Sunday, December 22,
2024
Looking Back on 2024, Dreaming Big for 2025
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Hello, ! Welcome to Lush Life Travel's weekly newsletter. This week, I'm sharing the following info and offers: 1. Looking Back on 2024, Dreaming Big for 2025 1.' New Electronic Authorization Needed UK Travel Effective January 8th 2025 2. River Cruise Corner - Blue Danube 3. Adventure Travel Corner- Add Tromsø, Lisbon, or Bordeaux to your 2025 travel list 4. Wellness Travel Corner - 11 restorative journeys 5. Testimonial of Week- Very satisfied! 6. Join Me: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris & Normandy 7. Explore Award-Winning Inspiration 8. Elevate Your Hotel Stays with Exclusive Perks- VIP You & Atlantis The Royal Dubai 9. Special Offers from Lush Life~ Direct Affiliate & Virtuoso Partner Let me know if you'd like to schedule a complimentary consultation!
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1. Looking Back on 2024, Dreaming Big for 2025 I was profiled by Travel Week travel trade magazine
this week about my travel year. It's been magical and busy, that's for sure.
Give it a read. https://www.travelweek.ca/news/agent-feedback/how-was-2024-for-you-three-travel-advisors-reflect-on-the-past-12-months-and-share-their-highs-and-lows/
And let me know - how was your 2024? TORONTO
— How another year flew by so quickly, no one in the retail travel industry quite knows. But here we are, just about ready to close the books on 2024 – and looking forward to what 2025 will bring. Was 2024 a good year for you? Did the revenge travel trend
stay aloft with your clients and keep your agency busy with calls and inquiries and bookings? Or did you see a plateau in demand, or even a drop? What sold well, and what was the most memorable trip you created for a client? And did you enjoy the best part of this industry – the travel! – with a few trips of your own? We connected with
three travel advisors to get their take on 2024. They shared news of some of their biggest bookings – and their biggest frustrations with the industry. See if their reflections on 2024 echo your own. And all the best for 2025! Sheila Gallant-Halloran Lush Life Travel, a Direct Travel affiliate “If 2024 taught me anything, it’s that travel transforms. “This year felt like my ‘make-up’ year for all the trips missed during the pandemic, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. “I began by grounding myself with my annual visit to family in Newfoundland, then shifted to business growth at Virtuoso Travel Week in Vegas, where I was honoured as a top sustainability advisor. “From there, I crisscrossed the globe, blending personal adventures with
professional milestones. “In Maui, I soaked up island beauty with my family, enjoying luaus, shave ice and beachside relaxation at the Fairmont Kea Lani. At Miraval Austin Resort & Spa in Texas, I immersed myself in wellness with floating sound meditation, equine therapy and archery. Career highlights included being named a Virtuoso Cruise
Icon (top 1% of the network) and celebrating with a Windstar cruise to Tahiti, where my youngest daughter and I snorkelled, went scuba diving and jet-skied in paradise. “In Costa Rica, as a top performer for Direct Travel, I earned a GEM (Going the Extra Mile) trip to the Andaz Papagayo, spying on monkeys and ziplining through the treetops.
Exploring Istanbul and Rhodes on an Explora Journeys cruise with my cousin revealed the cultural richness of both destinations. “Three Danube River cruises – on the AmaMagna, Scenic Amber and Uniworld’s River Duchess – helped me refine my expertise in river cruising. This October, I even restarted my women’s river cruise group, sailing the
River Duchess, and I already have plans to lead another group on the Seine with AmaWaterways next year. “But the ultimate highlight? An unforgettable expedition to Antarctica with my husband with Lindblad Expeditions. From witnessing Adélie, Gentoo and chinstrap penguins, to walking on ice and cruising through the iceberg graveyard, every moment
was surreal. Seeing an emperor penguin was the icing on the cake! “As a newly minted empty-nester, I’m embracing ‘chapter 3’ – the phase after schooling and raising kids. For me, this chapter is all about travel and helping others explore the world. I can’t wait to see what 2025 will bring!” Let me know as you look back - how was your 2024 for travel? What new goals and destinations do you have for 2025? Let me know if I can help you dream big! 1.' New Electronic Authorization Needed UK Travel Effective January 8th 2025 As you may be aware, the UK is implementing the ETA effective January 8th 2025. Here are some details for you to know. Please be aware that for arrivals after January 7, 2025, the UK has expanded its digital travel system and will require a new authorization called Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). United Kingdom – Effective January 8th , 2025 Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required.
