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If your goal is an authentic wildlife experience, then you need to choose your trip and your travel supplier carefully.  You want to be sure your trip was designed specifically with finding and viewing wildlife in mind, above everything else.  You are there for the experience, not the thread count!

Here are some of the key factors to look for:

Timing – You want to be in the right place at the right time. While you can see bears throughout the primary tourist season in Alaska, there is a specific time of year and location if you hope to see bears scooping salmon out of a river. The same goes for seeing baby penguins in Antarctica.

Black bears in British Columbia near a wilderness lodge

The bear viewing season is completely different in British Columbia. And there is one location unlike all others. Photo credit: The Chilko Experience

Size – Smaller is better for the group size, accommodations, and transportation. The less disturbance you make in the environment, the better chance you won’t scare wildlife away. In properly managed locations, wildlife is not fearful of humans which allows for close interaction.

Gray whale encounter in Magadalena Bay with Lindblad Expeditions

One of the most memorable wildlife encounters I’ve had was in Magadalena Bay with Lindblad Expeditions. Within their lifetime, the gray whales here were hunted. So it’s amazing they are eager to interact with humans now.

Expert Guides–  You want experienced guides familiar with the area and the behavior of the local wildlife, as they will know where to go, and can read the physical and environmental clues. Some guides in Africa are very well known and sought after by the many companies who plan custom touring, so you need to plan ahead to hire them for your trip.

Vermejo ranch elk safari

We got up before dawn to head out on an elk safari with our Vermejo Ranch guide.

Flexibility  – Wildlife does not appear on schedule. Even when you’re in the right place, you often have to wait for the wildlife to show up. Or you have to be able to quickly move to where the wildlife is spotted. So don’t be alarmed if your travel itinerary doesn’t appear to have a lot of structure.  You need to have patience, but with that comes great rewards.

Pod of whales in Alaska

An expedition cruise will re-route the ship or stop dinner service to see a pod of whales. Photo credit: Lindblad Expeditions client in Alaska.

Remote Location– It makes sense that there is more pristine wildlife viewing when there are fewer people, so find a supplier who has exclusive permits or access to private land. The best Africa safari experiences are on private concessions instead of in the national parks.

Galapagos islands collage with Lindblad Expeditions ship and blue footed booby and baby

The Galapagos Islands are the perfect place to stay socially distanced. Except from the animals

Luxury safari lodge in Africa

Though you can’t always expect luxury, it doesn’t mean you can’t get it along with a great wildlife experience. Photo credit: Africa Inscribed Private Travel

Sustainability– It’s critical that tourism does not adversely impact the environment or the behavior of animals in order to preserve both. Most of the top suppliers in the industry have a solid reputation as good stewards of their destinations, but do a little research to be sure. You want to be sure your tourism dollars are helping, not harming.

Rhino conservation project in Africa

“We were so privileged to be part of this conservation programme which was, without a doubt, one of our career highlights.” Photo credit: Africa Inscribed Private Travel

The best wildlife trips that incorporate all these elements:

Expedition cruises – Companies like Lindblad Expeditions and Aqua Expeditions have ships designed for this purpose, with only 30-100 passsengers that can get into remote locations, and launch zodiacs and kayaks to provide close-up experiences in very small groups.

Photographic gear that Lindblad Expedition guests can borrow for free.

Lindblad Expedition stocks a locker with high end photography gear and binoculars that clients can borrow for no charge.

Aqu Expeditions ship in Indonesia

Aqua Expeditions newest ship, Aqu Blu, was designed to travel in Indonesia year-round, including Komodo National Park.   Photo credit: Aqua Expeditions

Small group escorted wildlife tours – A great example is Natural Habitat Adventures, with a group size averaging only 9 people.  Their polar bear excursions in Canada are outfitted with vehicles and lodging designed specifically for the environment.

Polar bear checking out Natural Habitat expedition vehicle

Who’s the tourist here?   Photo credit: Natural Habitat Adventures

Private wildlife tours– This is the ultimate wildlife experience catered to your special interests and abilities. They can even take you off the beaten path in popular tourist areas like national parks.  (You can book many Nat Hab trips as a private tour at little to no extra cost, depending on your group size!) Booking a private car and guide in Africa offers a richer safari experience than the group game drives.

Bison in Vermejo Park Ranch

Looks like Yellowstone but it’s Vermejo Ranch in New Mexico! It’s larger than most national parks, and has its own herd of bison.

