It's a Great Big Beautiful World! Let's Discover it Together

Showing posts with label Destinations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Destinations. Show all posts

Friday, April 16, 2021

Discover the USA... Christopher's RIDING THE RAILS Adventure Suggestions

Suggested Itinerary: NORTHERN RAIL EXPERIENCE

Venture from the breathtaking great plains of the Midwest to the serene waters of the Pacific Coast on this scenic rail journey from Chicago to San Francisco, with a stop in Seattle. Enjoy the landscape as you travel along major portions of the Lewis and Clark trail. Explore Seattle on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. Discover the sights of San Francisco. Spend some quality time in two majestic parts of Northern California: Muir Woods and Sausalito. And, then you'll head back to the “Windy City” onboard one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America.




HIGHLIGHTS:
- Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Seattle
- Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of San Francisco
- Sightseeing tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito
- Sightseeing cruise in San Francisco

WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- One-way Amtrak® from Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder®; Seattle to San Francisco on the Coast Starlight®; San Francisco to Chicago on the California Zephyr® in Coach accommodations
- 4 nights' accommodations; 5 nights onboard Amtrak
- 1 meal included (1 dinner)
Departures available most Thursdays March through November. Reverse itineraries also available.
You can absolutely upgrade the experience with sleeping accommodations, pre and/or post hotel stays in the departure city.

Intrigued? Ask me! I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and rail vacations!

Thursday, April 1, 2021

Have You Experienced a River Cruise Yet?

 

River cruising is an excellent way to explore a destination and really experience the heart of it all!  You'll discover the culture in each locale, see the sights, and enjoy the amazing local cuisine. Plus you can explore on your own during port stops, or join the included guided tours. There's a unique adventure awaiting you on the great rivers of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. From the enchanting Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Danube, and Duoro rivers; to the timeless wonders of the Mekong, Nile, and Amazon; or the mighty Mississippi, Snake, and Columbia rivers; amazing itineraries and immersive experiences are yours for the asking.  Check out this video to learn more, and then reach out and let's chat about the itinerary that's best for you.  And if you have friends or family that want to sail with you, we can easily turn it into a group! 

 



Tuesday, March 23, 2021

Did You Know We Can Book That?  SNOW SKI ADVENTURES

Spring is here for many parts of the country...hurray! But for my SKI LOVING FRIENDS... did you realize that I can help with your next ski vacation? I'll bet you didn't, because too many people see the name Cruise Planners and think all we do are cruise vacations!  

image ©ski.com 
But sure enough...we can, and do!  Across the US & Canada, South America, and Europe, the choices are plentiful. We can book more than 120 mountain resorts worldwide, and about 4,000 properties...so your options are seemingly endless!


When you're ready to start planning that big ski trip for next winter, I would love to have a chat with you and help make your downhill dreams
come true.  

You can learn more about the possibilities on our dedicated snow ski adventures page.  And please be sure to like our FB page, too! Cruise Planners - Christopher Lingren & Associates


#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking   #exploremore   #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #getbacktonature #skivacation #skitrip #skiing #snow #WinterGetaway 

images © ski.com


Monday, March 15, 2021

Vaccinated & Ready to Travel?

 

Then It's Time To Book a Trip With Your Trusted Travel Advisor!

 

Are you about "done" or "over" this whole covid pandemic and the assorted stay-at-home situations facing many Americans?  After more than a year of "two weeks to flatten the curve", it's time to start living your life again and making memories. While we still might not be able to travel abroad due to assorted travel restrictions, there are many GREAT options to discover the USA while waiting on international borders to reopen!  Here are just a few options to consider.  All of these are things that any member of our team of travel experts can help you book. 

 

Beach Rentals | Mountain Cabins | Escorted Tours | Hawaii | Alaska | Rail Vacations | Ski Trips | Theme Parks 

 

PLUS!  We have a number of fantastic SHARED GROUP TRAVEL EXPERIENCES available that you could reserve as well.  These shared travel experiences are specific date-departure packaged itineraries with a limited number of seats available. They feature destinations both domestic and international, where you'll discover fascinating places coupled together with a rich full complement of cultural and culinary experiences. And the best part is that you could make some new friends along the way.  Each experience title is a link to learn more! 

