7. Virtuoso Life - Some Recent Issues &
Newsletters
8. Preferred Hotel Programs- Can You VIP Me?
9. Special Offers from Lush Life~ Direct affiliate & Virtuoso partner
10. Travel News
Let me know if you'd like to schedule a complimentary consultation!
1. Tahiti Bound
One of the terrific perks and rewards for me being named a Virtuoso Cruise Icon last month is that I've been invited to travel to Tahiti with other Virtuoso Cruise Icons in June.
Did you catch me on "Ottawa Business Matters?" See the interview above.
I love sharing my passion for river and expedition cruising, as I'd talked about in the interview.
But I also love small ship cruises. I don't tend to love the 6500 passenger, "travelling city" larger ships (although some of my clients do - and like to have the whole experience planned around the ship as the destination).
I personally love the smaller ship experience - which is why river and expedition cruising appeals to
me. But also the smaller ship ocean cruises.
So, I'm thrilled that part of my recognition as a Virtuoso Cruise Icon is a trip to Tahiti with Windstar. I love the South Pacific area too, and am an Aussie Specialist and New Zealand specialist travel advisor, so to expand my repertoire and in-depth personal knowledge to go to Tahiti now is
awesome.
The Virtuoso Cruise Icon Program recognizes me as an Advisor who represents the top 1% of cruise sellers within the Global Luxury Travel Network. As the Virtuoso Cruise Icon Program extends its reach to top sellers worldwide, it not only solidifies its standing as a leader in luxury travel but also establishes a global community of
top-performing cruise advisors. The Cruise Icon Program reinforces Virtuoso's commitment to excellence on a global scale, and I am thrilled to be part of this esteemed group of advisors.
I thank you, as my client, for your trust in working with me on your bucket list trips and cruises. This initiative is now open to advisors from all
regions served by Virtuoso. And, I'll happily take on the work to go and research Tahiti for your future vacation there!
I'm sure you likely have an interest in Tahiti already. My partners at Paul Gauguin like to promote
"Take Your Sweetie to Tahiti" for Valentines promos every year, and that's a clever hook. Tahiti is certainly a great romantic destination - but - it's also a wonderful active and adventure holiday destination. And I'll be doing a mother-daughter trip with my youngest daughter, Ceili to celebrate her graduation from high school. Sounds like a great way to celebrate, no? (Don't feel badly for my husband and eldest daughter - I will also have travel plans with them this year. We just can't
always go all together, given school and work requirements.)
The trip is a 7 night round trip out of Papeete. We'll be on this graceful yacht, which will be the perfect way to experience the true wonder of Tahiti. We’ll let the trade winds take us to visit one legendary island after another, with plenty of casual time to swim and snorkel in
crystal-clear lagoons, meander through lush rainforests, and experience the fascinating Polynesian culture from tikis to tiare flowers.
We'll relax on sunny beaches, sample Tahitian fare, and take in the effervescent spirit of the city. But whatever we do, we'll be saving time — and luggage space — for shopping. Black pearls and colorful crafts
fill the market and local treasures are so plentiful we’ll have trouble making our choices but we won't be bothered with large crowds and big tour groups because French Tahiti is only accessible to small ships like ours.
We'll also be welcomed to paradise in Moorea, where our stunning surroundings soak up superlatives and call for more. In our stay here we’ll have plenty of time to do it all. And maybe we'll consider the opportunity to hone our photography talents on an optional tour of the island in the company of a professional photographer. Our choices here are endless. Hike the majestic Three Coconut
Trail. We'll visit dolphins in their native habitat. Or spend our time swimming and kayaking from Wind Spirit’s Watersports Platform as we lay at anchor in these beautiful sapphire seas.
And we'll also head to Raiatea, “The Sacred Island,” which is located just across the lagoon from Tahaa and shares the same barrier reef. (Legend claims the two were a single island until a conger eel possessed by the spirit of a princess separated them.) It used to be the center of religion and culture in the Society Islands.
Did I forget to mention Bora Bora? Our stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs — and we’ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope
of blue in each frame. You’ll have lots of options for exploration, whether we prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the thrill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. But the highlight here will be the Windstar Exclusive Destination Discovery Event on a private motu complete with fire dancers. This is the stuff that dreams are made of and available to small ships.