If you are traveling independently and want a great wildlife experience, splurge by booking a private tour with an expert guide. This is also ideal for photographers, as they can guide you to the wildlife, and you don’t have to jostle for position with other tourists.

For expert assistance with a wildlife-focused trip, contact me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.

Manta ray in Bora Bora seen on private snorkeling trip

In Bora Bora we booked a private snorkeling tour. The guide asked us what we wanted to see, and drove the speedboat to the perfect location. We visited five sites including this manta ray “cleaning station.”

As I wrote previously, my colleagues and I have invested a lot of time learning about the various travel insurance products available. While similar on the surface, they have nuances that can determine whether or not they provide adequate coverage for a client’s particular trip. So I am amazed that anyone would book a trip and simply click a box saying they will purchase the insurance offered by that supplier.  (But at least they are buying some form of insurance!)

My clients tend to fall into two groups:

> Those that understand the value of travel protection, and expect me to send them a quote as soon as they’ve booked their trip.

> Those that say they have never purchased it because they’ve never had to cancel a trip, or it’s not worth the money.

First, I don’t know anyone who has a crystal ball that guarantees no unexpected emergency will happen that could cause them to cancel. Second, many clients are surprised to find out how inexpensive insurance can be.  (The rule of thumb is 5-7% of the trip cost, and families pay even less on policies that include free coverage for children.) And there are many other benefits offered besides trip cancellation coverage which can make having a policy pay off.

Zodiac boat on snorkeling tour in Hawaii

Reimbursement for dropping personal items in the ocean can recoup the costs of an insurance policy. Take it from my personal experience! (Photo credit: Ryan Mack)

♦ Expert Tip ♦
Buy a policy as soon as you make any payment on a trip, otherwise you can lose out on coverage
for pre-existing conditions or financial default. You can add more coverage
as you book other components of the trip.
And be sure you
understand all the terms and conditions to qualify for that coverage.

What do my colleagues and I learn in training sessions and updates from our insurance reps?

  • How do we ensure clients are covered for pre-existing medical conditions, and what is considered a pre-existing condition?
  • How do we ensure clients are covered for financial default, and how is “financial default” defined?
  • How is “family member” defined?
  • What documents are needed to file a claim successfully?
  • Which suppliers offer “cancel for any reason” coverage and what are the terms?
  • What upgrades are available for unique situations not normally covered: pregnancy, a cancelled wedding, an ill pet, civil disorder?
Vacation home in Bodega Bay with view of ocean

Bliss in Bodega Bay, California.

♦ Expert Tip ♦
Losses related to a home, villa, or apartment rental booked directly with the owner are not ususally covered.
The booking must be made with a travel supplier, which include the companies travel advisors work with.

There are also travel packages that offer vacation protection plans with coverage that may be better than traditional travel insurance policies.  For example, one of my clients was able to cancel their trip with less than 24 hours notice when COVID-19 was just starting to spread, and they didn’t want to be out of the country, because they had “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage. Most insurance policies cut off this benefit 48 hrs or more prior to travel. This can be an important factor in determining the best way to book a client’s trip.

It’s true that there are some things travel insurance doesn’t cover. In fact, I was quoted in a Forbes article on this topic. While it doesn’t cover cancellation for pandemics or government restrictions, a traveler is generally covered if they get coronavirus or fail a COVID-19 test. And you definitely want coverage if you fall ill and/or are quarantined in a hospital or hotel while traveling. Some destinations now require visitors show proof of insurance and coverage for quarantine expenses and medical evacuation.

♦ Expert Tip ♦
If you don’t need or want trip cancellation coverage, buy a barebones policy
to get the other benefits including coverage for medical expenses, medical evacuation, baggage damage/loss,
24×7 emergency support, and more.
This is especially recommended when traveling
to a destination that may require large advance payments for treatment.

Traveleres on Lindblad expedition in Svalbard viewing polar bear on ice floe

Cruising in a remote location? You need travel insurance to cover evacuation from the ship to the nearest medical facility, and medical evacuation coverage to pay for transportation to the hospital of your choice.  (Photo credit: Lindblad Expeditions client on Svaldbard polar bear cruise)

When it comes to travel insurance, most travelers don’t know what they don’t know. Our job as professional travel advisors is to know what questions to ask our clients, so we can recommend the products that would provide the best protection for their specific needs.

Disclaimer:  The information presented here may not apply to all travel insurance products, and can change at any time. Contact the insurance provider to answer technical questions about benefits, exclusions, and conditions of any of the insurance they offer.