 

Saturday, March 13, 2021

Destination Universal Orlando!

Home of some amazing attractions, experiences, and themed adventures, Universal Orlando is a fabulous vacation option. Check out the attached video to see how they're doing things in the current environment as the covid pandemic hits the one-year mark.
 
 

 
 
There's so much to see and enjoy while maintaining the social distancing stuff too. I love helping guests discover the worlds of Harry Potter and so much more at Universal Orlando! 
 
 
Want to talk about booking your family's Universal vacation? Call, email, or message today!  
 

Thursday, March 11, 2021

Group Travel Experience - Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta - AVAILABLE NOW!

 

 
Up, up and away! This is an experience not to be missed! The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta has grown into one of the world’s most photographed events. Set in New Mexico, a place diverse in culture and scenic beauty, the Fiesta is simply one of the most spectacular displays of sound and color you are ever to witness.  Check out these amazing TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:  Balloon Fiesta, Old Town Albuquerque, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Turquoise Trail, Santa Fe, Open-Air Tram Tour, Loretto Chapel, Santa Fe School of Cooking
 
We have limited availability for this incredible annual event, taking place this October, with an escorted tour of the surrounding area as well. Package pricing includes air from IND (but can be changed to a different gateway if desired...just ask!)
 

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Destination Florida! Summer Vacation Plans Await

Itching to travel but not yet ready to go too far? Want to have some beach & fun? Then be sure to visit the state where the sun always shines: Florida! You’ll never run out of activities and adventures in this tropical paradise. From the beautiful beaches to the amazing theme parks; the awesome natural wonders to the cultural and culinary delights; from the links to the clubs...Florida has something for everyone year-round!

Whether you're thinking of staying in a lush tropical resort, beach condo, a cute bungalow somewhere near the water, or at one of the many incredible vacation homes available to rent, I can help!


Or perhaps you want more thrills and fun at Universal Orlando or Walt Disney World...I can help with that too. Don't let the agency name fool you...we are SO MUCH MORE than simply cruises.

 

I love helping people find amazing adventures and experiences to create memories for a lifetime through land vacations, as well as cruises. Want to know more? Just ask!  

Monday, March 8, 2021

Go Active Itinerary Suggestion:  CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY

 

ITINERARY SUGGESTION:  CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY: Napa & Sonoma Vineyards, Redwoods & Pacific Coast

Legendary vineyards. Soaring redwood forests. And the dramatic Pacific coast. This is Northern California. And for you, it's a fantastic week and an incredible journey. Wine tastings and gourmet meals enlighten your palate. Stunning scenery invigorates. And top-notch spas relax and rejuvenate... all in one remarkable place simply known as the Wine Country.
 
 


 
There are 24 possible itinerary departures from April to November 2021. These 6 days, 5-night adventures are truly special!
 
Intrigued? Ask me! Know someone who might love this type of adventure? Share it with them!  I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations & active adventures of all kinds. Don't let the agency name fool you...we are SO MUCH MORE than just cruises!
 
Learn more about other biking and active adventures on our dedicated page! 
#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #discovertheusa #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #bicycletouring #bicycling #biketours

Sunday, March 7, 2021

Did You Know We Can Book That For You?  HAWAII LAND-BASED ADVENTURES

RELAX IN THE ISLANDS! HAWAII!

Home to the world’s most active volcanoes, the only royal palace in the U.S., and the welcoming aloha spirit - Hawaii is like no place on Earth! Discover the glimmering ocean, emerald valleys, and golden sands; get lost in the spiritual beauty of the hula and find out how the warmth of Hawaii’s people wonderfully complements the islands’ perfect temperatures. We invite you to explore the Islands of Aloha to find your own heavenly Hawaii experiences. Aloha.

 

 
There are six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the island of Hawaii! Each island has its own distinct personality, adventures, activities, and sights. We invite you to explore the Islands of Aloha to find your own heavenly Hawaii experiences.
 
Whether for your first visit, or one of numerous returns, as a Hawaii Destination Expert, I'd be thrilled to help you discover the wonderful island life that is Hawaii. The islands are open for visitors, though the covid restrictions differ by island, so when you trust me to plan your Hawaiian getaway, I'll be sure to let you know the important details you'll need to enjoy your experience!
 
