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Credit card companies generally let you set up alerts for things like large purchases, so you can monitor for fraud. One I have set up on my Chase card is to notify me of any international charges. (This is not a promotion for Chase credit cards, but I did choose it for many traveler-friendly features including no foreign transaction fees, and no need to inform them to my travel plans which saves the hassle of having a purchase declined. Hence my interest in setting up this specific alert, so that I would catch purchases outside the US not made by me.)
When I made my first purchase in London, within seconds I received an email saying “An international charge has been posted to this account” with the details. At first I was annoyed, and thought “I need to disable that alert so I won’t get these emails all week.” But I looked at the email more closely, and realized it showed the amount of the purchase in US dollars, not in British pounds.
Hogwarts souvenir pin from Warner Brothers Studios
Now I may be a bit OCD, but with every purchase in international currency, I immediately start doing the math in my head to figure out what I paid in USD. Yes, there are apps for that, but the exchange rate the app uses is not necessarily the one the bank uses.
I immediately realized how this was a huge perk for me. I started checking for the email immediately after handing over my card, and telling the family “This wasn’t so bad, it was only $—- considering we all had appetizers and bought 2 bottles of wine!” Disclaimer: London is expensive, but being from California, it was pretty much in line with what I would have expected to pay at home. Which confirms how expensive California is!
No viist to England is complete without scones..
And a meal in a pub!
The other benefit will come at tax time, because I won’t have to look up all the credit card statements to find the USD amounts. I simply saved the emails in my expenses folder.
If you have stumbled upon an unexpected travel hack, please share in the comments, or email me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.
The staff at Rubens at the Palace loves celebrating all holidays, even the Fourth of July!
As a family travel specialist, I solve the problems that frustrate parents when they try to plan a trip overseas. Some of the services I provide include:
– Finding guaranteed connecting rooms or family rooms that sleep 3 or more guests
– Arranging age appropriate activities that are fun for everyone
– Hiring expert guides who can engage even young children
– Arranging family photo shoots to capture the memories forever
Happy kids = happy parents (and vice versa!)
My clients also receive exclusive amenities at preferred partner hotels, which may include free nights, daily breakfast, and hotel credits.
Here are offers from some of my clients’ favorite hotels in Europe:
LONDON
The Corinthia Hotel is loved by many clients for its excellent location close to many attractions, luxurious rooms, and huge spa. Virtuoso clients receive a 4th night free through April 22, 2018, and these amenities:
A luxurious retreat after a busy day in London!
- Daily breakfast for two
- £85 Hotel Credit
- Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
- Access to the extensive Thermal Floor at award-winning ESPA Life at Corinthia
- Complimentary 24-hour gym access
- Complimentary Upgrade (if available at check-in)
- Butler Service for River Suites and Penthouses
- Complimentary use of the hotel car within Central London (Zone 1)
The award-winning spa-aaaaah.
For travelers who book by April 9, there are bonus amenities! Get all of the above and a choice of one of the following:
- Guaranteed early check-in
- Guaranteed late checkout
- Guaranteed upgrade to the next room category
* Offer applies to Deluxe King Rooms up to The Whitehall Penthouse
Check out The Crafty Concierge which offers lots of great ideas for families in London.
It’s just a 10 min walk to the Golden Jubilee Bridge
PARIS
Esprit St Germain is located near Luxembourg Gardens on the Left Bank, within walking distance of the Louvre and Notre Dame. Families love it for the warm hospitality towards children of all ages, making it feel like a home away from home.
Book the Prestige room on the top floor to get a private terrace with this gorgeous view.
They are offering a 4th night free through April 30, which includes the following complimentary amenities:
- Daily American breakfast
- Lobby bar with champagne, wines, spirits AND minibar in room (yes, complimentary!)
