If only we had a crystal ball, we could pre-determine our own future.  We could either continue down the road we’re traveling, or if our future dictates change, then we could begin to channel ourselves in a different direction.  Unfortunately, we are left to our own devices and move along not knowing what the future holds.

Most likely the things we enjoy most are either related to family unities, spending habits, self-fulfilling ambitions or perhaps travel experiences.  

Travel experiences actually encompass all of the above in one form or another.  They can bring out the adventurer in us that we may not have even known we possess.

They can take us to exciting places that challenge our luck and take us to the edge of sensibility.

Travel can provide the excitement or sublimeness we feel when we see a sunset as we’ve never it before.

Family unities come in different forms.  There’s generational fun that perhaps Walt Disney can produce.  After all, he’s all about the family.  But there’s also the fun that comes from being with your friends and enjoying a simple weekend of spa treatments, shopping and sharing in genuine camaraderie.

Since we don’t have that crystal ball mentality, why are we not opening our minds to seek the most enjoyable, self-fulling experience possible ….without spending a great amount of money or jeopardizing what equity we have?  Perhaps we have to create our own image in a crystal ball.  What would your image appear to be, happy? Fulfilled? Positive?   Or perhaps yours would be waiting to see what will happen in the future, without the use of a crystal ball!    

As these economic times keep bending and twisting you need to make certain that anytime you spend your hard-earned money for either family, home or pleasure, you are protected.  If travel is what your family desires, are you certain you are travel savvy enough to know which travel vendors (hotels, resorts, cruise lines, tour companies to use?      

This economic environment can breed fraudulent activities, bankruptcies etc.  If you trust the internet to find you the lowest applicable prices, are you certain they are protecting you against these roadblocks as you plan your travel? 

 Ask yourself these questions?  Do you have dental work done by your plumber?  Do you have your physician do your landscaping?  Then why would you trust such a viable memory as a vacation to something you find on the internet?  Travel professionals are just that – professionals.  There should never be a second thought when it comes to planning a trip which can cost a significant amount of money.

Having just returned from a river cruise, it reminded me of just how enjoyable relaxing on gently rippling water could be, especially when combined with the history and culture of a European country, which has preserved its heritage.  In addition, shore excursions are designed to highlight the language, people, customs and industry built over centuries of heritage.

These small ship excursions have captured an increasingly larger segment of the cruising population because virtually everything, with few exceptions, is included, from shore experiences to gourmet dining, local wines, beer and soft drinks.  The ship’s crew are always most congenial and engaging without sacrificing quality service.  They genuinely appear to enjoy their interaction with passengers.  The fact that no more than 100-150 passengers can be accommodated encourages greater interpersonal exchange promoting lasting friendships.  Just sit back and let the pleasure surround your senses.

Roger