Intrigued? Ask me! Know someone who might be interested? I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and Hawaii is one of my favorite destinations to send guests to discover!  For more about Hawaii, visit my dedicated Hawaii page on the website. 
 
#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #getbacktonature #beachgetaway #beachvacation #hawaii

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Did You Know We Can Book That?  ALASKAN RV RENTALS 

IT'S A DIFFERENT KIND OF ALASKAN CRUISE...EXPLORE BY RV!

 


 
The pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the cruise industry with Canada banning large ships in their waters until February 2022. But that doesn't mean that the people in the great state of Alaska need to suffer through another year of economic turmoil. Land vacation opportunities in Alaska are open and plentiful! Getting out and discovering this amazing destination by RV is your opportunity to really cruise in a different manner, at your own pace! Here the top five reasons you should consider an Alaskan land-based RV vacation...
 
  1. 1. Plenty of wide-open spaces that only Alaska can provide. Alaska has open spaces like no other. Within its half a million square miles, there are 33,904 miles of shoreline; three major mountain ranges; 12,000 rivers, and a state population of just over 731,000 people. That equates to 1.3 persons per square mile!
  2. Peace and relaxation. When was the last time you took a vacation? In the US, only about 45% of people actually use their well-earned vacation days. And this is way better than any quarantine at home could ever be!
  3. Safety among the wild. Of its geographic makeup, 60% of Alaska is devoted to national parks, wildlife refuges, and protected lands. Within these boundaries, habitats and wildlife are able to grow and thrive with little impact from humans.
  4. Time with family. Build family memories that will last a lifetime. Alaska is unique in that it brings the adventurer out in all of us – 1 to 99!
  5. Privacy - away from it all. When you RV Alaska, you have the option to get away from it all. See birds instead of tweets. Enjoy handmade items instead of headlines. And there’s no instant replay, so be ready to view a different type of live stream in real-time.
Intrigued? Ask me! I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and definitely ALASKA vacations!
 
 

Sunday, February 28, 2021

Group Travel Experience - America's Music Cities - AVAILABLE NOW!

We Have Another Shared Group Travel Experience to Consider! AMERICA'S MUSIC CITIES 

 
 
This October enjoy a finger-snapping, toe-tapping time on a tour of America’s most famed musical cities – New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville this October on an incredible escorted tour of some of the American music landmarks.  This is an air-inclusive experience from IND, but the air gateway can be modified if needed, for a small additional fee. It's a Shared Group Travel Experience that currently has EXTREMELY LIMITED AVAILABILITY, so be sure to RESERVE YOUR SEAT SOON!

 
Check out these Trip Highlights: French Quarter | Choices on Tour | Swamp Tour |Mardi Gras World | Jazz Revue | Graceland | West Delta Heritage Center | Ryman Auditorium | Grand Ole Opry Show | Country Music Hall of Fame | Historic RCA Studio B | Hands-on Chocolate-making Lesson
 
 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #americasmusic #musiccities #escortedtours #DiscoverTheUSA

Time for a Land Vacation?

After a year of covid, if you're ready to get out and explore once again, I'm ready to help you plan your next adventure. Now booking, land trips all across the USA (including theme parks, cabins, beach vacations & condos, Alaska, Hawaii, & much more), along with cruises for when they start sailing again. Caribbean & Mexico getaways and all-inclusive resorts too!


PLUS! We have a number of exciting curated shared group travel itineraries that you could join including US National Parks, Colorado Rockies, America's Music Cities, New York City Holidays, and others.

Don't delay, reach out today by email, phone, or through the website.


Monday, February 22, 2021

Group Travel Experience - Colorado Rockies with National Parks & Historic Trains - AVAILABLE NOW!

Adventure lovers...we've got another incredible opportunity to explore this beautiful country of ours in the very early fall (late September early October). It's a Colorado Rockies tour, complete with National Parks and historic trains. This one is also a little shorter in duration than our National Parks tour posted earlier. There aren't very many seats left on the train...so if this one appeals to you and you'd like to get out and explore a nice part of the western US this year...sign up soon!

  

Check out these Trip Highlights:  Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado National Monument, Grand Junction, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, Arches National Park, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO), Choice on Tour, Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Garden of the Gods
 
 
 
#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking

Saturday, February 20, 2021

Group Travel Experience - America's National Parks - AVAILABLE NOW!