- WI-FI
- Access to the fitness centre, steam room, and sauna
- Access to the business centre
- Daily newspaper of your choice
- Flowers and fresh fruits daily
Blackout dates: March 3 to 7, 2017 (inclusive). Valid only for Superior & Deluxe Rooms
Feel like a guest in someone’s home while enjoying complimentary drinks in this “bar.”
ROME
The Hotel Eden near the Spanish Steps just completed an extensive renovation, so it’s more stylish than ever. They are offering a 4th night free through March 31, and my clients are eligible for Dorchester Club amenities:
- One category upgrade guaranteed at time of booking
- 100 EU hotel credit
- Daily full breakfast buffet for 2 people
- Unlimited wifi for unlimited devices
Who says historic hotels have to have dark rooms?
They still have their lovely rooftop dining room overlooking the Borghese, featuring some of the best views in Rome, where guests can take breakfast, or enjoy music and cocktails in the evening.
They don’t even charge for the view!
You can read about traveling to Rome with kids in a previous blog post.
Roman sites are impressive, but hiring a guide gives deeper understanding, and helps make navigating the crowds less stressful.
LISBON
The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is offering a 4th night free. My clients always receive the Four Seasons preferred Partner amenities, which include daily breakfast and a spa credit. And if you book a suite, they’ll also pick you up in a limousine on arrival!
Plenty of room for the whole family.
A run with a view
Lisbon is a beautiful city steeped in history, but there are many kid-friendly attractions including an aquarium and safari park, or you can hire a driver for a day trip to beaches or castles.
Sometimes getting out of the city is the best way to enjoy it.
For a special treat, you can go for a spin through winding cobblestone streets with a professional photographer in a vintage Moto-sidecar. Check it out here.
For help finding your family’s perfect European vacation, contact suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.
There are some offers available right now for London, valid for travel throughout the year. Some expire next month, and others are limited to availability. If you plan ahead, you can get a great deal with some of our favorite hotels and tour guides.
Combining traditional grandeur with modern freshness, the redesigned Victorian building is ideally located in the heart of London, facing the River Thames. It is a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions, and offers an exquisite light-filled lobby, a spacious exterior courtyard, and the most breathtaking spa in London, housed across four floors.
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| The best spa in London |
Annual Sale
Up to 30% off the best available rates. Must be booked by April 30.
Family Friendly Package
Two connecting rooms (if available at time of booking) or nearby, for one discounted rate. Parents will receive a bottle of champagne, and children will receive a game console and some treats. Valid for stays until Dec 30, 2016.
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| Rooms average 485 sq ft |
My clients receive Virtuoso amenities on these offers as they do when booking regular rates:
- English Breakfast for two people per room,
- Noon arrival (subject to availability),
- Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability),
- £85 Hotel Credit (once per stay)
- Water and fruit
(Blackout dates and minimum stays may apply)
London’s quintessential luxury boutique hotel, a magnificent 19th-century architectural treasure centrally located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Each of the rooms, luxury suites, and long-stay apartments are dressed with fine fabrics, fresh flowers, antique furnishings, and rare artworks, plus 21stcentury technology. The hotel has two staff members for every guest, ensuring personal care to every detail.
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| Every room is unique |
Brownell Travel Exclusive Amenities:
- $100 food credit per room per stay
- Additional $100.00 food credit for bookings of two or more nights
- English Breakfast for two each day
- Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
- Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
- Book a suite for 3 or more nights and get a one way airport transfer
- Book an apartment for 4 or more nights and get a one way airport transfer
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| Spacious apartments for long stays |
A beautiful townhouse dating back to 1843, enviably located on a tree-lined street in fashionable Knightsbridge (just a short walk from Harvey Nichols and Harrods). The hotel features its own private art collection, and all of the 28 guestrooms and suites are individually designed. Head barman Antonio Pizzuto has spent 40 years perfecting his art, and is known for the best martinis in London.
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| It’s 5 o’clock somewhere! |
Brownell Travel Exclusive Amenities:
- Full English Breakfast daily
- £100 Food Credit
- Exclusive pair of member tickets to current exhibitions at The Victoria and Albert Museum with access to the members lounge. (These tickets are impossible to get!)
