Why Vienna is the City to Visit in 2017

Vienna is one of my favorite cities, but 2017 is a really special year to visit.

1. The 150th anniversary of the Blue Danube Waltz - Strauss changed dance forever with the waltz. It was at the beginning very scandalous as "ballroom" dancing did not require partners to be that close together for the entire song.

2. The 180th anniversary of the birth of Empress Elizabeth. The beautiful unlikely wife of Franz Josef was not the bride intended for him, it was planned he would marry her older sister. But on meeting Elizabeth, he picked her over his mother's objections. Her life as Empress was not easy, dealing with stiff court formalities, her mother in law raising all her children but her youngest, having her only son commit suicide and ending in being assassinated by an anarchist in Switzerland. Books, movies and mini series have been made about her. Visit the Sisi Museum at the Hofburg Palace dedicated to her. Don't forget to look for the Winterhalter portrait of her.

3. The 300th anniversary of the birth of Empress Maria Theresa. Unlike Elizabeth, she was the ruler of Austria not just the wife of the Emperor. Builder of Schonbrunn Palace(pictured above) and mother of Maria Antoinette. Numerous exhibitions in Vienna will be open this year to celebrate her life and times.

Of course don't forget to check out the Spanish Riding School, a performance of the Vienna Boys Choir, stop for the Original Sacher Torte at the Hotel Sacher and have coffee at Café Central.

Ready to have some Sacher Torte, let's talk? 

Planning a Winter Getaway

Do you prefer a getaway in Mexico, or a ski vacation in the Rockies?  Explore your options and narrow down your picks with these ideas for your winter getaways.

Plan a Warm-Weather Escape

Winter can be long, cold and snowy.  Although the white stuff is pretty to look at, it can get old quick.  That's when it is time to escape to a warm-weather destination.  Think Florida, Southern California, Hawaii, Mexico or the Caribbean.  When looking for a vacation filled with sunshine, families also need to consider budget, time frame and location.  For example, if you're on the East Coast, you might have to spend a whole day just getting to Oahu, while those who live in the Pacific Northwest may find getting to an island in the Caribbean is too long of a trip.

Go Skiing

For families that live in warmer climates year-round, a trip to a snowy white mountain ski resort may be the perfect getaway for you.  You'll find a high concentration of ski resorts in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York and Pennsylvania on the East Coast, and Colorado, Utah and California on the West Coast.  You'll also find great resorts in the Midwest.  Many resorts offer ski, stay and play packages that work with any budget and time frame.  And it's okay if you or your children have never hit the slopes before--winter is the best time to enroll in a ski school and learn.  At the end of a long day, sip hot cocoa and warm up by the fireplace with your family.

See a City

Hitting a major city like New York, Chicago, or Washington, DC during the holidays means your family will never lack for anything to do or see (not to mention plenty of restaurants remaining open on major holidays to ensure you are well fed)!  Visit historical sites, stroll through museums and take in shows at the theater.  Find kid-specific fun like discovery museums, zoos and aquariums.

Go to a Theme Park

Winter is a great time to visit your local theme park.  Whether you're headed for Disney World or a Six Flags park, you'll get to enjoy rides, plus holiday-themed events and treats.

Learn Something New

Just because the kids are on a break from school doesn't men the learning has to stop.  There are plenty of destinations around the country--and the world!--that offer an insight into history and science, and will have your family leaving vacation with a plethora of new knowledge (and not even realizing it).  Museums are a great options for families, but if you're not into quiet exhibits and fragile fossils, try heading to locations with history at every turn.  Colonial Willamsburg is great for children (and especially festive in the winter) and kids will love the old-fashioned clothing of the actors in the Virginian colony,  If you're looking for something a little bigger and more breathtaking, head to the Grand Canyon--the U.S. landmark is sure to make a big impression on the whole family.

Try These Tips Before Planning that Family Trip Abroad

The family summer vacation has ended, but many families have started thinking about those family trips for the next year.  If your family is like many this year, you may be thinking of taking your family on a trip outside of the United States.  Whether you thinking of taking your kids for their first cruise, or you want to take your teens to Europe to experience their heritage; here are some tips on how to provide their kids a global perspective in preparation for traveling abroad.

1. Start Travel Early

Some people will tell you that you should wait to travel with kids until they're old enough to remember.  I do not agree, and think there's value that comes from your ability to expose them to travel at an early age. You're affected, and they're affected.  Go!


2. Expose Kids to Similar Cultures but Different Places

My husband and I made sure our first trips with the kids were to places we felt comfortable.  North America and even the Caribbean are easy stops where you'll find many of the things you're use to at home.  Those early trips helped us understand what their fears and curiosities were about travel, so that when we went further, everyone in the family was prepared and excited to go!

3. Encourage Teachable Moments

Talk your kids about places when you're at home.  Is Asia in the news?  Is their class talking about Roman history?  That's a great opportunity to look at these places together on Google and expose them to the possibility of seeing these places in real life.


