We experienced two different trips in one as we traveled from Jacksonville to NYC and back. On the trip there, we did not meet the staff and the bathrooms were never cleaned. That in itself ruins a train ride. (Think inside Port-a-Potty subject to the movement of a train.) The staff was not friendly and at one point, closed and locked the bathroom instead of cleaning a mess.

On the return trip, we met Joseph. He introduced himself to everyone. He offered to bring things from the dining car. He picked up the garbage. He cleaned the bathrooms on a regular basis. Totally different experience but still not as cool as I remember.

The cost was about the same as low cost airfare for the economy seats. The big difference is there is no charge for luggage. If you opt for the sleeper cars, it’s comparable to last minute airfare. But the benefit is that you have your own bathroom (still Port-a-Potty type) and your meals are included.

We found that the other travelers were friendly and most used this mode of travel on a regular basis. They traveled with coolers full of food and drinks, blankets and pillows. They purchased an additional seat so they would have a whole row to themselves. They spent time in the snack area working at the tables.

All in all, it was an ok experience and we were pleased to find that there was Wi-Fi and electrical outlets for electronics. I don’t think I will do it again though, unless it’s a short enough trip to avoid the bathrooms.

These are the most likely reasons:

1) Someone in your party gets very sick and needs to be taken to a hospital. From a boat, this is very expensive and you will be in for a big surprise. Countries, like Mexico, charge $25,000 or more to transport you from the ship to the hospital. Then, they keep your passport and do not allow you to leave until you have made arrangements to pay your bills in full.
If you purchased the insurance, you dial a 24/7 hotline for assistance and they organize and pay for everything.

2) Your medical insurance does not cover you outside of the United States. If you have to be treated by a Doctor or hospital while out of the country, you will have to pay all of the bills yourself. See #1.

3) Your spouse gets so sick they are hospitalized a day before you’re scheduled to leave. If you didn’t purchase insurance, you lose the cost of your trip. It’s nice to think the cruiseline will understand and offer a refund or future cruise voucher but that never happens.

4) You traveled to the cruise port and as you are checking in you realize you’ve forgotten your passport, birth certificate or other acceptable identification. Or you didn’t use a travel agent and someone gave you the wrong information about what is required. See #3.

5) Your flight was booked with American Airlines and has been cancelled. As such, the cruise leaves without you. Insurance can allow you to fly to the next port while paying any incidental expenses which have occurred.

6) Your luggage doesn’t make it onto the boat or is lost after the cruise. Some insurance will help replace the contents.

7) There is a Norovirus or other disastrous illness or malfunction requiring evacuation of everyone from the boat. Insurance will help you get home.

Purchase your insurance within a week of your initial deposit to insure the most value. Some things will not be covered when purchased later, like pre-existing conditions. However, purchasing something at the last minute is still better than nothing.

Don’t purchase the coverage offered by the cruiseline without researching the options. Make sure the insurance you do purchase provides help during your trip and not in the form of reimbursement. InsureMyTrip.com allows you to comparison shop. Just be sure you verify the insurer on www.ustia.org – the U.S. Travel Insurance Association.

My opinion is that you pay a little extra to avoid a financial disaster later. I can personally deal with all of these things if the cruise was a deal, but I purchase the insurance with the most medical and evacuation coverage. I don’t want to take the chance that something will go wrong and I will be unprepared.

This is why you need me.

Sure you can book everything online, but the choices are so vast and confusing that it will take you hours. And if things go wrong you will have no one to turn to.

Instead, consider talking to a travel professional. Here are some of the many ways they can help make sure your dreams come true.

1. Choosing the right destination. The average online booker goes to more than 30 websites to plan a trip, spending hours sifting through information and reviews posted by strangers. A travel professional has first-hand knowledge; he has been there himself or has a friend who has. A good travel agent is part psychiatrist, part social worker, part keeper of family secrets. He knows what you like and what you don’t, and how to pose the questions that will point to the right destination for you and those with whom you are traveling.

