Journal
The Journal
Field notes, seasonal advice, and the reasoning behind our recommendations.
September 24, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
What I’d Tell a First-Time Traveler to Fiji
Planning your first trip to Fiji? From what to pack and how much to plan to choosing the right resort and understanding island transfers, here’s what I’d want every first-time Fiji traveler to know before they go.
September 23, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
The Great Barrier Reef: Where Should You Actually Stay?
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef isn't as simple as choosing a hotel nearby. From the convenience of Cairns to the resort atmosphere of Port Douglas and the seclusion of a luxury island stay, where you base yourself can completely change the experience. Here's how to decide which option belongs in your Australia itinerary.
September 22, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Where Should You Stay in Fiji? Why the Right Island Matters More Than the Resort
Choosing where to stay in Fiji is about more than finding a beautiful resort. From the main island to the Mamanucas, Yasawas and more remote islands, the right location can completely change your experience. Here’s what to consider before choosing your Fiji resort.
September 18, 2026 · Susan Green
My First South Africa and Botswana Safari Changed How I Plan Safaris Today
Susan Green shares how her first safari through South Africa and Botswana shaped the way she plans Africa travel today, from choosing the right guides and camps to understanding why the best safari is the one designed around the traveler.
September 16, 2026 · Susan Green
Wildlife, Landscape or Culture? How to Plan the Right African Safari for You
Wildlife may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about an African safari, but it’s only part of the experience. Landscape, culture, accommodations and even the pace of your itinerary can completely change how a safari feels. The best safari isn’t someone else’s favorite trip. It’s the one designed around you.
September 14, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
What I Wish More Travelers Knew Before Planning a Trip to Fiji
Planning a trip to Fiji isn't quite as simple as choosing the prettiest resort. From finding the right island to understanding transfers and choosing an experience that fits your travel style, here are a few things I wish more travelers knew before planning a Fiji vacation.
September 11, 2026 · Susan Green
Your First Safari: What to Prepare Yourself For
Your first safari is unlike any other trip. From early morning game drives and unpredictable wildlife sightings to packing light and embracing the rhythm of the bush, here’s what first-time safari travelers should know before heading to Africa.
September 10, 2026 · Susan Green
South Africa vs. Kenya vs. Tanzania: Which Safari Is Right for You?
destination offers a different experience, from South Africa’s variety to Kenya’s classic landscapes and Tanzania’s wildlife-focused adventures.
September 9, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Tahiti vs. Fiji: Which South Pacific Destination Is Right for You?
When travelers start dreaming about the South Pacific, two destinations tend to rise quickly to the top of the list: French Polynesia and Fiji . At first glance, they can seem almost interchangeable. Both have…
September 4, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Australia and New Zealand Deserve Separate Trips. Here’s Why.
Australia and New Zealand may look like the perfect destinations to combine into one trip, but trying to see both can leave you rushing through each. Here’s why these incredible countries deserve separate vacations and the time to truly experience what makes each one special.
September 2, 2026 · Susan Green
Is South Africa the Best Choice for Your First Safari?
Planning your first African safari is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Africa isn't one single safari experience. Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, South Africa, Rwanda, and other destinations each offer something…
August 26, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
The 2027 Total Solar Eclipse: Why Luxury Travelers Should Start Planning Now
Experience one of the most extraordinary travel events of the decade. The 2027 Total Solar Eclipse offers a rare opportunity to witness over six minutes of totality while exploring incredible destinations like Spain, Morocco, or Egypt. Learn why luxury travelers are already planning ahead and how you can turn this once-in-a-lifetime event into an unforgettable vacation.
August 25, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
The Art of Slow Travel: Why Your Next Vacation Shouldn't Be Packed With Plans
What if the best vacation you've ever taken wasn't the one where you saw the most, but the one where you finally slowed down? Discover how slow travel and wellness-focused vacations can help you disconnect, recharge, and experience the world more intentionally.
