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  • Couture Trips
    • Destinations
    • Paris
    • Cruises
    • River Cruises
    • Yacht Charters
  • Couture Travel Management
  • Travel Essentials
  • The Runway
  • Resources
    • COVID-19
    • Packing Checklist
    • Client Terms and Conditions/Fee Schedule
    • Wait and Watch List
    • Client Travel Interest Survey
    • Terms & Conditions
    • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
    • Couture Trips Circular
    • Press Mentions

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10 Travel Hacks For 2023

12/6/2022

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By: Susan Sherren- for  Couture Trips
Published: December 6, 2022 7:21 CST

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Budget
Consider your budget before making any travel arrangements. Nothing stinks like coming home to debt from a vacation that broke the bank. Be realistic with your expectations and consult your travel mate(s) before heading down the road to booking. You can still have a fantastic experience without a 5-star hotel or Michelin-star restaurant. 
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Passport
Make sure you have a valid passport and one that doesn't expire within six months after your vacation return date. Check out your passport expiration date and plan on renewing one year, yes, one year before the expiration date. Put that date in your digital calendar, so it doesn't escape you. You will have plenty of time to renew without a crisis ensuing.
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Photo: courtesy: Jon Tyson, Unsplash

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Tips on Flying and traveling with an Infant and How to Avoid the Cry baby express

11/29/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: November 29th, 2022 5:54 PM

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Photo: Shutterstock
Challenges Flying with an Infant

Flying with an infant or small child is always challenging for any parent. While it may be a vacation the parents are looking forward to, your infant might not share the same enthusiasm. The critical takeaway is to be prepared and stay flexible. Hopefully, on arrival, you will have a loving grandparent willing to take over while you recover from the journey. Considering all the recent flight delays and cancellations a parent should be well prepared in advance to travel with an infant. ​

Airplane Booking Tips
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Book your flight way in advance and try to secure the bulkhead. You will likely be near the restrooms for quick diaper changes, and you should be able to request as secured bassinet on certain types of airplane equipment. Try to book your flight during your infant's naptime and stick to feeding routines. Avoid connecting flights and check for the shortest flight times. Purchase travel insurance; you never know if your child could come down with a cold or illnesses that would prevent them from traveling. We suggest booking a seat for the infant if you are taking an international flight. Avoid traveling during peak flying times such as holidays or periods of known inclement weather.
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Photo: Shutterstock

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Some hotels are in desperate need of a post-pandemic upgrade. Here's what they should do.

6/25/2022

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 By: Christopher Elliott
Senior Contributor
I'm a consumer advocate. I write about customer service.
Jun 25, 2022,09:30am EDT
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Top Tips To Help YOu Survive Airline Travel

6/22/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: 6/22/22 at 3:55 PM

 
​Today air travel has never been more daunting. Daily headlines are filled with horror stories about flight delays, angry passengers, and cancelled flights. Here are few best practices to come out on top or at least be prepped before the wheels are up.
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Post Travel Luggage Care

6/20/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: 6/20/22 1:20 PM
The last thing on your mind after returning home from a trip is how to care for your luggage post travels. If you've hauled your luggage around the planet, it could probably deserve a good cleaning and prep for the next trip. Here are our best tips and tricks for keeping your bags in good shape.

First Things First
Empty your suitcase and avoid placing it on your bed, couch, or other soft surfaces during unpacking. You've hauled this bag many places and don't want to risk dirtying your home surfaces. It's best to unpack in your garage, porch, or utility area and don't procrastinate emptying our your suitcases!

Step Two
Place the bag on a towel on the floor or counter to sort it out.
Remove your clothing and other items. Put your soiled clothing directly into the washing machine. If you have used packing cubes on your travels, you can hand wash them in the sink with warm detergent, rise, and let them air dry, preferably in the sun.

Open up all the compartments of your suitcase to let them air out. Then gently wipe the hard surfaces like handles and wheels, or lock with an alcohol-based cleaner to kill any germs. Shake out any leftover bits of dirt or debris. You can also take a damp towel and wipe out the compartments.

