We are so excited to be able to offer a 7-day pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe this September (September 28 to October 4, 2023).  This is a perfect time to reflect and renew our Catholic faith!

The seven-day journey includes flights from Jacksonville, Orlando, or Tampa,  transfers, hotel, transportation, and most meals (transportation to the airport is not included).  A local guide will lead our group to view all of the sites in air-conditioned buses and provide historical and cultural information.  The Reverend Father Jared De Leo, Pastor of St. Monica Catholic Church, Palatka, will be our Spiritual Advisor and will celebrate Mass throughout the journey.

Let’s take a closer look at each destination of this amazing journey!

DAY ONE: 
Depart USA.  Arrive in Mexico City by 3:00 pm.  Travel to Tlaxcala and check into our hotel.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning to travelers about “juice jacking,” a deceptive practice used to steal information from phones while they charge at public stations at airports and in hotels.

According to ABC Chicago, an FBI spokesperson said people should avoid using free charging stations in “airports, hotels or shopping centers” due to concerns that hackers would use the public USB ports to “introduce malware and monitoring software onto devices.”
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Scammers figured out that some smartphones use the same port for charging and data transfer, allowing them to move data between devices and steal information or install malware. Juice jacking has been a tool used by hackers for years, but the FBI is the first federal agency to address the issue.

Source:  The Discover Blog/Kellie Cappola, Editor
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From the arid Southwest to the rocky coastline of the East Coast, the United States has some of the most stunning natural terrain in the world. Narrowing down the most awe-inspiring destinations in this country is one of the more difficult things we've done. Go ahead and argue with our choices, but here's our list of places that we can't stop drooling over.

N​ext time you’re planning to take a vacation, why not invest a bit more time and make the journey part of the adventure? Ditch the airport in favor of traveling by rail and you’ll be surprised at just how much more you’ll see. Here are five train routes in the U.S. you just can’t ignore.

​Where do you start when there’s so much to see in the Great Smoky Mountains? A couple of rail trips on offer from Bryson City might just provide the answer. Its most popular departures utilize steam locomotive #1702 and you’ll want a souvenir selfie of this historic engine before climbing aboard. The Tuckasegee River excursion opens up the countryside en route to charming Dillsboro while the Nantahala Gorge excursion follows the Tennessee and Nantahala river valleys across Fontana Lake and through the gorge. These scenic routes take around four hours apiece, making the perfect day trip whichever you choose.

WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION?
Just email us and we'll be happy to help design your perfect Train Vacation!

California is so big, so varied, so enduringly symbolic, you could create literally thousands of vacations up and down the coast and barely scrape the surface of what the Golden State has to offer, from San Francisco to Long Beach, to Los Angeles and Anaheim, to San Diego.
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California has almost 1,000 miles of coastline and some of the most popular beaches in the world. In San Diego, visit Coronado, Ocean Beach, and La Jolla. LA is home to El Matador, Malibu’s Zuma, and Surfrider. If in Santa Barbara, check out Rincon and El Capitan State Beach. Carmel has Point Lobos State Reserve. You’ll find Pismo Beach in San Luis Obispo. And, the Anaheim area is known for popular Laguna Beach.
The state’s relaxed vibe lends itself to beach bumming and the big West Coast waves are ideal for surfing.

From hip South Beach to the lush and relaxing Keys, from 5-star restaurants to beach-side bars, whether you’re traveling with the kids or looking for family fun, or traveling with your significant other looking for a romantic escape, The Sunshine State beckons and stands ready to provide the beach vacation you’re yearning for.
On the Atlantic Coast you’ll find glittering Miami – known for its blend of Latin American and Caribbean cultural influences, with cuisine to match. South Beach is one of the area’s most popular beaches, thanks to its turquoise waters and soft, white sands. North of Miami is Ft. Lauderdale, which has a calmer seaside vibe. Those looking for a more laid-back vibe will find it in the Keys. Key West is quirky, charismatic, and unique, with some of the best fishing in the world. 

Head to the Gulf Coast for romantic beaches and mesmerizing sunsets. Naples has high-end shopping, swanky eateries, and a historic downtown area. Families love Clearwater for its numerous activities and the serene and pristine beaches.

Hawaii is cherished for its legendary beaches, active volcanoes, regional delicacies, dramatic waves, cultural experiences, and inspirational activities. The 50th state is imbued with “Aloha Spirit” – the warm welcome and genuine kindness that blends with the lush, luxurious tropical landscape. And, with several islands to visit, there’s a beach for everyone.

The small island of Oahu is known for its perfect surfing conditions and beautiful beaches. You can get a taste for both on Waikiki as well as the North Shore, the surfing capital of the USA.

