3. Adventure
Travel Corner- #WhyExpeditionCruising Part 2
4. Wellness Travel Corner - SHA Mexico
5. Testimonial of Week- Antarctica!
6. Women's River Cruise - Wellness on Water
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
Let me know if you'd like to schedule a complimentary consultation!
1. Travel Tips
I had a lot of positive reaction to the travel etiquette newsletter, so I thought I'd build on that.
As your trusted
travel advisor, I've compiled 13 essential travel tips to enhance your holiday experience:
1. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your next trip and has available pages.
Don't wait until you're checking in for a flight to find there is an issue.
2. Consider all family and work commitments before planning your vacation.
Make sure you have considered birthdays, anniversaries, family holidays, school schedules, etc. - it's expensive to change travel plans once made. Consider upfront.
3. Reflect on the memories you wish to create during your holiday.
I often ask my clients to think about the memories they want to bring home when we're beginning the planning of a trip. It helps focus the mind and discussions to what is most important, and also ensures we have any dreams accounted for in the plan.
4. Collaborate with a
travel advisor to customize your trip and secure exclusive perks.
I will work with you to customize a private trip, or matchmake you to the best small ship, river cruise, or expedition cruise partner. And, I generally can VIP you.
5. Arrive a day early to alleviate travel stress, particularly for cruises.
Give yourself time and space for delays and flight hiccups, as well as time for your body to adjust to any new time zones. Try to never arrange travel so you are landing and boarding a ship on the same day
(unless your ship is overnighting in the first port).
6. Opt for carry-on luggage, pack essentials, and travel light.
The old adage, 'pack half the clothes and twice the money'
remains true. As long as you have any medication, a bathing suit, and a credit card; you can generally get by - or buy - anything you need.
7. Pack patience, maintain a positive attitude, and handle mishaps gracefully.
Things do sometimes go wrong with travel. There can be delays, weather hiccups, lost baggage, storms, etc. etc. Pack your patience. Have a smile on your face. And be polite and kind to anyone in the service industry who is trying to help you - another old adage kicks in here: 'you will catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.'
8. Arrive early at the airport to navigate security and unforeseen delays comfortably.
Don't be that person trying to butt in front of others in the security line because 'my flight leaves in 20 minutes.' Arrive with plenty of time. Account for delays. Give yourself time to have a bevvie
and meal after you clear security and before you head to the gate.
9. Spread kindness onboard by treating the air crew.
Spread sunshine - particularly to the air crew . A
bag of M&Ms for the flight attendants is a nice touch. Watch this segment I did with Shepherds' Fashions in January.
10. Respect others' personal space, including reclining seats.
I'm a firm believer in seeking comfort - but - not if it impedes another's comfort. Respect others when you travel. Exercise restraint when reclining seats on a plane. (I'd go so far as to say don't
do it, unless you're on a red-eye flight, and the person behind you is sleeping too.) If you recline your seat into another's lap, may the person in front of you recline their seat into yours.
11. Carry onboard bags you can manage independently.
Carry on reduces worry and how much you bring on vacation, but only bring onboard bags you can handle yourself. Don't rely on someone else to lift your bag into an overhead bin.
12. Adhere to the middle seat armrest etiquette.
Yes, this is a thing. If you're in the cursed middle seat of a 3 person row, the middle seat "owns" both arm rests. (The person at the window can lean towards the window. The person on the aisle can lean towards the aisle.)
13. Wait for fellow passengers to deplane before retrieving your belongings.
Dude, you're not going to get off the plane faster by jumping up and getting your bag. Wait for the person in front of you to deplane, and retrieve their bag. Then stand up and gather your things.
Here's a five
minute feature that highlights AMA Waterways' most popular African safari and wildlife river cruise experience ... our 14 night Stars of South Africa. It includes stays in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Victoria Falls and Kruger National Park along with the stunning Chobe River cruise experience on the Zambezi Queen
It really is a terrific sailing itinerary, with land add ons, for those who want to do an African safari by river cruise boat! And since the animals come to the Chobe for water, odds are pretty high that you'll see a terrific assortment of wildlife.
Your journey begins with a three-night stay in picturesque Cape Town. Next, fly to Kasane, Botswana to begin your Zambezi Queen safari cruise on the Chobe River. Explore Chobe National Park, home to one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent. Spend two nights at the legendary Victoria Falls before flying to Johannesburg for two nights that includes a visit to the township of Soweto. Then fly to Hoedspruit, located in the
game-rich country of Greater Kruger National Park. Spend three nights at a luxurious game lodge in this premier eco-tourist destination, known for some of the best “Big Five” viewing in Africa. Experience the thrill of daily game drives, while evenings bring you breathtakingly clear skies.
