Bella Vista Travel Collection

08/19/2026

Travelers are sending the airlines a message: comfort matters. ✈️

American Airlines announced plans to bring seatback entertainment screens back to more than 800 aircraft, while also adding significantly more First Class and extra-legroom seating.

And I think the bigger takeaway is this: the best value isn’t always the lowest price.

Sometimes a nonstop flight, a better seat, or a little more room can make a big difference in how your vacation begins.

What are YOU willing to pay a little more for when you fly?

And if you have a trip on your mind, I’d love to help you sort through the options and find what makes the most sense for you.

08/14/2026

Your calendar may be packed. Your vacation doesn’t have to be.

If you love cruising but would happily leave the crowds behind, small ship cruising may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Tauck’s 2027 small ship journeys sail with fewer than 200 guests, visiting smaller ports and beautiful destinations with the details thoughtfully handled for you.

Take a look:
https://inspires.to/experiences/explore-the-world-taucks-2027-small-ship-cruising-qz3d4g

Small Ship Cruising • Tauck • Luxury Travel

Small is big with Tauck! Get inspired by a collection of 2027 small ship adventures!

08/12/2026

Have you ever had something go wrong on a vacation and suddenly realized you had no idea who to call?

Flights get canceled, weather changes itineraries, hotels overbooked, cruise lines adjust schedules... Sometimes the fine print becomes very important, very quickly.

That is one of the biggest reasons who you book with matters.

When I plan travel for my clients, I am not simply making a reservation. I am paying attention to the supplier, the cancellation terms, the change policies, and what options may be available if something does not go according to plan. And lately I've been working overtime doing just that due to the river conditions affecting river cruises in Europe.

If there is a problem, you don't want to be sitting alone trying to figure out who to call or what your options are. I help make the calls and ask the questions. I advocate for you and help you work through the next step. I truly am here for you!

Have you ever had a trip go sideways and wished you had someone in your corner?

08/10/2026

I am so excited to share this news, I am now an ASTA Verified Travel Advisor®!

In today’s travel industry, just being a “travel advisor” isn’t enough. Travelers are looking for more than information, they’re looking for someone they can trust. It is important to me to be a trusted travel advisor you know you can count on.

What does this designation actually mean?

It means I completed advanced training and testing in the areas of ethics, legal responsibilities, agency relationships, and federal travel regulations. It also means I’ve proven a high level of verified travel sales and real experience working with clients.

Whether it’s a cruise, a European vacation, a group trip, or something completely personal, it’s my desire is to offer excellent services.

I’m so proud to have earned this designation. I’m especially grateful to my clients, you are a big part of why this means so much to me.

My goal is to keep learning and growing so Bella Vista Travel Collection continues to be, for you, Where Beautiful Journeys Begin™. 💙

07/31/2026

A fresh photo, but the same trusted travel advisor behind Bella Vista Travel Collection.
I'm here when you’re ready to start planning your next adventure.
Where Beautiful Journeys Begin™

07/16/2026

Low Danube River water levels are affecting some European river cruises near Budapest. What does that mean for travelers?

The Danube River is currently experiencing near-record-low water levels in parts of Hungary, causing delays, itinerary changes and some river cruise cancellations around Budapest.

This is a factor I consider when helping clients choose and plan a European river cruise. River levels are influenced by weather, rainfall and seasonal conditions. Extended periods of heat and limited rainfall can create low-water conditions, which is what has happened this year.

After booking five different river cruises this week, I’m paying even closer attention to the conditions and possibilities that could affect next year’s sailings and talking about these issues with my guests.

When water levels prevent a ship from reaching a scheduled port, river cruise lines may:
• Adjust the sailing itinerary
• Transport guests by motor coach
• Continue included sightseeing from another location
• Arrange hotel accommodations
• Transfer guests between ships
• Cancel or shorten a sailing when necessary

Travel is not always sunshine and roses. Sometimes the river has other plans. What really matters is how the cruise line responds and how well travelers are supported.

As a travel advisor who specializes in river cruising, my role is not simply to book a cabin. It is to help clients choose the right cruise line, understand the itinerary, consider seasonal river conditions, evaluate travel insurance and prepare for the unexpected.

Would an itinerary adjustment keep you from taking a European river cruise, or would you consider it part of the adventure?

Read a current story about the situation, link is in the 1st comment.

06/29/2026

Hey Lynchburg! You’re Invited to A Taste of Travel!

Something new is coming to the table in Lynchburg! Bella Vista Travel Collection and Milano's Enoteca & Italian Ristorante is hosting our 1st local lunch series created for people who love good food, good conversation, and discovering new travel possibilities

Where: Milano’s Italian Restaurant
When: Thursday, July 9th, 11 AM–1 PM
Why: Enjoy a great lunch while learning about travel styles, destinations, and inspiring ways to explore the world.

Seating is limited. RSVP below to secure your seat and select your meal!

Please click the link to complete this form.

06/27/2026

Something new is coming to the table in Lynchburg! AND be sure to turn on the sound - it's our commercial on WLNI

Bella Vista Travel Collection is partnering with Jason Arbusto and Milano’s Italian Restaurant for A Taste of Travel, a new local lunch series featuring good food, good conversation, and travel inspiration from around the world.

Our first lunch will be held Thursday , July 9th, from 11 AM to 1 PM at Milano’s Italian Restaurant in Lynchburg, VA.

Seating is limited, so please RSVP in advance through the Special Events page:

BellaVistaTravelCollection.com/special-events

We’d love to have you join us!

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