Summer Escapes: Stress-Free Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Vacation

🌞✈️ Planning a summer getaway right here in the United States? You're not alone! With the increase of airfare, many travelers are opting to travel here in the US. A lot of you are even taking multiple smaller trips rather than one big vacation. If you're feeling a little bit of stress starting up as you prepare to head out on an adventure, fear not,  I have some tips and tricks to ensure you have an amazing and stress-free summer vacation.  💫
1️⃣ Start Early and Plan Ahead: With high demand and limited availability, it's crucial to book your accommodations, flights, and activities in advance. I'm a fan of just going out on a whim and booking a room a few hours before we get there. BUT......in this post-2020 world, it's getting more difficult to do that in a lot of popular tourist areas.🗓️
2️⃣ Explore Hidden Gems: Instead of following the crowds, think outside the box and discover lesser-known destinations. You'll not only avoid the crowds, but you might also stumble upon breathtaking scenery and local hidden treasures. Download the app Atlas Obsura and find cool and quirky sights along your route.🕵️‍♀️🗺️
3️⃣ Embrace the Outdoors: The great outdoors offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, without the big pricetag attached. Whether it's hiking in national parks, basking on secluded beaches of area lakes or coastline, or enjoying water sports, nature has it all. 🏞️🏖️🚣‍♀️
4️⃣ Low-Cost and Free Activities: Save some money while having a blast by seeking out low-cost or free options. From community events and festivals to exploring local museums and parks, there's always a budget-friendly adventure waiting for you. 💰🎪🖼️
5️⃣ Get Kids Involved: Traveling with little ones? Make the trip extra special by involving them in the planning process. Let them choose activities or attractions they're excited about and watch their eyes light up with joy. It's all about creating lifelong memories together. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦❤️
6️⃣ Keep Calm and Relax: As a mom to 4 grown kids and now a Nana, I know traveling with kids can be overwhelming at times. Take time for yourself and practice self-care during your vacation. Find quiet moments to recharge, enjoy a spa day, or simply savor a peaceful sunset. You deserve it! 😌🌅💆‍♀️
Remember, although last-minute deals might be harder to come by, you can still have a great vacation! If you decide, you want some help planning your next vacation, I can help you plan an unforgettable summer getaway for next year. 🌴🌞🚗

Follow my blog for more travel tips, tricks, and inspiration, or reach out to me directly for personalized vacation planning. 🌟✨
Let's make this summer one for the books! Happy travels, adventurers! 😊🌍✈️🚗🚢

 

Michelle Osborn is the Owner & Travel Consultant at Outta Here Travels located in Pampa, Texas. She has over ten years of experience within the travel industry and serves clients from all over the United States.

What Is Travel Insurance And Do You Need It?

With the height of summer travel just around the corner, many of you are planning trips near and far. You may have been offered a chance to purchase some type of travel protection (insurance) but not sure if you need it. Maybe you've just heard of it but you don't really know what it is and when you should purchase it. I've put together some information that can maybe help clear up some of that confusion. 

Travel insurance is a type of protection
that covers the costs and losses associated with traveling. This can include medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances that may arise while traveling.

When would it be worth the investment? When would it not?
Whether or not travel insurance is worth the investment depends on several factors, including the type of trip you're taking, your budget, and your risk tolerance. It may be worth investing in travel insurance if:

• You're taking an expensive trip that you can't afford to lose. Travel insurance can help protect your investment in case you need to cancel your trip or if something were to happen during the trip that requires you to cut it short.
• You're traveling internationally. Medical expenses can be very costly in other countries plus you may have to pay upfront for medical care, including hospitalization and surgery. Travel insurance can help cover those expenses.
• You're participating in adventure sports or other high-risk activities. Travel insurance can provide coverage for injuries sustained during these activities.

On the other hand, travel insurance may not be necessary if:

• You're taking a short domestic trip and have a low financial risk tolerance. This may mean you are driving, if flying you have booked refundable flights and/or booked hotel stays that have lenient cancelation policies with little to no cancellation fee.
  
• You will be traveling domestically and your regular health insurance will cover you.
• You have comprehensive medical coverage that includes international travel. Most US-based health insurance plans do not cover international travel, so make sure your policy does.
• You're traveling with minimal luggage and can afford to replace anything, or everything, that is lost or stolen.

