We’re honored to be named as one of the judges on FlightNetwork’s World’s Ultimate Bucket List for 2018© list!
This extensive list showcases some of the most sought after and inspiring itineraries around the world and we were more than happy to share our expertise! Be sure to check out the list for inspiration for your next escape!!
2018 got off to a grand start for me – a two week trip around Northern Europe. With 1 night in London, 2 nights in Stockholm, 2 nights in Amsterdam, and the remaining time in Trondheim, Noway, I took advantage of flight connections and weekends to explore as much as possible. It’s true that I specialize in South Pacific travel, but Europe holds a special place in my heart and I never pass up the chance for a visit to some of my favorite cities and some new ones along the way.
Note: Any notes of interest for London, Amsterdam, or Trondheim have been made in previous posts on these destinations.
On a quest to explore and learn a bit more about myself, I took advantage of an opportunity to visit Denali National Park. I had only been to Alaska once before and felt I needed to take advantage of this opportunity to see more of the state, especially while it was above freezing. I had a tough time deciding where I wanted to focus my adventure, as Alaska offers so many exciting National Parks and scenic towns. However, I felt as a single traveler, it was in my best interest to contact the professionals. I reached out to Explore Fairbanks to get the low down on my options that would allow me to experience Alaska while keeping safety in mind. Tyler, a representative at Explore Fairbanks, recommended Denali National Park. I admit I was a bit hesitant to hike on my own, but I trusted his recommendation.
While not the easiest destination to get to, Bali is worth the long journey to paradise. Bali is perhaps the most well known island in Indonesia for a good reason. It appeals to a wide audience of travelers, from those seeking to reconnect with the spiritual world to those wanting to let loose and party. With its varied landscapes, it also appeals to the adventurous and the sun seekers alike. There is something for everyone, whether young or young at heart, but if you need to find a reason to add Bali to your bucket list, here are our top reasons to make it your next exotic escape.
Indonesia is as exotic as it sounds. Located in Southeast Asia, this nation of over 17,000 islands is a melting pot of culture, wildlife, plant life, and landscapes. While most tourism is focused on the island of Bali, there are many other islands that offer a slice of paradise and a sense of adventure. With some of the best diving in the world, long stretches of white sand beach, breathtaking cultural landmarks, and wild rain forests, Indonesia is the perfect destination for a luxe island escape. Connect in major cities like Singapore, Bangkok, and Hong Kong and experience the glitz of a major Asian city before disconnecting from the world in a truly serene and tropical paradise. The four luxurious vacation rentals in Indonesia below are the perfect way accent a lavish Asian holiday.
When I think of my time in Switzerland, I think of three things: cheese, chocolate, and tunnels. However, Switzerland is so much more than roads and carbs. It has magnificent landscapes of bright green fields, crystal blue lakes, which are framed by dark mountains with white snow capped peaks. There is a plethora of outdoor activities, with hiking, climbing and skiing being the popular draws. Switzerland has a unique cultural blend of German, French, and Italian influences, which you can see and hear as you travel throughout the country. Switzerland in a sense is magical – it’s one of those places that draws you in and makes you want to stay forever. While it might prove difficult to move there, why not get a taste of everything Switzerland has to offer and spoil yourself in the process?
Another year and another opportunity to visit Norway! My visit in 2016 seemed so rushed with only four days on the ground in Oslo, so I was not about to let the chance to explore the country pass me by this time. I had nine days to see everything Norway has to offer before needing to make an appearance in Oslo, but it didn’t take me long to figure out exactly what I wanted to do with my time. I felt the best way to see as much of Norway as possible and experience what Norway is really known for (that amazing coastline!) is to do a Fjord cruise. I personally do not like larger ships and I also wanted to be able to see as much on land as I would on the water, so I felt Hurtigruten Cruises was the best option for my trip.
Based on our own travels, and the travels of our clients, we compiled a list of our favorite resorts in the Islands of Tahiti. Unsurprisingly to us, the list is extensive and every time we come home from a trip to the islands, we feel compelled to add resorts! At the end of the day, each resort is special, but these properties hold a special place in our heart, as well as in our clients’ hearts. .
I’ve been to Tahiti, Fiji, the Cook Islands, and Australia. So, it’s only natural that I head to New Zealand on my next South Pacific Adventure! I admit, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect out of New Zealand. Afterall, I primarily focus on luxury tropical travel. Even my trip to Australia was focused on the Great Barrier Reef, so beaches, snorkeling, etc. However, as a South Pacific Specialist (working toward my New Zealand Specialist certification), I always want to be able to share my personal experience with my clients. So, I set off for New Zealand with an open mind and the desire to experience as much as the country can offer in two weeks’ time. Upon my return, I’m speechless. It was a magical, amazing, and incredible trip!
I recommend grabbing a beverage and snack of your choice before reading, as this is a long review!
Thinking of planning a destination wedding? Planning a destination wedding is not always easier, or more feasible, than a traditional wedding, but it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life! I previously featured a special blog series on destination wedding planning to assist couples thinking of taking the plunge away from home. The various blog entries are based on my own experience planning my destination wedding in Australia. I tried to detail the steps of planning a destination wedding, incorporating my thoughts on how I accomplished each step, some of the roadblocks I encountered, and the outcome of my decisions. I also tried to capture my perspective as a bride and as a travel consultant to help couples navigate the unique planning process. Read all about my Australian Destination Wedding and please feel free to contact me for further information on arranging travel for you and your guests!