August 17, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
We Went to Las Vegas With You in Mind: Inside Virtuoso Travel Week 2026
Virtuoso Travel Week 2026 was exciting, exhausting, inspiring, and filled with more than 75,000 steps each! Come behind the scenes with us in Las Vegas to see how the relationships we build, the people we meet, and the things we learn ultimately come home with us to create better travel experiences for our clients.
August 5, 2026 · Susan Green
We Remember the Smallest Details: That Really Matters
If you ask me what sets a travel advisor apart from an online booking site or a call center, my answer probably won't be what you expect. It isn't just access to beautiful hotels. It isn't exclusive amenities or even…
August 3, 2026 · Susan Green
Join Me on a Luxury AmaWaterways River Cruise Through Vietnam & Cambodia
Join Susan on a luxury AmaWaterways river cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia! Sail the Mekong River aboard the beautiful AmaMaya, explore Angkor Wat, discover vibrant local cultures, and experience the journey alongside an experienced Virtuoso travel advisor. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, this hosted group adventure is the perfect way to discover Southeast Asia together.
July 29, 2026 · Susan Green
What Hawaii Taught Me About Luxury Travel
After more than 30 years as a luxury travel advisor, I thought I understood what made a vacation unforgettable. But a recent family trip to the Big Island of Hawaii reminded me that true luxury isn't always about traveling farther or staying somewhere extravagant. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments are the simplest ones: slowing down, being present, and spending uninterrupted time with the people you love.
July 13, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
This Is What Luxury Travel Looks Like When It's Designed Just for You
Luxury travel is about so much more than five-star hotels and first-class flights. Discover what a truly custom itinerary can look like, from unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experiences to exclusive access made possible through our global Virtuoso partnerships. Get inspired to dream bigger for your next vacation.
July 10, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
The Ultimate Luxury Travel Experience: TCS World Travel
Explore TCS World Travel's luxury private jet expeditions, around-the-world journeys, and custom travel experiences through the eyes of a Virtuoso travel advisor.
July 7, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Why Does My Travel Advisor Ask So Many Questions?
Ever wonder why your travel advisor asks so many questions before planning your vacation? Discover how those conversations help create a personalized itinerary that's designed around the way you love to travel.
July 1, 2026 · Susan Green
Best Time to Visit Ireland: A Month-by-Month Guide
Planning a trip to Ireland? Discover the best time to visit based on the weather, festivals, crowds, and the experiences you're looking for. From spring wildflowers and summer road trips to cozy autumn pubs and festive winter markets, this month-by-month guide will help you choose the perfect time to explore the Emerald Isle.
June 15, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Why Working With a Travel Advisor Is More Important Than You Think
Travel planning has never been more accessible, yet finding the right fit has never been more complicated. Discover why working with a travel advisor is about more than booking a trip. It's about having an expert who understands your travel style, advocates for your experience, and helps you make the most of every vacation.
June 4, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Beyond the Overwater Bungalow: Our Favorite Tahiti Honeymoon Experiences
If your dream Tahiti honeymoon includes more than just an overwater bungalow, this one is for you. From swimming with sharks, stingrays, and manta rays to jet skiing around Bora Bora, exploring Polynesian culture, and discovering our favorite resorts, we're sharing the experiences that made our French Polynesia honeymoon truly unforgettable. Because while the bungalows are incredible, it's the memories made beyond them that stay with you long after you return home.
June 4, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Why Nanuku Resort Fiji Is One of Fiji's Best Family Resorts
From private beachfront villas and immersive cultural experiences to farm-to-table dining and some of the warmest hospitality we've ever experienced, Nanuku Resort Fiji offers far more than a beautiful place to stay. Discover why this luxury resort has become one of our favorite family-friendly escapes in the South Pacific and what makes it such a special destination for travelers seeking connection, comfort, and unforgettable memories.