2. Standing in your corner. A professional agent sits on your shoulder from the minute you step out the door until you return home safe with your luggage intact. He is your advocate, your guardian angel, your defense attorney. If the B & B in Boston is overbooked or the bistro in Baghdad loses your bags, just give him a call.

3. Keeping you safe. Being a travel professional means knowing the news. She will warn you if there is illness or danger in a location you are considering. And if terrorists attack or stormy winds blow, she knows where you are and whom to call to keep you headed toward your destination and out of harm’s way.

4. Getting the paperwork right. Many a traveler has been turned back from an airport for lack of the right visa, passport, or other credential. You may think you know the regulations, but then something unexpected will pop up; some countries will not let you enter within six months of the date of your passport expiration, for example. Your travel professional will ensure you have what you need.

5. Knowing the right insurance. True, you probably do not need cancellation insurance fortomorrow’s shuttle flight from New York to Boston. But there is a time and a place for travel insurance—and those times and places fluctuate and are buried in fine print and differ from carrier to carrier. Even more important, while most people believe their U.S. health insurance will cover them if they are taken ill abroad, that is often not the case. A travel professional will remind you to consider whether insurance is right for a particular trip, and taking into account your age, your health, and your existing medical coverage.

6. Saving you money. Most travel agents no longer sell their services on promises of saving you money—but that’s not to say they can’t hold down your costs in many ways, sometimes by hundreds of dollars. They know all the discounts and promotions, the best times to book an airline ticket, the best days to travel. If you are traveling in a small group, they often can get a discount or a free hotel room night.

7. Scoring some perks. Travel agents live by their connections; they have friends in cities and hotels and airports around the world. Often they can get you free excursions, spa visits, or room upgrades; entrance to private locations; or after-hour access to popular sites.

8. Offering extended payment plans.  Unlike online booking sites where you must prepay, travel professionals usually require only a deposit at the time of booking, followed by payments in installments as your trip departure date nears.

9. Gaining time to make up your mind. Need a day or two to get everyone on your family trip on the same page? Agents can hold airline seats for their customers for up to 24 hours while everyone makes up their mind.

10. Insights into the unknown. You’re not likely to find a once-in-a-lifetime experience online. But that’s the magic a professional can bring to your trip of a lifetime. Travel professionals know what’s hot and what’s overbooked—and even better, what’s about to become the next big thing, so you can go before the crowds.

So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone, click on the link, go to the Facebook page of a professional travel agent. Because without a travel professional, you really are on your own.

If your travel agent is in Florida, they are required to be registered with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. They are also required to list the Florida Seller of Travel number given to them by the state in any contracts or advertisements. Mine is ST15578 and is listed under Cruises & Tours Unlimited (CTU). Effortless Travel is an independent agent of CTU but still separately registered with the state.

Florida closely regulates all registered sellers of travel. The problem is a lot of agents don’t bother to research the requirements and don’t register. This leaves you in a pickle should you have a problem with a booking through an unscrupulous agent.

Different states have different requirements but a little due diligence will keep you from getting scammed. I belong to a large forum of travel agents where everything is discussed. In addition to all of the things we learn from each other, we find that some agents just don’t know what the requirements are for their business’. Most are working from home, low on funds, learning as they go and lacking the time to research the law.

You are your best advocate. Using your friend’s agent without checking them out, may turn out to be a huge mistake, too costly to imagine. Know your options. Review the laws of your state. Invest in your vacation or other travel with someone you can trust.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
http://www.800helpfla.com/sot.html

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Virtually all cruise lines now offer activities specifically designed with children in mind. The activities are separated by age ranges so that your kids, no matter what their ages, will be with other children in the same age range and doing things of interest to them. It’s not a one-size-fits-all schedule. The activities take place all over the ship, so the kids will stay active and have a blast!  There are trained, certified, background-cleared childcare workers as well.  Cruise lines know it’s important not only to keep the kids happy, but to keep the parents happy and worry free. Some cruise lines even have Directors with Childhood Education degrees!