Have I piqued your wanderlust?
Let me know if you'd like me to check if there is any room left for others to join us onboard. It's going to be an amazing week!
Yes, 2013 saw high water levels, but 1501 levels were even higher. Water levels impact commerce and trade significantly, with towns along the river marking the historic high water.
Some companies I
collaborate with have strategies to navigate lower droughts and sail during low water times when others can't. They engage in ship swaps to bypass problematic river areas and even offer bus tours when water levels become problematic.
Working closely with clients, I provide insights into potential issues based on 30-year averages for spring rain and summer heat. I also share my experiences on how companies adapt when challenges arise.
If you're interested in discussing a
river cruise, feel free to reach out.
I had wonderful reactions to my #WhyRiverCruising posts and sharing of my expertise, so I thought I'd do a more condensed series about expedition cruising.
Follow me for the next 15 days to share my experiences and insights into #WhyExpeditionCruising
Expedition cruising typically refers to a type of travel that involves exploring remote or less accessible regions of the world, often with a focus on adventure, nature, and wildlife. Unlike traditional cruising which often involves larger ships and visits to popular ports of call, expedition cruises are usually undertaken on smaller vessels designed to navigate in more challenging environments such as polar
regions, remote islands, or wilderness areas.
These cruises often offer passengers the opportunity to engage in activities like wildlife spotting, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and visiting remote communities. Expert guides and naturalists are often on board to provide educational experiences and enhance passengers’ understanding of the destinations visited.
Expedition cruising offers a more immersive and adventurous way to explore the world’s most remote and pristine areas,
providing travelers with unique and unforgettable experiences.
I had a terrific update and renewal session with Explora Lodges this week.
It's terrific to be reminded about what a wonderful series of hotels this company offers.
Watch the video above about their lodge in Torres del Paine.
And how about Tierra del Fuego? It holds within its lands a fascinating history. At the southernmost tip of America, where fire and ice intertwine, lies this territory of untamed beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes. Since ancient times, the indigenous tribes of Yámanas and Selk’nam inhabited these inhospitable lands, bravely adapting to their hostile environment. Their
rich cultures and ancestral traditions still resonate in the mists of the past. Join us in this extraordinary and unique journey to the remote island of Tierra del Fuego in the Chilean Patagonia. Led by our expert team of guides and our dedicated staff.
Sheila did an excellent job arranging a river cruise for my mother and myself. She kept in touch regularly and answered all questions. I would highly recommend her services.
6. Women's River Cruise - Wellness on Water
Imagine a getaway that's all about you! Sheila's Women's Wellness Cruise is not just a trip; it's a radical act of self-care amidst the
beaty of Europe, from Budapest to Prague in October 2024. Dive into a world of luxury, connection, and rejuvenation with award-winning Virtuoso luxury wellness travel advisor, Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel.
Thanks Candace Sampson and "What She Said" for terrific blog post about my Women's Wellness Cruise. And see https://lushlife.ca/what-she-said/
Check out this ad appearing in PostMedia newspapers across Canada.
And check out this Daytime Ottawa TV appearance. Here's my interview talking with Derek Fage .
Just remember, there are three steps to Embrace “Your Grace”:
STEP 1.) STEP ON UP - savour, sip,
self-care
STEP 2.) STEP ONBOARDyour moving boutique hotel room
STEP 3.) STEP ONSHOREto cities and towns along the Danube River
Let me know if you'd like to secure your spot. (And yes, there are some husbands coming. At least 3 are booked thus far!)
This will be a 7-night Danube River cruise, that sets sail from Budapest on Oct. 4, 2024, and heads to Nuremberg, before finishing its voyage with 2 nights in Prague on Oct. 13, 2024. See all the details : https://tinyulr.com/LushWellCruise
Self-care is not a luxury. It's a necessity!
7. Virtuoso Life Issues
Here are some recent Virtuoso Life issues for you to peruse.