Hard Side Luggage Care
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 Depending on the bag you have- hard or soft side- you will want to clean the outside. Samsonite, a leading luggage manufacturer, suggests: "To clean hard side luggage, we recommend using a gentle soap and warm water and rinsing well. If you want to wax the case after cleaning, any good silicone-based automobile or furniture polish will preserve the luster and add resistance to the covering. We do NOT recommend, however, that you try to clean the luggage with a combination cleaner-polish."

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Top Four Beach Clubs In Mykonos, Greece

6/18/2022

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By: Susan Sherren
Published: 6/18/22 2:40 PM
 
Party Time Equals Mykonos, Greece 

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The island in the chain of the Cycladic area of the Aegean Sea is one of the world's most glamorous and luxurious spots on the planet if you crave upscale beach life. These days, it rivals the South of France and the wild and crazy Ibiza part of the Iberic island chain. These aren't just cozy places by the sea; these exclusive beach clubs attract some of the most famous, rich, and glam people on the planet. Reservations are a must plus a load of Euros, yes they are not cheap. If you want to experience the best in Mykonos, it will cost you a pretty penny. We recently visited the top beach clubs, and here are Couture Trips' recommended grand dames by the sea. Our beach club insider has been on the island for over 30 years and is known to the locals as the "King of Mykonos" this kind of access means we can facilitate your beach club dream to one of the most deluxe spots on the earth. Yes, we have connections to this gorgeous and rarefied island's top spots. In the Mykonos beach club realm, connections are everything these days due to the rising popularity of the beach club lifestyle sought after on Mykonos.
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  • Scorpios Beach Club- Paraga Beach 
​Imagine muted shades blending right into the Paraga beach velvety sand. The multi-level design gives you excellent views and various ways to access the water. The open-air terraces and large spaces are a hallmark of this club. The menu features vegetarian cuisine with an Eastern Mediterranean flare with some Mexican fusion tossed in. Scorpios screams exclusive and out of this world service. Be prepped to be pampered plus SoHo Roc House is a close neighbor to this beach club. If you are part of the jet-set crowd then you'll find this a perfect shoe that fits.

  • NAMMOS- Psarou Beach
There is a lot of high-end shopping near NAMMOS, and the exclusive and upscale shopping adds a different dimension to this beach club. The white buildings and contrasting white and turquoise striped umbrellas and towels scream luxury on steroids. Consider helicoptering in from your yacht for the day. Yep, this is the world of the rich and famous. Private plunge pools, immaculate service, exquisite cocktails, and menu items await to rock your taste buds.
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Top Tips on How to avoid Being a Victim of Crime overseas

