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5 Musts for Your First Trip to Alaska
There’s a reason that Alaska is a bucket list destination for so many people. When you see photos of Alaska, they are absolutely majestic – and you just can’t help but want to experience it for yourself. As an Alaskan Cruise Specialist, I love guiding my clients through every step of their Alaskan Cruise Adventure.
From snow capped mountains and glaciers to whale sightings and bald eagles, there’s just so much to see and experience in Alaska. But taking your first trip can be so overwhelming – where do you start? As a travel advisor, who has traveled to Alaska myself, I help guide my clients through every step of their trip. From must-do activities to packing suggestions, I provide guidance and travel tips so my clients are completely ready for their first trip to Alaska. Here are my Top 5 Musts for your first trip to Alaska.
See Alaska From a Cruise ShipEveryone knows that the state of Alaska is massive. But did you know it's as wide as the lower states and larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined. It’s impossible to be able to see and do everything on your first trip to Alaska – so I always suggest taking an Alaskan Cruise to get a great sampling of some of the most bucket list Alaskan Adventures.
Bring BinocularsExpect to see the most amazing variety of wildlife that you just can’t see anywhere else. Not only will you have an opportunity to spot bears, but you may also encounter moose, bald eagles, Alaskan salmon, harbor seals, sea lions, and, my favorite sighting, humpback and orca whales! These are my favorite binoculars.
Book a Balcony CabinWhile you could go out onto your cruise ship’s deck to view wildlife and glaciers, there’s nothing quite as impressive and memorable as spotting a breaching whale and hearing the white thunder of glacier’s calving from your own private balcony on your Alaskan Cruise. Grab your binoculars, your travel mug full of hot cocoa or coffee and your favorite cozy blanket and take it all in.
Wear Layers & Great ShoesAlaskan weather is hard to predict and can change from day to day! And while I don’t suggest lugging your entire closet from home, it is essential to wear layers and have comfortable shoes for walking. If you’re cruising by glaciers while on your ship you may want to put on that hat, gloves and scarf, but while exploring a quaint Alaskan town you may want to peel off that outer layer, wear short sleeves and take a hike.
Have Plenty of Camera BatteryMore than anything on your Alaskan Adventure, you can expect to take a ton of pictures to capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime memories, so the last thing you want to do is run out of battery! I suggest bringing a spare battery – and plenty of charging devices. Be prepared to come home with a camera full of stunning photos that might include mountains, whales and even the most adorable dog sledding puppies.
If Alaska isn’t on your bucket list – it should be! And if it’s been on your bucket list for a while, it’s time to experience it for yourself and get it checked off your bucket list! Let's book your Alaskan Cruise today!
Email me to get started: Jessica.Pratt@VincentVacations.com
Jessica Pratt, Alaskan Cruise Specialist
*My blog contains affiliate links to various products, which means I may earn a small commission for qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you
Get in touch with Jessica Pratt
Jessica Pratt
Ever since my husband and I got married in Mexico, we made a promise to ourselves to plan romantic getaways and adults only vacations every year, even after we had kids. Our favorite destinations so far are the Hawaiian Islands, Sandals Resorts - specifically in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Antigua - and our unforgettable Alaskan Cruise. I’m passionate about helping other couples plan time away from everyday responsibilities and take time to rest, relax and reconnect. We are committed to continuing to travel, just the two of us, but now we are also introducing our two kids to traveling the world and making memories together as a family. As a Hawaiian Destination Expert, our family's ever-growing bucket list includes visiting every Hawaiian Island, and we are well on our way!
Overwhelmed with travel planning? My job is to take away the work, worry and hours and hours of research, preparation and planning of your getaway so that you can enjoy your much-deserved vacation time. I love getting to know my clients and working directly with them to create a trip that is exactly what they were dreaming of.
I’m excited to work with you to create your dream adults only escape to make memories that will last a lifetime. Contact me so we can get started today!
Jessica Pratt, Travel Agent, Edmond, Oklahoma Vincent Vacations Jessica.Pratt@VincentVacations.com
Jessica Pratt
5 Musts for Your First Trip to Alaska
Edmond, OK Travel Agent Near Me
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Ever since my husband and I got married in Mexico, we made a promise to ourselves to plan romantic getaways and adults only vacations every year, even after we had kids. Our favorite destinations so far are the Hawaiian Islands, Sandals Resorts - specifically in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Antigua - and our unforgettable Alaskan Cruise. I’m passionate about helping other couples plan time away from everyday responsibilities and take time to rest, relax and reconnect. We are committed to continuing to travel, just the two of us, but now we are also introducing our two kids to traveling the world ... Read More >>>
An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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There's something magical about visiting Alaska that you just can't experience anywhere else. From snow capped mountains and glaciers to whale sightings and bald eagles, there’s just so much to see and experience in Alaska. Whether you are interested in an Alaskan Cruise or adventuring by land, I can't wait to help you experience it for yourself!