June 3, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
My Stay at Namale Resort Fiji
Looking for a private, adults-only escape in Fiji? During my stay at Namale Resort & Spa, I discovered secluded villas, incredible ocean views, outstanding dining, and one of the most memorable spa experiences I've ever had. From traditional Fijian wellness treatments to hidden photo-worthy corners and a surprisingly impressive game room, here's what stood out during my time at this all-inclusive luxury retreat.
April 8, 2026 · Susan Green
McKenzie Is Headed to Fiji: Where She’s Going and Why It Matters for Your Next Trip
McKenzie is heading to Fiji, and as someone who’s been there, I know exactly what she’s about to experience. From breathtaking resorts to meaningful cultural moments, here’s a look at what’s ahead and why it matters for your next trip!
April 7, 2026 · Susan Green
Classic Destinations, Reimagined: Where to Go Next
Some of the most meaningful trips start with places you think you already know. Paris, Italy, the Amalfi Coast, London. They are familiar for a reason. But when experienced in the right way, they feel entirely different. Slower mornings, quieter corners, and hotels that shape how the destination unfolds around you. It is not about seeing something new. It is about seeing something familiar in a way that finally feels like you.
April 3, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
Why I Keep Going Back to Jamaica
I did not expect to be the kind of traveler who returns to the same place again and again. And yet, Jamaica keeps pulling me back. Not just for the beaches or the resorts, though they are beautiful, but for the feeling you settle into almost immediately. The moment your feet hit the ground, everything softens. You slow down. You exhale. It is familiar in the best way, but never exactly the same. And somehow, that is what makes it so hard to stay away.
March 30, 2026 · Susan Green
Our Favorite Luxury Resorts in Costa Rica, and Why They Stand Out
Costa Rica is one of those places that stays with you, but where you stay shapes everything about how you experience it. It can feel wild and immersive, tucked deep in the jungle with nothing but the sounds of nature around you. Or seamless and refined along the coast, where every detail is handled and the pace slows the moment you arrive. The difference is not just location. It is the feeling each property creates, how it connects you to the destination, and how effortlessly everything comes together while you are there. Because in a place like Costa Rica, the right resort does not just elevate the trip. It defines it.
March 27, 2026 · Susan Green
The Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2026
A honeymoon is not just another trip. It is the first time you step away from everything and fully settle into this new chapter together. And in 2026, couples are choosing destinations that feel as personal as the experience itself. Not just beautiful places, but ones that create space to slow down, reconnect, and actually be present with each other. Some lean into overwater villas and quiet island mornings. Others are drawn to culture, adventure, or somewhere in between. But the common thread is the feeling, not the checklist. Because the best honeymoon is not about where you go. It is about how it feels while you are there.
March 20, 2026 · Susan Green
Planning a Family Trip for Everyone? Start Here
Planning a family trip sounds simple, until you realize you are trying to create one experience that works for everyone. Different ages, different interests, different energy levels. What feels relaxing to one person can feel overwhelming to another. And the instinct is often to do more, fit more in, make sure no one misses out. But the best family trips rarely look like that. They feel balanced, a mix of movement and downtime, where everyone has something to look forward to and space to just be together. Because when it is planned well, it is not just a trip. It is time that actually feels like yours again.
March 17, 2026 · Susan Green
We’re Sailing to the Arctic Circle (And You Can Come With Us)
There are some trips that feel exciting. And then there are the ones that feel a little unreal. Sailing this far north is exactly that. The light lingers, the landscapes feel untouched, and everything slows in a way you do not experience anywhere else. It is not just about where you are going, but how it feels to be there. And what makes this one different is that you are not doing it alone. You are stepping into a journey that has been thoughtfully designed, with us there alongside you, experiencing it in real time. Because this is not just another itinerary. It is the kind of trip that stays with you long after you are home.
March 13, 2026 · Susan Green
Why Generational Travel Is One of the Most Meaningful Trips You Can Take
There is something different about traveling with multiple generations. The pace shifts. Conversations linger a little longer. And the moments that stay with you are often the simplest ones. Sitting around a table after a full day, watching grandparents and grandchildren experience something new together, or just being somewhere beautiful as a family. It is not always the easiest trip to plan. But when it comes together the right way, it becomes something far more meaningful than a vacation. It becomes time you cannot recreate anywhere else.