The ETA grants permission to enter the UK for short term visits, and all non-European nationalities will require an ETA to travel to (or via) the UK. Citizens from countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and other non-European visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an ETA. The ETA application is completed online and usually applicants will receive a decision within 3 working days. Once approved, it is valid for 2
years. Additional information can be found on the UK’s website. Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) - GOV.UK
European Travel Information and Authorization System
(ETIAS)
Although an exact date has not been released, it is expected as early as mid- May 2025, an electronic travel authorization will be required to enter most European countries.
Once the program is operational, you can apply for the authorization through ETIAS online at https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en .
2. River Cruise Corner - Blue Danube Here's a five minute feature on AmaWaterways on the Blue Danube river cruise experience going from Budapest to Nuremberg with an option to extend to Prague
afterwards.
Friday's Five Minute Feature highlights their Blue Danube.. To reserve your spot on this cruise please get in touch with me for available dates and the best promotions. See details of the itinerary here - https://www.amawaterways.ca/agent/lushlife/destination/europe-river-cruises/2025/blue-danube-discovery And, I can extend to you an offer for new bookings only if made this week with me. I can extend a 5% off the voyage fare (for the cruise, before port fees) to either one couple, or one solo passenger. (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. #AskSheila sheila@lushlife.ca 3.Adventure Travel Corner- Add Tromsø, Lisbon, or Bordeaux to your 2025 travel listFor those who live for adventure
These are the moments your inner explorer has been waiting for. From experiencing the art and cultural heritage of Barcelona to following in the footsteps of Vikings in Norway to savoring scratch-made regional specialties back onboard,
Seabourn seamlessly delivers adventure and luxury aboard ships with heartfelt hospitality.
Discover Europe with 15% off your fare, up to a $1,000 shipboard credit per suite, and a reduced deposit when you book by February 18. Plus, sail with exclusive Virtuoso Voyages benefits including an additional shipboard credit of up to $250 per person 4. Wellness Travel Corner- 11 restorative journeysRejuvenate and relax
As the festive season ramps up with meals to cook and parties to plan, you might find that you're ready for a vacation. Gift yourself a reset with a trip that has health,
wellness, and joy at the center. Whether you opt for the holistic spirit of Arizona, the charming beauty of Malta, warm Jamaican pampering, or classic Palm Springs glamor, you’ll return feeling better than ever.
Soak Up the Sun
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Find your rhythm at Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. The century-old property is ideal for exploring colorful San Juan. On the property, relax on the beach or at the pool under the care of a tanning and hydration
specialist. Don’t miss the spa’s Outdoor Clay Caress Experience.
Palm Springs Chic
La Quinta, California
The iconic La Quinta Resort & Club is newly renovated and ready to invite you to Palm Springs. Get active with 21 tennis courts and 5 golf courses, or recharge in hacienda-style casitas and the Spa Water Therapy Room. Book 3 nights by Dec 1 to get the 4th night free through Jan 1, 2025.
Southern
Influence
Miami Beach, Florida
Recharge your imagination in the whimsical spell of Faena Miami Beach. The art-deco enclave offers spa treatments based on ancient South American healing and star chefs Paul Qui and Francis Mallmann handle the cooking. Book now to get your 5th night free on trips of 5 nights or more.
Gracious Waves
Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
Nature heals on the powder-soft white sands of Grace Bay at The
Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos. Snorkel right off the expansive beach, or stand-up paddle your way over to Princess Alexandra National Park to explore. Enjoy up to 30% savings when you stay 5 nights or more.
Spa in the City
Miami Beach, Florida
Combine play and cutting-edge treatments at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. Meet with a nutritionist, chill with a cryotherapy session, or soak in a rooftop hydrospa, and enjoy Miami Beach’s longest stretch of
secluded sand. Receive your 4th free through Feb 28, 2025.