4. Search for Family-Friendly Experiences

Not everyone will love your kids like you do.  You will more likely run into situations where you feel as though your family is less than welcome.  Roll with it.  Seek out people and places who feel differently and chalk it up to experience.  Also research and using a travel professional to help you plan places to travel will alleviate many of these situations and make the trip more enjoyable.  There are many places on the planet that will be more than welcoming.


5. Be Willing to Explore Beyond Your Comfort Zone

Remember that the things that you may have heard about how dangerous a place is may completely disappear the closer you get to that destination.  Don't let the news scare you away from somewhere before you have had a chance to do your own research.

Cruising Declared Cool !!

Think that sailing a large mass market is not for you, well it may well not be if you sail in a regular balcony cabin. Royal Caribbean is changing this with their Royal Suite class and the top level of that is the Star Class suites with amenities that will leave you with hardly any charges on your ship board account. Harper's Bazaar featured an article by a couple who probably wouldn't be caught dead on this type of ship, who now after sailing in a Star Class Suite, Cruising is Chic again. Of course they sailed on the Anthem of the Seas out of the New York City area. 10 Reasons Cruising is Chic Again.

The Star Class suites are only on the Anthem, Oasis, Allure and Harmony of the Seas. Anthem of the Seas as featured sails out of Cape Liberty,NJ(just across the river from NYC)  seasonally to Bermuda, Canada/New England and the Caribbean.

Allure and Oasis of the Seas sail out of Fort Lauderdale, FL year round. The Oasis will move to Port Canaveral, FL in the fall when the new Harmony of the Seas arrives after spending her 1st summer sailing in Europe.

Ready to be pampered in a Star Class Suite?

Autumn: The Perfect Season For a Getaway

Autumn is a fantastic season to travel.  With the kids back in school and the buzz of summer crowds dying down, many of the most popular vacation spots are quieter and less expensive after Labor Day.  In many parts of the world, fall weather can be just as nice as summer-if not better!  While the "fall colors" are a main attraction for autumn travel; the wonderful seasonal holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving provide a great backdrop for your fall vacation.  Here are some of the best destinations of the season to experience everything from an authentic Italian lifestyle experience , to a great beach destination, to a great place to see the trees change colors, while enjoying mild weather for hiking and mountain biking.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is one of Italy's most popular destinations, known for its charming medieval hill towns, rolling vineyards, Renaissance art, and of course, the gorgeous city of Florence.  In the summer, tourists flock to this northern Italian region, so come in the fall to experience Tuscany like a local.

San Diego, CA

In Southern California, autumn weather is wonderfully warm and sunny-often just as beautiful as summer weather.  Visit San Diego County for its wonderful swimming beaches, adorable surf towns, and world-class Mexican cuisine-and don't forget to visit the world famous San Diego Zoo, often less crowded during the fall.

Hawaii, the Big Island

Every season is beautiful on Hawaii's largest and most dramatic isle.  In the fall, you can watch lava flow into the sea at Volcanoes National Park, stroll on black-sand beaches during the sunset, or hike through the tropical rain forests that blanket the island, without the rush of summer crowds.

The Changing Colors

Of course for many, the main reason to travel is to experience the fall foliage; and here are some the the best locations to really experience the best of the season.  For tradition; no where can compete with the vibrant colors of New England's autumn season reflected in the the placid waters  of Lake Champlain in Vermont.  The Famous mountain range of the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina offers spectacular fall colors that makes a seasonal trip unforgettable.

For someplace different, take a look at Telluride, CO.  This mountain town is known for abundant outdoor activities, from downhill skiing to mountain biking.  It's also a fantastic place to see fall foliage, as the leaves of the San Juan Mountains turn vibrant shades of orange yellow and gold.  Enjoy the great outdoors with spectacular hikes and alpine scenery in a great western setting.

Being a Smarter International Traveler

There is nothing more fascinating than traveling to another country and experiencing a different culture, language, food and scenery. I have been fortunate to be able to travel abroad for over forty years, and I am still trilled with each trip.  International travel can be a great experience, but there are things you should know before planning a trip.  Here are some of the more important things you need to consider:

Personal Safety
Although I have never had an issue during my travels, there are a few basic rules you should follow when you are out of the country.  Americans, and tourists in general, are normally very well received in most countries, but remember, there are still issues in some parts of the world.  Before travelling overseas, be sure to first check the US State Department Travel Warnings website for any travel alerts or warnings.  Its best to heed any warnings that may have been posted as this list is updated on a regular basis.  Even if you are traveling to a country not on the list, you should always stay alert and it's best if you stay in groups.  Be respectful to folks and their culture as it may be very different from what you're use to.

Travel Documents and Passports
Passports are absolutely required for overseas travel.  If your planning a trip, be aware that it can take as much as 6 weeks to receive a new passport.  Along with a passport, you may need to obtain a travel visa, depending on the country you are visiting.