5/5/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: May 5, 2022 15:10

Nothing can ruin a trip quicker than being a victim of a crime or theft. Here are a few recommendations to help you stay aware and are informed before you leave your home. 
  • Avoid traveling at night and have a companion.
  • Try not to wear expensive clothing, jewelry, or luggage; you don't want to attract a criminal.
  • Take reliable forms of transportation. Many large European cities have approved/licensed Taxies and other forms of transportation.
  • If a criminal confronts you, give them what they want; do not resist. Try not to escalate the situation. Stay calm and cool headed.
  • Keep an eye on your drink(s) if you are at a pub or bar. Victims of crime can be drugged with unknown substances placed in their cocktails or other beverages.
  • Watch your purse at all times. Do not lay your bag/purse or backpack on a table or hang it on the back of a chair.
  • Keep your purse or bag between your knees or under the table secured with your foot.
  • If you're confronted by someone claiming to be a plainclothes police officer, ask to talk to a uniformed officer or go to the nearest police station for confirmation.
  • Scams can include squirting a substances on someone and then having other people apologize and offer to help the person clean up. While one of them is attempting to clean your shirt with a napkin, the other could be rummaging through your pockets.
  •  Keep your cell phone tucked away when not in use. 
  • Avoid keeping large sums of cash on you. Have a backup credit card locked securely in your hotel room. 
  • Avoid consuming too much alcohol or prescription drugs that cloud your thinking processes. If you are in a compromised situation, you are more likely to become a victim of a crime.
  • Leave a detailed itinerary with a trusted family member or friend back home.
  • Split your cash up with your other traveling companions.
  • Use a money belt to keep your cash and credit cards safe.
  • Petty thieves will often try to distract you or bump up against you. Avoid crowded spaces like public transportation zones. If a train is overcrowded, pass on that one and take the next train or bus.
  • Avoid traveling with too much luggage. Keep an eye on your luggage at all times. 
  • Ignore people trying to sell you a "hard luck" story. 
  • Don't stop to sign petitions or engaging with people voicing public opinions. It is not your country and not your concern.
  • Have backup copies of your passport, vaccine card, or other documents. Store them in a secure location and keep a copy on your phone in case of theft or loss.
  • If your itinerary includes a train trip, keep your luggage within view. When the train stops, stand by your luggage to ensure it is not removed unknowingly.
  • Avoid dark alleyways or blind alleys.
  • Stay in reputable hotels that are in safe areas. 
  • Remember, distractions are a technique thieves use to steal from you. Stay alert and stay on your toes. 
  • Sit against a wall or ask for a booth in a restaurant, pub, or café. You want to be facing the crowd or customers in a restaurant.
  • Stay alert, especially in crowded train stations and airports. If you have to buy a ticket or converse with a ticket agent, designate one person in your group to eye your belongings.
  • If a stranger asks you to take a photo of them, ensure you have your belongings in tow and secured.
  • Don't ask strangers to watch your belongings for just even a minute.
  • Take photos of your luggage and other personal belongings in case of theft.
  • Use tracking devices such as Apple Air Tag to keep track of your personal items.
  • In restrooms, watch your purse, backpack, etc. 
  • Remember, criminals can be innocent-looking children.
  • Crime victims overseas should contact the nearest US embassy, consulate, or consular agency. The Department of State can help replace stolen passports, contact family and friends, identify health care providers, explain the local criminal justice process, and connect victims of crime with available resources. However, they do not have the legal authority to conduct a criminal investigation or prosecute crimes. (http://travel.state.gov/travelsafely).
*These are merely recommendations to help you avoid being a victim of a crime—this list is not comprehensive and should be used only as suggestions and a guide.


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HOW TO BEAT POST VACATION BLUES- PART 2

5/2/2022

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By​: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
​Published: 5/2/22 3:14 PM
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Build Some Relaxation Into Your Vacation
Researchers compared happiness before and after vacations among Dutch travelers in a 2010 study by the International Society for Quality-of-Life Studies. They found that the only group whose happiness remained higher weeks after the trip ended were vacationers who had a "very relaxed holiday." Try to build in some downtime into your itinerary. We often want to cram many activities into each day, especially if you have limited time in a particular city, but it may be wise to take it easy. Your vacation satisfaction and happiness will be greater if you rest some while away.

Sketch Out Your Next Vacation Before You Return Home
Vacations are an excellent time for reflection. Do some long-range planning while away without distractions. Think about what adventure you would enjoy next. The ability to envision future vacations gives your brain something to chew on, and you can start to build a loosely planned itinerary. Don't return home blue; realize you have something in the works for the future. Write down what worked and didn't work on previous vacations, this will be a great jumping-off point for crafting your next vacation. 
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How to Beat Post Vacation Blues- Part 1

4/28/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: April 28th 3:30 PM

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Returning home can be the most challenging part of a vacation. Several years ago, Trip Advisor conducted a study and found that 56% of travelers experienced post-vacation blues. Most travelers experience post-vacation sadness, so don't worry you are not out of the norm. How can you minimize these feelings after your return trip home? It would be nice to hop on the next flight out of town, but this isn't a realistic or budget-friendly strategy for most of us. So how do you cope with the transition back to your "normal life" from your vacation high?

Get Your Chores Done Asap

​Don't delay grocery shopping, laundry, mail sorting, and storing your suitcases. Nothing will hold back your transition more than postponing these essential routine tasks. Tackle these as soon as possible; it will help you launch back into normality. Just make a list a get it done.


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Learn To Pack Like A Pro And how To Avoid The UrGe To Be A Pack RAT

4/14/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: April 14, 2022 7:20 PM
Avoid The Urge To Overpack

Unfortunately, you can't take your entire closet on your next vacation. I once took a friend to the airport and picked up her suitcase only to discover it was incredibly light. I asked her what she had packed? She replied with one change of clothes and a few toiletries; I like to leave room for shopping. This might be an extreme example of light packing, but it does shine a light on the benefits of packing lite.