What can your kids expect? Activities ranging from themed onboard youth clubs where kids can participate in specific activities unique to their interests, to character greetings, to live shows with Broadway quality acting and music. There are movies on board most ships, and jumbo televisions. Many cruise lines even have spas specifically designed for teens.  There is music, dancing, karaoke, video games and game arcades.  These activities are all separate and apart from typical activities like swimming and sun bathing.  There are also art projects, and educational courses and programs.

More?  Many cruises offer full-blown game show environments where you and your children, or just the children, can participate in trivia contests just like on shows like Jeopardy. Those are an absolute blast! And there’s no pressure. You can play golf, basketball, or croquet. You and your kids can also choose to participate in Dancing with the Stars style dance contests where they’ll be judged by an audience and judges.

Families with special needs children are also welcome aboard all cruise lines.  Most cruise lines have staff members specifically trained to ensure that children are treated like VIPs. These staff have the education and experience to deal with a range of limitations on board.

And as the night gets late, believe it or not, there are even more activities for kids! Cruises shift into high gear at night to provide activities for children indoors in a safe, secure environment. There are even babysitters on most cruises that will stay with your children until they run out of energy, usually as late as 1 AM.

Cruising with kids? You bet. Give me a call and I’ll make sure you board the ship that is perfect specifically for your family. Happy sailing!

​Veronica Wold is a CLIA Accredited Cruise Counsellor. The Accredited (ACC) Cruise Counsellor designation is conferred by Cruise Lines International Association, Inc. (CLIA) upon dedicated travel professionals who have completed an extensive program of classroom training, cruise experience, ship inspections, and a combination of video/DVD training and attendance at industry events. A CLIA Certified Cruise Counsellor is your best resource in choosing a perfect vacation.

Before I was a travel agent, I thought that using one was a waste of time. I assumed they all added fees to the costs of the trip. I assumed they knew nothing more than me about the costs, what to do while on vacation, how to put a trip together. I assumed they couldn’t get deals like the ones I found on other sites, like Orbitz or Priceline. Yet every time I booked something through those sites, I had a problem.

I booked a hotel in Orlando on Priceline. I was so excited because it was listed as a 4 star hotel downtown and the cost was so low! When I arrived, I realized that I’d been duped. The hotel exterior was dingy and hidden from the main road. The interior was ok but definitely not 4 star. The first thing the hotel clerk said to me was ” I see you booked with Priceline.” I didn’t think much of it at the time, but I did have to switch rooms twice because the first 2 were dirty. The 3rd room was not perfect but cleaner than the other two. I just didn’t walk around barefoot.

I had no one to call. I was staying multiple nights. I was upset and I felt helpless. Then, the traffic noise kept me up all night. I called Priceline the next day, went through their automated system, and held for more than an hour. When I finally reached a representative, it took me more than another hour on the phone and lots of fussing to get a refund for the other nights. I moved to another hotel and paid a very high rate to ensure a much better experience.

I did book through them again. I thought maybe it would be better and the cost was too good to pass up. I was sorry and I’ve  learned my lesson, but it’s taken me multiple mistakes so I understand the hesitancy of the average traveler. If I had booked with a travel agent, I could have called them late at night for a solution. That’s the big difference between a cold computer and a human being. Travel agents have multiple options to find good rates, access to information about bonus’, deals, incentives being offered, and a desire to ensure you keep coming back.

As a travel agent, I’ve had training in every aspect of travel. I’ve also had training from the companies (Marriott, Carnival, Apple, Sandals) to insure knowledge of their distinct offerings. I know which cruises and resorts are for partiers, families, older adults. I know the safe areas in countries with questionable backgrounds. I belong to a large host organization, Cruises & Tours Unlimited, which gives me access to forums with other travel agents (3000+) and deals not available to the general public.

