Ruth Louie - My Joy of Travel

04/17/2025

REAL ID is about to start! May 7, 2025. No extensions this time. Be Ready
Get Ready: REAL ID Required for
U.S. Travel Starting May 7, 2025!

Starting May 7, 2025, make sure you’re ready to fly with REAL ID. Check the top right corner of your driver's license or ID for a star, or contact your local DMV for more information. Get your REAL ID now and stay prepared for your travels!

Remember, you need a REAL ID to enter any Federal facility or airport and to travel domestically by plane, train or other transport.

07/09/2024

Aruba is one of my favorite islands. This island can be visited all year. wonderful resorts. The visitor fee helps keep the island environmentally sustainable which is okay with me.

The $20 per person fee for visitors arriving by air will support projects such as improved water treatment.

05/22/2024

For anyone headed to JFK for an outgoing flight or transferring to a flight at JFK this summer and into the Fall. Make a plan and make sure you have enough time between flights (esp transferring from an international flight to a domestic flight). You'll need time to get through the security lines.

Officials at New York's JFK Airport are prepping travelers for traffic at the hub as major construction threatens to derail summer travel for millions of fliers.

02/29/2024

Travelers, just wanted you to know what to expect for baggage fees if you are traveling soon. Keep in mind that international flights typically allow 1 bag free. However, don't expect a free bag for travel to Mexico unless you have perks with that airline that gifts you a free checked bag. Ever wonder why there are so many carry-on bags on flights these days?

An airline-by-airline breakdown.

02/17/2024

An article from TRAVEL MOLE on new Civil Rights Trail Activities and cruises in Alabama.

This year sees a host of new historical attractions brought to life, including the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, while the state becomes more connected as a new Amtrak line launches.

02/17/2024

I would like to do another Group Tour to South Africa this year? Contact me.

Of all the many reasons to travel to South Africa, none is more compelling than the opportunity to experience its celebration of 30 years of democracy. It’s a heady experience to travel in a cou

01/30/2024

This is a popular Caribbean destination; Nassau has many prominent resort properties. Use the services of your travel advisor (the one that booked your resort for you) and the resort to book safe excursions. Always be aware of your surroundings when out and about.

The U.S. Department of State is warning travelers to be careful when visiting the Bahamas due to crime and safety issues on the water.

11/16/2023

HI! One of my favorite small ship cruise lines with fabulous destinations. Looking for a bucket list cruise, away from the crowds and the ability to get closer to the city? Try Windstar. Let me know if you are interested.

Windstar Cruises offers a vacation experience that is 180 degrees from ordinary. 

11/10/2023

Quite a transformation of this Sandals Property. Elegant, beachfront rooms and suites for couples only. Just booked a 2024 trip for a couple's anniversary. Take a virtual look around.

The resort is a whole new concept that Sandals is calling "Sandals 2.0." 

10/20/2023

thought you might be interested in this new Park in Montgomery AL for your spring & summer tour ideas.

TravelMole

09/14/2023

Went to the Post Office today and learned the USPS is hosting passport service days at branches across the country. They’re bringing the US Passport office to you. Get your passport renewed or apply for one. “Travel changes you” (unknown). Go, see the world and find out for yourself

07/28/2023

this sounds like a GREAT alternative to the congestion in Cancun..Any adventurers in this group? T&L article on this little known getawayon the Yucatan Peninsula

These are the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do on Isla Holbox, Mexico.

07/08/2023

You should also take a look at some of the cruise promotions they currently have on the market like their all-inclusive (gratuities, wifi, beverages) package.

The increase ranges from 50 cents to $2 per day. 

07/08/2023

Promising move by the State Department to help travelers get their passports for long planned travel and need to renew or get done before they travel. Not in all states though. If you really need to get it done, make an appointement at the nearest US Passport Office. Go to US State Dept website to see if one is near you.

The events will run through July and August in a number of different cities. 

06/21/2023

The Caribbean is open. Think about the ABC Islands, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao as possible destinations this season. And there are so many resorts in other parts of the world you should check out.

06/12/2023

Received this message from my friend Norman’s weekly post today and just had to share it with you this Monday.

“Slow down and take time to be present in the moment…move too fast through life and you might miss the whole point of it.”
Author Unknown

Came across this saying a few weeks ago and it correlates with something Dai- Shihan Paul Masse said at a recent martial arts seminar for our dojo.

As he explained we need to take a holiday in our life journey. Don’t have tunnel vision. See the whole vision. When viewing the Rocky Mountains, don’t travel 100 miles an hour and miss out on the beauty of life surrounding the Mountains 🏔️ and life around you. Take your time to enjoy all that is available to you.

If on vacation, turn off the phone 📞, the computer 💻, and wifi, be present in the moment.

Relish the people you are with, cherish the moments you have with each other. Build up the memories so that when life does get crazy and stressful, you can smile 😊 at the memories you have stored in your heart.

Remember we shall not pass this way again. There is no do over in life. You have but one chance to enjoy what God has provided for us.

See the beauty and awe of each other and all that surrounds us.

Peace & Love- Norman
Please share with 10 others

04/24/2023

Great day to think about your travel dreams and Make a Plan

reminds us it’s never too late to set new goals, go on a dream vacation, and inspire people around you to enjoy life to the fullest. What’s on your bucket list?
https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-bucket-list-day-april-24/

04/04/2023

I know that a vacation can make a lot of difference in how you feel. Just getting away for a long weekend works, so does that trip to an international destination. A cruise? You’re doing something different to change your environment and adjust your attitude. Travel changes you.

A vacation or getaway isn’t just great fun. It’s also a powerful way to support a mental reset.