March 12, 2026 · Susan Green
Why the Best Alaska Cruises Start Before You Board the Ship
Most people think an Alaska cruise begins the moment they step onto the ship. But in reality, it starts much earlier. In the planning, in the anticipation, and in the decisions that shape everything that follows. Because a trip like this is not simple. It is layered, with itineraries, excursions, and logistics that all work together to define the experience. Arriving early, choosing the right route, even adding time on land, it all changes how the trip unfolds. It gives you space to settle in, to take it in, and to start the experience before you ever set sail. Because with a destination like Alaska, the journey does not begin on the ship. It begins long before you board.
February 10, 2026 · Susan Green
Why Iceland Should Be on Your Bucket List
Iceland feels like a place you cannot quite explain until you see it for yourself. It is dramatic in a way that does not feel real at first. Glaciers and volcanoes, black sand beaches and waterfalls, all existing side by side in a landscape that feels almost untouched. But what stays with you is not just what you see. It is how it feels to be there. Quiet, expansive, and a little surreal, like you have stepped into a different version of the world. And once you experience it, it is hard not to understand why it ends up on so many bucket lists.
February 4, 2026 · McKenzie McCarty
What Our Clients Notice Most, And Why It Matters
Over time, certain things start to stand out in the way clients talk about their trips. Not the obvious parts, like the destination itself, but the details they did not expect to matter as much as they did. The small, thoughtful touches, the ease of the process, the feeling that everything just worked without effort. It is rarely one big moment. It is the way everything comes together, quietly and intentionally, in a way that lets you be fully present while you are there. Because in the end, that is what people remember most. How the experience felt from beginning to end.
February 3, 2026 · Susan Green
The Difference Between a Trip That’s Fine and One That Feels Effortless
Most trips are fine. You get there. The hotel is nice. You do the things. You come home thinking, that was good. An effortless trip feels different. Not flashier. Not more expensive. Just smoother. Like the trip is…
February 2, 2026 · Susan Green
Etereo by Auberge Playa del Carmen: An Elevated Luxury Experience in Mexico
My mom and I spent two nights at Etereo by Auberge in Playa del Carmen, and it immediately set itself apart as something truly special. Calm, grounding, and deeply restorative, this is a resort designed for travelers…
January 23, 2026 · Susan Green
Slow Travel at Sea: The Power of Small‑Ship Journeys
As the conversation around slow travel continues, one theme keeps rising to the surface: travelers want smaller, more focused experiences that allow them to truly connect with the places they visit. At sea, this desire…
January 22, 2026 · Susan Green
The Return of Slow Travel
For years, travel was often defined by how much could be packed into a single itinerary. More cities, more hotels, more highlights, all moving at a fast pace. But luxury travel in 2026 is shifting toward something…
January 13, 2026 · Susan Green
Overwater Bungalow or No Overwater Bungalow?
