tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21587959153004388562024-03-13T22:08:36.155-07:00Trips and Travel Adventures!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-74807929736065752802011-09-26T13:14:00.000-07:002011-09-26T13:26:09.615-07:00Recommittment Ceremony<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cCzy9wno7QANLrspumOMkbfJd8JKJnQs2q77lt1gU57YgOUcX3BNkSJ_lyc0AH4d5kYRLosvb2t9GuTXEHugW9q6bc5VukiljKl8vbG_a9VfgxorsOG7aDwXuazLWAhGpZc6A8Zw_QY/s1600/Wedding+Arch.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656764779530173554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cCzy9wno7QANLrspumOMkbfJd8JKJnQs2q77lt1gU57YgOUcX3BNkSJ_lyc0AH4d5kYRLosvb2t9GuTXEHugW9q6bc5VukiljKl8vbG_a9VfgxorsOG7aDwXuazLWAhGpZc6A8Zw_QY/s320/Wedding+Arch.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>Now that school is back in session, Halloween is just around the corner and Holidays are coming up. . .maybe it is time to think about doing a recommittment ceremony for you and your spouse.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Maybe you did not have the wedding you always dreamed of, but NOW is the time to create more memories. This time around your children, friends and relatives can be involved, as well. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>In this stressful economic times, getting couples working together to not only raise the children, but make their marriage stronger is very important. There would be a lot less divorce if we all took time out in our busy lives to spend time with your significant other. Remember, the children will be launched in the world and then it is back to you two again. If you don't know each other or let the spark go out of the marriage, things will fall apart. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Let me help you find that perfect resort where everyone can not only enjoy a wonderful vacation, but also make the family stronger. Call today 800-340-8050 and I will be happy to help you with the planning and all the details. Remember, I work for you!</div><br /><div></div>travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-62436314538800253492011-09-20T13:11:00.000-07:002011-09-20T13:37:32.933-07:00Nicer Weather<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRkH-lw_7vTgKA9Qx8XcCzGxTbkOI40Af2wGChBeDoyzOnVWr1VgVI4si-oZ6f5mBzk6x2Kkg7Di35o6pfMLkx1jYWJ-uDiKglTmUwHqj_kBy0kddODPGlqiqu6tHxbFgT4aXxObhinv4/s1600/Happy+Fisherman.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 128px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 170px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654537864025378722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRkH-lw_7vTgKA9Qx8XcCzGxTbkOI40Af2wGChBeDoyzOnVWr1VgVI4si-oZ6f5mBzk6x2Kkg7Di35o6pfMLkx1jYWJ-uDiKglTmUwHqj_kBy0kddODPGlqiqu6tHxbFgT4aXxObhinv4/s200/Happy+Fisherman.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVJlwi6PSOn7El0JPUPBbUUqr6WKn5rF9xqqBM1mVGtPY5ZSkMCt60X0QjG7SlysyodkgiE1UclFXgDO1xOXmABcLMecFBi3sE1L30UXSTlh4Xc-IDI7DnayKlbU2yq2POkoQ0VGYUkA/s1600/Magnolia+Cottage+interior+with+island.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 238px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654537560249065042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVJlwi6PSOn7El0JPUPBbUUqr6WKn5rF9xqqBM1mVGtPY5ZSkMCt60X0QjG7SlysyodkgiE1UclFXgDO1xOXmABcLMecFBi3sE1L30UXSTlh4Xc-IDI7DnayKlbU2yq2POkoQ0VGYUkA/s320/Magnolia+Cottage+interior+with+island.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Now that the weather is finally getting nicer and NOT 100 degrees plus, for me it is time to go enjoy the beach and do some relaxing.<br /><br />The kids are back in school, things are getting back to "normal" and time to take a quick break. My two rental homes are just about 3 hours from Austin and an easy drive on the way down.<br /><br /><br />If you travel through Lockhart and Luling, you can stop at some outstanding BBQ places--4 of them in Lockhart and at least two in Luling. They have been featured on the Travel Channel on their program, BEST BBQ. My favorite one is Smitty's BBQ in Lockhart; good meat, good prices and I do like their sauce. I order the sausage dry, so I avoid all the usual grease dripping. It is a tasty treat that can be enjoyed on the go or in their restaurant.<br /><br /><br />If you journey through Cuero, there is a great old fashioned drive in with some the best malts around. But they are only open on weekdays since they are located next to a school and close at 7pm. Good food at excellent prices.<br /><br /><br />I like the beach especially in the evenings when the breeze is blowing in and I have my favorite beverage at my side while sitting on my beach chair. Since you can drive on our beach, you can load up your chair, cooler and gear, find a spot you like on the beach, then put your music on the car stereo and just chill out with your own private party.<br /><br />My two homes are fully furnished, so you have all the linen you need, full kitchen with appliances, washer/dryer and DISH TV provided with about 150 additional movies in each home. So it is a relaxing, fun place to just hang out and get to know your family once again.<br /><br />And now that it is getting cooler, the fish should start biting again! I think they were also affected with our extreme heat.<br /><br />The main website for the coast is <a href="http://www.magnoliavacation.com/">www.magnoliavacation.com</a>. Call me today at 1-888-811-4497 as some of the weekends and week days are filling up pretty quickly.<br /><br />Think relax and enjoy life!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-33539249891390106252011-09-15T16:06:00.000-07:002011-09-15T16:39:58.612-07:00Ireland Here I COME!!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80ruA-M5-TgEAG7jeguKYbJhRYUlQW5cKFhCMkcmNV_P50wV28EklV4CeTqpUgxYRUFQqpfyehVt_NwlapEXjql48aatUM_Sm4soLqDK6hQJtDoPVKusLp2jLtfPtQ-RA8_lVzxhKyeE/s1600/P1010095.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80ruA-M5-TgEAG7jeguKYbJhRYUlQW5cKFhCMkcmNV_P50wV28EklV4CeTqpUgxYRUFQqpfyehVt_NwlapEXjql48aatUM_Sm4soLqDK6hQJtDoPVKusLp2jLtfPtQ-RA8_lVzxhKyeE/s320/P1010095.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652731543242572370" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixiYXuF-c_Y2f46uSRaBNLwTcCXkApWSiW0e8m6_yqPc3WG109Dl36Pq9xbWKfeCf6SJf0lKGTVvcwX-iOSCzbD-0nTGTiFT6xOCnHd6SRVAkOfAadkAovFMg-a8UogNc0uye1eNm8umY/s1600/P1010094.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixiYXuF-c_Y2f46uSRaBNLwTcCXkApWSiW0e8m6_yqPc3WG109Dl36Pq9xbWKfeCf6SJf0lKGTVvcwX-iOSCzbD-0nTGTiFT6xOCnHd6SRVAkOfAadkAovFMg-a8UogNc0uye1eNm8umY/s320/P1010094.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652731380967232610" /></a><br />I'm so excited. . .next month I get to return to Ireland for a new tour and introduction of a product line by Sceptre Tours. Can hardly wait to get the itinerary in hand and start doing my research.<br /><br />The last time I was there, we were in the southern part of Ireland, but due to flooding at the time, we could not visit several sites and even stay at the hotel in Cork that was on the original schedule. But no matter, whatever route we take, I will love being back in the "old country". <br /><br />Sceptre Tours sends more people to Ireland than any of their competitors. They are very good at what they do and really take care of business. <br /><br />Right now, I am working on a Spring Break trip to Ireland during Texas State's Spring Break. . . March 10-17. It would run one week and get you back home before classes resume on Monday. It includes round trip airfare from Austin to Dublin (from Chicago to Dublin and return) on the wonderful Airline, Aer Lingus, a four day tour of the south including the Ring of Kerry. It also includes a 2 night extension in Dublin. <br /><br />Dublin is really a young city, the median age is 30. So it is where everyone should be to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style. No matter that we have to come back on the "official" day, there are still celebrations all week long honoring the patron saint of Ireland. <br /><br />I love that this tour would be a combination learning and then exploration tour with lots of free time to enjoy the sites of Dublin. The town was originally settled by Viking raiders. Today there are still Viking ruins and influences in the city. So it would be a painless history lesson. <br /><br />To get you in the moooood to party, the pictures above are an exterior and an interior of the Red Fox Inn. I had the best Irish Coffee of my life while visiting here.