- Afternoon tea for 2 on one day during their stay
- Martini Master class
- Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
- Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
- Book a suite for 3 or more nights and get a one way airport
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| Authentic London townhouse in a residential neighborhood |
Family Sightseeing Tours
Context Travel is offering 10% off family tours around the world if booked by April 30. Client favorites in London include:
British Museum for Families
Join an archaeologist in the discovery of the British Museum: one of the largest repositories of ancient art in the world, and an amazing backdrop to a family-oriented exploration of the ancient world and its traditions, religions, and lives. Families will learn about how the museum was founded and how the passion for collecting is still alive today. Using fun educational tools, they’ll pick a theme or a particular civilization and follow its development throughout time while navigating the museum.
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| Hands on learning |
Tower of London for Families
Known for its feathered inhabitants, for its gruesome executions and its famous prisoners, the Tower is the site of intriguing stories that inspire and fascinates young visitors. Why do the ravens live in the Tower? Was the Tower really used as a zoo? Led by a specially trained family-friendly historian guide, the tour provides an interactive learning experience for children and introduces them to British history
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| Kids love the macabre! |
Drawing London: A Hands On Art Workshop
A hands-on tutorial on how to engage and hone your powers of observation and expression, under the auspices of a professional artist and art teacher. The tour starts at the artist’s beautiful flat, and while sipping a cup of tea, families are introduced to materials and a demonstration of some basic drawing techniques.
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| Anyone can be an artist |
They can even arrange for a a private tennis lesson on Henry VIII’s court!
Context regular tours are a good value even when not on sale. And if you have 4 or more in your group it’s less expensive to book a private tour!
Contact me if you’d like more information, or are ready to book so that you get our exclusive amenities.
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| My clients love London! |
We all want the most for our money when traveling, especially when paying premium prices for a five star hotel. Now my clients have yet another way to get more value when booking a hotel.
The Dorchester Collection recently announced a new preferred agency program, called The Diamond Club, and Brownell Travel is one of the charter members.
This is one of the best amenity programs I’ve seen, and there are no blackout dates! It’s good at all nine hotels in their portfolio:
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| (And more hotels to come) |
Here’s what guests receive when they book a Dorchester Collection hotel through me:
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A one category upgrade guaranteed at time of booking (if available, up to a junior suite)
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Daily breakfast for 2 people per room
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A hotel credit equivalent to 100 units of local currency, applied to the final bill
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Unlimited internet access for an unlimited number of devices
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| Hotel Principe di Savoia Classic Room |
For guests who book a suite, or any room at 45 Park Lane, they receive the same amenities, with a few enhancements:
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Daily breakfast for 2 people per bedroom
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A daily hotel credit of 100 units of local currency
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| 45 Park Lane Deluxe King Room |
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| Suite at Le Meurice |
Also, each hotel will have a Diamond Club ambassador on-site around the clock, to ensure my clients are getting their amenities and to assist with any special requests. This is especially helpful when I need to reach a hotel in case of emergency at any time of day, especially when clients are traveling abroad.
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| Hotel Plaza Athenee Paris |
This is just one of several preferred agency programs with which Brownell is affiliated, including Ritz Carlton STARS, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Rosewood Elite, and Starwood Luxury Privileges.
The next time you plan to book a hotel, whether it’s for one night or two weeks, contact me first at suzette@family-treks.com to check if you are eligible for any exclusive amenities or upgrades.
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| The Beverly Hills Hotel |
Here are some great promotions for families offered by luxury resorts and hotels around the world. Some are available only for a limited time, but others can be booked year round (blackout dates may apply).
Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, Big Island of Hawaii
Second room 50% off through Dec. 23, 2011. A special note regarding this resort: Even their regular rates are a good value because they offer so many complimentary cultural activities, beach activities. And no charge for parking or internet access either!
