next day your host comes to pick you up and take you to your VIP Skip-the-line access to any of the historical attractions on your must-see list so that you do not waste hours waiting in line with hundreds of other tourists. Whether you want to spend your entire vacation in Rome, or split up your stay with Rome, Florence, Venice or spend your time in Tuscany or the Almafi Coast we have an itinerary that will meet your preferences without have to travel in a large group setting. The best part is we package everything together: Transfers, hotels, breakfast daily, VIP access to major attractions so there is no guess work on your part!

Here is an example of an historical itinerary for 6 nights in Italy - 2 nights each in Rome, Florence and Venice. This tour will hit the historical highlights at a leisurely pace so you can really take it all in with freedom to do as you wish and have amazing meals in the evening with 4 and 5 star accommodations in each city. We can also customize your vacation further to add on Lake Como or Sorrento. You let us know your wish list and we can make it happen!

Itinerary: Average cost around $2,000 per person

Day 1: Arrive in Rome
Benvenuto—welcome. Your Local Host is on hand to help you feel right at home in the “Eternal City.”

Day 2: Rome
Your morning guided sightseeing, is rich in religious and ancient history. Visit the VATICAN MUSEUMS to see amazing treasures. In the SISTINE CHAPEL, where the Conclave is held to elect new popes, view Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment and his famous ceiling paintings. Also on the agenda today, enter monumental ST. PETER’S SQUARE and BASILICA, built in 313 AD above St. Peter the Apostle’s tomb and home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece Renaissance sculpture, the Pietà. Cross the Tiber River and continue your immersion in history at the iconic COLOSSEUM, built for 50,000 spectators, and the ROMAN FORUM, where the oldest structures of the ancient city are located.

Day 3: Travel to Florence
Travel by HIGH-SPEED TRAIN (first class) to Florence.

Day 4: Florence
Morning guided sightseeing, with headset, includes a visit of the ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS with Michelangelo’s original David (the Academy is replaced with the Duomo Museum on Mondays and on the first Sunday of each month). Walk through Piazza del Duomo; sculpture-studded Piazza della Signoria, the center of the city’s political life since the 14th century; and Santa Croce Square. Also admire medieval Ponte Vecchio, the arched, stone merchant bridge spanning the Arno River.

Day 5: Travel to Venice
Travel by HIGH-SPEED TRAIN (first class) to Venice.

Day 6: Venice
Morning guided sightseeing, features ST. MARK’S SQUARE and BASILICA with its exceptional gold mosaics. Visit DOGES’ PALACE and the poignant BRIDGE OF SIGHS. Watch skilled GLASSBLOWERS fashion their delicate objects in the age-old manner, and learn why glass-making was so important in Venetian history. ENTRANCES to Marciana Library, and the Correr and Archaeological Museums are included.

Day 7: Venice
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

PRO TIP: The best time to visit Italy is Spring and Fall, summer months are extremely hot and not a lot of places have air conditioning.

If you are dreaming of Italy like us, give us a call and we will make your Italian dreams reality! Thanks for wandering with us this week!

River Cruising is the hottest way to travel in Europe!

River Cruising has gotten a bad rap for being only for an older generation, but that is no longer the case! Whether you are wanting a couples European getaway, girls wine trip or family vacation - River Cruising is meeting the needs of a younger generation and we are LOVING it!!

There are such vast differences in River Cruising versus Ocean cruising - that is a completely separate story! But the greatest and most defining difference is where you go! Oceans take you to a destination while rivers take you through them! This week’s Weekly Wander takes us on a journey all about River Cruising and why this might just be the vacation for you next year!

Do you love farm-to-table dining, meeting the onboard chef as he decides on the wine parings for dinner with ingredients he just picked up in the region you are travelling through? Can you see yourself lounging on your balcony (or your bed) while watching beautiful towns and castles pass by? Do you dream of getting to explore the countries from the river by bicycle or guided tours to UNESCO World Heritage sites and vineyards? How about morning yoga on deck as you leisurely float through Europe? Or exploring some amazing European cities in the evening while sipping coffee at a bistro and listening to the street performers and jazz musicians? If you answered yes to any of these questions then river cruising is for you!