<br /><br />Please contact me asap. It takes at least 10 people for a group and more can lower the price for all. You can reach me at my office number 1-800-340-8050.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-67955042373533008972011-04-13T08:25:00.000-07:002011-04-13T08:35:40.575-07:00Latest Update<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR6HWaMMHDRCeEnOBo_nYmvSXabkw6CPNgL1KLrea3KWd373oMNj1AFExCY7HqbmYeb48gWZsuJqrl87XUrwBtTfP26ccK6nsXN2ALbAo26BaCy2OxNRHRE20Z9y6-UYERpNYyP31NcW0/s1600/royal+bahamian.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 155px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR6HWaMMHDRCeEnOBo_nYmvSXabkw6CPNgL1KLrea3KWd373oMNj1AFExCY7HqbmYeb48gWZsuJqrl87XUrwBtTfP26ccK6nsXN2ALbAo26BaCy2OxNRHRE20Z9y6-UYERpNYyP31NcW0/s320/royal+bahamian.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595091637657794754" border="0" /></a><br />Having an office that is NOT at home is a new adventure! I do like having people drop in and I can help them find the right vacation for them. And I post specials on my door and at the entry to the offices.<br /><br />There is ONE special that I think is a wonderful sale. If you book a trip to Sandals in the Bahamas, the companion airfare is free! So their 2 resorts are on sale UP TO 65% and with a free companion air ticket--I call that a win/win situation.<br /><br />Love the Sandals Royal Bahamian with it's own private island for guests (have visited there twice) and I am ready to go to Emerald Bay very soon.<br /><br />So call today 1-800-340-8050 or stop by 1515 Aquarena Springs Dr, Suite 101 in San Marcos for the latest great deals!!!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-39821473673702168802011-02-10T11:33:00.000-08:002011-02-10T11:38:00.585-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tfLptONOMdTSLzVAikzzZjQ_MnpEEM4wBtDOHylIiBHG9o7816At_jFB6FAwHRE5UZVX7IW3ctbBWnkvsn059Bsg7UuLheao9CJzzOYzmEWCDhss_9RphsZiumq1zKdZlftqlCR86dE/s1600/RenoTahoe+001.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tfLptONOMdTSLzVAikzzZjQ_MnpEEM4wBtDOHylIiBHG9o7816At_jFB6FAwHRE5UZVX7IW3ctbBWnkvsn059Bsg7UuLheao9CJzzOYzmEWCDhss_9RphsZiumq1zKdZlftqlCR86dE/s320/RenoTahoe+001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572146380967086306" border="0" /></a><br />Yes, this is a REAL sign. We saw this in Utah on the highway south from the Arches National Forest and just had to take a picture of it! <br /><br />Evidently the deer are so prevalent in the area that they are warning EVERYONE that the deer are into the throes of passion and they are not looking out for cars. Hence the sign. <br /><br />I love finding quirky signs and sites while traveling. So call me today at 512-805-9500 and I can help you plan your fun trip or getaway. Maybe you will see something fun and make you laugh, too!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-23947961432544474412011-02-09T17:58:00.000-08:002011-02-09T18:11:08.954-08:00Lake Tahoe Island<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt74P-CPo0qFuopY7HqDqNdGg9Qq6k0xvGcFEINBC5E1AtM_-4a6qRVK8TiN55T3sDifdlnTDYX4F4At-qIjPaPJ2x4J5H6MpXoaUnoeQU4yUS2GO2tdzk1xrtWb2eqgfPrCAo_wsWP4/s1600/RenoTahoe+018.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt74P-CPo0qFuopY7HqDqNdGg9Qq6k0xvGcFEINBC5E1AtM_-4a6qRVK8TiN55T3sDifdlnTDYX4F4At-qIjPaPJ2x4J5H6MpXoaUnoeQU4yUS2GO2tdzk1xrtWb2eqgfPrCAo_wsWP4/s320/RenoTahoe+018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571874620025810546" border="0" /></a><br />Bet you did not know that Lake Tahoe in Nevada/California has an Island? I was really surprised to find one when touring the area. The name is Fannette Island and it rises 150 feet high. Today there are stone ruins still to be seen but in 1929 there was a stone "castle" built on the island. Mrs. Lora J. Knight built it and called it her "Tea House". The main area was 250 square feet and she had her friends over for tea. I would have enjoyed an invitation to that party!<br /><br />What fun to dress up, ride in a boat to such a charming destination and have tea with your closest friends! We should all be pampered that way.<br /><br />I love quirky off the beaten path places and will help you find your perfect spot for a quick getaway or an extended trip. Call today, 512-805-9500.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-72094409482948560032011-02-01T05:25:00.000-08:002011-02-01T15:37:09.908-08:00Winter Getaway to the Snowy Lands<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHbDxvc0F7g6wJAZkScfB4BZyM2h70LZJJTHnWMm6jcQIvgHwAu5U0oiHHfYdM1qVBq5Zr-QHnjwDTZ0_Y0ru54B_GnaM7LYgp965HKAMQVcxmE6VNbw7T1KT4mhuYW43MTTNySd_UDg/s1600/RenoTahoe+003.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHbDxvc0F7g6wJAZkScfB4BZyM2h70LZJJTHnWMm6jcQIvgHwAu5U0oiHHfYdM1qVBq5Zr-QHnjwDTZ0_Y0ru54B_GnaM7LYgp965HKAMQVcxmE6VNbw7T1KT4mhuYW43MTTNySd_UDg/s320/RenoTahoe+003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568712047744840594" border="0" /></a>With the newest cold blast arriving today, I realize that some people LIKE the snow and cold. Kind of hard to ski or snowboard without the cold wet stuff.<br /><br />But at left is a picture of some downtown stores in a charming quirky place in Nevada, Virginia City. The entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places. It has creaky wooden sidewalks and was originally a mining area--and you can still take a mine tour here.<br /><br />It is located about 1/2 hour from Reno and is not far off the beaten path to Lake Tahoe. <br /><br />If you will remember the TV show Bonanza (think you can still catch it on TV Land) when the Cartwrights were going to "town" they were always going to Virginia City. Yes, the same place.<br />It has some fun shops, antique shops, restaurants and the same Western Flavor so you will know you are in the old Wild West. <br /><br />One fun festival they do once a year is race camels. Yes, I mean those desert animals. One thing on my "bucket list" is to attend these races. I would love to watch all the fun and antics and maybe take a camel ride, as well<br /><br />So call me today at 512-805-9500 and I can get you up on skis, gambling or having fun at the races!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-53973130000653295362011-01-31T12:59:00.000-08:002011-01-31T13:14:19.876-08:00Luxury Getaway<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxe6aw8WTELylrLd95P9PtZ3pdDPSegKHNS74LaSC9B9H8yUrF8fwczZLLbR5F_sEq-98r2CH_J6VW1uh_SHH4WnLIPqE6XrowvE2hVzU5s324VXmuTGZF80l0suP9xoa2ZTt0FK1bqQ/s1600/Swim+Up+Rooms--Jamaica.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxe6aw8WTELylrLd95P9PtZ3pdDPSegKHNS74LaSC9B9H8yUrF8fwczZLLbR5F_sEq-98r2CH_J6VW1uh_SHH4WnLIPqE6XrowvE2hVzU5s324VXmuTGZF80l0suP9xoa2ZTt0FK1bqQ/s320/Swim+Up+Rooms--Jamaica.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568458614594530306" border="0" /></a>Today's picture is the swim up rooms at Sandals Royal Caribbean resort in Jamaica. Love the idea of being able to swim to your room! Now I would not suggest doing this if you have your luggage with you, but it certainly gives you and your honey a lot more privacy than lounging at the main pool.<br /><br />One of the things that I really enjoy about all the Sandals Resorts is their emphasis on excellent quality food and drinks. Since it is an all-inclusive resort--you do not have to make choices based on quality or compromise because of price. I have never been disappointed with any meal at these resorts.