Supply vs Demand
The holidays have always been a popular time to travel, but now more people than ever are choosing to travel instead of exchanging presents. Popular destinations that typically require 2 weeks or more to experience, like Australia, New Zeland, and Africa, often start booking two years in advance.

Safari vehicle viewing giraffes

Wildlife!

Minimum Night Stay Requirements
If you want to stay less than 7-10 nights at a resort, your choices drop significantly. The early booking bird may get to check out early, too.

Family skiing in Utah

Powder!

The Best and the Cheapest Go First
This rule of thumb applies all year round. You can wait to see if there are any last minute “deals,” but it likely won’t be the best rate you could have had. And if you want the best suite at a resort, you may find there’s a waiting list a year in advance.

Munich Christmas market

Decorations!

Special Requests
Many of our preferred partner hotels will guarantee requests like connecting rooms or a particular location, but they are first come, first served.

Family ziplining in Costa Rica

Adventure!

You Can’t Find It Online
Many properties will not allow holiday bookings on their website due to the complexities of managing high demand and booking restrictions such as designated arrival dates. I work with my personal contacts on the sales team, who may know of inventory available that the front desk agents can’t see, and can prioritize my clients on waiting lists.

Jet skis and kayaks at Four Seasons Bora Bora

Toys!

Large Groups Have Limited Options
Since villas and private homes are all unique, they take more time and care to book.  The holidays also bring peak rates with stringent cancellation penalties.  You want to be sure you are booking with a reliable supplier who has personally vetted the properties, and provides support to call since there’s no on-site staff to address problems.

Multi-generational family wine tasting in Italy

Wine!

What sounds better:  Knowing where you are spending the holidays before spring arrives?  Or scrambling to find whatever space is available next fall as you deal with all the other impending holiday tasks? Contact me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com to get started now!

Happy family on beach at Turks & Caicos

Happiness!

Our family unanimously agreed that this was one of our best vacations ever.  We love to snorkel, and being in the water in general, and my husband and kids got certified to dive just for the trip.  We liked that it was very active during the day, but relaxed at night.   Service was exceptional, and the staff came to know all of us within the first day (the bartender could tell me the last time one of my kids came by for a beverage).   The food was excellent and abundant, and I was impressed with the design of the cabin.  It was small, but comfortable, and we had more storage space than we could use.  (I recently posted about how to pack for it.)  So it’s a great trip for just about anybody.

Windstar Wind Spirit anchored in Moorea

Beautiful Wind Spirit anchored in Moorea.

But here is why I especially recommend a Windstar Tahiti cruise for travelers who like to be active on vacation:

Relaxed luxury – It’s upscale in terms of service, amenities, food, and decor, yet casual.   You feel pampered without the pressure of having to dress up, even in the dining room. It’s perfect for honeymoons and celebrations, where you want the setting to feel special but not pretentious.

Cocktail at sunset on deck of Wind Spirit

Cocktails at sunset on deck never gets boring. And is great for meeting people!

 

Dining on the deck of the Windstar wind spirit

“Specialty dining” is when they turn the deck into a restaurant. Shorts are acceptable!

Adventurous excursions – And the variety!  Hiking, diving, snorkeling, cycling, jet-skiing, to name a few.  Though it’s ideal for travelers who want to be in the water every day like us, there are plenty of land and cultural activities as well.  It’s great for families with older children who like to be on the go, even those who say they “don’t cruise.”  (It’s nothing like a big ship cruise.) Divers have opportunities almost every day to do easy to advanced diving, and they also offered beginner excursions which required no certification.

diving in french polynesia

First offical dive after certification!

Insider tip:    I recommend that more advanced adventurers hire a private guide. They can tailor activities to your experience level, and you can do more in the same period of time. We are experienced snorkelers, so we went out in a speedboat instead of catamaran, and visited 5 locations in a 2 hour period. We also had a private jet ski tour which was really fun, and I felt more comfortable zipping around in a smaller group.

jet skiing in bora bora

The best way to travel around Bora Bora, literally all the way around it.

snorkeling pictures of manta ray, eagle rays and lemon shark

On our private “snorkel safari” we saw eagle rays, manta rays, and lemon sharks in just a few hours. And snorkeled through a gorgeous coral garden (cover photo).

Lots of beach time – Being on a cruise often means giving up beach time.  No worries with Windstar, there were three opportunities for the entire ship to hang out on a private island, equipped with all amenities.  Passengers could spend an entire day swimming, snorkeling, and using the kayaks and paddleboards.  And they set up a full bar!

beach in french polynesia

Happy to be stranded on this private beach all day.

bartenders on beach

Especially with these guys taking care of us!

