26 Years of Adventure!

Happy Anniversary to my love. 26 years ago Julie and I were wed, kicking off a fun adventure that would be filled with ups, downs, twists, and a few loops that would rival any roller coaster. We've laughed, cried, fought, had fun along the way, and together produced three amazing offspring. From California to Michigan, back to California, and on to Indiana, we've had a pretty good adventure, but truly have only begun. We don't have any guarantees of tomorrow, but with God's help, another 26 years or more is on the menu. Pictured below, we're on the Disney Magic, from one mini-adventure several years back, just one of many within the grand scheme of our shared lifelong adventure.

Alaska in the Winter is SO WORTHWHILE!

A great big thank you to Greatland Adventures and Anchorage AWE for an amazing time north of Anchorage seeking out the Aurora Borealis! This was a fabulous familiarization trip to Alaska, and I am so grateful to have experienced it for myself. Wonderful memories of that late-night trek will be cherished for years to come!

Local Alaskan Food is Fabulous!

Every meal on this trip has been delicious and locally sourced yummies. Last night's dinner was just beyond delicious!

Iditarod 48

Iditarod48 has kicked off with the ceremonial opening! The 50th running is in two years... Who'd like to experience it? I'd love to come back!

Such Amazing Beauty When You Come to Anchorage in Winter

Not my pictures since I flew overnight, but these are from one of my FAM colleagues who arrived in Anchorage this morning. Such amazing beauty when you come to Anchorage in winter. And the Iditarod is a great reason to come in winter!

#anchorage #Alaska #visitanchorage #iditarod #takethetrip #makememories #useatravelagent #icanshowyoutheworld

Just How Big is Alaska?

How well do you know Alaska? It's pretty big! The state itself is huge. The city of Anchorage alone is 1,961 sq miles...or about the size of the state of Delaware!

#alaska #adventure #explore #seetheworld #takethetrip #tomorrowisnotguatanteed #icanhelpyouplan

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.

Happy March! Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You?

It's March, and here are some fabulous things to consider for your next vacation. I'd be happy to help you score some of these great experiences!

FEATURED OFFERS:

Celebrity Cruises - Choose from the lowest available fare with a non-refundable deposit or two free perks, including onboard credit, beverage packages, and more

Sandals Resorts - Save up to 65% when you book a minimum of 3 nights

AMA Waterways - Enjoy up to $2,000 in savings, up to $100 onboard credit, and a complimentary stateroom upgrade or prepaid gratuities on select sailings

Reach out and let's chat. clingren@cruiseplanners.com | 317.776.1733 | www.icanshowyoutheworld.vacations

#morethanjustcruises #takethetrip #makememories #itstimetoplanyournextadventure #useatravelprofessional

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

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.  

 

 

 

 

 

We're Growing Again - Announcing the Addition of New Travel Advisors to the Team

Christopher Lingren, Local Cruise Planners Travel Agency Franchise Owner, Expands His Team Once Again

(NOBLESVILLE, Indiana) – Feb 19, 2020 – Christopher Lingren, Cruise Planners travel agency franchise owner, announced today he has expanded his team with two new agents, Tiffany Hufferd, of New Orleans, Louisiana; and Rob Doenges, of Fishers, Indiana. The local travel agency is part of Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative, the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network. Lingren and his team of four travel advisors offer travelers exclusive pricing on a wide range of cruise and destination wedding packages, private cruise sales, as well as cabin upgrades. The team also offers special amenities such as shore excursions, discounted fares, travel gifts, and more. As a new Cruise Planners travel advisor, Hufferd is specializing in adventures in Southeast Asia, Australia, LGBTQ vacations, Destination Weddings, and Surprise Getaways; while Doenges is specializing in Cruises, Beach Vacations, Sports Travel, Theme Parks, LGBTQ vacations, and Woodsy Getaways.

  

“Everyone travels, and it’s important to use a trusted travel advisor to get the most value out of a vacation,” Lingren said. “As travel experts, my team and I take the stress and hassle out of planning all types of vacations for our clients. We make professional recommendations based on value, destination, group size, and seasonality, among other things to customize the best and most memorable vacation possible. Since Cruise Planners has achieved top producer status with every major cruise line and with many key travel partners, we have the resources and connections to provide our customers with the best value along with our expertise and personal touches.”

 

The cruising trend is always evolving and today’s cruisers are more diverse than ever. From the adventurous youth to the laid-back relaxed type, there is something for everyone. Many travelers are experiencing culturally immersive European river cruises, which is increasingly popular for savvy travelers. No matter the cruise line or destination, cruises offer a satisfying, convenient and value-oriented way to travel.

 

Many travelers are also opting to go on land-based vacations, enjoy all-inclusive resort stays, explore foreign countries on guided tours and experience high-adventure trips worldwide.