Nothing can ruin your vacation faster than roaming around with too much luggage. If you're hauling the load by yourself, consider leaving most of your treasures behind at home. I have suffered this self-inflicted pain myself. It wasn't fun, plus it cost me a pretty penny in overweight and multiple baggage fees. Over the years, I have reduced the number of goods I haul around. Here are a few top tips from Couture Trips.

The Luggage
Weight matters when you select your luggage. Try weighing your current suitcase empty; ditch the old bag and go for a newer model if it is pretty heavy. Many modern lightweight suitcases are made from polycarbonate materials or lightweight aluminum shells. Check out the luggage label for the weight and shop for the lightest but most durable shell. 

Shoes
You can sabotage your efforts by taking too many shoes. The basic rule is three shoes, one comfortable pair for sightseeing, one dress shoe for evening dinners or more formal occasions, and one pair of in-betweens- like ballet flats that you can dress up or down. Leave the rest, resting comfortably in your closet. Remember, you'll have one pair on and the other two safely packed away.

Clothing
Use the rule of five's- five shirts, five pairs of trousers, five socks, five sets of underwear. If you plan on attending a more formal event, tuck in a dark-colored dress or suit. If you're heading out during the summer months, you might consider five dresses, five skirts, and five pairs of shorts instead. The key is making sure the items you select are interchangeable. Remember to choose lightweight and breathable fabrics, especially if you travel during the summer months.
Packing during the winter months offers more of a challenge due to the weight and bulk of the fabrics. But adhering to the rule of 5's is an excellent place to start; tip for the colder months-wear your heaviest or bulkiest item of clothing.
Packing cubes are a great way of keeping your belonging organized and clean. Remember, you won't necessarily want to place your clothing in the drawers of just any hotel furniture. Keeping your clothing in the packing cubes makes packing up and unpacking a cinch when you are on the go.


Toiletries
Purchase travel-sized products and transfer your home-based products to smaller travel-sized containers. Take only what you need and leave behind the extra cosmetics. Remember depending on where you are traveling to; you can purchase toiletries at your destination. One of my favorite things on holiday is perusing pharmacies in foreign countries. You might find something new and exciting to take home with you. French pharmacies are notorious for carrying high-quality skincare products.

Carry On's
Traveling with a carry-on solves so many problems. Your check-in process will be pretty simple, and you will avoid the lost luggage crisis. Reconnecting with your checked bag won't be in the equation if you have all your belongings in tow. Walk right off your plane and right into your holiday.

Test Time
Try living with the rule of 5's, slimmed toiletries, and three pairs of shoes for one week and see how you do if you pass; maybe you are ready to take the next big step, packing with just a carry-on!

Washing Up
Yes, you'll need to do a bit of washing if you only have five pairs of underwear and your trip is for 14 days! Most cities have self-service laundry mats, or you can improvise in the hotel room by filling up the sink and doing a bit of a scrub-up. Sink Suds are an excellent travel-friendly product that can help you get the washing done in the hotel sink. Most hotels also provide laundry services if you need to send your clothes out but remember it might take a day or two to receive your clothing back, so plan accordingly.

Take the time to think through ever item you toss into your suitcase. Remember you'll likely regret bringing anything "extra" or something you think you "might need". Chances are you won't need it and you'll regret the added items.  Resist the urge to overpack and you'll be on your way to passing the carry-on only challenge.

Visit www.CoutureTrips. com to schedule a complimentary travel consultation. We'll give you more than just a cool trip! ​
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12 ways to cope with travel delays,cancellations and other travel related issues

4/11/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: April 11, 2022 4:22 PM



Coping with travel delays and glitches seems to be commonplace now. The headlines are full of delay notifications due to airline and airport staff shortages, weather-related events, or the growing pains of relaunching the travel industry post-Covid. We have brainstormed and would like to suggest the following ways to cope during this transition time.

1. Fly non-stop; fewer connections mean fewer opportunities for a glitch or delay.

2. Arrive early enough to troubleshoot a delay or cancellation at the airport—3 hours minimum for international travel and 2 hours for domestic.

3. Fly with reputable airlines- avoid budget airlines during this readjustment phase.

4. Schedule a potential flight delay into your itinerary. For example, arrive at your cruise departure city early and take the sites in a day or two before cruising. There are endless ways to explore a city even if you think you know everything about it. This strategy will take the stress out of a tight itinerary time frame.