There were also excursions to private motus, we enjoyed one in Huahine which was led by a lifelong resident.  It was interesting to hear about her life on the island, and she made it fun, too.

Learning to make poisson cru.

Learning to make poisson cru .

Flexibility – Most of the islands are easy to explore on your own. I do caution travelers to attend the shore talks the night before to get tips and safety advice.  Or you can just hang out on the ship and enjoy the water sports platform for swimming, sailing, SUP and kayaking. Even tendering was easy, as it was fast and there were never lines.

street art in french polynesia

Amazing street art in Raiatea

sports platform on wind spirit

Hanging out off the back of the boat with all the “toys.” They even have sailboats.

Camaraderie – The small size (<150 passengers) means you get to know people who also enjoy the same type of adventures.  We found ourselves on the same excursions with a couple other families who had kids the same age, so we naturally hit it off.

french polynesia snorkel tour with clear blue waters

The die hard snorkel group heads out on their first excursion.

pareo tying lesson on snorkel tour

Pareo tying lesson on the catamaran

Cultural activities– Locals came onboard or met the ship at the dock to share their culture and demonstrate crafts.  And on every Windstar sailing there is a special Destination Discovery Event. Ours was a celebration feast on a private motu in Bora Bora, with fantastic food and authentic Tahitian entertainment.

table set for dinner in bora bora

Ready to party!

bora bora feast

Tahitian dancers at our private Bora Bora feast

tahitian fire dancers

Have to admit, I was nervous sitting in the front row when some of these flaming sticks were being tossed around.

Year-round destination – There is a rainy season from December to March, but like most tropical areas, it can often mean just occasional, isolated showers. We had a few short showers but they did not interrupt any of the activities.  So you can pick the best time of year for your schedule, or plan around airfare deals.

sunset in french polynesia after rain

You don’t get sunsets like this without some rain.

vanilla plantation on ta'haa

Or lush vanilla plantations.

 

Fun and relaxing, with spectacular scenery, lots of outdoor activities on land and water, unique cultural experiences, and lots of good food and drink at the end of the day.  What more could an adventure traveler want?

To find out if Tahiti is the right fit for your family, send an email to suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.

sunset on windstar wind spirit

There’s never a bad sunset when you’re on a Windstar Tahiti cruise.

This spring I had the honor of accompanying Sven Lindblad on a special Lindblad voyage to give feedback on new experiences and itinerary modifications for their Baja whale expeditions.  Getting to travel with Sven and his family is a one of a kind adventure in itself.   But even when he’s not on board, this experience needs to be on every wildlife-lover’s bucket list.

Lindblad Sea Bird in Magdalena Bay

The beautiful and classic National Geographic Sea Bird (photo credit: Lesa Bain)

First, let me get one thing straight up front.  This is NOT a whale watch trip.  This is a whale encounter.  And I might even go so far as to say a once in a lifetime wildlife experience, as it’s not too often one gets to have this type of interaction with animals in the wild.

On the first day I was already psyched because we were going to visit a part of Magdalena Bay that no other tours go to, and Lindblad had not visited in at least 15 years.   It ended up being quite impressive as we found ourselves surrounded by more whales than I had ever seen on any of the many whale watching trips I have been on. And I was sitting in a smallish boat, close to the water, with about 10-12 people versus being on a large vessel with at least 50 others jostling for position when there was an occasional sighting.

Lindblad whale watching in Baja California

The “smoke” all around us was the fading mist from a whale spout.

Whale spyhopping in Baja California

We even saw an albino whale this day, but I couldn’t get a good picture.

The talk in the dining room that evening was about the sheer number of whales spouting, breeching, and generally frolicking around us.  And the one lucky guest who got to “pet” an adult gray whale and proclaimed she would never wash that hand again.  I actually worried a bit that we had peaked already, this was more amazing than I had expected.

You can’t appreciate the size until they swim right next to you!

Expedition cruising does not mean roughing it!

Fast forward to the end of the week, I had need not worry.  Every day got better and better.  While we were surrounded by adults on that first day, when we moved north, we were in the midst of the mothers and babies who were biding their time until they had to head north along the coast of California.  (For a demonstration on how to summon a whale, click here.)

Well hello there!

This never gets old.

Eventually everyone, including me, was able to touch a whale at least once, and often touch both a mother and her offspring. (They do feel very different, I can tell them apart now with my eyes closed.)

That’s me trying to pet a baby gray and not drop my son’s GoPro into the ocean!