Certified Sandals Specialist
Couples that are looking for the perfect romantic escape should look no further than a Sandals Resort. Sandals Resorts bring a standard of excellence and inclusions that are unmatched. But matching you to the perfect Sandals Resort Destination is where I excel. Each Sandals resort has it's own unique atmosphere and vibe and I love helping couples find their perfect Sandals.
Hawaii Destination Expert
Whether you love adventure, romance or relaxation (or a combination of all of the above), Hawaii is a destination you'll never forget! From beaches and mountains, to waterfalls and hiking and everything in between, you'll dream of going to Hawaii again and again. And if you’ve never experienced the Aloha Spirit – the warm welcome you will receive at every turn in Hawaii – well, it’s not really something I can put into words – you just need to experience it for yourself. I can't wait to send you there!
Princess Cruise line is consistently rated the #1 cruise line in Alaska - for good reason! Offering so many cruise and cruisetour choices, there's something for everyone. I've experienced Alaska first-hand on Princess and will help you choose the best itinerary for your bucket-list Alaskan Adventure!
Aruba Certified Expert
Aruba, affectionately know as 'One Happy Island,' is beloved for its year-round sunshine and ideal location on the outside fringes of the hurricane belt. It's the perfect destination for both families and honeymooners and all types of vacationers in between. Let me send you to Aruba to experience 'One Happy Island' for yourself.
Greater Miami and the Beaches Specialist
From activities and events to accommodations and attractions, Miami offers a myriad of exciting things to do, see, taste and experience. Make it a vacation destination or a pre- or post-cruise experience. Clients from all interests will find something they love in Miami - from the amazing cuisine to the arts to outdoor life.
Key West's Key Lime Academy
The Florida Keys has so much to offer. I loved learning about the unique charm of the Keys with insider tips on attractions, photo ops, restaurants and amazing places worth discovering. In Key West, you can find a little bit of everything: sun and sand, adventure and entertainment, culture and romance. I'd love to send you to discover Key West!
La Coleccion Resorts
I'm so excited to have completed the La Colección Resorts certification process. La Coleccion Resorts encompass 15 distinctive resorts in Mexico and Dominican Republic's most sought-after destinations. I'm here to help exceed my client's expectations on the very best resort vacation experience and the La Coleccion brand brings it home.
AMResorts Master Agent
Some of my favorite resorts to send clients to are AMResorts Brands. These include Secrets, Dreams and Breathless, to name a few. This award-winning resort collection offers fantastic service, wonderful amenities and my clients always return from their trip with amazing reviews.
Universal Studios Parks & Resorts Specialist
I love to help families plan trips to Universal Studios! There's magic in entering Diagon Alley for the first time and seeing everything you've read in the Harry Potter series come to life. Standing next to life-sized Transformers, going on adventures with Minions and braving Jurassic World are among some of the memories you will bring home after your Universal Studios Vacation. I've completed the official training, sent numerous families on Universal Studios Vacations and experienced Universal Studios myself - I'd love to send you too!
13 Reviews & Success stories
Magnificent Alaskan Cruise
Everything about that trip was magnificent! You did so well on that trip for me and dad that I will take your recommendations on all future trips - thank you for all the work you did! -- Kathy
Alaskan Adventure
We had the time of our lives! Thank you for all of your help. We could have never taken our whole family on an Alaskan Cruise without your guidance. What an adventure! -- Clint & Jill
Dream Hawaiian Anniversary
There's no way we would have known about all these wonderful things you have booked for us. Thank you for planning a perfect anniversary trip. Hawaii was everything and more than we could have dreamed of. -- Jimmy & Karen
Jessica told us things that we would have never have known to do (in Maui) if we had planned the vacation ourselves. She listened to what we wanted to do, and offered us suggestions accordingly. We truly enjoyed planning our dream vacation to Maui with her and will use y her again in the future. I have already recommended her to my friends. -Rhonda
The most incredible honeymoon!!!