Mediterranean Reset
Floriana, Malta
Take a classical approach to wellness at The Phoenicia Malta. Nestled on 7 acres of lush gardens, this 1920s-era hotel is just outside the 16th-century bastions of Valletta. Unwind by the infinity-edge pool, vibe in the salt room, and soak in the healing power of the beautiful Mediterranean.
Red Rock Retreat
Sedona,
Arizona
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Sedona at Mii amo. With 23 casitas, Mii amo tailors bespoke multiday, all-inclusive wellness journeys, and offers guests a deep connection with nature. Explore about 400 miles of trails and enjoy treatments from sports massages to chakra balancing.
Spirit of the West
Canyon Point at Lake Powell, Utah
Restore balance in Utah’s canyon country at Amangiri. Book a 3-night, full-board desert wellness journey
of self-care, including 3 spa treatments and 2 movement or mindfulness sessions. Add a flightseeing tour over the Colorado Plateau to fully appreciate the landscape.
Lush Transformation
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Immerse in the spirit of the Caribbean at Half Moon, Jamaica, where the comprehensive spa is an oasis of pools and greenery. Reconnect with a couple’s massage in a breezy over-water
bungalow pavilion and find connection with yourself through guided meditation and yoga.
Alpine Intuition
Gstaad, Switzerland
Nestled in the heart of the sun-kissed Saanenland region, Gstaad Palace offers Swiss wellness year-round. The palatial property is a dreatmy winter retreat or a vibrant summer getaway, with a nearly 20,000-square-foot spa, restorative mountain views, and intuitive treatments.
French Isle
Escape
Saint Bart's
Recharge after the holidays at Rosewood Le Guanahani. From kayaking to Tibetan singing bowl therapy and morning hikes, the gracious spirit of Saint Bart's will have you coming back to yourself. Book a stay in a 2- or 3-bedroom Signature Suite and get a $200 resort credit.
5. Testimonial of the Week - Very satisfied!
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It’s so rewarding to receive wonderful client testimonials, such as this one from my client, Happy Traveler.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Very satisfied!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By: Happy Traveler "Sheila is very responsive, thorough and efficient. Every detail us taken care
of. "🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠 Thank you, Happy Traveler for taking the time to leave some wonderful and kind comments on my @virtuosoltd verified client feedback site. I truly appreciate it.
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6. Join Me: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris & Normandy Join Me: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris &
Normandy I’m thrilled to announce another incredible group journey, this time on a women-focused river cruise to Paris and Normandy in November 2025. While the spotlight will be on women’s themes, spouses and partners are welcome! They can skip the morning talks and still enjoy the shore excursions, dining, and everything else onboard. Why Join This Cruise?
✨ Paris: Always enchanting and vibrant.
✨ Normandy: Stunning coastlines, artistic beauty, and rich history. Explore Monet’s Gardens, the charming harbor of Honfleur, Joan of Arc’s legacy, and the D-Day beaches, including a special Remembrance Day tour on November 11th (with tailored visits to Canadian or American beaches).
✨ Château de Bizy: Experience the
grandeur of "the Versailles of Normandy." Blend culture, art, architecture, and the good life as we sail the Seine together. Cruise Details:
🚢 Line: AMA Waterways, aboard the luxurious AMA Dante
📅 When: November 8, 2025, for 7 nights (option to add a 2-night pre-cruise
in Paris)
📍 Itinerary: Roundtrip Paris along the Seine Special Offers: - Reduced solo supplement cabins—grab them before they’re gone!
🗺️ For full details, including itinerary, deck plans, inclusions, and pricing, visit: 2025 Women’s River Cruise Details. 🎥 Watch a recording of my webinar with AMA Waterways BDM Neil Dudley: Cruise Presentation. And there's also this presentation with Neil and me:
7. Explore Award-Winning Inspiration
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8. Elevate Your Hotel Stays with Exclusive Perks - VIP You & Atlantis The Royal Dubai
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Subject: Unlock Exclusive Perks for Your Luxury Hotel Stay Did you know booking your luxury hotel stay through me unlocks exclusive perks and amenities? Here’s a sneak peek at how I can elevate your next getaway: ✨ Room
Upgrades – Enjoy better views, larger rooms, or added comforts through my relationships with top hotel management.