Second room 50% off through Dec. 23, 2011. A special note regarding this resort: Even their regular rates are a good value because they offer so many complimentary cultural activities, beach activities. And no charge for parking or internet access either!
Grace Bay Club, Turks & Caicos
Virtuoso promotion through Dec 16: 4th night free, bottle of champagne $100 dining credit, upgrade subject to availability, and daily breakfast for up to 2 guests. A family-friendly resort with Kids Town, an extensive children’s center complete with tree house, and a full roster of excursions, educational programming and kid friendly amenities.
The Goring, London
“Look Under the Pillow” rate of £525.00 per night for a family with up to 2 children 17 and under. Includes two rooms, full breakfast, cookie making with the pastry chef, non-alcoholic cocktail mixing in the bar, Nintendo Wii in the room, homemade cookies & milk at bedtime, bread bag for feeding the ducks, and a kids’ only competition. And of course, a special gift under your pillow! Available select dates Feb through Oct.
Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver
Parents can book a luxurious Executive King Balcony room for themselves, and receive the connecting Superior Twin room with 2 double beds for the kids at 50% off. Includes Virtuoso amenities of daily deluxe Breakfast for 2, $100 spa credit, welcome amenity and upgrade based on availability. This new hotel offers an outdoor infinity pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, and complimentary internet.
Ritz Carlton Hotels, New York City
Exclusive for my clients! Stay at Central Park or Battery Park and receive a 3rd night free, full breakfast daily, and a $100 hotel credit. Central Park guests receive guaranteed upgrades in select room categories, and all Battery Park guests will be upgraded to Club Level.
Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
Receive complimentary Club access when booking a suite from Jan 28- Feb 6 and from Feb 25th – March 16. A family friendly hotel on 12 acres of oceanfront property just 5 miles from downtown Miami, offering water sports, 11 tennis courts, a spa, and oceanfront Ritz Kids’ program.
The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Virtuoso Exclusive Experience* is available April 21 – June 19, 2011
Welcome amenity, buffet breakfast for two daily, and free self parking. A family favorite in the upscale Wailea area that has been recently renovated. This all-suite resort features a lagoon pool with a waterslide, a wading pool, and an adult’s only pool. Oceanfront villas with private pools are also available. 
Fairmont Southampton or Fairmont Hamilton Princess, Bermuda
Both resorts offering free second room and Explorers Kids Camp is free through April 30. Plus kids eat free from the restaurant children’s menus.
Four Seasons Costa Rica
Fifth night free in rooms, and sixth & seventh night free in villas, through Dec 16. features ladybug & butterfly releases and fish feeding daily. Lots of on-site activities including bocce ball, volleyball, tennis, cycling, and more. A note to families regarding all Four Seasons resorts: The children’s program is always complimentary, and exclusive Preferred Partner amenities for my clients include daily full American breakfast for two, upgrade based on availability, free internet in suites and one amenity of the hotel’s choice (for Costa Rica, it’s a $100 spa credit). 
Grand Velas All Suites and Spa Resort, Riviera Maya
Virtuoso Exclusive Experience available through Pleasant Holidays May 1 – July 5 Includes upgrade upon arrival (if available), welcome bottle of tequila, 20% discount on spa services, roundtrip private airport transfers. A new all-inclusive resort which has been receiving rave reviews from travelers and agents for its spacious family suites, some with private plunge pools.
Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes, Orlando
Exclusive Harry Potter package including back stage tour of the Hogwarts Castle and early entrance to the theme park. The resort sits on 500 acres of a nature preserve and features ladybug & butterfly releases and fish feeding daily. Lots of on-site activities including bocce ball, volleyball, tennis, cycling, and more.
Hotel Esprit Saint Germain, Paris
Paris for Families offer including connecting Deluxe Rooms, daily breakfast; wine and French cheeses and breads upon arrival; complimentary mini bar in your room; and much more. Virtuoso rates from 700 EU per night for four people for travel March 1 – May 31, 2011.