 

“As a Cruise Planners franchise, we sell complete vacation packages from exotic getaways to romantic retreats and culturally immersive European experiences to customized African safaris, Polar Expeditions, Alaskan adventures, and more, and of course cruises,” Lingren said. “Some people want to go on a cruise one year, then a land-based vacation the next – I offer a one-stop-shop for all things travel with trusted travel expertise and a personalized touch.”

 

As an American Express Travel Services Representative agency, Cruise Planners offers special programs for both American Express cardholders and non-cardholders, offering even more added value to vacationers.

 

About Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners, an independently owned and operated home-based franchise, is part of the American Express Travel Representative network and the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise company in the travel industry. Cruise Planners’ travel professionals independently book amazing vacation and travel experiences for their clients around the world. Cruise Planners franchise owner Christopher Lingren is based in Noblesville, Indiana with additional agents locally, as well as Reidsville, North Carolina, and now New Orleans, Louisiana, and Fishers, Indiana specializing in adventure and expedition travel. For more information, please visit www.icanshowyoutheworld.vacations.

 

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Who'd Like to Change their View?

Discover majestic St. Croix with its eternal summer caressed by cooling tradewinds. The average temperature is in the mid-80s, and there’s just enough rain to keep the flora in bloom.

#adventure #islandlife #noice #nosnow #takethetrip #icanhelpyou

Journeys to Enrich Your Soul

As we move closer and closer into the Lenten and Easter season, it's a great time to think about planning an amazing journey of discovery to explore the roots of faith. I have sent many guests to the Holy Land and would love to help you, and/or your church, visit this incredible destination. Let me know what questions you have about it. And any introductions to pastors or priests who would like to lead a trip with their congregation would also be appreciated. These spiritual journeys will enrich your soul!

Choose Your Own Adventure

You can choose your own adventure on land, ocean, or river with this week's Travel Deals. If you don't receive them directly, be sure to opt in and start receiving them directly to your inbox! #travel #vacation #adventure #explore #wanderlust #useyourvacationdays #planyouradventure

https://tinyurl.com/Feb4Deals

Oceania's 2022 Around The World Voyage – Reservations Open Soon!

 

We are delighted to share this destination masterpiece voyage – Oceania Cruises' 2022 Around the World 180-day voyage, opening for bookings on January 15, 2020.

 

Here are the Top Reasons to Sail on Oceania Cruises’ 2022 Around the World Journey.   Voyage dates:  January 6, 2022-July 5, 2022

• Explore 6 continents and 44 incredible countries: this means French Polynesia, New Zealand, Japan, India, Africa, and beyond all on one incredible voyage.
• Bragging rights: sought-after destinations and more than 60 accessible UNESCO sites all from the comfort of the intimate and luxurious Insignia.
• Incredible perks: fares start at only $43,999 and you get so much for FREE – First-Class Roundtrip Airfare, Pre-Paid Gratuities, Laundry Services, Exclusive Shoreside Events & so much more.
• New lifelong friendships you’ll cherish for years to come.
• 6-months of life-changing travel and endless memories.

Reservations open for this destination masterpiece on January 15th, 2020. Contact Christopher now to be in the queue as annually this voyage sells out in mere days.  317.776.1733 | clingren@cruiseplanners.com |  Request a Quote

 

Continuing Education Update - Silversea Expedition

Each December I work on continuing education for the coming year. I've brushed up with Silversea, as well as adding Silversea Expedition Cruise Specialist to my resume. Where would you like to go? Do you consider yourself more of a Careful Traveler, or an Adventurous Explorer? If adventurous, then an expedition cruise is for you!

Sands of Adventure

My "Sands of Adventure" jar number two has finally been filled after a couple of years of collecting since number one was filled. Jar one features 17 different areas of sand, and jar two features 10 more. I did make these layers thicker than the first jar to better show off the differences, so I still have six locations unused waiting to start in on number three. I'm looking forward to new adventures in 2020 to help fill the next jar. I love seeing and feeling the color and textural differences of sand from all around this beautiful world.

Join Me for A Night of Discovery with Viking

For my Central Indiana peeps...come discover the wonders of river cruising with me. January 13th in Fishers. Limited seating available. Reserve your seats via the link here.

Legos & Cookies

Adventures with Legos and cookies today. My awesome staff gave me the Disneyland Main Street Station at the conclusion of our Wood Badge course in September and I finally opened up the packaging to begin this afternoon. I got the engine built for the train today and will build the rest over the next week. I also got the second batch of my favorite Norwegian Christmas cookies made today (the last kind of several types I make). I've been making them for 28 years now since my grandmother died, and have been excited to see Matthew learn how to make a couple of the different varieties this year. Traditions can be cool, especially when they get passed on to the next generation.

Lego Fun from Down Under

As the snow falls outside, I'm having fun inside thinking back on my outback adventure during 2019, while building my Sydney Lego set, and pondering 2020 adventures to come.