<br /><br />And they always have several different types of restaurants from Tex-Mex to Italian, Japanese and just plain great gourmet buffet. And if you stay at the family friendly Beaches Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean, you can choose from 16 restaurants! I had one of the best steaks of my life when enjoying their French restaurant. <br /><br />When you have so many choices of places to eat, I like to treat the meal like a progressive dinner party. Drinks and appetizers at the bar, salad at another restaurant, main course at a 3rd and of course, dessert at a 4th. Then on to the nightlife and entertainment! So call today 512-805-9500 and I can make your dining dreams come true!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-53141997661498281712011-01-28T08:29:00.000-08:002011-01-28T08:41:05.283-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihXDDLy3RXfNDsbPC9Yu3tJ09Jt1sz8l_Iwf_FXugW3dq8oYyexS1cboaJZYsE0XLzly8l-culkKNeEhMtPKMY-viRboWCmZ3cX_QGVJQYw9VTOwWionQI5QNTDIzz54l8EN2EMa-0J38/s1600/surf.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihXDDLy3RXfNDsbPC9Yu3tJ09Jt1sz8l_Iwf_FXugW3dq8oYyexS1cboaJZYsE0XLzly8l-culkKNeEhMtPKMY-viRboWCmZ3cX_QGVJQYw9VTOwWionQI5QNTDIzz54l8EN2EMa-0J38/s320/surf.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567275280408311746" border="0" /></a><br />Happy Friday to all! Today's picture is NOT at an exotic destination (well maybe to some people) but is is right here at the Texas Gulf Coast! This picture was taken at Magnolia Beach on Matagorda Bay. It is a small community about halfway between Port Lavaca and Port O'Connor. For a pure beach experience, it is one of the best! No condos located here yet, no tourist stores or shell shops, just SUN, beach and FUN. It also includes a boat launch, 20 free covered picnic areas, a bird walk, kayaking, a great place to sail, and of course fishing and even crabbing. At the end of the 5 mile beach stretch is also a marina. <br /><br />I have 2 fully furnished vacation rental homes located here at Magnolia Beach and they are great for families or just getting away. For more information, check out my website at <a href="http://www.magnoliavacation.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>www.magnoliavacation.com.<br /></a>travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-67791542923431309332011-01-26T21:57:00.000-08:002011-01-26T22:13:42.452-08:00Let's All Go to the Bahamas!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqCZQ95tqe5DnfOjp-x3XM2dljomuSOIGtLh4pPlqMrm5Uo_P25_Yd5h17XqCv7vR6DVyd9Zq2D2hp08sSJ1yztL4UA8jyiBJ_8AyfiT8Fwf_gNc8sFi9WgAj8sGzMAnCR5cb95dNUp0/s1600/off+shore+island.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 72px; height: 37px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqCZQ95tqe5DnfOjp-x3XM2dljomuSOIGtLh4pPlqMrm5Uo_P25_Yd5h17XqCv7vR6DVyd9Zq2D2hp08sSJ1yztL4UA8jyiBJ_8AyfiT8Fwf_gNc8sFi9WgAj8sGzMAnCR5cb95dNUp0/s320/off+shore+island.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566743912227601058" border="0" /></a><br />Ready to fly away to warmer lands? I am! <br /><br />One of my favorite resorts in the world is Sandals Royal Bahamian. It is an awesome place, not only for the resort itself, the offshore island you can enjoy, the tax free shopping, but also the gambling. All this in one location.<br /><br />On the island (for Sandals guests) there is beach on two sides, a lovely pool with swim up bar and a great restaurant. You can spend the entire day here and dream that YOU own it!<br /><br />In addition, they have a restaurant called Baccarat which should have a 6 star designation--total excellence in their cousine. It is included in the restaurants available to you as guest, but you do have to make reservations after you check into the resort. Last time I visited I counted 17 tables, so it is tiny, but mighty on the palate.<br /><br />So call today. . .for a limited time, this great all-inclusive resort is offering up to a 65% discount on the resort, but also a free companion fare on the airline tickets. Call today 512-805-9500 and I can get you on your way to warmer lands!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-70941777981431579982011-01-24T08:53:00.000-08:002011-01-24T09:14:03.232-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4q87c1RJ7YA1oNefNbXQewAAtZkDDySjVNGq0VJWYNpblC-Ui_L_PAyw6wbpy6OdU_Mu3QGBUEjzWt8JWixlUVT9hHZ73eythToqLQ7TUTxD-4fGRBTkgD1J5GRmx1y6ZMQIgWo5pWr8/s1600/P1010072.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4q87c1RJ7YA1oNefNbXQewAAtZkDDySjVNGq0VJWYNpblC-Ui_L_PAyw6wbpy6OdU_Mu3QGBUEjzWt8JWixlUVT9hHZ73eythToqLQ7TUTxD-4fGRBTkgD1J5GRmx1y6ZMQIgWo5pWr8/s320/P1010072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565797248736566866" border="0" /></a><br />Here I am in Cobh (pronounced cove) Ireland standing next to the statue to Annie Moore whose group is turned toward America. Her fame is that she is the first Irish immigrant through Ellis Island in New York Harbor. Cobh is the port where most of the Irish immigrants left on the long journey to America. There is a sister statue on Ellis Island with her facing Ireland. <br /><br />Here at Cobh is an Irish heritage museum and research center--fascinating place and great for your own family research. <br /><br />If you have never heard of the Irish DNA project, you need to check it out. <a href="http://www.familytreedna.com/Default.aspx">http://www.familytreedna.com/Default.aspx</a><br />By testing your DNA, you can find more of your long lost relatives. And if you have seen the series on TV, "Who Do You Think You Are" (coming soon for another season) then you have an idea of how this opens up new possibilities to your own search. <br /><br />Travel not only broadens your horizons, but educates and brings people together. So call today to schedule your own voyage of discovery to your heritage, 512-805-9500.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-78921318786770280672011-01-19T07:01:00.000-08:002011-01-19T07:25:45.873-08:00Castles and Kings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGgcU7WFy3CsrbM5mPuHU2o5OMUHOrp53RUMD37DHoWKsJq7TPhc_mll3JcRrflRbgYAzdX42u7LPq9dPYjP60oV4RaUoOP9XqdFY4uQF4qJ0ccdzKhR9D2N-K2NxUoq-jQByG073URY/s1600/P1010182.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGgcU7WFy3CsrbM5mPuHU2o5OMUHOrp53RUMD37DHoWKsJq7TPhc_mll3JcRrflRbgYAzdX42u7LPq9dPYjP60oV4RaUoOP9XqdFY4uQF4qJ0ccdzKhR9D2N-K2NxUoq-jQByG073URY/s320/P1010182.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563916154092281314" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYQFnJADqeSbR8Bxi8s_G8goSE0czb09fkTPWvotkR9HUEsl7b8mh7CfhRVOanwpa2KWR0rrbRPD1LtOi5Rvia1PMCWAca2SEQbjv6DDYvgvVooTl-sRwjjfUE66a81piTTpDRU37_l4/s1600/P1020174.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYQFnJADqeSbR8Bxi8s_G8goSE0czb09fkTPWvotkR9HUEsl7b8mh7CfhRVOanwpa2KWR0rrbRPD1LtOi5Rvia1PMCWAca2SEQbjv6DDYvgvVooTl-sRwjjfUE66a81piTTpDRU37_l4/s320/P1020174.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563913381297667506" border="0" /></a><br />Keeping the Irish theme going this week, here is a shot below of Ashford Castle located in County Mayo. It was built beginning in 1228. This charming castle was the highlight of our tour to Ireland and we not only got to stay there, but also dine here! The 5 star accommodations and food were INCLUDED in our tour. <br /><br />Once owned by the Guiness Family (yes, the brewery family), it was their hunting retreat. Now it is a fabulous place to not only rest for the night, but to eat. The chef was recently honored as one of the very best chefs in all of Ireland. The food was amazing! We were served a 5 course meal by white gloved waiters and treated just like royalty! I could soon get used to this.<br /><br />Our room was very comfortable and very well furnished. And in the bathroom, there was an indulgence I loved--a heated towel rack! What luxury to have a warm cozy towel waiting for you after your shower. <br /><br />A booklet published by the castle listed some of the famous people who have stayed here in the past--John Wayne, Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney and many more. <br /><br />It was not all antiques and old stuff here, they have been updated into the 21st century. There is free internet service for guests! Up a wide, well decorated and elegant staircase is a computer room. So I got to check my email in splendor while connecting with the rest of the world.<br /><br />So call today 512-805-9500 and you too can be treated like royalty!