Most of all, I’m a human being with your best interests in mind. I work hard to insure a fantastic and effortless travel experience. And if anything should go wrong, I’m available to help you any time of the day or night. That’s the true value of an agent.

Parents want to give their children the memories they know will remain with them throughout their lifetime. With this in mind, here are ten tips for all things Disney in no particular order.

1. Plan to book your vacation at least 6 months in advance, whenever possible, and stay onsite. Advance dining, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and recreation reservations are available to Disney guests 180 days before arrival. FastPass reservations can also be made 60 days before arrival (starting at midnight) when all other guests have to wait until 30 days out.
2. At Animal Kingdom, every morning starts with a ceremony, called “The Adventure Begins,” about 10 minutes before official opening time. It either occurs in The Oasis (just in front of the turnstiles) or on Discovery Island in front of the Tree of Life.  Rafiki welcomes you, followed by a number of his friends, including Mickey, Minnie, Baloo, Louie, and Timon. Lots of cast members are also on hand, with small creatures of all kinds — lizards, snakes, insects and more. It’s a great chance to see them, and the characters, up close.
   Also, if you make advance lunch reservations (1-2:30pm) at Tusker House, you’ll receive priority seating for the 3:15 Finding Nemo-The Musical show.
3. For a souvenir that will last, stop at one of the carts for a custom Silhouette. There’s one about halfway down Main Street on the right, if you’re facing the castle. There’s also one in Liberty Square, Downtown Disney and Epcot. When you sit down, someone will cut your silhouette as you wait. It’s truly amazing, completed very quickly, unbelievably accurate and cheap (at less than $10)!
   
4. Adults with children too small to ride an attraction may take turns riding. Simply see a Cast Member at the front of the attraction and obtain a Child Swap Pass, which will allow one parent (and any other child who is tall enough to ride) to enjoy the ride while the other sits out with the other child. Then, without waiting in line again, you can swap so that both parents can enjoy the ride!
5. In Fort Wilderness, join Chip ‘n Dale for a nightly campfire celebration, followed by a classic Disney movie under the stars. The campfire sing-along and outdoor movie are complimentary and held nightly as weather permits. There are also carriage rides, pony rides, canoeing and archery available to anyone, for a fee, staying onsite or off.
6. One of the best and least expensive behind the scenes tours is the Behind the Seeds Tour in Epcot. During the tour, you’ll release lady bugs, see gators up close, feed fish, sample cucumbers, and learn more about the growing techniques and nutrient cocktails utilized in Epcot. It’s an educational experience that can’t be beat!
7. Become an apprentice sorcerer and help the wizard Merlin fight the forces of evil. Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is included in your theme park admission and is a free interactive adventure game played throughout the park. To start the game, visit one of the two recruitment centers: the Fire Station on Main Street or in Liberty Square behind Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe across from the Tiana character greeting area. At either location you can pick-up the Sorcerer Spell Cards required to start your quest.
8. Attend My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party located in the Grand Floridian. This regal gala includes tea for two (parent is required), beautifully decorated cakes, and an opportunity to meet and greet Sleeping Beauty herself, Princess Aurora. Each princess receives a selection of gifts as a keepsake of her storybook morning: A special 18-inch My Disney Girl doll dressed in a matching Princess Aurora gown with accessories. Her own ribbon tiara, princess link bracelet, fresh rose, special princess scrapbook page and a “Best Friend” certificate. Young princes receive a pin, a plush bear and a Pirate Mickey cap.
9. There are fully staffed complimentary Baby Care Centers at all parks that have private nursing rooms with rocking chairs, changing tables, a unisex bathroom, highchairs, a full kitchen, and a living and dining room area. Also, lost children are escorted here by staff members.
10. Cruise the loop on a boat around Crescent Lake, which visits Epcot, Boardwalk, Yacht/Beach Club, Swan/Dolphin, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios without going into the parks. Stop at the Boardwalk for one of the following or much more.
    1. ESPN has a live radio show on Disney’s Boardwalk at the ESPN Club. Sometimes you can catch a live interview with a celebrity athlete at one of these high-spirited sports-radio talk shows.
    2. When the sun sets, the sounds and lights come to life at the Atlantic Dance Hall in the elegant surroundings of a stunning Art Deco ballroom.
    3. Raise a glass as you enjoy the rollicking music of 2 piano maestros at Jellyrolls. No request is too obscure, no artist beyond mimicry. These guys can play anything. Well, almost anything. Go ahead—try to stump them!