How can you choose the right travel insurance provider? What should you look for?
When selecting a travel insurance provider, it's important to consider the specific needs of your trip and your budget. Here are some things to look for:

• Coverage for the specific risks you're concerned about, such as medical coverage, trip cancellation, or lost luggage. Do you have a preexisting health condition you want to make sure is covered? Is there a chance you might have to cancel the trip due to work or something else? Are you worried about arriving at your destination but your luggage did not and having to purchase new items while in a foreign place?
• An affordable premium that fits within your budget. Premiums can be based on the cost of the trip, the destination, and the age of travelers.
• A provider with a reputation for excellent customer service that can provide assistance quickly and efficiently if needed.
• A provider with a strong financial rating and a history of paying out claims to policyholders.
• A provider that provides primary health coverage while on your trip. This means you will file a claim with the travel insurance provider first and in certain situations can get it taken care of while you are still traveling. If the provider is a secondary provider, a claim would have to be filed with your primary and then filed with the secondary policy. This can result in delays in claims being paid and possibly even more expenses while you wait for the primary policy to settle or respond.

What are some risks of traveling — particularly without insurance?
Traveling without insurance can leave you vulnerable to a variety of risks, including:

• Medical emergencies can be costly, especially in foreign countries where medical expenses can be much higher or you have to pay upfront before you will be treated.
• Trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a flight cancellation, a family emergency, or a natural disaster.
• Lost or stolen luggage, can be frustrating and costly to replace. When you have a policy that covers delayed or lost baggage, you can avoid added stress or even a ruined trip.
• 
  Accidents or injuries that may occur during an excursion, tour, adventure sports, or even at the resort or walking down the street while on your trip. Accidents happen, even when we are on vacation. Better to have some medical coverage, and avoid an unhappy and stressful rest of your vacation.

These are just a few of the risks associated with traveling without insurance. By investing in travel insurance, you can protect yourself against these risks and travel with greater peace of mind. Outta Here Travels works with some of the most well-respected Travel Protection Providers in the industry. If you'd like a quote or to learn you can visit our website or give us a call. 

Michelle Osborn is the Owner & Travel Consultant at Outta Here Travels located in Pampa, Texas. She has over ten years of experience within the travel industry and serves clients from all over the United States.

 

Why Using A Travel Professional Can Be Your Best Bet

In today's world, where everything is automated and digitized, it's easy to think that you can just Google your destination and book everything on your own. However, there are several benefits to using a travel agent that you may not have considered. 

First and foremost, personalized service is the hallmark of working with a travel agent. I take the time to get to know my clients and their preferences, ensuring that their trip is tailor-made to their unique interests and needs. This means that you don't
have to spend hours researching online and guessing what might be the best fit for you. 

Additionally, there are several added value benefits that you can enjoy when working with a travel agent. I have access to exclusive perks and amenities such as room upgrades, spa credits, and more, that you might not get if you book directly with a hotel or airline. 

When you work with me, you get a real person rather than a computer or call center. I take pride in being available to my clients for any questions or concerns they may have. From start to finish, you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're working with a professional who has your best interests in mind. 

Another significant benefit of using a travel agent is that you're supporting a small business. As a local travel agent, I appreciate the opportunity to serve my community and provide unique travel experiences. Your business helps keep my passion for travel alive and allows me to continue serving others. 

As an agent, I have personal connections with vendors and suppliers. This means that I can often secure better rates and exclusive deals that aren't available to the general public. I've established relationships with the best suppliers in the industry, and I leverage those connections to get my clients the best deals possible. 

Lastly, my experience sets me apart from the competition. With almost 9 years in the industry, I have extensive knowledge and expertise that allows me to assist with all aspects of your trip. From inspecting resorts to touring cruise ships, I've seen it all and can provide invaluable insights that you won't find on a website. 

Using a travel agent can provide personalized service, added value benefits, AND the convenience of working with a real person. You'll also be supporting a small business and the possibility of gaining access to exclusive deals and added amenities. If you're ready to start planning your next trip or have further questions, feel free to reach out to me. I'd be happy to help you make your travel dreams a reality!

Michelle Osborn is Owner and Travel Consultant at Outta Here Travels in Pampa, Texas.

Mexico Is Just Beachy

Mexico Is Just Beachy

Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With over 5,000 miles of coastline, it's no wonder that tourists flock to Mexico every year to enjoy the sand, sun, and sea. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip, there is a beach in Mexico that will suit your needs. Let's take a closer look at some of the best beaches in Mexico and what makes them so special.

Tulum Beach, Quintana Roo

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Quintana Roo, Tulum Beach is a breathtaking stretch of sand that is known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation, and there are several nearby towns that offer a range of accommodations and restaurants. Tulum Beach is also home to some of the best snorkeling and diving in Mexico, thanks to its proximity to the Mesoamerican Reef. Visitors can also explore the nearby Tulum Ruins, which offer a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization.

