Even though most of Europe is now open, all the pandemic-related travel restrictions for U.S. citizens are keeping many from visiting. Since Europeans had an early and significant part in shaping America, there are plenty of traces left here that…

Summer may be over, but fall is a great time to discover some of the best U.S. cities! There are fewer crowds, cooler weather, and lower prices. Plus, fall foliage is a beautiful backdrop when traveling, walking around a city…

Traveling by train is BIG right now! More and more travelers are discovering just how incredibly scenic train travel can be. You can see cities, mountains, rivers, and wildlife from the seat of a train. Train travel is just a…

If you have been following Vacations256 for a while, then you know river cruising is one of our favorite types of vacation and the clients we send absolutely love them! In my opinion, it's one of the best vacations that…

When you book a flight, you have to make a lot of decisions. Do you want to book an basic economy ticket to save money? Do you want a seat that will give you a little extra legroom? Is it…

Now that the world is opening again and emerging from Covid, one thing has become clear- it's time for the bucket-list vacation!  After a year and a half of cancelled plans, travelers are anxious to fulfill their biggest, over-the-top travel…

This last year has shown us—more than ever before—why we all need a bucket list. In 2020, vacations were cancelled, families and friends were unable to visit one another, and weddings and other social events were postponed. But, more than…

Hawaii is a HOT destination right now, and we aren't talking about lava flow or the weather.  U.S. travelers are rushing to the islands because domestic travel just feels safer right now. Hawaii makes a great destination because of its…

One of the questions I am frequently asked is regarding the timing for planning a trip. The answer is…. It depends. And in the crazy times we are in, it is even more challenging to assess when to do what…

I am a big fan of America's National Parks and each one I visit becomes a new favorite.This summer is shaping up to be one of the busiest travel times ever due to the pent up desire for travel caused…

Get Vaccinated for the Most Travel Options 

Many international destinations (including most of Europe) will open to vaccinated travelers this summer. If you want plenty of destinations to choose from and compare, getting vaccinated will make price shopping much easier…

Over the years, European river cruises have gained popularity and have now become a favorite of many American travelers. River cruising offers an intimate experience because they can only accommodate around 150 guests and are an excellent way to see…

Everyone knows about the fabulous beaches in Hawaii, but there are plenty of other things to keep you busy! Here are four attractions that are "must dos" on each of the major islands. 

Hawaii Island (Big Island) 

Hawaii Island is…

Since the world turned upside down, planning a vacation to Hawaii has proven to be a challenge. For several months, the only way to enter Hawaii was with a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Then, a reopening date with an option to…

Reserving a rental car is not usually at the top of your trip planning, but this year the tables have turned dramatically. Many factors have led to a world in which renting a car may be the hardest and most…

Did you know that googling “Where should I stay on Maui?” will return 7.7 million results? In this age of information overload and pandemic-related uncertainty, we believe travelers can benefit from personalized vacation-planning help now more than ever. There are…

It’s finally happening- people around the U.S. are looking forward to traveling again! More and more of us are getting vaccinated each day and celebrating that fact by booking flights, reserving hotels and resorts, and making lists of all the…

A trip to Alaska means you've got to do some planning to be prepared when you arrive. Here are ten things you should never leave behind when you pack for your Alaskan vacation. 

Waterproof Footwear 

Wherever your Alaskan travels take…

Rightfully earning its name as The Last Frontier, the 49th state is packed with staggering mountains, glaciers, beautiful wildlife, lively cities, mining communities, towering icebergs, and many things in between. Many people think the best way to see Alaska is…

Try to Remain Calm 

The first thing to do is realize that your luggage is probably not really lost. Airlines rarely lose luggage for good. SITA, a specialist in airport transport communications, says airlines temporarily lose about 6 bags per…

You don't have to leave the U.S. to find a romantic adventure for Valentine's Day. Do you love dancing under the bright lights of a big city? How about picnicking in a breathtaking vineyard? Would you rather sip bubbles in…

As you might have heard by now, beginning January 26th, the U.S. government will require all inbound international passengers to test negative for COVID-19, and present proof, before boarding flights into the United States, including Americans returning from abroad. This…

Even in the midst of a pandemic, Americans are traveling. While Thanksgiving travel was certainly lighter than usual, U.S. air travel hit its highest level since mid-March over the holiday and millions of Americans also traveled by car to join…

Aloha! On October 15, Hawaii reopened without quarantine to Americans who meet the pre-travel requirements including a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to travel. American Airlines now offers an option for a preflight rapid test administered by…

Remember that Beatles song that goes "I get by with a little help from my friends..."? How true is that in our everyday life? The value of a truly good friend is something you can't even express in words. I…