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-41069306907139473862011-01-18T12:57:00.000-08:002011-01-18T21:45:55.482-08:00Want To Kiss the Blarney Stone?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXVGVOWz1WcfWtOpkv5xDJuLW90LZqLOveY8kN4xy6KioVV-wb_0DsBHRu8BhFh-cUE8e9i53A7hQ37v-p1xpmPYECOvj1OIFAToosAxxn0j7AQHIgSwCIz6zLBPdgbfztjGLYEQuBkpI/s1600/P1010049.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXVGVOWz1WcfWtOpkv5xDJuLW90LZqLOveY8kN4xy6KioVV-wb_0DsBHRu8BhFh-cUE8e9i53A7hQ37v-p1xpmPYECOvj1OIFAToosAxxn0j7AQHIgSwCIz6zLBPdgbfztjGLYEQuBkpI/s320/P1010049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563633421891363858" border="0" /></a>Welcome to Blarney Castle! Yes, here is the tower you climb to reach the stone. .. then you have to lie down on your back, lean backward and kiss the rock in the wall. Isn't that a great way NOT to lose the rock--actually cement it into the wall? Guess no one can steal it then. But you can't prove by me that it helps with the "gift of gab" and flattery.<br /><br />Looking at the calendar, it will soon be time for St. Patrick's Day. How about a trip the the "Old Country" and a tour of Irish Pubs to help celebrate that Saint driving the snakes out of Ireland? Now that is something I can get behind! Wish someone would come and drive them out of Texas!<br /><br />While there during my last visit, I found some lovely Irish wool I brought back for my knitting daughters. There is even a tour for knitters! Part of the tour is going to the Aran Islands and meeting the knitters from that famous region. Call today 512-805-9500 and I can make your wishes come true!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-11556091831044824022011-01-17T12:52:00.000-08:002011-01-17T13:11:59.521-08:00Monday Holiday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMsiQZ7XzsJ-wBSNxOGWgYo7NKJVIsYdnP0wpJvpLqhJPNjUrt7YlXFW572fVSJNOz29a7eZaOppfPonC-ow3duVNUgU_oDVngLvx8L82rRvyBPgadtcYPesw3rlrywt90Ooq9g86RQfo/s1600/P1010142.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMsiQZ7XzsJ-wBSNxOGWgYo7NKJVIsYdnP0wpJvpLqhJPNjUrt7YlXFW572fVSJNOz29a7eZaOppfPonC-ow3duVNUgU_oDVngLvx8L82rRvyBPgadtcYPesw3rlrywt90Ooq9g86RQfo/s320/P1010142.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563261605844883906" border="0" /></a><br />Our rainy weather here in Texas reminds me of my trip last December to Ireland. I'm ready to go back and visit; it was one of the best trips of my life. <br /><br />Above is a picture of the Cliffs of Moher, one of the top attractions in all of Ireland. It is located on the West Side of Ireland and well worth a visit. We happen to be there when it was pouring rain, but as so often happens in Ireland, it cleared up for a short time so we could explore. When it was time to leave, it started raining again. <br /><br />One amazing thing about the entire trip was that there were so many different shades of green everywhere you looked, despite it being December! No wonder Johnny Cash wrote a song after visiting called "40 Shades of Green". <br /><br />Call to today 512-805-9500 and I can help you with a trip to this Emerald Isle whether it is an escorted tour, self drive and B&B tour or just to visit for St. Patrick's Day.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-89364650258615488082011-01-15T10:13:00.000-08:002011-01-15T10:20:39.334-08:00New AdventuresI am taking the plunge. . .not into a pool, but moving my business from home based (have computer will travel) to a storefront office. So now you will have an opportunity to stop by and visit ME! <br /><br />Opening soon (before February 1) my office location is 1515 Aquarena Springs, Suite 101 here in San Marcos. Close to Texas State University, just off 1-35 between Austin and San Antonio so easily accessible for everyone. <br /><br />For a while, my hours will be by chance or appointment, but I will be there as much as possible between 9am to 5pm. Of course, I do have meetings with my clients to deliver documents and take care of other business.<br /><br />And I will let you know when I have my office warming party so you can come and celebrate with me!<br /><br />Meanwhile, call me TODAY and see how affordable that getaway can be. 512-805-9500.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-15078588792436875702011-01-14T07:48:00.000-08:002011-01-14T08:05:07.152-08:00TGIF<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SE9tRqSWlBhJ_y18U_wCITAIsbtThud2G9aKXNl2VgTPj426tv3ou_4Sp4NYAbigQeQDenM8yt39eTan00THSOMgl-wUdMp0UdPlYqVvVn5oWzvKuj1_AEzw_z2CsCezhdEgRlxRfuY/s1600/P1010011.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SE9tRqSWlBhJ_y18U_wCITAIsbtThud2G9aKXNl2VgTPj426tv3ou_4Sp4NYAbigQeQDenM8yt39eTan00THSOMgl-wUdMp0UdPlYqVvVn5oWzvKuj1_AEzw_z2CsCezhdEgRlxRfuY/s320/P1010011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562072317191966690" border="0" /></a><br />Fridays are special to me. . .the represent the "end" of the traditional work week and having time ahead to relax for a couple days. Bet most of you are ready to kick back and go out to dinner or just relax in front of the TV tonight.<br /><br />But for me, I do not stop working for you. Yes, I'm here for you and answer the phone when you call. And if you are on a trip and have problems or need changes made to your hotels, I am here. This service is not available if you book your travel online at the big wholesale sites. Calling an 800 number will not give you the help you need from an anonymous person; they don't know you.<br /><br />Service is what we do for our clients. We do CARE about your trip and making things run smoothly for you. We treat you like family and want you to trust us to return for the next vacation. And we are HAPPY if you refer us to your friends and family. <br /><br />So call today 512-805-9500 and I'll be at answering the phone. <br /><br />The picture above is Newschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany. Built by King Ludwig (who almost bankrupted the State of Bavaria). And it is this castle which was the inspiration for Walt Disney when he built Cinderella's Castle at both Disney World and Disneyland.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-3227355085723162362011-01-12T08:25:00.000-08:002011-01-14T07:47:19.143-08:00Keeping YOU informed<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7lRt91hKW9Se_0lmnjf-UazD7CyCX9VpqF1QjVcSVv_GrxgcMlgory7iMwMS9oUp8cRm8rk0TAXOxK1ZJMpE5fZFuP_F4VDa7u23O2OT8j3-bGSzX2jaw7v_IrlTi5scUgHONsvbncZ8/s1600/P1010196.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7lRt91hKW9Se_0lmnjf-UazD7CyCX9VpqF1QjVcSVv_GrxgcMlgory7iMwMS9oUp8cRm8rk0TAXOxK1ZJMpE5fZFuP_F4VDa7u23O2OT8j3-bGSzX2jaw7v_IrlTi5scUgHONsvbncZ8/s320/P1010196.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561343434841869410" border="0" /></a><br />Dream away--above is the pool and swim up bar at the Melia Cabo Real in the Los Cabos area, a 4 star All-Inclusive resort. Good food, nice rooms, quality drinks. Yes, it is a fabulous idea to have a swim up bar. . .no getting out of the pool to refresh yourself!<br /><br />My job is to travel and lend my experiences to my clients, but another crucial part is to keep my clients informed about travel news and how it impacts them. This involves not only the newest sales, but also changes in policy like the new Mexican law which took effect on September 14, 2010. The new law limits the amount of US Currency that will be accepted in Mexico on a daily basis as well as a monthly. Below is a link to check it out.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.travelagentcafe.com/uploadeddata/nwc/wl/12841529399090.pdf">http://www.travelagentcafe.com/uploadeddata/nwc/wl/12841529399090.pdf</a><br /><br /><br /><br />In the past, if traveling in a tourist area like Cancun, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerta Vallarta or even Ixtapa, I typically would not change my American dollars to pesos. Everyone would quickly accept dollars with no hesitation.<br /><br />My attitude is that every time you change money, you lose purchasing power. This was brought home to me on a trip to England. I purchased American Express traveler's checks (for a fee) and then when I wanted to exchange them for British pounds, I was charged another fee (5%) to change them. Ouch!