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Playa del Carmen is another popular beach destination in Quintana Roo, located just south of Cancun. The beach is a vibrant and lively spot that is perfect for travelers looking for a more active vacation. Playa del Carmen is known for its incredible shopping, nightlife, and dining, as well as its beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a ferry to the nearby island of Cozumel for world-class snorkeling and diving, or explore the nearby eco-parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha.

Los Cabos, Baja California Sur

Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is a picturesque beach destination that offers a range of activities and attractions. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and luxurious resorts. Visitors can take a sunset cruise along the coast, go fishing for marlin, or explore the rugged desert landscape on an ATV. Los Cabos is also home to several phenomenal restaurants that offer fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine.

Sayulita Beach, Nayarit

Sayulita Beach is a charming and laid-back spot located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the state of Nayarit. The area is known for its colorful buildings and lively surf culture. Sayulita is a great place to unwind and relax, with plenty of yoga classes, massage services, and beachfront cafes. For the more adventurous, this area offers amazing surfing and paddleboarding. Visitors can also explore the nearby Marietas Islands, a protected marine reserve that is home to a diverse array of marine life.

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful beach destination located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the state of Jalisco. The beach is surrounded by lush jungles and towering mountains, which makes for an amazing backdrop. Visitors can take a stroll along the Malecon, a popular boardwalk that is lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and world-famous sculptures. Puerto Vallarta is also home to several excellent galleries and museums, as well as the stunning Botanical Gardens.

As you can see, Mexico offers some of the most beautiful and diverse beach destinations in the world. Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway, an adventure-filled vacation, or a cultural experience, there's a beach that will suit your needs. From the crystal-clear waters of Tulum to the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen, and the picturesque mountains of Puerto Vallarta, each beach destination offers its own unique charm and attractions. With so many breathtaking options to choose from, it's no wonder why Mexico remains one of the most popular beach destinations for travelers of all ages. If you're ready to pack your bags and experience the magic of Mexico's beaches, contact Outta Here Travels and I can help you find the perfect beach for your next vacation!

Michelle is the owner of Outta Here Travels in Pampa, Texas

 

    

Don't Be Fooled by Picture-Perfect Promises: Managing Expectations for Your Next Vacation

Have you ever stayed at a hotel or resort and thought, "This isn't what it looked like on the internet?" You are correct, it probably didn't look like it does in pictures. People aren't the only ones who touch up photos of themselves. Resorts, cruise lines, tourist boards, etc can touch up photos to make what they are selling look more appealing.

The water may look a little bluer, the sand may appear a little lighter in color, they may use filters that throw off the true color of a room, and they may crop out areas that seem too crowded, not updated, or not part of the property (or whatever they are advertising). Even the view from your room probably isn't going to be the exact view you see online. For instance, at some resorts an 'Ocean View' room could be a very slight view of the ocean between two trees or if you lean out over your balcony. Ocean/Beach front may not actually have a view of the ocean or beach, especially if you are located on a ground or lower floor. Your room location may be oceanfront or beachfront, but the view might be of shrubbery or trees.

Weather and currents can cause water to look a bit murkier or to have more sargassum. It can change from day to day and can even look different within neighboring resorts. A room may have been redecorated or remodeled since the last photos were taken, so it may not look anything like what you saw when you booked it.

This is why it's important to have realistic expectations when you travel. You probably won't have a 'picture perfect' vacation 100% of the time you are on your trip so don't let a slight change in appearance ruin the rest of your stay. Have realistic expectations and go with the flow on minor issues. Obviously, major changes are a completely different issue altogether.

Working with a Travel Professional can help you work out the details and set appropriate expectations for your trip. When you're ready to book your next vacation, I'm here to help.

 

Let's have some real talk about the increase in the cost of travel for a couple of minutes. Especially if you haven't planned a trip since 2019.....

Warning: it's a read so grab a drink/snack and let's get to it.

If you've looked at the cost of hotels, flights, rental cars, or even RV parks, you've probably noticed the increase in pricing....... You might have been put in a state of shock or even disbelief as you looked at the price. Maybe even muttered "That can't be right" or "Are they insane?" I mean even Motel 6 is over $100/night in some places??? I get it, trust me I do.

The fact is, the cost of travel (and basically everything else) is up about 13% - 36% from last year depending on the component, time of year, destination, etc. We've kinda been eased into the inflation of everyday items. Yes, we still complain and fondly reminisce of when eggs were less than $2/dozen and you could buy canned veggies for 2/$1, but we almost expect higher prices when we go to the store now because it's part of everyday life right now.