5. Purchase travel insurance- it's a must these days with so much uncertainty.

6. Stay flexible- leaving your home has inherent risks.

7. Use your manners- try and be kind and considerate even in the face of stress and disappointment. I passed out Starbucks gift cards to the airline staff on a recent flight to London, and the reaction was so amazing. The airline staff relayed that me most of the abuse issues occur on US domestic flights. The staff treated me like gold- so give a little and fly international!

8. Use an ASTA-certified and experienced travel consultant. We place all our clients on a flight tracker during air travel days, and  we can make changes to smooth things out when we see a  potential cancellation or glitch.

9. Travel with just a carry-on and keep all valuables and medication with you.

10. Have a backup plan, and don't plan a meeting or work-related events on either side of your vacation. It will give you a cushion in case of a delay or disaster.

11. Be patient- over time, the affects the pandemic had on the travel industry will work themselves out.

12. Evaluate the risk-benefit ratio for yourself. Please take responsibility for your decisions, whether you  decide to travel or not.

 Hang in there travel issues will resolve with time. Be patient and realize the travel industry was devastated during the pandemic. It takes time to re-boot the entire travel industry. Don't give up, and hope that the future is even brighter for you and the travel industry as whole.
*Note these are only suggestions and observations from our perspective. 
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All You need to Know About Traveling overseas, Learn about all the nuts and Bolts of International Travel

4/7/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: April 7, 2022 7:00 PM

  • ​Passports: You need a valid passport to leave the U.S. The Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you return home. The Passport must be in good condition, without spills, torn pages, etc. Your Passport must have enough blank pages to accommodate entry and exit immigration stamps for each country you are traveling to. At least one visa page in your Passport is required for each visa. Most travel visas stamped into your Passport need an entire blank visa page. For additional questions on renewal or validity, visit Travel.State.Gov. The name on your airline ticket must be identical to the one listed on your Passport. Warning you may be denied boarding if there are any discrepancies.                                                                                           
  •  Copies: Leave hard copies of your travel documents (Passports, Vaccine Cards, Itinerary, etc.) with a close friend or family member. Pack a duplicate set for your own reference in case your phone is lost or stolen.
 
  • Currency: Obtain some local currency before your trip. You will be prepared if your debit or credit card is non-functioning or a digital malfunction occurs. Not all ATMs (especially in rural places) accept foreign debit cards, and not every restaurant and store will. Some merchants do not allow foreign debit cards. You should have some backup cash and a credit card. Be aware of where you swipe your credit card. Fraudulent transactions can prove disruptive to your vacation. Additionally, using debit or credit cards regularly could accumulate transaction fees. At ATMs, for instance, you'll be charged for converting funds into local currency and, if outside of your network, an additional ATM fee. Check with your bank before departure about their foreign transaction fees and policies.​
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How to Avoid Hitting the Fatigue Wall on Your vacation

3/29/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for  Couture Trips
Published: March 29, 2002 5:45 PM
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 We all look forward with great anticipation to our well-deserved vacations. After months of planning, the big departure day arrives, our bags are packed, tickets purchased, and the itinerary is just the perfect mix of activities. 
It is not uncommon after this great anticipation, planning, and hype to experience fatigue while we are supposed to be enjoying our days away from work and routines. How can you combat hitting a wall of fatigue and exhaustion while on vacation?
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​Be realistic in the planning phase.
Pace yourself when you are away. Cramming two weeks' worth of activities into seven days will leave you frustrated and extremely tired.
At Couture Trips, we incorporate a bell-curve planning method into our itineraries. Ease into your activities, make the midpoint of your vacation pulse with the most exciting and most active adventures, then wind it down again before departure.


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London the perfect Spot for a Girls Trip

2/23/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: 2/23/2022 6:30 PM

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London is a perfect destination for any mother and daughter duo. It has all the right elements- charming, quaint with lots of shopping and dining options. You could also spend a few days meandering around the city and then head to the fabulous English countryside.
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If you need beautiful and authentically Londonesque accommodations, the Goring Hotel in Belgravia fits the bill perfectly. This is London's last family-owned luxury hotel property. Perfectly manicured and incredibly authentic. It has garnered many awards because it has maintained its identity, and its staff is dedicated to service.
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 Over a decade ago, Kate Middleton and her mother stepped through the doors of the Goring Hotel the night before Kate's big day. The Goring has also been a popular spot for the royalty and the famous over the years. 