<br /><br />Credit cards are pretty well accepted all over the world now, so it is easy to use them instead of cash. But before you travel, call your credit company and tell them you will be out of the country and what dates. You do not want to be standing in a line to purchase tickets to the Tower of London and have the purchase denied! <br /><br />At the same time, also check with them about any extra fees they charge for changing the local currency to US dollars. Sometimes it is worth it to pay for purchases with the pesos or pounds or euros and NOT your credit card.<br /><br />So call me today to book your trip to warmer climates! 512-805-9500 or 1-888-811-4497.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-39392190170866193932011-01-11T10:08:00.000-08:002011-01-11T10:26:43.917-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTypE2ec_HeKx6s8_d7Vsq98dyEgzzEbVcTdm7aG1FIwGrXQoOpJPVxh-6Kjeqps0QVQXXsqZBvTmPGclwXSDN3oHAYFFmZqTLyPaWrk9WOfDKWtksVLMKnG7Z9EYjP6WLm-jeBmUu9W8/s1600/Sandals+Cay.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTypE2ec_HeKx6s8_d7Vsq98dyEgzzEbVcTdm7aG1FIwGrXQoOpJPVxh-6Kjeqps0QVQXXsqZBvTmPGclwXSDN3oHAYFFmZqTLyPaWrk9WOfDKWtksVLMKnG7Z9EYjP6WLm-jeBmUu9W8/s320/Sandals+Cay.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560992969692114866" border="0" /></a>This cold snap has me dreaming of WARM places to visit. <br /><br />On the left is Sandals Cay, at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort near Montego Bay, Jamaica, one of the two private islands you can enjoy when you visit the Sandals Resorts. <br /><br />But my favorite one is located at Sandals Royal Bahamian in the Bahamas. By having these islands included with your resort, you not only have the wonderful luxury included resorts to enjoy, but a short boat ride that will whisk you away for your own island experience. More fun and great value. They have restaurants, private beaches and in the Bahamas a pool with a great swim up bar. <br /><br />I pride myself in matching the resort with my client to give them the best experiences and satisfaction possible. So by using my expertise in travel, I can save you money, time and give you the very best vacation possible. Right now, Sandals is having a sale with up to 65% discounts on the resorts. What a deal!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-71192803723589635702011-01-10T06:40:00.000-08:002011-01-10T06:50:36.619-08:00Happy Monday!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWxsAf_950LsPrHb3ux3yhF8ngSbugo9OAO1GOD98O4NwvDNG_Hkq6RqirpWQ7QaAucK4xh30HMz-XZn82JL4iLDPjsgWF1Eqpvj3rnDs4u14xWm24gLLT7x0G-9gMQ1MGIWVHZ_kfOE/s1600/116-1e.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWxsAf_950LsPrHb3ux3yhF8ngSbugo9OAO1GOD98O4NwvDNG_Hkq6RqirpWQ7QaAucK4xh30HMz-XZn82JL4iLDPjsgWF1Eqpvj3rnDs4u14xWm24gLLT7x0G-9gMQ1MGIWVHZ_kfOE/s320/116-1e.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560568640698789250" border="0" /></a><br />I'm always happy to start a new week, it is almost like a clean slate and I can start over. Hope you feel the same way.<br /><br />Just got an email with great deals to Hawaii! Limited time deal. . includes airfare (from San Francisco), 5 nights at a hotel and an Avis Car. ..all for one set price. Oahu starts at $825/person;<br />Maui from $910/person; Kauai from $904 and Hawaii from $1397. So from here in Austin, you would just need to add flights to and from San Francisco. This picture is from a client who wanted to share how beautiful it was on the beach in Maui.<br /><br />Call today to take advantage of this limited time promotion! 512-805-9500 or 1-888-811-4497.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-54561597327322301332011-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:002011-01-09T14:08:19.413-08:00Sunday Musings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6J0jxUnYhfXDTiZ-rF6OzWJ6F9y4_dLFjdhWT50P35cnX-8WvUzVvkbtStYalDEq8YHp1mgwIWN6AtysfhXYCapmzZmRKDWqmqu5YPDGqqidPJ-1H7bdSW2M1leEL6pJtZS38nxLZKHk/s1600/cabo+screen+saver.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6J0jxUnYhfXDTiZ-rF6OzWJ6F9y4_dLFjdhWT50P35cnX-8WvUzVvkbtStYalDEq8YHp1mgwIWN6AtysfhXYCapmzZmRKDWqmqu5YPDGqqidPJ-1H7bdSW2M1leEL6pJtZS38nxLZKHk/s320/cabo+screen+saver.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560307883006349122" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00LdkPw2okIaOxxgXsIvjTdvWXqh4a3ZW8gZ-8hqZGZWEf7JgQ-p264Szo9DTsH5Nd_pB6IOyudx7kx7w1QVsdWEBGgWnNz-tlPMoKCQFuGvxUCbRXGCAtxbg6wBrgtbebxGDUZY4y_w/s1600/Sandals+Pool+%2526+Beach.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00LdkPw2okIaOxxgXsIvjTdvWXqh4a3ZW8gZ-8hqZGZWEf7JgQ-p264Szo9DTsH5Nd_pB6IOyudx7kx7w1QVsdWEBGgWnNz-tlPMoKCQFuGvxUCbRXGCAtxbg6wBrgtbebxGDUZY4y_w/s320/Sandals+Pool+%2526+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560306943019381730" border="0" /></a><br />Today it is raining here and overcast. . .Texas winter with a coming cold snap for early next week. All I want to do is to run away to warmer climates!<br /><br />I would love to enjoy some of the great Spring Break specials I have, but think I'm too old right now (yes, you are as old as you feel) but all the wild craziness is no longer for me. Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE to party and have fun, but a bit more sedate.<br /><br />The pictures above should give you some ideas! The one on the top is at the Los Cabos area in Mexico and the one at the bottom is taken at one of the Sandals Resorts in Jamaica. Yes, I have been to all of the Sandals and Beaches Resorts in Jamaica. . .all the better to preview them for you. I love helping match people and resorts.<br /><br /><br />For the great Spring Break specials geared to the college crowd, check out <a href="http://www.ststravel.com/?repcode=00630000">http://www.ststravel.com/?repcode=00630000</a>. This will get you directly into my site to book directly. . .or you can CALL ME (what a novel idea!) at 512-805-9500 or toll free at 1-888-811-4497.<br /><br />And coming SOON you will be able to personally VISIT us at Trips and Travel with our new office located on Aquarena Springs Drive, after we sign the lease late next week! SO you can pop in, get brochures and personalized help, all at no cost to you! I'll keep you posted as to when we are open, but it will be soon.<br /><br />Meanwhile, think warm thoughts, dream of your vacation and then CALL me so I can make your travel dreams come true!travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-46390828396377803782011-01-07T13:56:00.000-08:002011-01-07T14:05:20.380-08:00New Beginnings for 2011<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMY_eCyRAhaAGOSck-1G6-pw4HaW2jC-wgfkavkVaS-4QIqKzXcYU9q9m6UNrNiugxNgrY0W-sC5WjDU3RyMCw7o4hbVQhpzKvON6sR0iz2xIR5JXrvdNwJCmXmTW7ZZjiKm8ApIj-qiI/s1600/sandals2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559567228627911730" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 106px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 76px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMY_eCyRAhaAGOSck-1G6-pw4HaW2jC-wgfkavkVaS-4QIqKzXcYU9q9m6UNrNiugxNgrY0W-sC5WjDU3RyMCw7o4hbVQhpzKvON6sR0iz2xIR5JXrvdNwJCmXmTW7ZZjiKm8ApIj-qiI/s320/sandals2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Finally it is the New Year. . .all the hustle and bustle is GONE. Time to get back to work and FUN!<br /></div><div>My resolution is to blog almost daily. And add lots of pictures and good info here for all my readers. But no boring stuff.