As I mentioned earlier, we were also tasked with trying out new activities and experiences for our clients.  All of them were met with rave reviews, from exploring new sand dunes to cruising along a deserted beach on fat tire bikes.

Bike or hike, your choice!

When Sven Lindblad asks if anyone wants to explore a new route to the beach, there is only one right answer.

The National Geographic staff was amazing as always.  They helped us with our cameras and were always on hand for an impromptu photography lesson. And the educational talks every evening were fascinating, and made exploring on shore so much more interesting and meaningful.

The level of training they receive is exceptional. I had no idea how much so until a few weeks later, I saw some of our guides posting on Instagram from the NASA Neutral Bouyancy Lab in Houston.  They were part of the Lindblad Expeditions Undersea team getting additional training on ROV operation, divemaster skills, and rescue drills.  In the same pool astronauts use!

I learned so much about sand dollars, and yes it was very interesting.

These are huge!

A comment from one of the guides really stuck with me.  He pointed out that most of the whales we were seeing are old enough to have been alive when they were hunted in this bay.  In their lifetime, they have gone from seeing humans as enemies and attacking boats, to encouraging their offspring to approach and engage with us. They were literally pushing them ahead to reach us, where they’d raise their head to get a better look, and we reached as far as we could (sometimes with a companion holding our ankles), to give a rub on their back or nose.

The only thing better than an ocean sunset, is one with a whale in it.

I became even more in awe of these beautiful and magnificent creatures when I realized their capacity to understand that we were no longer a threat. And grateful that we learned our lesson soon enough that we did not drive them all to extinction.

What gentle and beautiful creatures!

You can view more pictures and videos from the expedition on my Facebook page.

The best way to celebrate the end of a successful expedition is a beach barbecue!

Sunset view from my cabin.

To get started on your next adventure, contact me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com

I had the honor of being invited to tour Lindblad’s newest addition to their fleet, the day before she was christened in San Francisco.  The National Geographic Venture was docked at Treasure Island before heading to Mexico to spend the winter in Baja California, and then next summer in Alaska.  And I am so excited to have clients being some of the first to experience it in both of these destinations!

National Geographic Venture docked at Treasure Island

Two beauties: The Bay Bridge and the National Geographic Venture.

I was lucky to travel on her sister ship, the National Geographic Endeavour II, in the Galapagos when she was only a few months old.  So I knew the Venture was going to be beautiful, but I was still wow’ed by how Lindblad keeps finding new ways to improve their already fantastic expedition experience.

  • Accommodations –  The cabins were very spacious for the size of the ship, and the designers continue to do a great job with proving ample storage space.   There is no bad choice, but for the best views book the cabins with balconies, or the suites on the Observation Deck with larger bathrooms, and a comfy sofa.
    A collage of cabin types on the National Geographic Venture

    All cabins have beds that can be converted to two twins or a queen configuration. Some with balconies!

    Suite on National Geographic Venture

    Suites offer extra space and amenities, and huge windows (tinted for one way viewing).

  • Dining – Expedition cruising does not mean sacrificing on quality (or quantity) of food.  The Venture offers a lovely dining area with gorgeous views, an extensive wine list, and happy hour snacks to tide over hungry adventurers til dinner.
    Wine bottles displalyed in dining room of National Geographic Venture

    A glass of wine is the perfect way to end an adventurous day.

    Dining room on the National Geographic Venture

    No dark dining rooms!  And you may have some whale-watching with your wine.

  • Indoor spaces – Though there are 100 passengers plus crew, the ship never feels crowded.   There is plenty of space for guests to relax between excursions (or take a break for an afternoon), and to gather for the daily recap.
    Lounge on the National Geographic Venture

    Every passenger has a seat when it’s time to gather for happy hour and listen to a talk by one of the Nat Geo experts.

    Fitness center onboard National Geographic Venture

    Don’t worry about missing wildlife while exercising.

  • Outdoor spaces –   The upper decks are designed to provide unobstructed and comfortable wildlife viewing.  Passengers can walk completely around the ship on the Observation Deck, to get some exercise or just a change of view.
    Observation deck on National Geographic Venture

    Every single passenger can comfortablly fit in this area.

    Observation deck seating on National Geographic Venture

    Take a front row seat to wildlife and spectacular scenery!

    The Sun Deck offers comfy seating protected from the elements, perfect for enjoying a cocktail from the outdoor bar, reading a book, or enjoying the never ending scenery.