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Night time STRATEGIES For the Long-Haul Flight

2/4/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: February 4, 2022

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There is an art to surviving a red-eye or night flight, especially with various masking and other requirements in place. Just realize it's just a small price to pay to have an incredible experience far from your regular life and routines. 

KNOW THE TERRAIN
Know the terrain before you even consider booking the flight. Are you committed to fully wearing the mask and being a compliant passenger? I've seen lots of cheaters who pull the mask down from their nose and think this counts! No, it won't make the grade, plus you might irritate your fellow seatmates, and don't be surprised if you get a talking to from the flight attendant. So be all in for the safety of all travelers!


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2022 Travel Tips and Insights

1/27/2022

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 By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published​: 1/27/22 12:40 PM CST
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The travel industry has experienced lots of strain since the onset of the pandemic. This is the advice we give all of our clients and would like to share with you if you are new to Couture Trips. Yes, things change and the pandemic has changed the travel landscape. Here are few tips and tricks that will make travel in 2022 a bit easier or at least will ease the strain of traveling in the post pandemic or endemic realm.
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2022 Travel Trends

1/4/2022

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By: Susan Sherren for  Couture Trips
Published: 1/4/22
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Mexico:
Travelers are staying away from this country due to the recent shooting incidents related to drug cartel warfare issues. I just spoke with an American Airlines agent this week. She communicated that AA was working with travelers who were requesting a change of flight plans due to the negative headlines and are accommodating rebooking to other locations.

Vacations to Mexico will probably be booked with some trepidation and associated warnings. Currently, we are not encouraging our clients to book a trip to Mexico as a destination right now. Secondly, Mexico does not require any COVID-19 testing before arrival or upon arrival.  We encourage our clients to consider the Turks and Caicos as an alternative to Mexico in the short run. The government in the Turks and Caicos has been very diligent with pre-travel COVID-19 testing and has instituted strict policies and guidelines that keep everyone safe.


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Why You Might Need an International Drivers Permit

11/20/2021

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By: Susan Sherren for  Couture Trips
Published​​: November 20, 2021 12:38
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Why You Need an International Drivers Permit
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Applying for an International Drivers Permit (IDP) might be the last thing on your mind when you think of planning an overseas adventure. But before you decide to jump behind the wheel and rent a car overseas, make sure you put this minor but essential item on your to-do list. Fortunately, you won't need one in Canada for short stays or in Mexico. If you are venturing to Brazil or Uruguay, you will apply for an Inter-American Driving Permit. It's similar to the international driving license, and it can be obtained from the same entities. But if you are venturing outside of these areas, make sure to get One. The IDP is recognized by over 186 countries and will give you peace of mind when you decide to hit the road.


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Tips on Traveling this Thanksgiving season

11/18/2021

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By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: 1/18/21
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​This Thanksgiving will see more air travel and ground travel than in prior years. The pandemic curbed our regular holiday travel routines. While we all are anxious to have our holidays return to normal, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind as you hit the ground running.

 First and foremost on any to-do list is to stay home if you are not feeling well. Friends and family will be grateful if you decide not to spread your germs during this holiday season. Stay well-rested, eat nutritious food and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. 

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If you are traveling by air, make sure to get to the airport a bit earlier than usual. You can download The MyTSA app; according to the TSA it, "provides airline passengers with 24/7 access to the most frequently requested airport security information on any mobile device. Save time and money with our helpful tips for preparing for security, including a searchable database of items that can and can't go in checked or carry-on bags".​

 Make sure to bring along hand sanitizer and plenty of masks. Ideally, it would be best if you changed your face mask every 4-6 hours. Rewearing masks isn't a great idea. Go for the disposable ones vs cloth. Also, change your clothing once you arrive at your destination. Remember to use frequent hand washing and avoid touching your face.

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​Try and travel light with one carry on if possible; if your bags don't make it, you won't have to make another trip to the airport or wait to locate a lost piece of luggage. 

