by Elizabeth Schaaf, Straight Away Travel Many travelers assume Alaska is a simple trip to plan because it’s still within the United States. In reality, Alaska is one of the most complex destinations I book. There are dozens of cruise itineraries, multiple cruise lines, different glacier experiences, land tour options, rail journeys, wilderness lodges, and … Read more
by- Barb Strait Hey there, fellow explorers! If you’re dreaming of a European getaway, you’ve probably found yourself staring at two very different paths: the vast, blue horizon of the ocean or the winding, historic banks of a legendary river. It’s the classic traveler’s dilemma. Do you go big with a floating resort, or do … Read more
HEY TEXAS FAMILIES! Get your coffee ready and your mouse fingers twitching because this is NOT a drill! The most anticipated family destination of the decade: the brand-new Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas: is opening its booking engine NOW!!!! If you have little ones (or if you’re just a big kid at heart who … Read more
by- Barb Strait So, I might be slightly above that age group, but I LOVE river cruising and the younger generation is checking on. Pictured below are some of my favorite moments that I think the younger generation can relate to. a) hiking in Engelhartszell (a bucket list hiking viewpoints in Central Europe) b) a … Read more
When you think of a “luxury vacation,” your mind might immediately drift to an overwater bungalow in the Maldives or a private villa overlooking the Amalfi Coast. But here at Straight Away Travel, we want to let you in on a little secret: some of the most sophisticated, soul-stirring, and high-end travel experiences on the … Read more
By:Barb Strait Picture this: You’ve been dreaming of that iconic Dutch skyline for months. You’ve pictured yourself stepping off your luxury river cruise ship, immediately inhaling the scent of fresh stroopwafels, and strolling right into the heart of Amsterdam’s historic Canal Ring. You’ve got your camera ready for those gabled houses and your walking shoes … Read more
A Floral Fairytale: The 80th Dutch Flower Parade & Tulip River Cruises 2027 Close your eyes for a second and imagine the scent of a million flowers, sweet hyacinths, crisp daffodils, and the unmistakable, fresh aroma of tulips as far as the eye can see. Now, imagine yourself floating through the Dutch countryside on a … Read more
by Elizabeth Higginbottom We are thrilled to invite you to experience one of our most exciting journeys yet—our exclusive AmaCello Charter departing August 5, 2027. This seven-night river cruise, The Essence of Provence and Bordeaux, sails through some of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions of France, from Arles to Lyon. Here is the brochure: AmaCello 8/5/27 … Read more
By- Barb Strait If you’re reading this, I have a confession to make: I am currently “stuck” in Aruba. My flight home was cancelled yesterday, and while most people would be at the gate frantically refreshing their phones and arguing with a gate agent who has no power to change the wind, I am sitting … Read more
By Stasi Sherlock While we were in Punta Cana recently, our group had the chance to go see the El Dorado Water Park, and I’m really glad we did. I honestly didn’t know what to expect going in. When you hear “water park,” you usually picture a bunch of slides, concrete, crowds, and average food. … Read more
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