🍳 Complimentary Breakfast & Credits – Delight in free breakfasts or use dining, spa, or resort credits to enhance your stay.
⏰ Early Check-In & Late Check-Out – Enjoy added flexibility with personalized arrival and departure times.
🎁 Welcome Amenities – Arrive to thoughtful touches like champagne, gifts,
or personalized surprises.
👑 VIP Treatment – Access priority bookings at spas, restaurants, and events for a truly exclusive experience.
🌍 Custom Experiences – Let me tailor private tours or special activities to your interests.
📅 Flexible Booking Policies – Benefit from accommodating terms that provide peace of mind. As a Virtuoso luxury advisor, I leverage top-tier programs like Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Belmond Bellini Club, Rosewood Elite, and many more to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. While I specialize in river and expedition cruises, as well as bespoke trips to Africa and Australia, I’m
happy to book luxury hotels for my clients. Hotel-only bookings are subject to my professional fees, outlined here: Fee Schedule. 💻 For Last-Minute Stays
If you’re planning a quick
trip and don’t need VIP services or concierge add-ons, you can self-book luxury properties through my Virtuoso website: Browse & Book Hotels Online. Self-booking waives my fees, but if additional support or VIP services are required later, standard fees will apply. 💡 Still Wondering Why Book with an Advisor?
Explore these blog posts for insights: Let’s make your next hotel stay truly exceptional. Ready to get started?
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See some additional detail on these preferred HOTEL PROGRAMS Atlantis The Royal Dubai Atlantis The
Royal is an unparalleled destination located on the crescent of The Palm next to Atlantis, The Palm. The new iconic landmark of Dubai, Atlantis The Royal is the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world, welcoming guests to an experience that completely redefines the perspective of luxury. Crafted by the world’s leading designers, architects and artists, this is a destination where everything has been designed to challenge the boundaries of imagination. The resort surges 43 storys high, taking guests on a journey of the impossible, with artful masterpieces, iconic entertainment and beautiful craftsmanship at every turn. This is where guests experience iconic stays in Rooms, Suites and Signature Penthouses paired with impeccable service. This is where the world’s most decorated chefs bring their individual
mastery. As Dubai’s premier dining destination, guests are served the extraordinary by celebrity chefs, including José Andrés, Gastón Acurio and Heston Blumenthal, to name a few. Guests can expect a vibrant nightlife scene, with the city's best bars, trendy beach clubs and a sky pool that soars 22-storeys high; where day blends into night
and the party never ends. For those looking for a transformational wellness journey, AWAKEN is sprawling wellness haven, featuring a Hammam Sensorium, luxurious treatment rooms, a world-class fitness space and personal styling services. This state-of-the-art wellness sanctuary offers guests holistic therapies fused with modern technology and exclusive treatments only found at AWAKEN. Atlantis The Royal is where the highest level of service sets a new standard in excellence. This is the place where something incredible happens at every moment of every stay. This is it, Atlantis The Royal. Many of these perks and amenities are only available when you book your stay through a Virtuoso travel advisor like Sheila. 9. Special Offers from Lush Life, a Direct affiliate & Virtuoso partner As the owner of Lush Life Travel, a boutique
travel agency affiliated with Direct Travel, I’m delighted to bring you access to exclusive offers through Direct Travel’s status as one of the largest Virtuoso luxury travel network partners. Here are some fantastic opportunities from a few of our favorite travel supplier partners: Stateroom Upgrades and More with AmaWaterways Enjoy the Gift of Travel with Regent Seven Seas Let me know if one of these holidays catches your eye—I’d love to help you plan your next unforgettable journey!
Unlock Your Lush Life through Travel
When you work with me at Lush Life Travel, you gain the benefit of 19 years of travel expertise, built on a solid foundation of 20 years in financial services. With a keen eye for detail and risk management, I’ve built a network of trusted relationships and curated in-depth knowledge to create seamless, unforgettable journeys for my clients. Let’s work together to turn your travel dreams into reality. 👉 Schedule your consultation today—and don’t forget to complete this Pre-Consultation Survey. Your call can’t be confirmed without it. Here’s to living your lush life through travel!
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Live a Lush Life - Travel!
Lush regards,
Sheila Gallant-Halloran
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