Jessica answered any and all of my questions and created such an amazing vacation experience for us (Trip: Unico Riviera Maya, All-inclusive, Adults only). -Jordan
Beach Getaway
Jessica was extremely organized, thorough, and easy to work with. (Trip: Eden Roc, Miami, Florida) -Tina
Best family trip we've taken!
The entire experience was seamless and exceptional! From start to finish we were please. She thought of everything and took into account all our request. Will be using her again. (Trip: DisneyWorld, Orlando, Florida) -A.W.
Disney with ease!
I had a great experience and will be booking again! (Trip: DisneyWorld, Orlando, Florida) -Haley
Amazing Time Away
Jessica was great! she listened to our wants and needs then delivered exactly what we were looking for. (Trip to Secrets Los Cabos, Mexico) -KKapp
Great Getaway to Captiva Island
Jessica was very helpful and was always pleasant and a pleasure to work with. (Trip to Captiva Island, Florida) -Senior Citizen
Disney Wishes and Epcot Dreams
Jessica actually planned two trips for us because the first one got cancelled. She was great both times and was very timely and thorough in her responses. The first trip we planned was easy because we had taken cruises before but the second trip, Disney (Orlando, Florida), we were out of our comfort zone. Jessica guided us along the way making sure we were able to plan a great trip in a very short timeframe with COVID limitations on top of all of it. -Jessica J.
Happy Boy Momma - Universal Studios
I’m gonna brag on Jessica Pratt a whole lot right now!! She made our trip to Universal Studios (Orlando, Florida) very amazing.. as a single mom it’s hard to save up and do for the kids. But she made everything I wanted possible! I just will sing her praises from the roof tops! We will definitely use her again.. and I highly recommend using her!! -K Beck
Jessica was awesome to work with. She was very helpful and patient with me as my plans changed multiple times before the final trip was booked. We had a great trip (Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, Naples, Florida) and will be using Jessica again in the future. -Coconut Point
Your first experience in Italy is an exciting and enriching adventure. From the bustling streets of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice and everything in between, Italy has so much to offer any traveler. However, to make the most of your trip and grasp the full experience of the Italian way of life, it's essential to be aware of certain dos and don'ts. As a travel advisor, I love providing my clients with tips (and helpful dos and don'ts) for their trips from first-hand experience from my visits. Here are just a few of the tips I provide my clients:
Dos:
Learn A Few Basic Italian Phrases: While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, making an effort to learn basic Italian phrases shows respect for the local culture. Simple greetings, 'please,' 'thank you,' and asking for directions in Italian can go a long way in fostering positive interactions.
Dress Stylishly and Modestly: Italians are known for their impeccable sense of style. While comfort is essential, dressing well is appreciated, especially when visiting churches and upscale restaurants. Additionally, be mindful of covering shoulders and knees when entering religious sites.
Enjoy the Culinary Culture: Italy is absolute heaven for food enthusiasts. And even if you don't consider yourself a foodie, meals in Italy are to die for. Be sure to indulge in local specialties like pasta, pizza, gelato, and regional wines. Explore local markets and savor the flavors.
Embrace the Art of Espresso: Coffee culture is sacred in Italy. Enjoy a quick shot of espresso at the bar, standing up, for a truly Italian experience.
Don'ts:
Avoid Rushing Meals: Italian meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly, allowing time for conversation and savoring each course. Rushing through a meal is considered impolite. Take your time and relish the experience. I have to admit, this was tougher to embrace than I expected - but one of my FAVORITE parts of Italy - the slow meal.
Don't Expect Dinner Before 8:00 PM: Italians typically dine later in the evening. Restaurants may not be open for dinner before 7:30 or 8:00 PM. Plan your meals accordingly to align with local dining customs.
Don't Overpack Your Day With Activities: Be prepared to experience one to two new things each day, but don't pack in so much activity that you can't enjoy a leisurely stroll through the alleyways and cobblestone streets. Grabbing an unexpected gelato or stopping in a quaint little gift shop is half the experience.
Don't Be Afraid To Talk to the Locals: Asking your local private guide, hotel concierge or shop owner about their favorite restaurant or place to grab gelato is one of the best things you can do. Locals are often excited to recommend the best authentic restaurant in the area and are thrilled to offer a few pointers to you about your trip
While Italy is filled with history, art, and delectable cuisine, you will get to experience a lot of it's charm by taking it slow and easy. By knowing these dos and don'ts above, you'll get to enjoy a smoother travel experience during your first trip to Italy.
I can't wait to help you on your first experience to Italy!