    Sun deck on Have lunch once a week on sun deck in Baja

    In Baja, the captain offers lunch once a week on the Sun Deck.

  • The mudroom – This is new to the National Geographic Quest and the Venture, and my favorite upgrade of all.  It’s a warm place to change in and out of wetsuits and boots, and store your gear for easy retrieval.

    Mudroom on National Geographic Venture

    This is nicer than many gym locker rooms!

  • Technology: One of biggest benefits of traveling on a Lindblad expedition is getting to rub elbows with National Geographic photographers.  There’s also high tech camera gear and powerful binoculars available for loan.  But with an expert’s instruction and some hands-on assistance, I quickly learned how to take amazing wildlife photos even with just an iPhone. For those who’d like to learn the nuts and bolts of operating the ship (or just like looking at all the gauges and switches), then head to the bridge for a chat with the crew.
     B&H Photo Video Gear Locker onboard the National Geographic Venture

    Take an expedition photography class led by a Nat Geo photographer, and borrow gear from the B&H Photo Video Gear Locker.

    Remotely operated submersible camera on National Geographic Venture

    When conditions keep the underwater videographers on the ship, they can still capture great footage with this remotely operated submersible camera.

    Bridge on the National Geographic Venture

    You can always get Instagram worthy pics from the bridge.

My clients are always VIP’ed with Lindblad, and receive a Virtuoso amenity of $25 per person onboard credit.  And my gift to all clients is a expedition DVD filled with images from their voyage.  So whether you are new to expedition cruising and want to learn more about the experience, or a seasoned Lindblad traveler who wants some extra perks, contact me for information about upcoming voyages and promotions.

Please be aware that peak holidays periods sell out early!  For example, reservations are open now for Galapagos 2020 Christmas sailings, and will be completely sold out well before December 2019.  So give me a call now if you’d like to put a Lindblad trip under the tree for someone you love.

Rainbow viewed from Sun Deck of National Geographic Venture

I took this as a sign that there are fantastic adventures in store for all who board this ship!

I’ve always heard of the Fairmont San Francisco’s wonderful holiday decorations, but never had a chance to see them in person.  I recently spent the night there while in town for business.  I not only got to see their beautiful displays up close, but also toured this historic building, which offers much more than meets the eye to lucky guests who stay here.

Christmas decorations in lobby of Fairmont San Francisco hotel

The lobby is quiet now, but will soon be a popular holiday tourist attraction.

Here are twelve reasons why you should stay at the Fairmont San Francisco, whether you are visiting from out of town, or a Bay Area local looking for a fun family outing.  (West Coast readers:  take advantage of the low fare sales right now for a weekend getaway to SF!)

  1. Beautiful lobby decorations including a 2 story gingerbread house.  (Due to the popularity of the holiday display, public hours may be limited, but hotel guests are guaranteed access.)

    Fun fact: They use so much candy it has to be ordered in July.

  2. Family-friendly accommodations:  Spacious rooms, many that can sleep up to 5.  And double rooms have 2 queen beds, often hard to find in the city!  For an even jollier stay, book the Santa Suite.   And all suites have a sofabed!  (You would be surprised how often hotel suites only accommodate 2 people.)

    This closet! Parents who want privacy can put a crib or rollaway in it. (Trust me, many kids would love this space.)

    1 bedroom suite at Fairmont San Francisco

    There are lots of suites that connect to other rooms, so bring the whole family!

    Dining area in 1 bedroom suite at Fairmont San Francisco

    Not all suites are alike. I can help select the one with the space you need.

  3. Exclusive Virtuoso amenities for my clients:  Daily breakfast for two, $100 food and beverage credit, upgrade on arrival if available, early checkin/late checkout if available, wifi.
    Breakfast buffet at Fairmont San Francisco

    Use your Virtuoso breakfast amenity to eat at the buffet or order ala carte.

    Omelette station at Fairmont San Francisco

    The staff is so friendly!

  4. Another exclusive for my clients:  Access to a private Holiday VIP lounge with snacks served 3x daily.

    Restaurant and lounge at Fairmont San Francisco

    The Holiday VIP Lounge does not open until Dec 14. But don’t worry, I did a quality control check in the Laurel Court bar

  5. A private outdoor garden for guests (and dogs) to enjoy.

    Outdoor garden at the Fairmont San Francisco

    It’s nice to have a quiet retreat when in the middle of a city.

  6. The only luxury hotel with panoramic bay views.
    San Francisco Bay views from Fairmont hotel

    Alcatraz and Angel Island visible from my room. On higher floors, you can also see the Golden Gate Bridge.

