July 2020
Volume 2 Issue 8
THE CHARTROOM
Twice a month travel news from Charting Memories Travel
Behind The Screen
Even with the current travel restrictions, I enjoy getting out of the house. Recently I was driving around trying to find a place to view one of the cruise ships docked in Jacksonville and stumbled across El Faro Memorial Park. The park was dedicated in April 2018 and honors the 33 men and women who lost their lives on October 1, 2015, when the El Faro was lost in a category 4 hurricane. If you happen to be in the Jacksonville area, the park is worth a visit. Take some time to view the memorial garden. Reading the plaques, looking at the crew’s pictures and seeing what loved ones leave behind will be emotional. The views of the underside of the Dames Point Bridge are awe-inspiring.
The Family Road Trip
Just a few months ago the cruise industry was prepared to have a record-setting year, airplanes were full and new routes were being announced. Families were enjoying the newest theme park attractions and anticipating hot afternoons at the beach. Couples were anticipating honeymoons at beautiful resorts and what was happening in Las Vegas was staying in Vegas. Today the world of travel looks very different.
Even with all that is going on, we all still want to get out and about. This may be the time for a family road trip. So how do you go about planning this type of trip? Planning a road trip is similar to any other trip. Some of the things that you should consider are: who is going, what you like to do, what do you not like to do, how much time you have and your budget.
Are you worried about the safety of hotels? Consider renting an RV. Do you say “no” to wearing masks? A Florida theme park may be out of the question, but a beach or national park may be appropriate. Love having everything included in one price? Consider one of the all-inclusive resorts in the US.
Even if you normally do all your vacation planning on your own, this may be the year to reach out for a little extra help. A travel agent can help with questions that you may not have considered asking. There is only an upside for reaching out, you get advice, can still plan as much or as little of your trip as you like and there is no extra cost to you. Some agencies have implemented a planning fee for their customers, but we love our clients and subscribers so our consulting and booking services are all complimentary for you.
Keep Charting Memories
Drew
Do you enjoy Tax Day? Now you have an actual reason to look forward to. Join us Wednesday, July 15th at 7:30 Eastern for a Virtual Cruise Party. I’ll be hosting a Zoom meeting with some fun and games. Expect games, trivia, and some socializing.
