Amazing Escapes Travel & Tours

08/20/2025

Why Go Wednesday: Zion National Park
Zion National Park is where red rock dreams come to life. Towering sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and winding canyons make this one of the most breathtaking places in the U.S. Whether you’re hiking through the Virgin River in The Narrows, braving the adrenaline-pumping Angels Landing, or simply soaking in the views from scenic drives, Zion offers a surreal blend of adventure and serenity. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone craving a one-of-a-kind experience in the American Southwest.

Bonus? It’s stunning in both spring and fall! 🍂🌤️

Let’s start planning your trip to the Southwest—message me for custom itineraries!

08/20/2025

Planning a National Park Adventure? Start Here.

Whether you're heading to Yellowstone, Yosemite, or Acadia, there are a few things every traveler should know before stepping into the great outdoors.

1. Book Early
Lodging, park passes, and even shuttle systems can fill up months in advance—especially in peak seasons. Planning ahead gives you the best options for accommodations and avoids last-minute stress.

2. Dress in Layers
Even in summer, mountain mornings can be chilly, and temps can shift quickly throughout the day. Pack a light jacket, moisture-wicking layers, and sturdy shoes.

3. Know the Entry Rules
Some parks now require timed-entry reservations or daily visitor limits. Double-check the official park website or work with a travel advisor (like me!) to ensure you’re all set.

4. Pack Smart & Leave No Trace
Bring reusable water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit. And please—whatever you pack in, pack it back out. Let’s keep our parks beautiful for everyone.

5. Get Off the Beaten Path
The most famous overlooks are great—but the real magic is often on the lesser-known trails. I help clients discover hidden gems and avoid the crowds with custom itineraries.

Want to explore a national park but not sure where to begin?
Let’s talk! I’ll help you choose the best destination for your travel style, handle the logistics, and make sure you don’t miss a thing.

📩 Message me today or visit www.amazingescapestravelandtours.com to start planning your next amazing escape.

08/12/2025

Fun fact: La Jolla’s beaches are one of the only places in the U.S. where you can sunbathe next to wild sea lions! 🦭☀️

If you are looking for a summer trip to somewhere that is filled with wildlife, relaxation, amazing food, and beautiful beaches, San Diego might be the perfect place for you!

With a professional travel advisor like me (Robyn Basten) in your pocket, you can spend more time sunbathing with sea lions and less time researching, booking reservations, handling cancellations, and so much more.

Comment below with a 🦭 if this sounds like a good plan to you!

08/09/2025

08/07/2025

5 Fall Travel Spots You’ll Want to Book ASAP

🍁Vermont or New Hampshire (fall foliage drives)
🏔️Banff National Park (scenic hikes + warm lodges)
🍷Napa Valley (wine harvest)
🎡Bavaria, Germany (Oktoberfest & castles)
🏖️Caribbean (for warm weather & off-peak prices)

My Fall travel includes an Alaska cruise, Boston/Bar Harbor, and Jamaica. Where are you planning to travel this Fall? Comment below so we can see everyone's Fall travel destinations.

08/07/2025

Step into a world where the ocean meets the Ozarks! 🌊🦈
Come explore Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, Missouri — one of the most immersive and unexpectedly amazing aquariums in the country.

08/06/2025

Ready to sleep with one eye open? 😱

While you may or may not believe in ghosts, you can’t deny The Stanley Hotel’s ability to inspire fear and intrigue. After all, this is the hotel that inspired Stephen King to write The Shining. Would you be brave enough to stay here overnight?

From eerie inns to ghost-filled grand hotels, these chilling stays aren’t for the faint of heart... Perfect for thrill-seekers, paranormal fans, and brave travelers.
If you would like my free guide to the spookiest haunted hotels please respond "Ghost" in the comments.

🎃 Grab my free guide and start planning your next haunted adventure.

