Hi Everyone!

I hope you are having a great week!

I'm off to one of my favorite places soon; Paris! I'm heading on a river cruise through Burgundy and Provence in Southern France and just couldn't resist the chance to visit Paris again. I'll share my experiences so watch the Vibrant Travel page and the Happy Travelers Group in Facebook or Vibrant Travel CEO in Instagram for inspiration.

I'm visiting medieval towns, abbeys, a Van Gogh tour and even going truffle hunting! Van Gogh and Truffles, who could ask for more? I'll have articles and videos about the cities, towns, and experiences along the Rhone and Saone rivers on my website too. With a bit of luck we might catch the end of lavender season and get some great shots of the lavender fields in Provence.

C'est la belle vie!

Enough about me :-) In the last newsletter, I mentioned that there are some fun places, called "Dupes", to visit in Canada and the US that have the feel of Europe without the long flight. This week's article is about just that.

Enjoy the article!

Tina

Europe's New Entry/Exit System (EES)

Continues to Create Delays

This is part of what I mentioned previously regarding photos instead of stamps. Several major European airports, including Rome's airports, are warning that the new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) is causing long lines and operational challenges. Airport officials are even asking for flexibility during the busy summer season because first-time visitors from countries like the United States must register fingerprints and facial scans when entering participating Schengen countries. If this is your first time, have your passport ready for the facial scan and fingerprints.

TSA Expands Touchless Identity Screening

The TSA has expanded its Touchless ID program in the United States, allowing eligible TSA PreCheck travelers using participating airlines to verify their identity through facial recognition instead of presenting a physical ID at select checkpoints. Travelers still should carry their government-issued ID, or passport but the process is becoming faster at participating airports.

Americans Continue to Prioritize Travel

Despite higher travel costs, new industry forecasts show Americans are expected to travel in record amounts in 2026. Demand remains especially strong for Europe, cruises, bucket-list destinations, and experiential travel.

However, popular destinations and cruise itineraries are selling earlier than ever. Waiting for last-minute deals can mean paying more or settling for fewer choices, particularly for Europe, Alaska, Japan, and holiday travel.

Travel Tip of the Week

Take screenshots of your travel documents.

Before you leave home, save screenshots of your airline tickets, hotel confirmations, cruise documents, passport identification page, and travel insurance information on your phone. If Wi-Fi or cellular service is unavailable, you'll still have access to the information you need.

European Escapes Closer to Home:

North American Cities That Feel Like Europe

The Article Intro:

Dreaming of Europe but looking for a destination that's a little closer to home? Whether you're hoping to avoid long-haul flights, stretch your travel budget, or simply explore somewhere new, there are plenty of cities across the United States and Canada that offer a distinctly European atmosphere.

From French-inspired streets and Italian-style waterfronts to German villages and British charm, these destinations deliver a taste of Europe without crossing the Atlantic.

Current Cruise Offers - Vibrant Travel Exclusives

Last Minute Guided Tours of:

Britain, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Scotland, Spain

Viking Ocean, River, and Expedition Cruises

Vibrant Travel Exclusive $200 Onboard Credit Offer

All prices quoted are per person, double occupancy, and may only be available on select dates and for a limited time. Ask for a quote for alternate dates if you don't see a date that works for you. Domestic and International flights are not included unless specified. Call or email for more information about the tours.

France, Switzerland, Italy

European Dream of France, Switzerland, and Italy

8 Days

Departure: 9/7/2026 - 9/14/2026

(Various dates but price may vary, book early for 2027 and save)

Save $350

Was $3,050 - Now $2,745/Person

Hit the ground running on this fast paced eight-day Europe trip, transporting you to the beating heart of glittering cities and the picture-perfect countryside. You’ll know dreams do come true as you admire Paris, ancient Rome and lap up lakeside living in Lucerne.

Included Special Experiences:

Welcome dinner with Travel Director and fellow travelers

Italy: Lunch at 12th-century Castello del Trebbio with a castle tour, cellars, olive oil and wine tasting, and a traditional Tuscan buffet. Florentine leathercraft demonstration

Canal cruise in Venice with views of St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace. Venetian glassblowing workshop demonstration

Switzerland: Scenic drive through the Alps

Burgundy & Paris: Scenic drive through Burgundy wine country

Meals included throughout: Breakfast daily (Days 2–7), plus dinner on Days 1 and 5, and lunch on Day 3.

*Double occupancy, prices subject to change and other restrictions. Included: Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary. All air taxes and fuel surcharge. Half Day Tokyo Bus tour, Gion Geisha District

Optionals: There are many optional experiences you may chose.

Tour #:TRF_LMD3200

If you love traveling with a group of friends or want to meet some new ones join one of our groups.

Groups & Tours

Ready to Book

Vibrant Travel Hosted Cruise

Christmas Markets of Europe Tour

11/27/2026 - 12/5/2026

Current Price $4,349.00

$3,999.00 group offer has expired but we still have space!

We fly out the day after Thanksgiving and economy flights are included from Orlando. (Upgrades are available at an extra cost)

Set out on a holiday adventure through the iconic capital cities of Central Europe – Prague, Vienna and Budapest. Tour the magnificent Prague Castle and explore its famous Christmas market at the Old Town Square. Experience the world’s oldest Christmas market in Dresden. In Vienna, learn the secrets of confectionary at a candy workshop, and indulge in dinner at the famous Marchfelderhof. Travel via train from Vienna to Bratislava. Explore Budapest’s outdoor markets aglow with lights, where stalls of crafts and delicacies abound. Along the way, immerse yourself in festive Christmas markets, experience cultural traditions, sample local cuisine, and glimpse this region’s rich history.

Coming Soon 2027

Vibrant Travel Hosted Cruise Tour

​Alaska

June 2027

Cruise Information Coming Soon

This tour will include a Denali Stay before the Cruise

If you are considering an Alaska Cruise and would love to travel with us, reply to this email to get on the list for information. There is no obligation to travel but it helps me to determine interest which helps with pricing. The cruise tour will only happen if we have enough interest.

On the Drawing Board - 2028

Vibrant Travel Hosted Trip

Australia & New Zealand

2028

Information Coming Soon

If you are considering Australia and New Zealand in 2028 and would love to travel with us, reply to this email to get on the list for information. There is no obligation to travel but it helps me to determine interest which helps with pricing.

Given the amount of sea days in Australia between ports, that portion of the trip will likely be a tour option. New Zealand ports are closer together so a tour or cruise are both feasible.

Stay tuned for more information

Do You Travel With Friends or Family?

Do you prefer your own group of family or friends? Ten travelers in double occupancy rooms* is all you need for most of our groups to save on tours any time of year but planning ahead is key for the best price! The shoulder season saves even more!

Ask about creating a group trip anywhere in the world or come along with us on one of ours. Click the link below to see our group trips and ideas. Get on the list today!

* Call for information and restrictions for all promotions. Group size and price can vary by vendor. All offers are for a limited time, on select tours and while supply lasts. Prices are quoted per person with double occupancy. Call for single supplement pricing.