</div><br /><p>The cold weather makes me think of tropical getaways. The picture above is of the Sandals Resort in Negril, Jamaica. Only 7 miles of beautiful white sandy beaches to walk on barefoot and lounge on the beach enjoying Margaritas. Right now there are some great specials for Sandals and their sister Family Resorts, Beaches. Time to call and find out how easy it is to work with a travel agent! Call me today! If I cannot travel, then the next best thing is helping others plan their getaways. </p><p> </p><p> </p>travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-91272461375101077622010-03-06T08:32:00.000-08:002010-03-06T09:26:47.433-08:00Cabo Number 2It has been a long time. . .try years . . .since my last post. Lots of changes for me, my family and the business. But I do want to finish the post on Cabo and then will add more posts for all the other travel we have done. <br /><br />As I said, we loved Cabo. It is desert and I was worried about going there in July, thinking it would be oppressive heat. Yes, being from Texas we do have heat, but since Cabo is desert, the heat is much easier to take, at least for me. Once the sun goes down then the wonderful coastal breezes kick in and it is very lovely. One evening I even wished for a sweater--in July. That is almost unheard of in Texas.<br /><br />The first All-Inclusive Resort we stayed at was Posado Real just outside of village of San Juan del Cabo. It is a Best Western so we expected a good level of service and food. But that is NOT the case at this resort. To get any service at all, we had to tip. .. something that is not supposed to be allowed, but without this, you would be overlooked and ignored. <br /><br />As for the food. . .it was sub-standard quality at this resort . Now I enjoy all kinds of food from Mickey D's to high end gourmet restaurants, but this was pretty disgusting. The choices were not only very limited, but also greasy and sub-standard for any Mexican restaurant in the States. The quality reminded me of dorm food during college. The first night was OK, but the second night I went to bed hungry--I refused to eat their offerings. <br /><br />As for having the drinks included, if you wanted a beer, you did not ask for DosXX, or Modelo or any brand, but they had one big generic bottle they used for "beer". We asked if they had dark beer as well and were told "no", but the second night found out they did have it. And the wine. . .well, just say that we used to make our own in my younger years and our was better. The only selections they had were red or white, never White Zinfandel or anything else. And the same story for the wine as the beer--no brands. They looked at me really strange when I asked for Beringer wine--no way was it provided. Twice I asked for white wine and was given red despite using the Spanish words for the color of wine. <br /><br />And I would never suggest you drink the water here. We used bottled water to even brush our teeth. Montezuma's revenge can be a very real situation you do not want to encounter during your vacation. If you ordered a Margarita, they used their "tap" water and ice made from the tap water for those mixed drinks. So always be very careful with the drinks they create in the machines.<br /><br />At one point on the first evening, I asked for a bottle of water. Well, the one they brought had the cap popped and had been previously opened. We had been warned that this is something some of the lower end hotels did. . .they reused the bottles and instead of having the original filtered water, they refilled them with local tap water. When I asked for another bottle that had NOT been opened the waiter gestured to a local store about a couple blocks away and told me that I could go there and purchase one. Boy, was I angry. . .they could not even provide an unopened bottle of filtered water for a paying guest.<br /><br />We were supposed to stay one more night, but when we returned to our room on the second evening, we found a checkout notice for our room for the next day. Housekeeping could not get things straight. We talked it over and decided with the poor service and awful food, we would check with one of the other resorts along the "Tourist Corridor" and see if we could check in for just one night.<br /><br />The next morning we visited the Melia Cabo Real and got a better price for that hotel than staying one more night at the Posada Real. We went back to the hotel and talked to the manager. He expressed surprise and disappointment that we had not found the hotel service and food excellent. After a long discussion, we cancelled the last night at this hotel and moved to the Melia. <br /><br />What a difference in the hotels! We had a gardenview room (nothing special) but the appointments in the room, the sheets (high thread count), towels and overall atmostphere in the room was much more comfortable. Since it was an all-inclusive, too, we went to enjoy lunch. And enjoy we did.<br /><br />Much better food and drinks, good service without the mandatory tipping and one of the best rice dishes I have ever had. . .it had champagne in it and was excellent. Since we came too late to make reservations at the specialty restaurants, we enjoyed the buffet. It was such a pleasure to eat there after the other resort. . .I would recommend anyone staying at the Melia. <br /><br />The beach at the Melia is also a swimmable beach. . .something that is not possible at all the resorts in Cabo. The Posada Real beach was not swimmable . . .and the"red" warning flags had been out in the weather so long that they had turned pink and faded.<br /><br />We enjoyed the pool and also the beach at the Melia so much. Met some great people at the swim up bar . . .loved being in the pool and watching the sunset while enjoying some refreshment.<br /><br />One of the days we explored Cabo San Lucas. This busy and bustling town has grown by leaps and bounds. It used to be a sleepy village that only insiders knew about. But that has certainly changed. Now the port has cruise ships docking almost daily, upscale restaurants and funky shops and has a very lively nightlife. We had always heard about Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo, so we visited there and enjoyed some of his tequilla. The place is huge. . . and does come alive at night I was advised by good party sources.<br /><br />We were told that Sammy named his tequilla, Cabo Wabo, because one morning he saw a local staggering home after a night at a bar. He laughed and said. . .he must be doing the "Cabo Wabo". The name stuck and that became the name of his brand.<br /><br />I mentioned that the nightclub is HUGE. Well, we were also told that the architect Sammy hired to design the club visited with him during one of the band's tours and brought along the plans. He presented them and got them approved. However, Sammy did not realize that the dimensions were in meters, not feet. . .so it ended up about 3 times larger than planned. Now I am sure everyone is glad it is so large since it is very popular and the even now can be really crowded.<br /><br />We were sorry to leave Cabo after such a short stay, but I will be going back to visit the town and a couple resorts at the end of this month when I am on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. And I hope to visit there in the upcoming summer/fall. <br /><br />The reservation noted that we were to report to Terminal One to catch our plane. . . well, that was easy since there is only one terminal. I got a real laugh out of that. Since visiting there, I have found one other country where the airport terminal is smaller (Turks and Caicos Islands) but it was very convenient. We flew back to Dallas/Fort Worth, spent the night again and had a chance to meet my daughter G and her husband (from Ohio) who were in the area for training. So it was a perfect way to end a great trip.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-86085441577208229762007-08-12T08:29:00.000-07:002007-08-12T09:39:43.061-07:00Cabo is Wonderful!!! Part OneThe desert has never been my "thing", but since being with R, I have discovered both at Big Bend National Park in Texas and at Cabo in the Baja--that the desert can be spectacular!<br /><br /><br />We recently went to Cabo for a 3 night, 4 day trip. I had never been too excited about traveling to Mexico, as my only experiences were at the Mexican Border Towns. And to me they were just dusty places where everyone was trying to sell you something. . . usually something I did not need.<br /><br /><br />The charter flight was from Dallas/Fort Worth airport, so we ended up staying the night before to catch a 9 am flight directly to Los Cabos. We stayed at a hotel near the airport where we could leave our car there for the duration of our trip. So we saved the parking fees and had the hotel shuttle drop us directly at the gate. It certainly helped make the EARLY morning much easier for us as we do not function well before our mandatory two cups of coffee.