But first, let’s talk about the travel situation this past week.

Iran.

This whole situation is just so terrible. Three of the absolute BEST airlines in the world — Emirates, Qatar, and Etihad — are practically closed for business right now. That causes so many problems for travelers.

Also a problem? Travel insurance. Did you know that acts of war are not covered by most travel insurance? You really need Cancel for Any Reason insurance to get coverage for acts of war, which is pricey. CFAR is so pricey that most people decline it.

Many clients ask me “Why can’t the tour operator just reschedule my trip?” There are so many factors here. Firstly, most trips are not just one single booking, even though you may have only paid just one fee. A tour operator — let’s use Abercrombie & Kent as an example — has contracts for your trip with drivers, guides, hotels, and specific sites. (Imagine a pre-booked private tour of Petra in Jordan or a pre-booked cooking class in the tea hills of Sri Lanka or a skip-the-line ticket at the Louvre in Dubai.) So the tour operator has to try to convince all these businesses to forego — or refund! — revenue they had planned on. With nothing to take its place. So everyone would have to go unpaid.

We forget we’re talking about people’s livelihoods here. Cancel a trip at the last minute and your guides and drivers may not make any money at all that week.

At the end of the day, we hope that tour operators will be flexible given the unprecedented nature of current events, but it really doesn’t surprise me when tour operators say “Call your travel insurance.”

Please Consider Airline Fuel Prices

One thing to consider — Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz. A lot of oil goes through there. I worry that gas prices will rise, which means flight prices will also rise. So…don’t delay in booking your 2026 flights.

It’s all such a mess. Let’s pray for peace. And if you could throw in a little prayer for me too, I’d be eternally grateful. I really need to get through the next few weeks.

Still…there’s some joy. Here’s a peak at a few of the trips I’ve been planning recently. One of the things I love most about my work is that no two itineraries are ever the same.

Alaska Cruises, Especially on Holland America

Alaska is always a popular destination but this is especially so in periods of geopolitical uncertainty. (Beyond Alaska, this is where we see places like Puerto Rico, St. John and St. Thomas become more and more popular.) So I’ve been fielding a few Alaska cruise requests lately. Holland America is already booked up for most of July 2027, to give you an idea. (Holland America and Princess have been doing Alaska the longest and have the best docking positions.) Ready to book Alaska? I am a preferred partner with all the major cruise lines and can add onboard credits to your trip. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

Summer Vacation on the Big Island in Hawaii

I’m probably underselling my Hawaii expertise but it’s just not a place I know well. But do you know what I do know? Luxury villas! In August, you can rent a really really nice villa — with a pool and a golf cart to get around — on the Big Island for like $9,000 USD. With resort access! I was pretty impressed by this pricing.

Last Minute Spring Break to Iceland

My client and her son are on their way to Iceland, spending time between three properties — including The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, one of my dream properties. Built into a lava field beside the famous geothermal waters, it’s one of Iceland’s most serene luxury hotels, with private lagoon access, an exceptional spa, and a peaceful setting just outside Reykjavik.

Summer in Switzerland and Como

My retirees are looking to experience all the best hotels in Switzerland — Badrutt’s Palace and Grand Hotel Tremezzo among others.

Badrutt’s Palace in St. Moritz is one of the grand dames of European hotels, overlooking the lake with impeccable service, beautiful wellness facilities, and some of the best dining in the Alps.

On Lake Como, Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a true Italian icon — famous for its floating pool, lush gardens, and perfect position facing Bellagio across the water.

There will also be some special train journeys and VIP on arrival and departure services at airports. (A service I offer — be met at the plane door and be whisked through to immigration and baggage claim.) My clients love boating so I’ve also incorporated some really amazing boating experiences.

A Paris Anniversary Stay

I mean, it doesn’t get much better than Airelles Le Grand Contrôle. This extraordinary hotel is located inside the grounds of Versailles itself, designed to feel like an 18th-century royal residence. Guests receive exclusive after-hours access to the palace and gardens — an experience very few travelers ever get. This is a Virtuoso property where I can add perks and amenities.