For help in planning the family vacation of your dreams, contact Suzette Mack, Family Travel Advisor at suzette@family-treks.com.
I asked Jonathan Epstein of Celebrated Experiences about his favorite hotels for families in the UK, outside of London (which has so many family-friendly hotels it was worth its own blog post.) Here is his top list:
Sheen Falls Lodge (Ireland): Kids can not only learn how to fish, but also how to smoke them. Nearby is Lorge Chocolate which offers classes for all ages on preparing and handling chocolate confections. There is a great swimming pool on the property, which offers a variety of rooms, suites and villas at guaranteed USD rates.
Ashford Castle (Ireland): Regarded as one of the world‘s finest castle hotels, it is full of history and dates back to 1228. Perfect for families, there is a myriad of things to do from falconry and horseback riding to fishing and boating. Rooms and suites are uniquely decorated, but offer modern amenities.
The Torridon (Scotland): This is the most authentic Highlands destination, a 58 acre estate nestled between mountains and a loch. Families will find outdoor activities ranging from kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking to fishing and archery. It even won the prestigious award “Scottish Activity Hotel of the Year.” This is Jonathan’s favorite family destination in Scotland.
Mount Juliet (Ireland): Kids can have the best equestrian experience here, not only riding and jumping, but even taking an exclusive tour of the Ballylinch Stud Farm to see the fowls. Nearby, families can also visit many local craftmakers who specialize in silver, glass, crystal, and leather. There is also a Jack Nicklaus designed Championship Golf Course, spa, and indoor pool.
Bovey Castle (England): Located in Dartmoor National Park, a 2 hr train ride west of London, Jonathan says this is the best hotel in the UK for families. In addition to activities such as falconry, tennis, and cycling, kids can collect eggs in the morning, make apple cider, or participate in dozens of activities in the Bovey Rangers program.
I work closely with Jonathan and his staff to create a memorable and fun trips for all ages, whether it’s a short weekend getaway to a themed Harry Potter tour to a custom journey exploring your family history. For more information about planning your next family vacation, contact Suzette Mack at
Families planning a trip to Europe are often challenged finding suitable, and economical, accommodations. As most hotel rooms sleep only two people, and connecting rooms are usually not guaranteed, I often recommend apartments or private home rentals for families traveling with children. They not only provide more space and many of the conveniences of home, but they are often comparable in price to booking two hotel rooms. And travelers need not worry that that they will be foregoing any luxury, either! There are exceptional apartments that are beautifully decorated, and in the best locations, if you know how to find them.
The Collingham (London) – This fine period building is located in fashionable South Kensington near Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, overlooking a tranquil garden square. The superb shopping areas of Knightsbridge and Chelsea are close by. Well furnished apartments ranging from 1-3 bedrooms each have a fully equipped kitchen and satellite TV. Maid and laundry service is available as well as 24 hour reception and security.
Domus (Rome) – This is a wonderful 18th century building of prestigious flats located in the famous Palazzo Pierret in Piazza di Spagna in the heart of Rome, with an incredible view over the Spanish Steps. The spacious apartments, which sleep 2- 10, have sitting rooms, kitchens, elegant bathrooms, and are equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, direct telephone lines, and internet access. Suites which sleep up to 3 guests are also available with kitchenettes.
I am confident that my clients are in good hands when I book their accommodations through Small and Elegant Hotels. They not only have some of the best rates, but their expertise and personal connections are priceless. In fact, they can still guarantee 2009 rates for next year, but soon that option will go away, as 2010 is predicted to be a busier travel season.
So if you are planning a family vacation to Europe, contact Suzette Mack, Family Travel Specialist at suzette@family-treks.com. I have arranged a special amenity with Small and Elegant Hotels exclusively for my clients! 
London is a great destination for families, with lots of kid-friendly activities such as watching the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, riding on a double-decker bus, visiting Harry Potter movie sights, or exploring the Tower of London. But parents often get frustrated trying to find suitable accommodations. As a Family Travel Advisor, I know which hotels go out of their way to make children of all ages welcome, and how to obtain the best value and extra amenities.