On gorgeous Maui, water sports, luaus on the sands, and brilliant tropical scenery create a serenely appealing way of life that’s perfect for sun worshipers and outdoor enthusiasts. Hit golden Ka’anapali Beach for body-boarding, kayaking, and sailing.
Nicknamed the “Garden Island,” Kauai is green and flourishing with lush fora from the mountains to the ocean. There are more than 50 miles of beaches – more beach per mile than any other island in Hawaii. The gorgeous Napali Coast spans 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore and has some of the best views Hawaii has to offer.

The Island of Hawaii, popularly known as “The Big Island,” is arguably the most diverse island in the chain. The beaches here come in a variety of colors and textures, including fine, black sands, crystal green sands, and newly formed lava rocks.

On Molokai, you’ll find the longest white-sand beaches in Hawaii and ultimate relaxation. The people here prefer a simpler way of life, so vacationing here really defines getting away from it all.

Lanai is the smallest of the inhabited islands. A popular vacation spot for celebrities, the beaches here are secluded and uncrowded, with soft, white sands and rolling blue waves.

America is multicultural, vibrant, and home to beautiful and varied beach experiences from coast to coast.  Give us a call today to start planning your next USA beach getaway.

Published May 20, 2020 by GoGo Vacations
(All photographs, Courtesy of GoGo Vacations)
 
NOTE FROM TERIE:  I wanted to begin this blog series with one of the simplest vacation trips ever:  Road Trips!  What I love about this article is that there’s a wonderful Road Trip relatively close to everyone in the country!  If you decide this is YOUR next vacation, I am here to design a Road Trip Vacation, specifically for YOU!
 
There’s a reason why road trips are immortalized in songs, books, and movies. Between the expected sights straight from your itinerary to the unexpected moments along the way, road trips create memories that last a lifetime. From “The Mother Road” of Route 66 to driving through canyon country, America is full of open roads to explore. We’ve captured three unique and iconic road trips that are must-sees for every traveler.

Sunshine State Road Trip - Everglades to Key West
 
Day 1-2: Everglades
If you’re starting toward Miami, head south for Everglades National Park and walk the Anhinga Trail, a half-mile boardwalk over a mush abundant with wildlife. Check out some alligators, birds, and exotic fish, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the rare black panther. Enjoy the Biscayne Bay Boat Tour which reveals nature’s secretly preserved wilderness from aboard a comfortable airboat. The next morning finish your Everglades experience with a dolphin eco-tour before heading to a local fishery for fresh grouper sandwiches. Continue to Islamorada and spend the night at this halfway point between Miami and Key West.
 
Day 3: Islamorada
Islamorada is composed of six tiny islands, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. Take a fishing trip, or head to the History of Diving Museum, which houses diving items from more than 30 countries. Enjoy the catch of the day at one of the beachfront restaurants with your toes warm in the powder-soft sands. Then hit the road and cross the renowned Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest in the world. Finish the drive into Key West or a night out on the town.
 
NOTE FROM TERIE:  Islamorada is my favorite Florida vacation!  Dan and I are avid snorkelers and we have a good friend who is a Boat Captain who runs tours for divers and snorkelers.  We visit Islamorada and Key West as often as we can and know the area VERY well!  I have tons of brochures and information, as well as contacts, to help make a perfect vacation!
 
Days 4-7 Key West
Wake up in beautiful Key West, the southernmost town in the United States. Spend some time exploring the island, visiting the Key West Aquarium, and enjoying the Old Town Trolley tour. This fully narrated tour of Key West covers more than 100 points of interest, and offers hop-on/hop-off convenience. Leave time to snorkel the coral reefs and admire Key West’s stunning 19th-centure buildings, including the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. For a melting pot of tastes and nightlife, Duval Street delivers unique experiences, from stylish bars and eclectic boutiques to cabaret shows and famous restaurants. On the final day, wake up and enjoy your coffee in the quiet solitude of this seaside paradise.

Western Adventure Road Trip
 
NOTE FROM TERIE:  Dan and I will be taking an abbreviated Western Adventure Road Trip in August.  We’re attending a travel convention in Las Vegas and, as most of you know Dan hates flying!  Plus, my dad and brother live in Prescott, Arizona – so we figured a cross country drive to Las Vegas for the convention, followed by a leisurely ride home – starting in Arizona – would tick off one more Bucket List item!  We’ll be sure to post lots of photographs and thoughts about our adventure! 
 
Days 1-2: Scottsdale
From award-winning museums and wine tasting rooms to its exceptional hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, you’ll want plenty of time to truly discover this Arizona desert town. Both art-driven and outdoor-laden, Scottsdale has plenty of public art installations and performing arts, as well as more than 200 golf courses in the area (which is why it’s known as The World’s Finest Golf Destination). To unwind after all the adventure, try a head-to-toe spa treatment inspired by ancient Native American healing techniques.
 
Day 3: Sedona
Take the short drive from Scottsdale to enjoy a full day in Sedona. Full of breathtaking views made famous in many classic Western films, you’ll want to hike one of the state parks. Alternatively, head to the Verde Valley Wine Trail, where you’ll find seven wineries to experience. At dusk, gaze up at the incredible red rocks and buttes as they shine against the falling sun before enjoying a beautiful dinner along the creek.
 