An Amazing Swiss Skiing Experience

Did you know that it’s cheaper to go skiing in Switzerland than it is in the US? Also…more snow. My clients are heading to Zermatt and St. Moritz later this year with ski guides and all sorts of special Swiss experiences.

In Zermatt they’ll stay at The Omnia, a sleek mountain lodge perched on a cliff above the village. Guests arrive via a private tunnel elevator, and once inside it’s all fireplaces, dramatic Matterhorn views, and a fantastic spa — one of the coolest hotels in the Alps.

An Aix-en-Provence Stay

My clients will spend a few nights in beautiful Aix-en-Provence before heading to a wedding in Paris, staying at Villa Gallici, one of the loveliest small luxury hotels in Provence. Tucked into a quiet neighborhood just a short walk from the historic center, the hotel feels more like a private Provençal estate, with elegant rooms, gardens filled with olive trees and fountains, and a beautiful pool for warm afternoons.

I’ve set them up with private transfers and private touring, visiting some of the most beautiful villages in Provence.

Last Minute Spring Break to Belize

My client wanted a good value getaway and Belize ticked all the boxes. They’ll spend the first part of their trip on Ambergris Caye at Grand Caribe Belize, a beachfront resort just north of San Pedro known for its spacious condo-style suites, beautiful pools, and easy access to snorkeling and diving along the Belize Barrier Reef. Bonus here is that I am a Delta Vacations advisor which means my client earns MQD on his hotel stay and any tours booked through me!

For the second half of the trip they’ll head inland to a small jungle lodge set along the Belize River where they’ll see monkeys, birds, and other wildlife right from the property. From there they’ll explore Mayan ruins, go horseback riding, and experience a completely different side of Belize beyond the beach.

A Family Trip to Grand Teton and Yellowstone

I put together an amazing trip for my client and her two children to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. There’s hiking and white water rafting and all sorts of cool things to see and do. Tip: Accommodation around these National Parks is somewhat limited. Don’t delay booking, especially during the peak summer months. But do you know what I love? Under Canvas Yellowstone!

A Lot of Travel Insurance for A Lot of People

Recent events in Mexico and the Gulf had made clients realize that maybe Krista was right. I’ve sold a lot of travel insurance recently. While travel insurance won’t cover war, it may cover travel delays and other related inconveniences. It’s a small price to pay for piece of mind. And as I like to remind my clients, if you don’t buy insurance, I am very limited in my ability to help you. Need to talk travel protection or anything else travel related? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

Where Are You Going Next?

I know the world feels a little unpredictable right now. Between geopolitical tensions, airline disruptions, and the realities of how travel insurance works, it’s understandable that many travelers are feeling uneasy.

If you’re wondering how to think about travel in a moment like this—whether you’re planning something soon or just starting to make plans—I’m always happy to talk it through. Sometimes a quick conversation about destinations, timing, insurance, or backup plans can make the whole process feel much more manageable. Travel should still bring joy, even when the world feels a bit uncertain, and thoughtful planning goes a long way. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

About Krista

I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. I attended the University of Notre Dame for undergrad and I have my MBA from the University of Chicago. Before building my travel business, I spent 20 years in the investment management industry and over a decade living and working in London, England. I’ve personally traveled to 80 countries and now design thoughtful, highly customized trips for travelers who value expertise, access, and a seamless experience.

I offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation for travelers considering a custom itinerary or luxury cruise. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

For travel inspiration and real-time updates, you can follow along on Instagram or connect with me on Facebook. I also share a curated list of travel products I genuinely use and recommend in my online store.

What I Offer…

Custom itinerary design for complex, multi-stop trips
VIP hotel benefits through Virtuoso and preferred partner programs (including complimentary breakfast, hotel credits, and priority for upgrades where available)
Luxury ocean, river, and expedition cruises with added onboard credits
Vetted villa rentals with concierge services worldwide
Private guides, small-group touring, and unique local experiences
Private aviation and yacht charters through trusted partners
Airport transfers, VIP arrival and departure services, and full ground logistics
Travel protection and support when plans change

I work best with travelers who want expert planning, trusted partnerships, and someone in their corner from start to finish. That’s what I am best at! Ready to talk travel? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.