Of course, European River Cruises are very popular like the Danube, Rhine, Seine rivers are some of the most popular river cruise destinations but you can surprisingly visit Vietnam, Cambodia and the rivers of Africa as well. We like to think of the rivers as the veins that take you straight to the heart of these beautiful destinations - there is truly no better way to visit than on your very own floating hotel! No need to pack and unpack every day to visit a new country, stay unpacked the entire time in your gorgeous river view suite.

We have amazing river cruise partners that can make your vacation an all-inclusive experience. We love Ama Waterways for including Sparkling wine at breakfast, unlimited beer and wine at lunch and dinner as well as cocktail hour. You also have included excursions and tours in each destination, as well as complimentary bicycles on board for you to take out and explore. Right now we are offering $1,000 off all Ama Waterways European Sailings booking through December 31, 2019! One other reason to love Ama Waterways - they have partnered with Adventures by Disney and chartered entire select sailings in 2020 - the entire ship devoted to families and with Adventures by Disney tour guides onboard you and your children will have the trip of your lifetime! Ama offers connecting staterooms for families of young children or if you need to be able to check on elderly parents traveling with you! They really have thought of everything - you know if Disney chose to partner with them they are the REAL DEAL!

There is a river cruise for everyone, even singles! Another fabulous option is U By Uniworld specifically designed for a younger demographic and singles! Giving you all the amenties of a boutique hotel and extra over nights in port so you can experience the nightlife in the destinations you visit!

Christmas time is a truly magical time to river cruise on the Danube for the iconic Christmas Markets through Germany, Austria and Hungary. We have an amazing opportunity for 2020 on Uniworld River Princess we are offering $250 onboard credit for our guests and special pricing well below today’s rates. We can have you and a special someone sailing in a Classic room for $2,799.00 per person; Deluxe room for $3,399.00 per person or in a French Balcony stateroom for $4,499.00 per person for the December 8-15, 2020 sailing. That’s $500 less per person than today’s current rates! **Availability is extremely limited, airfare at an additional cost.

We would love to get you on a River Cruise in 2020! The experience speaks for itself! Your first river cruise is never your last river cruise, it truly is the best way to see Europe! Thanks for wandering with us!

We want to share our blessings in 2020!

This week’s Weekly Wander takes us a little bit off the beaten path and we aren’t vacationing this time, we have some important business that awaits us. Let’s take a look at Addis Ababa the capitol of Ethopia. Why .. you ask? Great question! We are extending our arms at Luxe + Wander and we want to share our blessings with some girls that are making their start in this world! We aren’t here for the destination this time, we are the people!

We are so incredibly passionate about providing impeccable service to our clients while they are enjoying their precious vacation time and wanted to try to find a way to incorporate amazing vacations and the needs around the world. This beautiful world of ours is filled with incredible places, diverse faces as well as need in every corner of the world. We strive to develop conscientious travelers that leave only their footprints and take only their memories with them, but we cannot ignore the need around us when we travel.

Luxe + Wander will be donating a portion of every trip booked in 2020 to Bete Hosanna in Addis Ababa. Bete Hosanna is a transition home for girls that age out of government run orphanges, these young girls are turned away to the streets with little money, life skills or education to then create a life for themselves. Often times this life is very bleak, they fall into extreme abuse and prostitution as a means to make money, have a place to stay and food to eat. Bete Hosanna is a new organization that was created last year when a group with One Adoption Organization witnessed what was going on with these girls and realized someone needed to step in if they were going to survive. Bete Hosanna houses 10 young girls offering them mentorship, life skills, job skills, how to interview as well as how to run a household - for the next two years these girls are given all the tools they need to succeed! Once the two years is complete the girls are helped to find jobs, housing and community while remaining in the mentoring program - the program is set up this way to be able to welcome a new group of girls. The immediate need for Bete Hosanna is to open a second house for the 15 girls that will be released any day now from the orphanage. If you would like more information about Bete Hosanna with One Adoption organizations and how you can give please click below! All proceeds go directly to the house and the care of these girls.