For most Americans, travel is not part of everyday life except for the tanks of gas which give us anxiety every time we go to the pump. If you've decided to take a vacation this year and started looking around, you probably had a major shock as I mentioned above....because you don't look at these prices every day.

I have this conversation several times a week with clients. For those that have booked resorts or cruises without flights over the last few months, I've warned them to keep an eye on flights because flights were forecasted to keep going up. I even started booking flights again inside of certain packages so clients can have a chance to pay out the flights with the resort/hotel. (This has some negatives too, which I also let clients know about.)

A Feb 14, 2023 article from Nerd Wallet says that flights are up about 26% more than they were last year. Hotels are up about 13-16% from pre-pandemic and rental cars are up 36% from pre-pandemic prices.

Setting aside inflation, travel demand is still through the roof.....even with these increased prices. People still want to get out and travel. They are booking international trips and cruises at an amazing rate. Personally, my sales this January were well over my January sales last year and even pre-pandemic. This month is also trending to do the same. Why? I think people want an escape.

Almost everything you hear in the news and on social media is all the bad happening in the world. The conflicts, the shortages, the inflation, and on and on and on. People want to go somewhere and just enjoy themselves. They want to see other places, experience new surroundings and just escape the stress of everyday life even for a few days.

So how can you take a trip without selling off a kidney or taking out a second mortgage? Here are a few ideas.

1. Go during the off-season. I know this may be easier said than done, but if you can go during months that are less crowded, you can see some substantial savings compared to peak times.

2. Last-minute deals are getting fewer and further apart. I'm not saying they are not out there but don't bet a big family vacation on it. Suppliers don't really have to post last-minute deals right now because demand is higher than supply in a lot of instances.

3. If you follow Dave Ramsey skip past this part. Do you have a credit card that offers points for hotels or miles for airlines? You might think about using it more for everyday items AND THEN PAY IT OFF EVERY MONTH so you don't get stuck paying ungodly high interest. I'm NOT telling you to spend more than you can afford, I'm suggesting to maybe shift your way of thinking and use some perks you may already have at your disposal. (This is not financial advice)

4. If you are traveling within the US, look for accommodations that offer free breakfast or an optional meal plan. If you have a refrigerator and microwave in your room, head to a local grocery store and get some food. You can prepare one or two meals in your room and then eat out one meal so you're still experiencing the local flavor and supporting the local economy of that destination. If traveling to Mexico or the Caribbean, all-inclusive is still the best bet if you don't plan on doing a lot of exploring and will spend most of your time at the resort. If you're not going to be at the resort other than to sleep, then the same thing applies as it does stateside.

5. Cruises can also offer great value when you consider everything that is included. Just know the true cost if you want to add drink/dining packages, shore excursions, etc. Here in the Texas Panhandle, we are within a day's drive of Galveston and New Orleans. Galveston port is growing and several new ships and Cruise Lines are now sailing from there.

6. Avoid eating or buying gifts in a tourist area. Prices are going to be even more expensive anywhere you go that has a high flow of tourists.

7. Read the fine print. Know what the change/cancelation penalties are. Does the hotel/resort charge resort fees that are not included in your original cost? (Think Hawaii) Is there a cleaning fee? Ect....

8. And last but not least........USE A TRAVEL AGENT. We do this for a living, it's literally our job. A good travel agent listens to what you want and what you need and will work WITH you to find options that fit those parameters and your budget. We work for you, not the travel suppliers. Unlike some of the big online travel sites, we will tell you if a resort/hotel/ship isn't a good fit for you and why. We have connections throughout the travel industry that can help us help you. I don't care if you contact me or one of the other great travel agents in our area, but please consider using a travel agent for your next vacation.

I understand the pinch on finances and I get the shock of increased prices. I just want you to be aware of where the travel industry is right now. Gone are the pre-pandemic prices and who knows if they will ever go back down to that again. If you are wanting to take a vacation this year, call or email me. Let's talk about options and what may or may not work.

Beverage Carry-On & Corkage Fee Policies by Cruise Line

Going on a cruise in the near future? Thinking about carrying on a bottle of wine or maybe a case of cokes but you're not sure what is and isn't allowed? 

Here's a great article from TravelMarket Report that hits most of the major cruise lines and their policies.

Please follow up by checking directly with the cruise line for the most complete and up-to-date information regarding what is and isn't allowed to be carried onto the ship.

Beverage Carry-On & Corkage Fee Policies by Cruise Line

: Which lines let you bring both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages onboard? Which charge a corkage fee and which waive that fee for beverage package holders?

Michelle Osborn is the Owner of Outta Here Travels located in Pampa, Texas