    Bonus Tip: Visit the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, Ft. Wilderness, or the Contemporary Resort to catch a glimpse of the nightly water show, The Electrical Water Pageant. This water-light parade was created in 1971 for the dedication of Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

    For more tips and secrets, contact Veronica at 850/321-5477 or veronica@effortlesstravel.net

Why in this day and age does anyone need a professional travel agent? Everything is on the internet and right at your fingertips, including location information, sales, quick purchase sites, restaurant recommendations, etc. Or is it?

How reliable is the information on the internet? Ever seen this State Farm commercial?

A little research and you will find that a lot of review sites have planted reviews, meaning someone close to the company is posting on their behalf. You see average or negative reviews followed by bursts of great ones leaving you confused and unable to determine which is best. Who do you believe?  What happens when you get where you’re going and everything is not what you expected?

What happens when you’re at the end of your trip, stuck on the tarmac in NYC unable to make calls. You know you will miss your connecting flight. You know you will not be home in the morning when it’s time to go back to work. You know you may lose your job. What do you do?

Let’s face it there are a multitude of mishaps that can happen when you’re traveling. A licensed travel professional can guide, assist and enhance your travel at little or no cost. Travel professionals are specialists in the area of travel. They are continually trained, constantly networking and abreast of all the latest travel related news. But why do you really need one?

You probably don’t need a travel professional to get the best price. But, you need one to know if what you see in pictures is what you will get.

You don’t need a travel professional to book your air travel. But, you do need one if you are in a situation that needs attention.

You don’t need a travel professional to book a cruise. But, you do need one to help you determine the best cruise line or ship for you.

You don’t need a travel professional to book your hotel. But, you do need one if you want to be sure you’re getting a clean room in the best location.

You don’t need a travel professional, but having one is essential if you want to receive the service you deserve. Working with a travel professional also provides a protection that is unmatched in a world of chaotic situations.

​Veronica Wold is a CLIA Accredited Cruise Counselor, a licensed Florida Seller of Travel, and a Disney Destinations Specialist. She has traveled throughout the world and is the consummate professional. Contact her at 850-321-5477 or veronica@effortlesstravel.net.

Never assume anything. When researching this topic, I came across articles from both sides of the spectrum. There are people who claim that shore excursions booked onboard are safer because cruise lines have researched the providers, their insurance coverage, safety, etc.

“So, when your cruise line suggests you avoid independent tour operators, it’s not just because they’re trying to earn an extra buck; it’s because they know for certain their operators are legit. That’s not to say accidents don’t happen on cruise-sponsored excursions. But you at least gain more peace of mind knowing an official authority did its due diligence on your behalf. ” —Elissa Leibowitz Poma, Cruise Critic Contributor  [Follow Cruise Critic on Twitter]

While others have a different take….

“…cruise lines contract with local operators who run the excursions. The cruise lines have to add on something to make money. Duh. So basically, its the same people, running the same excursions, but you pay more if you get it through the ship. If that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy then buy through the ship. Most people do. If you want to save 20% to 50%, do some research first. There might be a better value out there.” by Chris Owen on Jan 15th 2011 [Follow Him on Twitter]

I will provide you with some facts and you can make your own decision.

Fact: There are multiple options for booking shore excursions.

Fact: There have been unfortunate situations involving crime and tragedy on cruise line sponsored and non-sponsored excursions.

