The Vacation Guru- Alana Halford-Bowles

05/27/2026

Window or aisle? I feel like this says a lot about a person 😏
Window = views, clouds, and a built-in excuse not to move
Aisle = easy access, stretch-your-legs freedom, and quick exits

I’m firmly in my seat-selection era with a window!

Curious though… are you team window, team aisle, or do you have a whole strategy behind your choice?

Tell me your go-to seat and why 👇

04/27/2026

Beach day in St. Augustine with a little bit of everything!

We started with sunshine and ocean views got hit with a quick (and very Florida) torrential downpour and then watched it clear just as fast

Best moment by far a school of dolphins swimming right off the shore

Spent the evening in the historic downtown for a great dinner, then leaned into the city’s haunted reputation with a ghost tour

Definitely a city not to be missed!

04/02/2026

I’m incredibly honoured to be featured in Travelweek alongside industry powerhouse Julie Smigadis!

To be recognized among women who are helping shape and lead the future of travel is something I don’t take lightly. This industry is built on passion, connection, and resilience and I’m so proud to be part of it.

Grateful for my clients, my team, and everyone who continues to trust me with their travel dreams ✈️

👉

Canada's Travel Trade Publication

02/27/2026

Crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches await in The Bahamas home to 700+ islands and the world’s 3rd-largest barrier reef. Snorkel vibrant reefs, swim with the famous Exuma pigs, unwind at luxe resorts, and soak up pure island vibes. Book your escape today.

02/26/2026

It might be time to trade snow boots for flip-flops.

Imagine turquoise water, warm sand between your toes, and a frozen drink in hand with nothing on your to-do list except relax

Winter can wait!

Contact me Today!
[email protected]

02/26/2026

Some journeys are about ticking boxes.
Trafalgar journeys are about truly knowing a place.

With expert Travel Directors, local insight woven into every day, and stays that are part of the story, these trips go far beyond the guidebook. It’s thoughtful, immersive travel that feels seamless and personal.

Right now, Trafalgar’s Big Travel Sale offers up to 15% off select tours, making it a great time to plan ahead for future travel. Let's find you the perfect trip.

* The sale is available on new bookings made before February 27, 2026. Terms and conditions apply

02/26/2026

Dramatic cliffs, colourful villages and sparkling Mediterranean waters. The Amalfi Coast is made for slow mornings, long lunches and sunset aperitivo.

01/03/2026

New Orleans, continued:
More incredible food, a fascinating historical walking tour through the French Quarter, a memorable dinner cruise on a Mississippi River steamboat, and an unforgettable excursion outside the city to explore the swamp and bayou where we spotted some amazing wildlife and really got a feel for Louisiana’s wild side.

01/01/2026

Staying at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel during New Year’s in New Orleans is something many don’t get the chance to experience. This early-1800s French Quarter landmark, once a ballroom, opera house, and convent, places us right in the heart of it all — yet its peaceful courtyard oasis feels like a hidden gift 🌿

Tonight we enjoyed an iconic dinner at Muriel’s Jackson Square housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building overlooking the square. Known for its classic Creole cuisine, rich history, and legendary Séance Lounge, Muriel’s even keeps a table set nightly for its resident ghost, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan. Amazing food, incredible atmosphere, and unmistakably New Orleans 👻✨

From souvenir shopping and Sugar Bowl Parade beads to fireworks over the Mississippi River, today was one for the memory books.

12/31/2025

Day 1 in New Orleans
We jumped straight into sightseeing exploring the beautiful Garden District, visiting one of the famous cemeteries with its above-ground graves, and seeing areas still marked by the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, a powerful reminder of the city’s strength and resilience.

We also enjoyed a wine tasting and sampled some classic Southern specialties (because you can’t come to New Orleans and not!). We stayed our first two nights in the Financial District at the Drury, which was a great option for families and a convenient base for exploring the city. Next few days we will enjoy in the heart of everything right on Bourbon Street!