<br /><br /><br />The flight itself was on AeroMexico and was smooth. And quick, as it was only 2 1/2 hours. After looking at the map, I realized that Cabo was closer to Texas than Las Vegas or anywhere in Florida.<br /><br /><br />Landing at the Cabo Airport was an eyeopener. After we landed, our pilot turned the plane around and we taxied down the runway again, this time from the opposite way we arrived. We deplaned the old way, down steps to the tarmac. I felt like a "movie star" in an old Hollywood movie reel.<br /><br /><br />The Cabo Airport is small. . .really only one terminal, but tourism now has about 8 different airlines arriving there. Customs was a breeze being such a small place. Certainly not like the experience we had arriving in London Heathrow! I found this small airport very friendly and easy to use.<br /><br /><br />After landing we checked out the price of the buses and taxis as there was not a shuttle by the hotel. Yikes, a taxi ride to the hotel would be about $35-40 one way. And the bus was not a great option, as it would make too many stops. We just wanted to get to the resort and start relaxing.<br /><br /><br />R. went to use the phone. We quickly learned that you need a phone card and even then it is confusing unless you speak fluent Spanish. After talking with some of the people at the airport, we hooked up with Dollar Car Rental. They made us a great deal on the rental. . .including all insurance.<br /><br /><br />After renting the car and getting ourselves organized, we were approached by a representative from the Fiesta Americana Vacation Club. If we would agree to take a time share tour, then they would pay for the entire car rental. And give us a couple other perks. Well, since we are travel agents, we really wanted to explore other resorts, so we said sure. We made an appointment for 8:00 am the next day to meet the rep; a great breakfast that morning was also included. It was a great move for us as they did come through and paid for the rental as promised.<br /><br />Cabo is not just one area, but encompasses the town of San Jose del Cabo (nearest to the airport), the Tourist Corridor (where most of the hotels are located) and the popular Cabo San Lucas, which is more trendy.<br /><br />Our hotel was just outside the charming, more family oriented town of San Jose del Cabo, but officially in the Tourist Corridor. We chose it because it was all-inclusive and the price seemed reasonable. It was also part of the Best Western Hotel Chain, so we thought it would be more friendly to Americans.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-66065121955309926632007-08-05T12:50:00.000-07:002007-08-05T14:11:08.142-07:00Vegas and Reno--What Happens There Does Stay There!R and I love to have fun and what better cities to enjoy the excitement, nightlife and thrills than Vegas and Reno. <br /><br />VEGAS first--<br /><br />I love this city so much that I took the time and became a "Vegas Certified" travel agent. It was not an easy course--11 separate tests and much studying. But I learned so much! And I also am certified with other Vegas properties; The Wynn and MGM/Mirage (2 programs).<br /><br />We have been to Vegas together about 4 times and each time is a new experience. Both of us had been to Vegas separately about 20 plus years ago (does that give away our ages?) as well as together in the last 3 years. The city is constantly changing and is never the same place twice. And it has many hidden surprises that we enjoy discovering and passing on to our clients.<br /><br />The hotels are amazing places and I think we have stayed at at least 10 of them. . . from the "scary" places to the luxurious ones. We will stay at Paris and then Rio when we go to the Travel Agent Conference in September. So just ask us and we can tell you about them all: Wild Wild West, Circus Circus, Excalibur, Tropicana, Imperial Palace, Riviera, Harrahs, Luxor to name a few. If we have not stayed there, then we probably explored the hotel and casinos. And we have seen most of the major sites and some of the shows. In September we already have tickets for "Blue Man Group". <br /><br />One of the nicest rooms was in the Tropicana. . .we went to check into our "free room" and they asked us if we would mind being ungraded. Mind??? Are you nuts? So we got a mini-suite at the end of one of the upper floors with a lovely sitting room and an amazing view of the "Strip" & airplanes landing at the airport. The back of the door listed the price as $1500 per night. But bargain shoppers that we are. . .it cost us $1.00 per day for the phone charge. That's living! <br /><br />Getting around Vegas between the casinos and hotels is so easy. They have "The Deuce" which is really a double-decker tour bus. It is cheap, convenient and runs every few minutes--make sure and purchase a day pass so for 24 hours you can hop on and off. The Monorail is also convenient, but only stops at a few hotels; however, it is a great option, as well. Driving down the "Strip" takes too much precious exploring time as well as the problem of trying to find a parking place when you do arrive at your destination.<br /><br />But did you know that just outside of town there is a small resort which is like being in the Alps?<br />Checkout Mt. Charleston ....just west and north of the city. We were there in the spring (late April) and there was still a big bank of snow. It is a great way to cool off . They also have cute cabins for you to stay. <br /><br />And have you ever visited Red Rocks just west of town? Now there is Red Rock Resort and Casino . . .part of the Stations Casino group. It is lovely and upscale with a great buffet. You have lovely views of the park which is just west of the casino. Check it out next time you are in town. <br /><br />One of the best websites for inside info is the Las Vegas Advisor written by Anthony Curtis. If you watch any of the Travel Channel programs on Vegas, you will already know him. His website sends out a free daily email with the question of the day about Vegas. And he has a coupon book (reasonable charge) that you can purchase. Look up <a href="http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/">www.lasvegasadvisor.com</a>. before your next trip.<br /><br />Being travel agents, we get the very first information and special deals on airline tickets, hotels and car rentals. It is often much less expensive to purchase them as a package. So give us a call and we will help make your Vegas dream vacation come true. Then all you have to do is hit a jackpot at one of the casinos. <br /><br />When we leave for the Travel Agent Show in September, we are flying into Vegas and renting a car to drive to Reno. It is a route we have never taken and are looking forward to exploring. From Reno we will be traveling through Yosemite National Park on the way to Palm Springs for a couple days (checking out another resort for you) and then return to Vegas for the Travel Show. <br /><br />RENO<br />It is called the "Biggest Little City in the World" and while we were there did finally find the sign that proclaims this slogan to the world. <br /><br />Our experience in Reno was great! Unlike Vegas where you have to find your own way to the hotel either by cab or bus or ???? the hotels all have FREE shuttles. We had booked THE PEPPERMILL and we were immediately impressed with the shuttle bus driver, Dino. Never had we had such friendliness and service before. This theme of genuine hospitality was continued at the Hotel and Casino. Every employee was very friendly and helpful. What a change from most casinos where service can be uneven at best. Our room was ready when we checked in and was tastefully decorated. <br /><br />We believe that THE PEPPERMILL has some of the loosest slot machines we have ever found. Strickly Slots Magazine rated it the best overall in payouts...I think about 98%. So we could play for a long time without losing our shirts. The service in the casino part and the restaurants is top notch. <br /><br />The story about the name (I thought it was a strange name for a casino) is that it originally started as a coffeeshop by some high school friends and eventually grew into what is now several casinos and coffeeshops. The original owners still control it and they are still friends!