Days 4-6: Grand Canyon
Hit the road for an hour-long trip to the Grand Canyon. This will be undoubtably your most epic stop along your trek out west. Drive to the South Rim, winding through the single-lane roads leading to the quaint town by the National Park’s opening. Check into your lodge and get acclimated to the high altitude. Then it’s time to explore. Most visitors stop by Mather Point, the first look at the canyon, but continue onward for the more spectacular sights like Desert View. Take a helicopter ride over the canyon and spend a day hiking and rafting down below.

Route 66 Road Trip

St. Louis to Flagstaff
Drive at your own speed… this road trip can take anywhere from a week to fourteen days.
 
St. Louis, MO
Start your iconic Route 66 road trip near the iconic Gateway Arch. Take a free tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and pick up a treat at the original Ted Drewes Frozen Custard on Chippewa Street (originally Route 66) on your way out of town.
 
Tulsa, OK
As you enter Oklahoma—the state with the longest stretch of Route 66—you’ll pass several vintage gas stations, now restored to their original designs. Upon reaching Tulsa you’ll get acquainted with Oklahoma barbeque at mainstays like Rib Crib, Elmer’s BBQ, and Albert G’s.
 
Oklahoma City, OK
Furgher along Route 66, Oklahoma’s state capital brings surprises such as the city’s “Little Saigon,” where you can stop for some superb pho. Or wait until you reach Tucker’s Onion Burgers for classic American fare. Also, check out the Gold Dome, a 1958 geodesic dome originally housing a bank… you can’t miss it!
 
Albuquerque, NM
In New Mexico’s largest city, you’ll find multiculturalism, natural beauty, and ancient attractions. Plus, the usual museums, galleries, and shopping. You don’t need to leave the route to explore the Barelas-South Fourth Street Historic District near downtown, as well as the Moderne-style Nob Hill Shopping Center, New Mexico’s first drive-in shopping center.
 
Flagstaff, AZ
Stroll through the city’s Railroad Addition Historic District, cited on the National Register of Historic Places, which runs parallel to both Route 66 and the railroad tracks. Take a tour of Lowell Observatory, where astronomers discovered Pluto, and peer through the 24-inch Clark telescope. If you feel like the adventure isn’t over yet, leave Route 66 behind and head north approximately 80 miles to Grand Canyon National Park.
 
So, there you have it!  Three great road trips to dazzle you, right in our own backyard!  Again, if you decide this is just what you’ve been looking for, I can help plan every aspect of a vacation that will take your breath away!  Just send me an email at [email protected]

Who ever thought we’d be watching all travel cancelled – and the entire world basically in a travel-restricted lockdown? While it’s ALWAYS a wise decision to purchase Travel Protection before you take off on your next adventure (land or sea), with today’s uncertainties, selecting the right protection becomes more important than ever.  You need to know whether your trip cancellation and interruption insurance covers the non-refundable portion of your travel fees, in the event you decide to cancel your booking.  My best advice:  read the fine print carefully!  If it isn’t listed in the description of coverage, don’t assume!
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Please note:  I am NOT an insurance agent.  I do NOT sell travel insurance.  I DO, however, strongly encourage my clients to purchase a Travel Protection Policy and will recommend several suppliers so you can make the best choice for your circumstances.  The information provided in this blog is generic, basic information.  Before making any decision, please contact me and I will direct you to an agent who is licensed to discuss in detail and sell insurance.

We sure have found ourselves in uncharted territory lately, haven’t we?  Through hurricanes, tsunami’s, fires and more, the travel industry has continued to provide our clients with exciting adventures and FUNtastic experiences.  The Coronovirus, unfortunately, has stopped us dead in our tracks and has – and is – playing havoc on the entire country.
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The question on everyone’s mind is:  should we cancel our travel plans?  I wish I could give you all a well-informed, definitive answer but the truth is, if the travel supplier isn’t canceling your package/cruise, etc., then the decision as to whether or not to cancel is highly personal.  

If you or any of your travel companions have medical conditions that could be compromised by the threat of contact then, of course, you’ll want to reschedule your plans.  Dan is having a series of heart procedures next month that will put him in the 60-day window of hospitalization, so we’re having to cancel our amazing 16-day Transatlantic Cruise the first of June.  We are heart-broken!  We’d both looked so forward to visiting Ireland and Scotland – locations very high on our bucket list!  But I know God has a reason for not wanting us to make that trip right now, so I have complete faith it’s all good.  We’re now looking for a new adventure for later on so we can use our Future Cruise Credit.
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If your employer is mandating a 14-day self-quarantine if you travel out of the country, then you may well want to reconsider traveling right now.  I’m sure there are other reasons that may prompt you to reschedule – like I said, it’s highly personal and only you can make that decision.