Virtuoso, The Magazine May / June 2024 - The New Adventures
A Dispatch from the Editors: Spring GetawaysOn the Move
8. Preferred Hotel Programs - Can You VIP Me?
Travel advisors, like me, often have access to a range of exclusive perks and amenities when booking luxury hotels. Here are some special perks I may be able to provide when you book your hotel stay through me:
Room Upgrades: I often have relationships with hotel management (particularly luxury hotels), allowing me to secure room upgrades at the time of booking, ensuring a better view, larger room, or added amenities.
Complimentary Breakfast or Credits: I can negotiate special perks like complimentary breakfast, spa credits, dining credits, or
other perks that enhance the overall stay.
Early Check-In and Late Check-Out: Through my connections, I may be able to negotiate early check-in or late check-out times, providing more flexibility with your schedule.
Special Amenities: I may be able to arrange for special
amenities in the room upon arrival, such as welcome gifts, champagne, or personalized touches to make the stay more memorable.
Priority Access and VIP Treatment: I can secure priority access to facilities like spas, restaurants, or events within the hotel, ensuring a more exclusive and VIP-like experience.
Customized
Experiences: I can arrange unique experiences tailored to your interests, such as private tours, exclusive excursions, or special events within the hotel premises.
Concierge Services: I can often offer personalized concierge services, ensuring your preferences are noted and catered to throughout your stay, from restaurant
reservations to special requests.
Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policies: I may be able to negotiate more flexible booking terms or cancellation policies, providing peace of mind in case plans change unexpectedly.
These perks often go beyond what is
available through standard booking channels, adding significant value to the overall luxury hotel experience.
I am a Virtuoso luxury advisor, Four Seasons preferred partner, and member of preferred hotel programs like Belmond Bellini, Rosewood Elite, Accor Luxury Step and Fairmont Famous Agent, Leading
Hotels, etc., etc.
I rarely book hotel only reservations for clients (I specialize in river and expedition cruises, customized trips to Australia and Africa), I have ways to leverage my relationships to benefit my clients. Hotel only bookings are subject to my normal professional fees. https://lushlife.ca/2022-fee-schedule/
See some additional detail on these preferred HOTEL PROGRAMS
Note: There is a stop gap measure if you are planning a last minute trip, and you only need a hotel stay. If you do not require my assistance, or VIP'ing, or add ons like transfers, concierge service, etc., you can self-book luxury properties on my Virtuoso
website. You can now browse and book hotels online https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/travel/luxury-hotels at your convenience. (If you self-book hotels, I will waive
normal booking and management fees. But if you need additional assistance after the booking, VIP'ing, transfers, concierge assistance, etc., and/or the hotel stay is part of a larger holiday, normal professional fees will apply.)
9. Special Offers from Lush Life, a Direct affiliate & Virtuoso partner
I run my boutique travel agency, Lush Life
Travel, as an affiliate of Direct Travel (formerly called Vision Travel). As Direct is one of the largest Virtuoso luxury travel network partners, I get access to some terrific offers for my clients.
Here are some offers from a few of our favourite travel supplier partners. Let me know if you'd like to book one of these
holidays
When you work with Sheila at Lush Life Travel, you get access to our in-depth knowledge, honed over 18 years experience in travel (with another 20 years in financial services). Atop our foundation of financial risk management skills; we have layered the bricks to build a wall of travel knowledge and relationships.
We leverage all of our expertise to help you live your lush life through travel.
So, schedule a consultation - and - don't forget to
complete this Pre-consultation Survey The call can't be confirmed without it.
And we'll also head to Raiatea, “The Sacred Island,” which is located just across the lagoon from Tahaa and shares the same barrier reef. (Legend claims the two were a single island until a conger eel possessed by the spirit of a princess separated them.) It used to be the center of religion and culture in the Society Islands.
Did I forget to mention Bora Bora? Our stay here allows plenty of time to capture the beauty in photographs — and we’ll want plenty. These stunning waters will show a different kaleidoscope
of blue in each frame. You’ll have lots of options for exploration, whether we prefer the access provided by a 4-by-4, or the thrill of riding in the open air. Stretch out on stunning white-sand beaches, dive and swim in brightly colored seas, or sail among the tiny islands and lagoons. But the highlight here will be the Windstar Exclusive Destination Discovery Event on a private motu complete with fire dancers. This is the stuff that dreams are made of and available to small ships.