Are you gearing up for the adventure of a lifetime on an Alaskan cruise? To ensure you make the most of your bucket list adventure, it's crucial to make sure you pack wisely. As an Alaskan Cruise Specialist, I've seen what works best for my clients, and I'm here to share my top five must-have items for your Alaskan cruise.
1. Layered Clothing
Alaska's weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from chilly to mild, even in the summer. I tell each of my Alaskan Cruise clients that the key to staying comfortable is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, add an insulating layer for warmth, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield you from the elements.
2. Binoculars
You do NOT want to forget to have an amazing set of binoculars handy at all times. Alaska is known for its remarkable wildlife, from bald eagles to grizzly bears. To truly appreciate these creatures in their natural habitat, a pair of quality binoculars is a must.
3. Camera and Extra Batteries
The breathtaking scenery of Alaska deserves to be captured, so don't forget your camera. From glaciers and fjords to pristine wilderness, there's a photo opportunity at every turn. Ensure you pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you won't want to miss a shot due to a drained battery or limited storage space.
4. Rain Gear
Alaska is known for its occasional rain showers, especially in the coastal regions. To stay dry and comfortable during outdoor excursions, pack high-quality rain gear. A waterproof jacket with a hood and rain pants will keep you dry from head to toe. Also, a compact, foldable umbrella is helpful for extra protection.
You will return from your Alaskan cruise with unforgettable treasured memories filled with natural wonders and wildlife encounters. By packing these essential items – layered clothing, binoculars, a camera and rain gear – you'll be well-prepared to embrace the beauty and excitement of Alaska. I provide each of my Alaskan Cruise clients with a packing list that includes these 4 items, along with other handy and helpful things to bring along on your cruise.
There’s a reason that Alaska is a bucket list destination for so many people. When you see photos of Alaska, they are absolutely majestic – and you just can’t help but want to experience it for yourself. As an Alaskan Cruise Specialist, I love guiding my clients through every step of their Alaskan Cruise Adventure.
From snow capped mountains and glaciers to whale sightings and bald eagles, there’s just so much to see and experience in Alaska. But taking your first trip can be so overwhelming – where do you start? As a travel advisor, who has traveled to Alaska myself, I help guide my clients through every step of their trip. From must-do activities to packing suggestions, I provide guidance and travel tips so my clients are completely ready for their first trip to Alaska. Here are my Top 5 Musts for your first trip to Alaska.
See Alaska From a Cruise Ship Everyone knows that the state of Alaska is massive. But did you know it's as wide as the lower states and larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined. It’s impossible to be able to see and do everything on your first trip to Alaska – so I always suggest taking an Alaskan Cruise to get a great sampling of some of the most bucket list Alaskan Adventures.
Bring Binoculars Expect to see the most amazing variety of wildlife that you just can’t see anywhere else. Not only will you have an opportunity to spot bears, but you may also encounter moose, bald eagles, Alaskan salmon, harbor seals, sea lions, and, my favorite sighting, humpback and orca whales! These are my favorite binoculars.
Book a Balcony Cabin While you could go out onto your cruise ship’s deck to view wildlife and glaciers, there’s nothing quite as impressive and memorable as spotting a breaching whale and hearing the white thunder of glacier’s calving from your own private balcony on your Alaskan Cruise. Grab your binoculars, your travel mug full of hot cocoa or coffee and your favorite cozy blanket and take it all in.
Wear Layers & Great Shoes Alaskan weather is hard to predict and can change from day to day! And while I don’t suggest lugging your entire closet from home, it is essential to wear layers and have comfortable shoes for walking. If you’re cruising by glaciers while on your ship you may want to put on that hat, gloves and scarf, but while exploring a quaint Alaskan town you may want to peel off that outer layer, wear short sleeves and take a hike.
Have Plenty of Camera Battery More than anything on your Alaskan Adventure, you can expect to take a ton of pictures to capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime memories, so the last thing you want to do is run out of battery! I suggest bringing a spare battery – and plenty of charging devices. Be prepared to come home with a camera full of stunning photos that might include mountains, whales and even the most adorable dog sledding puppies.
If Alaska isn’t on your bucket list – it should be! And if it’s been on your bucket list for a while, it’s time to experience it for yourself and get it checked off your bucket list! Let's book your Alaskan Cruise today!
Email me to get started: Jessica.Pratt@VincentVacations.com
Jessica Pratt, Alaskan Cruise Specialist
*My blog contains affiliate links to various products, which means I may earn a small commission for qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you