NEW GROUP TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AVAILABLE NOW.   

 
Which of my friends would like to experience an incredible adventure this year?  Our agency has just a few seats remaining for a truly remarkable incredible National Parks tour in August 2021.   Check out these Trip Highlights:  Scottsdale, Lake Powell, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Choice on Tour, Zion, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks, Old Faithful, Sheridan, Bighorn Mountains, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore
 
 
 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking

Friday, February 19, 2021

Continuing Education Update - Faith-Based Travel

My newest certification is all about faith-based travel. Israel anyone?

More ongoing education taking place this month. My newest certification is all about faith-based travel. Israel anyone? Their borders are getting closer to re-opening now that 30% of their entire population has been vaccinated. Individuals and groups will be returning to visit the Holy Land later this year. I have some incredible opportunities for those interested to join on their own, or as a small group, including a custom group I'm putting together for early 2022.

 

I would love to help you celebrate your faith like never before with our spiritual guided tours, designed to take you all over the world exploring the deep roots of your faith. These dual-purpose tours not only let you explore new places and cultures but also explore the bigger questions of life and spirituality. We're ready to help you discover more with your travels. Check out this video, and then reach out when you are ready to plan an incredibly moving journey of discovery for you, and your faith community.  I would also welcome an introduction to your pastor or priest to talk about how they might lead a trip to the Holy Land themselves. 

 

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

It's Adventure Time!

It's ADVENTURE time! I'm heading out to make another bucket list dream item come true, and enhance my knowledge of the destination for my guests. Always be learning. And having fun. I'm headed to Anchorage and the start of the Iditarod. I'll be sure to share some of my adventures along the way.



Tuesday, February 25, 2020

Disney Cruise Line Returns to Greece in Summer 2021 and Offers an Exciting Array of Additional Itineraries for Families

 In summer 2021, Disney Cruise Line will sail a variety of itineraries around the world including a return to Greece – back by popular demand – and exciting and varied European destinations, Alaska ports, and tropical locales. Plus, Disney Cruise Line will visit three first-time ports of call in Greece, Sweden, and Norway.

 



Explore the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Beyond

In summer 2021, a new collection of itineraries is part of Disney Cruise Line’s grand tour of Europe. From May through July, the Disney Magic will visit captivating locales in the Mediterranean including the Greek Isles, Spain, and the French Riviera. From late July through September, the ship will transport guests to bucket-list destinations in the British Isles, northern Europe, the Baltic, Iceland, and Norwegian fjords.


The Disney Magic will return to the awe-inspiring beauty of Greece in summer 2021, where guests can marvel at the stunning landscapes and archeological wonders of the region, like Santorini with its iconic whitewashed cliffside dwellings and Mykonos with beautiful beaches along the azure Aegean Sea. Four special voyages departing from Rome will visit the Greek Isles, with cruises ranging from eight to 11 nights.

 


Each of these unique Mediterranean itineraries combines a selection of stops in Greece with visits to other notable cities in the region. Noteworthy ports of call in Greece include Katakolon near ancient Olympia – home to the first Olympic Games – and the gorgeous Greek island of Kefalonia, the first-time port of call for Disney Cruise Line.

Another itinerary highlight is a visit to the picturesque Sicilian harbor city of Messina, where guests can sample tantalizing, locally grown citrus fruits and delectable olives. One cruise features a stop at the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The walled medieval Old City of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers spectacular seaside views and centuries-old cobblestoned lanes to explore.

Additional first-time ports of call for Disney Cruise Line include the medieval city of Visby, Sweden, considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia, and the village of Eidfjord, Norway, home to geographic wonders and situated at the foot of Hardangervidda, Norway’s largest national park.

Adventures in Alaska 

The Disney Wonder will return to Alaska for the 2021 summer season to explore the region’s breathtaking natural vistas, glaciers, and wildlife.

Departing from Vancouver, Canada, seven-night itineraries will visit Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Dawes Glacier. One nine-night Alaskan adventure will visit Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Juneau, and Ketchikan. A special five-night cruise will travel to Dawes Glacier and Ketchikan.