    Corner suite at Fairmont San Francisco with panoramic bay views

    And for even better views, book a corner suite!

  7. Rooms with balconies, too!

    Rooms with balconies at Fairmont San Francisco

    They overlook the garden, and face the bay.

  8. An excellent location – walk to Chinatown, Market Street, Union Square.

    Gates to Chinatown in San Francisco

    I never tire of visiting Chinatown.

  9. Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar with live music in the evening – only hotel guests can make advance reservations.

    The Tonga Room was closed for a private event during my stay, but no worries, there were many other ways to get a festive drink.

  10. Excellent use of space:  Plenty of outlets, and even USB ports by the bed.  And I loved the hidden coffee cupboard with a Keurig (my preference over Nescafe).
    Coffee nook closed in hotel room

    Cupboard closed – nice and clean for those of us who don’t like hotel room clutter.

    Coffee nook open in hotel room

    Shelf pulls out for easy access, push it back in when done.

  11. Chromecast in every room so you can stream holiday shows from your laptop or mobile device.

    Suite living room at San Francisco Fairmont

    Love the new decor, all rooms and suites were renovated in 2015.

  12. There’s a dining table inside the gingerbread house!  (Be sure to reserve it early.)

    Dining table inside gingerbread house at Fairmont San Francisco

    Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

I loved this hotel so much, I booked my own family for another visit before Christmas so that they can enjoy the holiday magic, too.

Contact me to book your stay at the Fairmont San Francisco.  There are many room configurations in two different buildings, so I can explain the pros and cons to pick the best one for you, ensure you receive the exclusive Virtuoso amenities, and reach out to my contact at the hotel to personally oversee your reservation and VIP you.

You’ve made a great first step by booking a private guide at your destination.  You will certainly have a better experience and learn more than if you explored on your own.  Here are five tips to make sure you get the most out of your experience.

Many visitors arrive by bus and just take pictures, but we had the benefit of a driver-guide who told us the current theories and pointed out key details both in and around the henge.

  1.  Make sure you know which admission fees have been paid in advance, and which you are expected to pay for on arrival.  Also check if you need to pay in cash, and try to have exact change if possible.  Sometimes the guide has to go to a special window to purchase tickets, and that makes it faster and easier.  You will also need to have cash for gratuities.  Research the appropriate amount for drivers, guides, and driver/guides for your destination.

    A private guide is a must at a very large site with minimal signage like Pompeii.

  2. Trust the guide to plan your time well.  Often websites or brochures provide little description of of a private tour, because it’s customized to the client.  Tell them in advance any special interests you have, or “must see’s,”  but don’t instruct them too much on what you want to do and see. The point of hiring a private guide is to have their expertise and show you things the other tourists miss. Otherwise, you might as well just rent the headsets and follow around the rest of the crowds!

    People must have wondered why our guide at the Tower of London was pointing out the large grassy area, while they were all crowding around one sign aross the walkway wearing their headsets.

    If traveling with children, it is helpful to let the guide know at the time of booking their particular interests, and anything they have studied in school that may be relate to the destination.

    Our guide talks about the Sistine Chapel, and points out key details to look for when inside, since we are not allowed to speak in there. It was nice to get some fresh air away from the crowds, too!

  3. Let your guide know what you need to make your experience more comfortable.  Tell him/her if you need to walk at a slower pace, you missed or didn’t understand something they said,  you need some water, you need to sit and rest.   (Any serious mobility limitations should be disclosed before you book.)   It’s your tour, and they want to make sure you are enjoying it.

    When biking in Thailand, you can go at your pace, not the pace of the slowest person in a group tour. And stop where & when you want.

  4. Look for clues that you might be running behind, or the guide seems concerned or is trying to speed things up.  Due to cultural differences, some guides might make subtle hints vs saying outright that you are behind schedule. In some cases, especially excursions where there are going to be several stops, they may have the pace scheduled to the minute, and you don’t want to miss something by dawdling early on. When you stop for a meal or in a gift shop, ask how much time you have before you order appetizers, an extra round etc.

    We wrapped up souvenir shopping quickly in Stonehenge because our guide wanted to take us to a lesser known archeological site. We pulled off into a small unmarked parking area, and took a short hike up a hill, to find we had the place all to ourselves.

  5. Speaking of meals, invite your guide to be your guest if you stop to eat.  If they decline, do not push them, as they may want some time alone, or  need to tend to personal business. Also offer to treat them if you get drinks, ice cream, or other snacks along the way.