These are the 10 beautiful and courageous souls that live in Bete Hosanna! Their future is full of hope!

We are so excited and honored to be able to share this cause with all of you! We can’t wait to see what simply booking your vacations with us will do for this community of young women! Let’s do this!

As always, we would love to chat with you to offer more information and to get start planning your 2020 vacation!

Disneyland VS. Disney World

I had the opportunity to go out to California and checkout Disneyland for the very first time this year, for this Disney-loving girl it was nothing short of a journey back to where it all started! Having spent my lifetime on the East coast and visiting Walt Disney World since I was 4 years old I couldn’t help but compare the two. I haven’t yet decided on which one my heart loves most but there were some of my favorite things in each of the two American soil Disney Destinations! You will just have to visit both for yourself to make your decision on favorites!

This journey starts heading out on a coast to coast flight to the grand state of California! Home of Route 66, old Hollywood magic, riding the waves of Malibu, visiting the giant Redwoods, wine tasting in Sonoma, riding the trollies in San Fran… we could go on all day! My point is there is so much to see in California that if you are making the trip to Disney Land make sure you carve out enough time to explore! Let’s head back to where it all started, all the way back to July of 1955!

Walt Disney, the man behind the Mouse!

Disneyland consists of two parks, Disneyland Park and California Adventure Park, Downtown Disney and 3 resorts! My biggest surprise was how close these two parks are you can literally walk out of Disneyland and in within 100 steps be inside California Adventure Park. Disneyland is right in the middle of the city of Anaheim, not at all like the sprawling 40 square miles of Walt Disney World with it’s 4 parks, 2 water parks, 26 resorts and Disney Springs! As a matter of fact you could put all of Disneyland in the Magic Kingdom parking lot - to give you an idea of size! No matter the size, these parks pack a big punch of vintage Disney magic, Classic Disney attractions and the newest in Disney Innovation!

Some of the most iconic spots of Disney Land Park! Disney Land Front Lawn, Main Street USA, Pirates of the Caribbean, New Orleans Square, the Matterhorn, Storybook Land Canal, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, It’s a Small World, Haunted Mansion and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle! I threw in some of my favorite famous snacks too!! And yes, apparently it does rain in Southern California, but only when I am there! The castle was sadly under going refurbishments during our visit but is completed now.

You can easily walk between the two parks several times during the day! Since they are so close you want to make sure you let us add they Park Hopper Ticket so you can visit both parks! One difference between Disneyland and Walt Disney World is their Fast Pass system! Disneyland still has the paper Fast Pass system so you can grab your paper Fast Passes from the Fast Pass kiosks if they are available.

PRO TIP: I recommend upgrading your ticket to the Max Pass option so you can add Fast Passes on your app at either park to save time! Max Pass is only $15 per day per ticket and includes the Disney Photo Pass!

We loved California Adventure Park, reminded us a little of Hollywood Studios in Disney World - but I have to say it was way better! Disneyland has turned Tower of Terror into Guardian of the Galaxy Mission:Breakout adding comedy and rock n’ roll to the drop zone - making it my favorite ride in all of Disneyland!! Pixar Pier was so fun, like a vintage carnival boardwalk with the Mickey’s Fun Wheel and all new Incredicoaster!! Cars Land took the cake for me, the absolute most immersive and intricate details in theming - truly a masterpeice! Make sure to stay for nighttime in the parks, it’s truly the most magical, we loved the World of Color water and light show!

We would love to help you get out to California to see what all Disneyland has to offer! We definitely recommend staying on property to get the full Disneyland experience! Who wouldn’t want to ride the Monorail from their hotel to Disneyland Park?! We can curate your Disneyland vacation to meet your families expectations! We hope you enjoyed your Weekly Wander to Disneyland! Contact us for more information!

Wishing you magical and sweet dreams! Until next time Disneyland….