Driving in Foreign Countries
The laws in many countries for driving are very different from the USA.  I find driving to be one of more difficult things to do when I travel.  Several countries drive on the left side, which can be quite daunting if you're not use to it.  I also found, in much of Europe, the town roads where much smaller and less forgiving than in the USA.  They also don't offer automatic transmissions in much of the rest of the world.  Unless you are comfortable with these differences I suggest you consider other modes of transportation.  You will find public rail transportation in many countries is fast and comfortable and will get you everywhere you want to go.

Travel Insurance
You will find that the medical care provided in other countries can be quite different from what you are use to in the USA.  This is especially so when you travel to less westernized countries with very poor medical services.  If you find yourself in an emergency medical situation, you will most likely want to be air-evacuated back to a hospital in the USA.  As you can imagine, the cost of this service can be very expensive.  It is advised that you buy travel insurance that includes trip cancellation or delay, lost luggage and especially medical expenses and emergency evacuation. My family never travels overseas without a policy.

Money Matters
There are many different currencies used throughout the world and the exchange rates change about every minute or two.  In the past, I would have recommended you use your credit card or debit cards when traveling as they normally offered the best exchange rates and were easy and safe to use.  ATM's in foreign countries generally accept your debit card and will dispense cash in their currency.  Your bank applies the exchange rate once it hits your account.  These days banks are charging more fees for these services, making them less appealing than before.  If you decide not to use your cards, I recommend taking travelers checks and exchanging them at your hotel or local exchange centers once in country.  It's also a good idea to exchange at least some money at the airport prior to boarding your overseas flight.  These companies charge higher fees but it's helpful to have some money when you get there for taxis.

Best Autumn Cruise Destinations

With crisp air, cool temperatures and brilliant foliage on display, autumn is an ideal time for a cruise.  The stretch between summer and winter affords relatively crowd-free ports and fewer passengers on board (kids are back in school), translating to plenty of opportunities to commune with nature.  Best of all, many repositioning cruises - ships crossing from one region of the world to another - offer reduced rates and longer itineraries.  So, if you're one of the millions of passengers planning to cruise in the next year, fall is an ideal time to take in striking backdrops and score significant savings.  To help you decide which sailing is right for you, here are my recommendations for top autumn cruise destinations.

New England and Canada

Every fall, vibrant seasonal hues color coastal cities across new England and Canada.  And a number of cruise companies offer trips to foliage-rich locales like Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine, Quebec City and Montreal.  Apart from scenic drives in seaport towns, many large and small ships, including those within Holland America, Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruise fleets, also provide the chance to sample local New England cuisine (think fresh Maine lobster).  To help pinpoint the best coastal cruise for you, peruse itineraries that deliver a high off-season value and ample opportunities for fall leaf peeping.

Alaska

Alaska is known for its jaw=dropping scenery: Calving glaciers, snow-capped peaks and majestic fjords snake along quaint towns and villages.  And in September, the waters teem with humpback whales and sea lions.  Many large ships, such as those within Princess Cruises and Holland America fleets, offer travelers the chance to explore the inside Passage with stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka and Victoria, British Columbia.  Smaller cruise ships, such as those operated by Un-Cruise Adventures, also navigate the inside Passage of Southeast Alaska, with home ports in Katchikan, Juneau and Sitka.  Many cruise lines also offer voyages to the narrower Gulf of Alaska passage, taking passengers from Vancouver to Anchorage (or vice versa), making stops in hard-to-reach ports like Hubbard Glacier and Collage Fjord.  Though both routes offer ample nature-viewing opportunities, the latter tends to lure those in pursuit of more immersive offshore experiences and face-to-face wildlife encounters.

The Caribbean

Caribbean-bound cruises offer significant deals during the fall sailing season.  But there's one caveat: Your trip runs the risk of being impacted by weather-related interruptions until hurricane season ends in late November.  To protect yourself against unforeseen weather delays, purchase travel insurance and confirm that your insurance and confirm  that your insurance provider covers trip interruptions.  Should you decide to take your chances, last-minute sales; especially for journeys departing in October and November are aplenty.  Behemoth lines like Royal Caribbean International and Disney Cruise Line operate in the Caribbean year-round, often affording excellent savings in the off-season.  Shorter four or five day sailings aboard these lines can also yield steep discounts.

Transatlantic Repositioning Cruises

In the off-season. many ships depart from one part of the world and finish in another in what's known as "repositioning" sailings.  These trips, which typically take place in the spring or the fall, often provide deep discounts and more days at sea than regional cruises.  Popular journeys include transatlantic crossings from Europe, sailings across the pacific from Hawaii to California, Caribbean-bound voyages from California and departures from the Caribbean to the Panama Canal.  Many megaship and smaller cruise ship lines - including Norwegian, Celebrity and Oceania Cruises - offer fall repositioning cruises with varying departure and disembarkation ports that fit a wide range of budgets.