<br /><br />Later the first day we left the Casino for the Downtown area and had a real blast! The Convention Center, Circus Circus and a couple more casinos have a wonderful pedestrian area with even a Brewery (great beer and food) inside. We could go from one casino to another without going outside. Harrahs is also Downtown, but found the slots very tight and the place needing updating. The employees were not friendly so we did not spend our money there!<br /><br />On another trip, we spent time at The Atlantis which is just south of THE PEPPERMILL. But we did not like the atmosphere and found the machines tight. One of our clients stayed at the Atlantis because THE PEPPERMILL was full, but only had good gambling luck at THE PEPPERMILL. They liked the hotel and would return in the future if THE PEPPERMILL is full.<br /><br />The last day of our original trip, we rented a car and drove to Lake Tahoe. Just south of Reno is the charming historic town of Virginia City. Do you remember in the series "Bonanza" that they were always going there "to town"? Well, I don't think it has changed much. Still has wooden sidewalks and is now an historic site. Next trip we will go back and do more exploring. <br /><br />The next town on the way to Tahoe is Carson City. A nice capitol city, but we were trying to make some time to get to Lake Tahoe. It is worth a stop to explore. <br /><br />Lake Tahoe was amazing! The Lake itself is MUCH bigger than I ever dreamed and much more beautiful. No wonder people are flocking to the area. Since it is busy both summer and winter (skiing, hiking, etc) going in the fall and spring is the best. We did stop in Lake Tahoe and checked out the casinos, but we did not stay. Some of the casinos had lovely views of the lake. Squaw Valley (one of the Olympics was held here) is on the northwest part of the Lake and we were running out of daylight, so we will save it for the upcoming trip. <br /><br />We were surprised that there is an island in the Lake with a house (like a castle) in the middle of it called Fannette Island. It was very impressive! The story goes that the owner of the house would take her friends out there to have tea. It would have been lovely to enjoy it out there.<br /><br />OK--are you ready to visit either or Vegas or Reno? Just give us a call 1-888-811-4497 or email us (<a href="mailto:beach1@txwinet.com">beach1@txwinet.com</a>) and we will find you a great package deal. It is a wonderful weekend place, but the best prices are usually in the middle of the week. Besides being not as crowded during the week, you can play the slot machines and table games without having to fight for a place.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2158795915300438856.post-31212446973804594982007-08-04T17:35:00.000-07:002007-08-05T12:47:50.025-07:00Adventures AboundWelcome to our blog! Here you can read about some of our adventures and those of our clients as we travel the world. So sit back, enjoy a cup of coffee or diet coke (my favorite) and travel with us.<br /><br />Our company is called Trips and Travel and we are both Travel Agents. Both R and I absolutely LOVE to travel. I've often said "give me 5 minutes and I'll be ready to travel anywhere!" As a child growing up in Kansas, I absolutely haunted the local library and read every book I could get my hands on about travel.<br /><br />Our family took several vacations during the summer, but mostly to Colorado and to visit relatives. It was always fun to see new places and experience new food. But to this day I cannot drink Dr. Pepper because I got car sick (probably altitude sick) after drinking it during a trip. For months I would save up my allowance money for these trips. I still have the turquoise ring and bookmark I purchased during our last Colorado trip as a family.<br /><br />During college, travel was scarce. . .mostly just trips to work and campus classes. But I did marry an Air Force Officer who promised to show me the world. It makes me smile because our first station was in Nebraska--certainly not far from Kansas.<br /><br />But over time we did move--to Florida, Germany, Virginia, and Ohio. Living in Germany on the economy was quite a change in lifestyle from the States. Our two girls went to German schools; not something that most Americans did, but it was a wonderful experience. And it forced us to quickly learn German. To this day, my German is fairly good conversational German, but heaven help me if I have to be gramatically correct and pronounce those pesky umlauts! I still say that you can only learn to make those sounds if you learned them as a child. Luckily my girls did!<br /><br />While in Germany we travelled everywhere possible--all over Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Belgium, Luxemburg, The Vatican, Holland, England, Scotland and other places I am sure will come to me later.<br /><br />S did not especially want to go to England, so he finally told me that if I could get our car across on a ferry and arranged a two week tour, he would go. Little did he know! (I absolutely LOVE a challenge!) The next day I promptly went to a German travel agency and got us booked on a car ferry from Bruges, Belgium to Hull, England which is not a typical tourist route. But we wanted to visit Yorkshire and some of our mutual ancestral roots and they were near York. So logically, I thought starting in the middle of England would work for us. We discovered wonderful B&B's with full breakfasts that blew us away. And the hosts all loved the girls.<br /><br />Our tour went from Yorkshire up to Scotland and the town of Jedburgh was expecially memorable. We could not find a B&B available, but the kind lady told me about her friend who had a big Victorian House who sometimes took in her overflow guests. So we stayed in a lovely home that night (it had a beautiful stained glass window on the stairway landing) and the girls had a ghostly experience. They slept in the room where the hosts daughters had grown up; their names were still on the outside of the door. During the night, my daughter G said that she felt a gentle hand on her and the covers being smoothed down. I had checked on them earlier, but not at 2 a.m. G never felt frightened, but instead was comforted.<br /><br />From Jedburgh we went to St Andrews, up to Loch Lomond and then down the west side of Scotland and into England. My ancestral family is from Yorkshire and Manchester, so it was interesting to see the countryside. We stayed the night in Shakespeare's hometown, Straford-on-Avon which was lovely. Then on through London and to Kent where some of S's distant family lived.<br /><br />We loved being in the countryside in Kent and being able to take the train into London. We did spend one evening at the theater and saw Agatha Christie's play "The Mousetrap". Agatha is one of my favorite authors, so it was a real treat.<br /><br />Returning through Dover (yes, the cliffs really are white!) we caught a ferry and one of the girls turned green with motion sickness. I sure was glad that it did not last too long; then we were in France wending our way back to Germany.<br /><br />R had a different experience. But I'll let him tell you about it in his own words.<br /><br />Both R and I LOVE to travel and since we have been together, we have taken so many wonderful trips, both small and large. Our appetite for adventure is never ending.<br /><br />So that is why I am a travel agent. If I cannot go on the vacation, I derive so much pleasure helping other people make their dreams come true. I guess an agent is part Mom, part big sister and best friend all rolled into one. We love having satisfied customers and will post pictures and info as the blog grows.travelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15850330106847913582noreply@blogger.com0