How to Decide What’s Right for Your Tahiti Trip Few travel decisions feel as exciting, or as stressful, as choosing whether to stay in an overwater bungalow in Tahiti. For some travelers, it is the entire reason they…
January 12, 2026 · Susan Green
Where We're Traveling in 2026
Work, research, rest, and one very special honeymoon One of the questions we hear most often is, “Where are you traveling this year?” The short answer is a lot of places, for very different reasons. Some trips are…
January 7, 2026 · Susan Green
Why I’m Choosing to Go Back to Tahiti for My 2026 Honeymoon
Most people dream of going to Tahiti once in their lifetime. I went for work, and now I’m going back for love. When I first traveled to Tahiti, it was part of a professional familiarization trip. My goal was to…
January 6, 2026 · Susan Green
Traveling With Intention: Discovering Palau, One of the World’s Most Remarkable Hidden Gem Destinations
Have you heard of Palau? If not, you are not alone. Even well-traveled clients often pause when this destination comes up, asking where it is and why they have never encountered it before. In a travel landscape…
January 5, 2026 · Susan Green
How We Learned There Is a Luxury Way to Do Disney
For years, we believed the same thing many of our clients quietly assume. There is no such thing as a luxury Disney World trip. Last year, we took a short Disney World trip and stayed on property. As luxury travel…
January 5, 2026 · Susan Green
Luxury Travel to Yellowstone National Park: Yes, It Really Exists
When people think about visiting a national park, they often imagine rustic lodges, long lines, and sacrificing comfort for access to nature. While that can certainly be part of the experience, it is not the only way.…
December 30, 2025 · Susan Green
Safari Travel in Africa: What It Really Looks Like
For many travelers, the idea of going on Safari in Africa comes with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Images of rugged tents, long dusty drives, and unpredictable conditions often surface. The reality, however, is…
December 29, 2025 · Susan Green
What Most Travelers Don’t Realize About Traveling to Tahiti
Traveling to Tahiti and French Polynesia often feels intimidating at first. Many travelers assume it is far away, complicated to navigate, or best saved for a distant future. In reality, Tahiti is more accessible and…
December 23, 2025 · Susan Green
The Small Moments That Make Travel Feel Supported
Most people think travel planning is about the big things. Flights, hotels, destinations, dates on a calendar. And yes, those things matter. But what travelers often remember most are the small moments. The message that…
December 19, 2025 · Susan Green
Our Resort Picks for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Honeymoon
Happy belated birthday to Taylor Swift! In honor of her recent birthday, I wanted to play a little game and share my opinion on what resorts would be a perfect fit for Taylor and Travis’s honeymoon. When you think about…
December 18, 2025 · Susan Green
A Different Kind of Cruise Experience, Elevated by Luxury
For many travelers, the word cruise still brings to mind long buffet lines, crowded decks, and loud poolside music. But today’s cruise landscape has evolved beautifully. Luxury ocean and river cruising offers a…
December 17, 2025 · Susan Green
Engagement Season Is Here: How to Start Planning the Perfect Honeymoon
From holiday proposals and Christmas engagements to New Year’s Eve celebrations and sparkling engagement rings, this is the busiest engagement season of the year. If you recently said yes to your fiancé or are…
December 11, 2025 · Susan Green
How Working With a Boutique Travel Agency Elevates Your Travel Experience
Travel is personal. Every journey reflects a traveler’s preferences, priorities, history and dreams, which is why planning a meaningful trip requires far more than clicking through options on a booking website. At…
December 10, 2025 · Susan Green
What To Pack For Tahiti: Expert Tips From Advisors Who Travel To French Polynesia Often
Packing for Tahiti should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With dozens of trips to French Polynesia under our belt, our team at Susan’s Travel Services knows exactly what travelers wish they had brought to Tahiti,…
December 3, 2025 · Susan Green
When to Book Your 2026 Travel and Why Planning Ahead Matters
Travel demand continues to rise, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest years yet. Travelers are planning earlier, inventory is tightening, and rates are increasing as departure dates get closer. For anyone…
December 2, 2025 · Susan Green
How to Pick the Right Alaska Cruise for Your Travel Style