08/06/2025

Think fall is just for football and pumpkin spice? 🍂
Here are 5 reasons it’s actually the best season to travel…

08/05/2025

Dreaming of an all-inclusive escape? Now’s the time! With up to 67% off RIU Resorts, you can enjoy beachfront luxury without breaking the bank. Whether you're headed to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Costa Rica, RIU offers stunning locations, all-inclusive comfort, and something for everyone—from romantic retreats to family adventures. You’ll get incredible value, stylish accommodations, and top-tier service. Don’t miss your chance to book your fall or winter getaway at unbeatable rates! Contact me Robyn Basten to get a complimentary quote!

07/30/2025

Discover Lost Canyon Trail — a hidden gem just minutes from Branson Missouri!

🚙 Cruise through the Ozarks in a golf cart on a 2.5-mile paved trail with waterfalls, artistic rock bridges, and sweeping views over Table Rock Lake.
🕵️‍♂️ Venture into Lost Canyon Cave—a breathtaking four-story limestone cavern with a waterfall + the quirky Bat Bar inside!
🌿 Prefer walking? Try the guided nature hike to dive deeper into the flora, waterfall geology, and Ozark heritage.
🎟️ Tours include access to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. Pro tip: visit right before sunset for magic lighting and top-notch photo ops.
🎒 Bring your camera, wear comfy shoes, and prepare to be amazed.

Whether you're seeking adventure, natural beauty, or an unforgettable photo moment, Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail delivers. It's a journey where art, geology, and Ozark charm unite. Let me know if you'd like help planning your visit to Branson, Missouri!

07/29/2025

When's the best time to book airfare? Here is a quick cheat sheet to save you time and money:
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
• Best time to book: 1 to 3 months in advance
• Ideal day to book: Tuesday or Wednesday, airlines often release sales
• Best day to fly: Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday (typically cheapest)
• Avoid: Booking too last-minute or more than 6 months in advance
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
• Best time to book: 3 to 6 months in advance
• For peak seasons (like holidays or summer): Book 6-9 months ahead
• Europe: Book 4-6 months in advance
• Asia & Australia: 5-7 months in advance
• Caribbean or Mexico: 2-5 months ahead, earlier for peak winter season

Booking too far ahead or too last-minute can actually cost you more.
💡 Pro tip: I track fare trends and secure flights that align with your itinerary and budget. Let me handle the stress, yo

Ready to start planning? Message me today.

03/22/2025

✈️ Top 10 Travel Packing Tips 🧳
Pack smart, travel easy!

✈️ 1. Roll Your Clothes
Rolling instead of folding saves space and helps reduce wrinkles. It's especially great for casual clothes like t-shirts, jeans, and dresses.

🎒 2. Use Packing Cubes
These are game-changers for staying organized! Sort by outfit, clothing type, or family member if traveling in a group.

🧴 3. Follow the 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids
TSA requires liquids to be in containers 3.4 oz or less, in a 1-quart zip-top bag, and one bag per traveler in carry-ons.

👟 4. Stuff Shoes with Small Items
Socks, belts, chargers—use the space inside shoes to maximize packing efficiency.

🧥 5. Wear Your Bulkiest Items
Save suitcase space by wearing your heaviest shoes, jackets, or sweaters on travel days.

🌦️ 6. Always Pack a Lightweight Rain Jacket
Even in sunny destinations, weather can turn. A compact rain jacket or poncho is always a smart idea.

🛂 7. Keep Essentials in Your Carry-On
Medications, a change of clothes, chargers, important documents, and valuables should never go in checked luggage.

📱 8. Bring a Power Bank
A reliable portable charger keeps your devices powered for maps, bookings, and entertainment—especially during long travel days.

🧳 9. Leave Room for Souvenirs
Don’t pack your suitcase to the brim—leave space for anything you might buy on your trip!

✅ 10. Make a Packing List (and check it twice!)
Start a few days before you leave so you have time to add forgotten items. Apps like PackPoint can help tailor lists to your trip type and weather.

🧭 Where are you headed next?