It’s not unusual for any of us to feel the need for a getaway this time of year. After all, we should reward ourselves for getting through the dark days of January and February. If you’re not traveling in March… or at least planning to travel in the near future… guess what? You’re in the minority! Welcome to the March edition of TravelAnne!
By: Anne Heintz
When we launched this platform in 2020, I started to refer to all of you as “TravelAnne Explorers!” At the time the country was locked down and I felt you needed to be reminded that we are all explorers at heart and that we would all be exploring again sooner than expected.
Four years later, you are traveling again… more so than ever before. For some of you, it’s catching up on lost time. But most of you seem determined to live life to it’s fullest. And for that, I applaud you.
I often say that I live vicariously through your travels, especially in the areas and/or hotels that I have experienced myself. And with that in mind, I must admit that I am living life very large!
This time of year, I am glued to my desk as it tends to be the busiest season for those of us in the planning side of the travel industry. I’m not complaining mind you. I love what I do and especially helping people build memories through travel. Plus, I feel like I’m on the road with you even though I’m sitting at a very messy desk.
Where have I been while sitting at my desk? Italy, Italy, Italy! For TravelAnne Explorers, it’s the most popular foreign destination without question. Part of that is because Italy is a beautiful country with a rich culture. But it’s also so popular because it’s so diverse. Italy has so many different regions to explore that Americans keep going back for yet another taste of it!
This month, we explore Cinque Terre, a group of 5 quaint villages carved into the cliffs of the Italian Riviera. The five villages are no longer the isolated hamlets they once were, but there’s still a feeling of authenticity here, with few roads, perfectly preserved architecture, and a network of stunning coastal and mountain trails. This would be a wonderful addition when visiting Florence and the Tuscan region (hint, hint).
Other popular destinations that I’m booking are Greece, Scotland and anywhere with water whether it be a beach or a cruise.
Speaking of cruises, Alaska, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean are in high demand right now. Needless to say, cruising is B-A-C-K with a vengeance. New product is coming out of shipyards on a monthly basis. Whether it’s a yacht, small ship, expedition-type, river cruises or ships like Royal Caribbeans Icon of the Seas who carries 10,000 crew and passengers… there is something for EVERYONE!
One word of caution though. There have been a few times when some of you have just booked a cruise on your own only to find later that there are unexpected problems or you’re just not getting the value you come to expect. In those cases, I can’t do much to fix your issue because I’m not attached to the booking. I am here to help you navigate through the myriad of choices and find the best fit your specific needs!
Speaking of water, did you know that for Americans, roughly 50% of all vacations involves a beach? It makes sense, especially with Spring Break right around the corner. I can’t say the numbers are that high for my clients, but I do know that sunshine and sand is very inviting.
This month we contribute to that trend by featuring some of the best luxury resorts in Antigua as part of a series we call The Caribbean is Calling! Antigua is a sun-soaked Caribbean paradise and a TravelAnne favorite. It is wonderfully accessible island from both Europe and the US and has everything you could hope for… from rum and reggae to great seafood, to amazing beaches and an indulgent few day of relaxation.
Finally, for those of you who want domestic options, we explore two wonderful cities: Nashville and San Diego. Nashville is a hot destination, especial for a three day weekend. San Diego is one of our favorite cities in the USA and certainly recommended if your planning a vacation in the Golden State!
OK Explorers… Let’s continue to live life to its fullest! Our next adventure is just a phone call (or email) away.
As always,
Happy trails and keep believing in the journey!
**Anne Heintz is a luxury travel advisor based in Washington, D.C. who creates lifetime memories for her clients located all over the world. She loves the fact that the journeycreates memories and connections for her clients. She is affiliated with Worldwide Travel Associates in DC and Tzell Travel in NYC. She is co-founder and namesake of TravelAnne.com.
Anne can be reached at Anne@wwtainc.com.