COUNTRIES: BOTSWANA, SOUTH AFRICA, ZIMBABWE
RIVERS: CHOBE
For one couple and/or a solo passenger, book this Stars of South Africa African cruise itinerary with me on the date of your choosing, and I have a Sheila's private sale I can extend to you. 5% off the voyage fare(for the cruise, before port fees). (Kindly note, you have to call me to
get this private sale. You cannot book on my AMA website or through AMA directly.)
My normal cruise booking and management fees would still apply.
Get in touch with me to get on this cruise and
get all of the best prices and promotions.
3. Adventure Travel Corner - #WhyExpeditionCruising Part 2
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.
I'm continuing the series with a post today for 15 days on social media (facebook, instagram, or linked in), about why you should consider taking an expedition cruise.
Visiting the Galapagos Islands offers a truly unparalleled wildlife experience due to its unique biodiversity and remarkable ecological significance.
Renowned
for inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos boast an array of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins, the islands are teeming with fascinating creatures.
What makes the Galapagos so exceptional is the lack of natural predators, allowing wildlife to thrive in their natural habitats without fear. This means visitors have the rare opportunity to observe animals up close in their
natural environment, often exhibiting behaviors not seen elsewhere.
The islands’ volcanic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and nutrient-rich waters support a wealth of marine life as well. Snorkeling and diving among colorful reefs reveal an underwater world brimming with tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and even sharks.
Moreover, the Galapagos Islands are committed to conservation efforts, with strict regulations in place to protect the fragile ecosystem and minimize human impact.
Visitors can feel good knowing that their presence contributes to the preservation of this extraordinary natural wonder for future generations to enjoy. In essence, a trip to the Galapagos offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, witness evolution in action, and be humbled by the sheer wonder of the natural world.
Close encounters with nature on an expedition cruise often lead to unforgettable photos. Partnering with National Geographic, Lindblad Expeditions brings a unique
touch to photography on their sailings.
Sven Lindblad, the founder, started as a wildlife photographer, shaping Lindblad’s photography-centric approach. Certified photo instructors join every voyage, offering guidance on camera settings and composition. Their goal? To empower guests to capture stunning shots that narrate their journey.
These instructors, also trained naturalists, excel at photographing the natural world. Their expertise in animal behavior enhances the photography
experience. Imagine receiving tips on capturing a bear fishing or a pod of killer whales in action!
Stay tuned for my interview with National Geographic photography instructor, Steve Morello, during a memorable Lindblad sailing around Newfoundland. Steve’s continued work with Lindblad ensures aspiring and seasoned photographers, whether using an iPhone or professional gear, craft exceptional shots.
Another destination that is popular for expedition cruising is Australia.
Welcome to the otherworldly Kimberley!
Tucked along the northwestern corner of Australia, the Kimberley is one of the world’s last wild frontiers, boasting rugged sandstone peaks, gushing waterfalls, desert
expanses, sunken mangrove forests, and everything in between.
Cruise through Montgomery Reef, search for lustrous pearls on local farms, and witness the majestic King George Falls. Engage with original land-owning communities and their cultural rites, including the unique Gwion Gwion artwork.
The Kimberley expeditions with terrific partners like @seabourncruise cater to well-seasoned travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, natural history buffs, and adventurers seeking new
experiences in one of the most pristine places on Earth.
If you want to explore #Australia off the beaten path, #AskSheilasheila@lushlife.ca to get you on a Seabourn expedition cruise for a unique and unforgettable journey
Embark on an extraordinary journey with Expedition cruises that take you to places other ships can't reach. 🚢⚓
Experience true adventure with explorations via Zodiacs, elevating your trips to a whole new level of excitement. 🌍🛥️
Join the passengers of Le Boréal as they set off on a Zodiac for an afternoon of discovery, exploring the wonders of Antarctic glaciers and icebergs. 🗺️❄️
The newly opened property SHA Wellness Clinic México has been nominated for two
amazing & well-deserved awards by the WORLD SPA AWARDS. • World's Best New Wellness Retreat 2024 • Mexico's Best Wellness Retreat 2024
My trip booked and rebooked due to Covid. Sheila gave great advice and followed through promptly.
Post trip, Sheila checked in with me for feedback. Always a pleasure working with Sheila.
🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠
Thank you, D, for taking the time to leave some wonderful and kind comments on my @virtuosoltd verified client feedback site. I really appreciate it.
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 INSIDER’S GUIDE: Suite Retreats & Ultraluxe Trips
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. 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.
Tucked along the northwestern corner of Australia, the Kimberley is one of the world’s last wild frontiers, boasting rugged sandstone peaks, gushing waterfalls, desert
expanses, sunken mangrove forests, and everything in between. 
Day 8 of 15 