Planning an Alaska cruise is exciting, but with so many cruise lines, itineraries, and ship styles, it can also feel overwhelming. Alaska is not a one-size-fits-all destination. The experience you have can look…
December 1, 2025 · Susan Green
The Fairmont Kea Lani: Why This Wailea Icon Is the Perfect Maui Resort
The Fairmont Kea Lani is one of Maui’s most sought after luxury resorts, and it has earned that reputation through exceptional design, thoughtful service, and an unbeatable location in Wailea. If you are looking for the…
November 25, 2025 · Susan Green
Holiday Airport Survival Guide: Insider Tips from a Travel Advisor
Holiday travel can feel overwhelming even for seasoned flyers. Airports are crowded, security lines are long, and winter weather adds a level of unpredictability that can disrupt even the best plans. After years of…
November 24, 2025 · Susan Green
Getting to Tahiti Is Easier Than You Think: The 2026 Guide for U.S. Travelers
For years, many travelers have believed that Tahiti is difficult to reach. The islands feel remote, exotic, and far from home. In reality, Tahiti is one of the easiest long-haul destinations for U.S. travelers in 2026.…
November 21, 2025 · Susan Green
Fiji: A Luxury Escape Filled With Adventure, Sustainability, and Surprising Ease
Fiji is one of the world’s most captivating luxury destinations, a place where crystal-clear lagoons, lush rainforests, and world-class hospitality come together in a way that feels both exclusive and welcoming. Often…
November 20, 2025 · Susan Green
Travel Sustainably Without Even Trying: How Easy It Is to Feel Good and Travel Well
What if being a more sustainable traveler was as easy as saying “yes” to your next vacation? Most people think eco-friendly travel means sacrificing comfort or spending hours researching the “right” resorts. But the…
November 19, 2025 · Susan Green
Luxury Mexico: The Side of Mexico Most Travelers Don’t Know Exists
When many people picture a Mexico vacation, they imagine all inclusive resorts, buffet lines, and crowded beaches. The truth is completely different. Mexico is home to some of the most refined, serene, and high touch…
November 19, 2025 · Susan Green
Why You Still Need a Travel Advisor in the Age of AI Trip Planning
Travel Is Personal, and Your Planning Should Be Personal Too AI can give you ideas for destinations or show you a list of the top hotels, but it cannot understand who you are as a traveler. When we plan your trip, we…
November 18, 2025 · Susan Green
Why Japan Should Be Your Next Luxury Vacation
Japan has become one of the most exciting luxury travel destinations in the world, and it is easy to understand why. Travelers who want culture, beauty, exceptional service, and an experience that feels both meaningful…
November 17, 2025 · Susan Green
Tahiti & Bora Bora: The Ultimate Luxury Honeymoon
Congratulations!! You’ve tied the knot, and now you’re ready to invest in the honeymoon of a lifetime. For couples who prefer the highest tier of luxury travel, who gravitate toward the style and service of iconic…
September 26, 2025 · Susan Green
LET’S TALK ABOUT MY DAD AND RACE CARS
When I was 14 years old, in 1984, my incredible father (whom I miss dearly!) took me and my sisters to the Indy 500. My dad was the ultimate planes, trains, and automobiles lover, directly introducing me to my love of…
October 12, 2024 · Susan Green
Why You Should Choose a Luxury Cruise for Your Next Adventure
As a travel agent, I’ve seen firsthand how a luxury cruise can transform a vacation into an unforgettable experience. If you’re considering your next getaway, here’s why a luxury cruise might be the perfect choice for…
June 19, 2024 · Susan Green
Elevate Your Travel Experience: Luxury Destinations and Experiences
Virtuoso Luxury Travel Advisor specializing in luxury experiences around the world. Corporate incentive trips to African safaris- started in 1995 we have the experience to help! In the realm of travel, luxury isn’t just…
December 9, 2023 · Susan Green
Reflecting on Life With My Dad
On November 12th, 2023, I got a phone call that no one ever wants to get. My mom called to tell me that my dad had died peacefully in his sleep. We were and are in shock. Heartbreak doesn't cover it. Married 60 years…
September 15, 2023 · Susan Green
Save on these Luxury Villas in the Italian Countryside
With fascinating historical cities filled to the brim with art, architecture and cultural landmarks, picturesque landscapes, outdoor experiences, and arguably some of Italy’s best cuisine, the Emilia-Romagna region…
August 23, 2023 · Susan Green
5 Reasons I love Africa
There are countless reasons that I love Africa, from a diverse and vibrant continent with rich cultures, and stunning landscapes, to unique experiences. Here are some of our favorite reasons! Cultural Diversity: Africa…