Smiley Travel

05/29/2026

Pick up your euros before you go. 💶

Do I always follow this advice? No. I usually wander around looking for an ATM when I land because it forces me to get to know the area around my hotel. I am my own worst traveler.

But here's why YOU should actually do this (even though I don't): if you go to your bank a week or two before your trip and they don't have euros on hand, they can order them for you before you leave. Waiting until you land means dealing with airport exchange rates or trying to find an ATM in an unfamiliar place.

Plus, some small local shops, markets, and cafes in Europe don't take cards. You'll want cash on hand.

Pro tip: Call your bank ahead of time, tell them how much you need, and pick it up before your trip. One less thing to worry about when you land.

Do as I say, not as I do. 😂

Heading to Europe soon & have questions? Drop them below! 👇

05/28/2026

Ryan went to Puerto Vallarta a little bit ago and I'm still jealous. He did a food tour, went whale watching, and got to explore the city in ways that made me wish I was there.

We do have exciting news though. We have a group cruise coming up in 2027 with Royal Caribbean that hits both Puerto Vallarta and Cabo. Two destinations, one trip, and you don't have to plan a single thing because it's all handled for you.

I know the news from Mexico a few months ago might still be on your mind. Puerto Vallarta and Cabo are major tourist destinations with heavy security in those areas. Tourists weren't targeted or harmed, and things are back to normal now.

That being said, if you've been thinking about a group cruise, this is a good one. There are still some spots left, but they're filling up.

DM me or visit the link in bio to learn more!

05/26/2026

This is how I actually travel when I'm on a trip.

I'm not just relaxing by the pool with a book (okay, maybe a little). I'm eating at every restaurant, hiking the trails, testing the spa, and wandering off property to see what the area's really like.

Why? Because when you ask me "What's Dreams Madeira actually like?" or "Should I book the French restaurant?" I want to give you a real answer, not something I Googled.

When I was on the island of Madeira, I tried everything. The breakfast buffet, the Asian grill, the French spot in the old lighthouse, the black sand beaches, the hiking trails. All of it. So I can tell you exactly what to expect and what's actually worth your time.

That's the difference between booking online and working with someone who's been there.

Want to see the full breakdown? I wrote a whole blog post about it: https://www.smileytravel.net/post/travel-like-your-agent

05/22/2026

Calling all sorority girls, alumni groups, and anyone who's been saying 'we should do a group trip' for the last three years. 👀

I'm currently helping plan a Royal Caribbean group cruise for 2027 and there is NOTHING more fun than a group at sea.

If your chapter, alumni group, or friend group has been talking about this, let's actually make it happen. Message me or visit the link in bio to get started!

05/19/2026

A little effort goes a long way when you travel. 🌍

You don't need to be fluent, but learning a few basic phrases shows respect for the culture and makes your experience so much a better. People appreciate when you try, even if your pronunciation isn't perfect.

Save this for your next international trip!

05/18/2026

Beachfront cabanas, turquoise water, and views that don’t need a filter. This is one of those resorts where the photos don’t even do it justice, and the photos are already stunning.

I love sending clients to Sandals St. Vincent because it’s adults-only and all-inclusive. You wake up to this view, spend your days on the beach or by the pool, and don’t have to worry about a single thing.

Let’s make the vacation you keep saying you’ll take “someday” into reality. DM me and let’s make it happen. Or, save this for your next trip inspo.

05/17/2026

Everything I wish someone told me before my first cruise. 🚢

Cruising can feel overwhelming if you've never done it before. What's included? What costs extra? Do I need to budget for gratuities? How do I plan shore excursions?

I get these questions all the time from first-time cruisers, so I put together this guide to cover the basics.

Read more here: https://www.smileytravel.net/post/ahoy-travelers-essential-cruise-tips-for-smooth-sailing

05/15/2026

Can we talk about that latest inflation report for a sec? 👀

Unfortunately, travel costs are going up and there is no way around it. What I will say is this: we have to be real with ourselves. A cheap trip happening tomorrow just is not realistic right now, but a well planned trip that fits your budget absolutely is.

With me in your corner we can strategize around budget, payment plans, and how to keep your bucket list trips on the books while setting reasonable expectations in the planning process.

05/14/2026

A great read! Thanks to The Wall Street Journal

The business is thriving, especially for the priciest and most complicated journeys.