One of the most kids-friendly hotels in London is The Goring, a Virtuoso hotel in a wonderful location next to Buckingham Palace. And they are one of the few hotels that will guarantee a complimentary upgrade at time of booking for clients of Virtuoso travel advisors. A free upgrade is a standard Virtuoso amenity, but it is usually based “on availability.” That means you won’t find out until you check-in if you will be bumped up to a better room. By guaranteeing the upgrade “at time of booking,” you pay for one room category but are confirmed in the next higher room category. So you can book the room or view you want and be assured of a discounted rate. Virtuoso clients also receive complimentary daily breakfast for two, flowers, fruit, and a selection of teas.
The Goring welcomes children with open arms, and even has a connecting room configuration – just ask for the “Delightful Family Accommodation.” Yes, that’s what it’s really called. In fact, The Goring has some of the most unique names for their rooms I have ever seen, including “The Most Splendid Balcony Room” or my personal favorite, “The Best Room.” There is no stodginess here!
Parents of very young children will find all the essentials they need, from changing pads to bath toys, and children of all ages are welcome to check out books from the Bedtime Story Library. A “For Kids Eyes Only” pack includes an activity book and crayons, and a Goring Passport to be stamped as they visit different areas in the hotel, including the kitchen where they will decorate cookies with the chef. The beautiful gardens also provide a safe area for kids to run around and burn off energy.
The Draycott, located between fashionable Chelsea and Knightsbridge, also has rooms designed just for families. Most popular are bunk bed rooms adjoining to a double room, many which have their own fireplaces and sitting areas. For more space, families can book the two bedroom Draycott Suite, which spans an entire floor of the hotel and includes a fully equipped kitchen. Children receive a gift bag on arrival, and have access to a library of CD’s, DVD’s, and Playstation games. Families are pampered with gourmet picnic lunches made to order, special breakfast for children, champagne and tea for the adults, and hot chocolate at bedtime for the kids.
For families spending a weekend in London, The Stafford near Piccadilly is offering special rates on connecting rooms in the Main House, or connecting junior suites in the Stafford Mews. A recent upgrade provides modern amenities such as air-conditioning, complimentary wireless internet access, US power sockets; satellite television, plasma TV’s and a fitness center.
And for the most discriminating families, Ritz-Carlton can always be relied upon to offer impeccable service and elegance. Keeping with the luxury chain’s family-friendly reputation, The Ritz London gives children the VIK (Very Important Kid) treatment with their Kidz@TheRitz program, including a welcome goodie bag, bathrobe and slippers, complimentary ice cream, milk and cookies at bedtime, and even a Teen Concierge. Virtuoso guests also receive preferred rates, a complimentary upgrade (based on availability), and daily breakfast for two.
For more details, contact Suzette Mack, a Virtuoso Family Travel Advisor at suzette@family-treks.com.
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One of my most memorable trips. Petting a gray whale needs to be on every wildlife lover’s bucket list. ![]()
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And having these beautiful remote beaches to ourselves…heaven!
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Alaska Airlines BOGO through Sep 20! Travel Oct 1 through Dec 15. ![]()
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They have nonstop flights to Hawaii from the west coast, and I just returned from a family vacation to the Big Island. So I have the latest tips on how to prepare for your trip, what to do, and where to eat.![]()
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But most importantly, I can book you at the best value rates at all luxury resorts, including perks like free breakfast. I also have access to packages not available to the public which have already saved 3 families thousands of dollars each for travel this winter.![]()
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Email me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com to learn more. ![]()
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www.alaskaair.com/content/deals/discount-code/lets-bogo
www.alaskaair.com
LET’S BOGO. Now when you buy one Alaska ticket, you’ll get one for just the taxes and fees using discount code BOGOTIME. Restrictions apply.