Fact: Potentially dangerous activities, like zip line or ATV tours,  are just as dangerous on vacation as they are at home.

Fact: Booking an excursion through your cruise line is more expensive than with several other companies.

Fact: Shore excursions can enhance your cruise vacation, but aren’t absolutely necessary.

Now that you have some facts, what should you do with the information? This is where your travel agent comes in, because they’ve done your research for you. Ask who they use. Ask who they recommend. Ask which companies guarantee your return to the ship. Then, you can book with confidence knowing you’ve done your best to protect yourself.

What happens if you need help? How should you prepare?

1) Travel insurance is a must. Check out insuremytrip for options or ask your travel agent.
2) Passports or passport ID cards are recommended. (Ask me why)
3) When traveling abroad, register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so the US Dept. of State can assist you quickly in the event of an emergency.
4) Check out the latest US travel advisories here.

In the event of an emergency:
CONTACT OVERSEAS CITIZENS SERVICES:
From within the U.S. 1-888-407-4747
From outside the U.S. 1-202-501-4444

Finally, my recommendation to you is to follow your gut. Your travel agent is your ally and has your best interests in mind. Listen to them, do some quick research on reviews, save some money by booking ahead, and have fun!

For the World-Class Wine-and-Spa Crowd:

Chateau Elan Winery & Resort – Atlanta, GA

This location has everything you want including a world class spa, a championship golf course, a fully functioning winery, and so much more. Consider couples photos in the winery, couples massages, a wine education event, or dinner under the stars and recapture your connection.

Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation – Greensboro, GA

Ranked as one of Travel + Leisure 500 World’s Best Hotels in 2015, this resort is
lakefront luxury at its best. Spend your day in the 26,000 square foot spa sipping champagne while you experience a couple’s massage and pedicure. Spend your nights in feather beds with marble baths and European bath products.

For the Outdoorsy Types:

Steinhatchee Landing Resort – Steinhatchee, FL

Cottages with amenities including a gas fireplace, Jacuzzi bathtub, and a grill are available on a tree-lined lane close to the river. This is truly getting away from it all! Only three miles from the Gulf, you can bring your boat and dock on site, kayak, hunt, ride horses or take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area.

Mountain Top Inn & Resort – Warm Springs, GA

Located near Callaway Gardens at the top of Pine Mountain and just under four hours from Tallahassee is this romantic resort. Choose from a log cabin or a lodge room, with a Jacuzzi, rocking chairs and porches overlooking the valley. You’ll find a wild animal safari park, horseback riding and a little Presidential history nearby.

For the I-Need Solitude Folks:

Greyfield Inn – Cumberland Island, GA

Located just 3 ½ hours from Tallahassee, this romantic gem will win you over quickly, if you truly want to unplug. This is an undeveloped island with no phones, streetlights or stores. Wild horses run free and you can watch them grazing nearby; just don’t get too close.
If that is too remote, consider staying at the beautiful Elizabeth Pointe Lodge in Fernandina Beach, FL and taking a sunset cruise to see the island. The lodge was built in the 1800’s and is directly on the beach.

For a Beachy Escape:

Watercolor Inn & Resort – Santa Rosa Beach, FL

All 60 rooms in the main inn face the beach, and if you’re on the first floor, come with private patios and Adirondack chairs. Upper floors have sunset views and walk-in showers surrounded by windows. It’s Southern hospitality meets beach romance with attendants catering to your every whim.

One Ocean Resort & Spa – Atlantic Beach, FL

This resort is located directly on the beach in a little known area near Jacksonville. The resort fee includes unlimited snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, complimentary steam pressing and shoe shining, a temperature controlled pool, and more. The area is reminiscent of a small town with art galleries, bars, restaurants and locally owned shops. If you go, skip the popular seafood restaurant with the long wait and head to Ragtime. You won’t be disappointed!

Published in the Nov 2015-Jan 2016 issue of the Tallahassee Family Magazine.