 

 

Each Alaska sailing will offer adventure and fun in port and aboard the ship, with stunning scenery, exciting Port Adventures, and special Disney Cruise Line touches that will bring the splendor and spirit of “The Last Frontier” to life onboard.

Tropical Vacations to the Caribbean and Bahamas 

In summer 2021, Disney Cruise Line will embark on a variety of vacation voyages to tropical destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas. Ranging from three- to nine-night sailings, the varied itineraries allow guests to experience charming island cultures, sunbathe on golden beaches and revel in local marketplaces. Most itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

 



In addition to seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, near Orlando, Florida, and the Walt Disney World® Resort, the Disney Fantasy will embark on an assortment of itineraries throughout the summer of 2021. These include a six-night sailing and an extended nine-night Caribbean cruise. Three-, four- and five-night Bahamian cruises round out the Disney Fantasy summer season – all including a stop at Castaway Cay. One special five-night cruise features two stops at Disney’s private island.

The Disney Dream will provide even more opportunities for guests to visit Castaway Cay in the summer of 2021 with all three- and four-night Bahamian cruises calling on the private island paradise.

 

When To Book Summer 2021 Itineraries 

Platinum, Gold, or Silver Castaway Club members, can take advantage of the opportunity to book summer 2021 itineraries before they go on sale to the general public on February 27, 2020.  Reach out to us today to be added to the list for booking when your Castaway Club level is eligible!

  • February 25, 2020: Platinum Members 

  • February 26, 2020: Platinum and Gold Members 

  • February 27, 2020: Platinum, Gold, and Silver Members 

  • February 28, 2020: all Guests 



Guided Experiences with Adventures by Disney

In summer 2021, Disney Cruise Line guests can enrich their cruise vacation with a variety of add-on packages from Adventures by Disney, a leader in family-guided group vacations. Highlights include a return to Alaska and popular packages in northern Europe and the Mediterranean. 



With Adventures by Disney, guests can book the ultimate Disney cruise experience on select sailings in Alaska and Europe. Throughout the voyage, knowledgeable Adventure Guides provide dedicated service both onboard and in port, as they lead guests on specially curated excursions, interactive activities, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Onboard the ship, guests enjoy unique experiences and premium amenities exclusive to Adventures by Disney, such as an intimate talkback session with Walt Disney Theatre cast members followed by a behind-the-scenes costume and prop activity.

Adventures by Disney also offer popular pre-cruise vacations in Rome; London; Barcelona, Spain; and Copenhagen, Denmark. These two- to three-night Escapes feature unforgettable experiences in iconic cities, such as a private guided tour to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome. Plus, activities like flamenco dancing, mosaic making, and preparing local cuisine immerse families in the culture of each region.

Bookings for these Adventures by Disney offerings open to the public on Feb. 27, 2020. 

 

 

Reach out to us today to include your name on the list for any of these exciting voyages!  317.776.1733

Monday, February 24, 2020

Discover Viking Cruises - Cruise Night Event In April

 Join us to discover why Viking has been voted the #1 River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler readers, and rated Best for River Cruises by Cruise Critic members.

 

Traveling by river, beyond the reach of roadways, you will discover the true nature of fascinating lands and the people who call them home. You will travel with ease, unpacking just once and enjoying the ever-changing scenery along the banks as you are gently carried on board an elegant, intimate ship to your next destination. Here is just a small sample of where a Viking river cruise will take you:

  • Vienna’s elegant boulevards and Hapsburg treasures
  • Budapest’s historic Castle District
  • The lush vineyards of France
  • Storybook villages and hilltop castles of Germany
  • The charming windmills of The Netherlands
  • Glittering palaces of St. Petersburg, Russia
  • Germany’s spectacular Saxon Switzerland region
  • Portugal’s rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley
  • Ancient temples along Egypt’s timeless Nile River
  • China’s breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze
  • Cambodia’s sprawling Angkor Wat complex
  • Vietnam’s lush and fertile Mekong Delta

 

Enjoy some wine and lite refreshments while together we discover what makes Viking a great choice for you to journey into the heart of Europe, Russia, Asia, Egypt, and beyond on a culturally immersive scenic cruise. 

Special promotional offers will be available for those who attend. 

 

RSVP REQUIRED.   Seats are limited.