Bring along some healthy snacks that can satisfy you in case you become delayed or are stranded. Nothing is worse than an irritated or growling stomach while you're waiting for a flight.

Be patient; this time of year, people can become quite stressed and angry. Try and smile; you decided to travel during one of the busiest times of the year so have a little compassion for those airport and TSA employees who have to work during the holidays. Throw out a compliment or two! 

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​If you are driving to your destination, consider taking the shortest distance due to rising gas prices. This probably isn't the year to take the longer scenic route—budget for this added expense. You can offset the cost by packing a picnic for the road or hunt up a few roadside fast-food restaurants coupons in advance of your travels. Make sure to stay on top of the weather forecast and don't travel in poor weather conditions. 

Scheduling your travel dates around Thanksgiving will lessen the strain. Don't book your trip the day before Thanksgiving, and expect everything to go smoothly. Airport systems will be under pressure as the holiday approaches. If you have a flexible work schedule, depart a few days earlier than you usually would of in years past and delay your return a few days following the holiday. 

Have an exit strategy in case of illness. If you become ill at your destination or during your travels and exhibit COVID-19 or flu-like symptoms, have a pre-planned way to deal with the situation. Pack the necessary over the counter cold remedies, and you might even consider pre-purchasing an over the counter COVID-19 test kit. 

Most of all, enjoy your time with your friends and family. This year more than ever, we will appreciate our ability to sit face to face at the dinner table with our loved ones. 

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Happy Thanksgiving
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What You Need to know when traveling to europe this fall

9/1/2021

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By: Susan Sherren
Published: 9/1/21 4:45 PM

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The EU's updated travel ban announced this week had placed a wrench in some travelers plans. Yes, you can still travel to some countries, but you will have to keep updated on their current policies and procedures. It's a jungle out there for travelers these days. Travel can be stressful enough without the Mondays announcement that the EU no longer recommends non-essential travel from the U.S. to Europe. Unfortunately, this travel rollercoaster may become the new norm.
Vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers will still be allowed into some countries within the EU, and member states will be setting their own policies.  European countries heavily rely on tourism, and over the past year, many were affected by closures due to COVID. The ticket into these countries will remain focused on testing and vaccination status. You must check with each country you plan on visiting before making any travel arrangements. 

Where Can I Check On The Status Of Countries Border?

The U.S. Embassy in each country can be a great source; you can even give them a ring to hear it from the horse's mouth. Sherpa is also a great resource that can provide you with up to date information. The best and most accurate way to determine how you will enter a country is by going directly to their immigration and border entry websites. Remember, this is a fluid situation, and specific policies are only in effect for a certain period of time. If your vacation straddles a renewal date, make sure you understand that these policies may change. 

Can I Get a Refund On My Airline Tickets If I Decide Not to Travel?

It depends on the type of ticket you purchased. If you bought Basic Economy tickets that are non-refundable, then the answer is most likely no. If you change them, some tickets will trigger a change fee, and others are more friendly to amendments. Make sure you seek clarification from the airlines before purchasing.

Can I Cross Borders Once I Enter a Country? 

Yes, you can, but you will have to be familiar with each countries border requirements. If you are a U.S. Citizen and travel to Paris on a connecting flight and your final destination is Italy- Italy will require you to adhere to entry requirements from France even though you are a U.S. Citizen. 

Should I Use a Travel Advisor?
Well, it depends on how much homework, trips prep and stress you want to take on. A travel advisor is usually associated with a larger consortium or entity that may have quite a bit more pull than, say, an individual traveler. It might cost you a tad more to use an advisor, but it will be the best money you have ever spent. Visit Couture Trips to schedule a complimentary travel consultation. We keep up to date on the latest and greatest in travel. 

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Tips On Traveling to Europe Fall 2021
  • Know Your Airline and Hotel Cancellation Policies
  • Limit Your Travel to One Country
  • Research Border Control Policies In Destination
  • Avoid Connecting Flights Within Europe
  • Purchase Travel Insurance
  • Use the Services of a Travel Advisor
  • Have a Back Up Plan
  • Purchase Health Insurance For Overseas Illnesses
  • Avoid Crowded Areas and Spaces
  • Fly Non- Stop When Possible
  • Make Sure Your Dr. Has a Copy of Your Vaccination Record
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