    Our Tuscany tour included lunch at a winery with the tour guide, prepared by the winery owner’s mother-in-law! The main course was a ragu made from wild boar on the property. We gobbled it down too quickly to take a picture.

I have connections with some of the best guides around the world, who offer everything from short city orientation tours, to highly customized special interest tours, to exclusive behind the scenes experiences.  To make your next trip the best it can be, send an email to suzette@suzettemacktravel.com.

I book my clients with a fantastic driver/guide on the Amalfi coast! (Do you really want to be on a bus or drive yourself?)

If fine dining is an important part of your travels, then you may have turned up your nose at all-inclusive resorts, which have somewhat rightly earned a reputation for “quantity over quality.”  But I urge you to take a look at Grand Velas Resorts, in three Mexico locations, which have broken that mold.

Beautiful entrance to Cabo resort with architectural features and ocean views

Welcome to Cabo!

They are earning woldwide acclaim for offering dining on par with the world’s best restaurants, representing cuisines from around the world, with menus created by internationally acclaimed chefs.  And guests still get all the benefits of the all-inclusive model:  lots of on-site activities included, children and teen programs,  world class spas, evening entertainment, and gorgeous oceanfront views.  (Travelers without kids should take note:  each resort has an adults only section, with adults only pool and adults only restaurants.)

Here are 15 reasons families and foodies are raving about Grand Velas Resorts:

  1. Kids program for ages 4-12 that runs until 11 pm at night, which means a romantic dinner for mom and dad.   Familes and kids can also enjoy bonfire nights, cooking classes, and educational, athletic and artistic activities.

    Child in chef's hat during cooking lesson

    A future chef!

  2. The most expensive wine collection in Mexico.
  3. Five signature restaurants, each with its own chef and kitchen, offering amazing culinary experiences. And no limits on how many times you dine!

    A collage of gourmet entrees and desserts

    These dishes did not come off a steam table.

  4. A spa that was named the best spa in the world by Virtuoso.

    Grand Velas Riviera Maya spa with chaise lounges by pool

    Before spa treatments, guests experience the 7 step Water Journey.

  5. The only all-inclusive restaurant to be awarded AAA 5 Diamonds, headed by a chef with 2 Michelin stars (click to see video) and worldwide acclaim.
  6. Huge suites, at least 1000 sq ft, with either a king or two queen beds.  Two bedroom family suites, and suites with plunge pools are also available.
    Ambassador Suite interior with two queen beds

    Ambassador Suite with 2 queen beds.

    View of ocean from balcony, showing private plunge pool

    Grand Class Suite with plunge pool.

  7. Room service offered 24 hours a day.
  8. Teen club open until midnight with video games, a killer sound system, disco floor & lights, karaoke & their own “bar” for snacks & non-alcoholic drinks.

    Two view of the teen club, one with a pool table and the other of a snack bar.

    The teen club also has video gaming booths, HD screens and seats with built-in speakers. ping pong, foosball and air hockey.

  9. An exclusive wine-tasting experience: a private jet can take guests to the vineyards of Ensenada.
  10. Beautiful oceanfront pools for everyone: adults only,  kiddie pool with water slide, family pool, swim up bars.

    Romantic picture of oceanfront infinity adults only pool

    The perfect place for a luxurious honeymoon or anniversary trip.

  11. The Chocolate Clam tasting menu offered in each restaurant (not a dessert, it’s named for the uniform brown color of its shell).

    A dish served in a chocolate clam, part of the resort's unique tasting menu.

    Make sure you stay long enough to try the tasting menu in each restaurant.

  12. No wristbands! And no waiting in line for restaurant reservations. Your personal concierge takes care of this when you arrive, and checks in with you throughout your stay.
  13. Wine pairings by expert sommeliers.

    Expert sommelier in front of a large wine collection.

    Over 50 wines are availalble to guests at no extra charge.

  14. An in-suite minibar that is personalized and replenished daily.
  15. Baby Concierge who will provide all necessary gear, and arrange for delivery of diapers and other supplies.

Virtuoso amenities guests can receive when they book through me include upgrades on arrival (if available), one way airport transfers, resort credits, spa discounts, a bottle of tequila (amenities vary by resort).

Limited Time Kids Go Free Offer!  

Book by July 31 and kids age 4-12 stay free, plus get other added value perks, for travel through December 18, 2018.  (Terms and conditions apply.)

Aerial views of the three resorts: Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, and Riviera Nayarit

Los Cabos / Riviera Maya / Riviera Nayarit