First Friday

Monthly Celebration….Biloxi MS

Vendors Paradise….


Love To Travel? … Make It Your Business!


Entertainment For The Evening….


Keep Up To Date With All The Travel News!


My love of both Music and Photography made for my total enjoyment of the evening. All photos were taken with my first-generation Nikon Z6; coupled with my Nikon 50mm, f1.8 Prime lens.

Before sunset I used my (manual setting); 1/125-250 shutter speeds; ISO settings between 400 to 800.

After sunset I switched to my (shutter speed setting); 1/125; switched between a constant ISO setting of 3200, and automatic ISO.

Join Us For Next Month’s Celebration! (April 7, 2023)

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Air B N Bs

Study reveals families are opting for Airbnbs over hotel stays
from The Navigator
I love Airbnbs, but as someone who typically travels with just my significant other, they’re not always necessary for me. In fact, the times I find myself prioritizing them are when I’m traveling with family or a group of friends. New research says I’m not the only one who feels this way. 

According to new data from Airbnb, family travel is thriving. On their platform, it skyrocketed by 60% in 2022 compared to before the pandemic. Airbnb saw 15 million check-ins in nearly 90,000 destinations. Considering you can book a two-bedroom two-bath house per night for the same cost as one hotel room, the numbers make sense. 

Another significant advantage of Airbnb for families is the access to a kitchen. Nearly 90% of Airbnb listings have kitchens, allowing families to save money by cooking instead of eating out for every meal. 

Moreover, the experience is unique. You can choose a home with a yard so the kids can run wild. You can indulge in a pool you don’t have to share with other guests. And families can really unpack—staying for longer periods of time. In 2022, more than half of families stayed between two and six nights, while nearly half stayed for a week or longer. This flexibility allows families to plan their trip around their schedule, whether it’s a short weekend getaway or an extended family vacation.

So where are families going?  Everywhere! Paris, France, London, United Kingdom, and Melbourne, Australia are just a few of the top destinations for family travel on Airbnb. Additionally, Airbnb offers families the opportunity to travel near and far with unique experiences. The top-booked categories for family travel in 2022 included amazing pools, beach destinations, skiing destinations, tropical destinations, and national parks.
I just found a flight deal for $468 from Los Angeles to Finland, which had me wondering: If I was packing up the whole family for this epic trip, what Airbnb could I score to round out the most reasonable trip ever? I can get this stunning 3-bedrooms 2-bath cottage for $199 a night.

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American Cruise Lines Opens 2023 Season

By NewsdeskFeb 10, 2023 11:49am

American Cruise Lines has announced that American Star departs from Florida on February 18, marking the opening of the line’s 2023 U.S. cruise season. The line is celebrating “Wave Season” by running more small ships from U.S. ports than ever before. The line begins this year’s season with two riverboats and two small ships setting sail along the East Coast from Florida and South Carolina, the West Coast from California, and the Mississippi River from Louisiana.

On the West Coast, American Jazz will embark along a historic cruise from San Francisco on February 24, 2023. Following the new eight-day “San Francisco Bay” itinerary, American Jazz will be the first U.S. riverboat in over 80 years to explore San Francisco Bay and the California Delta, cruising wine country along the NapaSacramento, and San Joaquin rivers.

On the East Coast, two of the company’s smallest cruise ships, the 90-passenger American Star and American Independence, depart February 18 and February 25, respectively. American Star will begin the season along the eight-day “Great Rivers of Florida” cruise, roundtrip from Jacksonville. A Sister ship, American Independence, will sail the line’s popular eight-day “Historic South & Golden Isles” itinerary between Charleston, South Carolina, and Amelia Island, Florida; exploring the country’s Gold Coast along the protected Intracoastal Waterway. The recently renovated American Heritage begins the 2023 season on the Mississippi River, following a classic eight-day “Lower Mississippi” itinerary from New Orleans to Memphis, departing February 25.

American Cruise Lines offers five new riverboats and 11 itineraries on the Mississippi alone in 2023 and has a growing fleet of new small ships and riverboats operating 50+ itineraries in 35 states this year.


It’s Time To Travel Again!


American’s 2023 season continues to open around the country, with “Chesapeake Bay Cruises” in March; “Columbia and Snake Rivers” cruises and “Puget Sound Cruises” in April; “New England” cruises in May; “Alaska Cruises” in June; “Hudson River” cruises in September; and “Holiday Cruises” in November and December.

The company’s small ship cruises offer an all-inclusive experience and feature over 400 shore excursions. All the line’s itineraries include complimentary onboard enrichment and entertainment, fine cuisine, and a festive cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres each evening. American ships also include Starlink Wi-Fi. Cruise pricing 2023-24 for includes port charges and fees as well as tips and gratuities.

For more information, visit www.americancruiselines.com.


Supplement Your Income & Enjoy World Travel!


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TRAVEL ADVISOR CERTIFICATION

Experts in New Orleans Travel…

We have been officially certified as specialists by New Orleans & Company.

Certifications:

  • AMERICA’S MOST UNIQUE CITY
  • NEW ORLEANS TASTES & TUNES
  • CRUISING NEW ORLEANS
  • DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN NEW ORLEANS
  • GROUPS IN THE CRESCENT CITY
  • NEW ORLEANS & BEYOND
  • WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR CLIENT GOES

Enter Our World of Travel !


AMERICA’S MOST UNIQUE CITY……From Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street to the finest Creole and Cajun dining, New Orleans serves up a one-of-a-kind experience for clients. Knowing how to direct our clients to the unique experiences of the Big Easy is key to ensuring they have the best, most memorable vacation possible.

We are able to recommend a good orientation to the city and offer insights about the New Orleans sights and sounds.


NEW ORLEANS TASTES & TUNES….New Orleans wouldn’t be the city that it is without its unique dining scene and unsurpassed musical heritage. We are well-versed in culinary and music history and know where to access the city’s best current offerings. We will help you create a dining and musical experience that is nothing short of a masterpiece.


CRUISING NEW ORLEANS…Historic grace and modern cruising grandeur come together in one destination in New Orleans. Visitors to the city can take advantage of both experiences – an educated travel advisor makes the difference. We understand the history of cruising in New Orleans and are well-versed as to the newest opportunities for New Orleans-bound travelers.


DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN NEW ORLEANS…New Orleans is known as the “Paris of the South.” For centuries, couples have been saying ‘I do in New Orleans. Destination weddings in New Orleans are not just three-hour events, they are three-day plus celebrations with friends and family that will have guests talking about the big event for a long time.


GROUPS IN THE CRESCENT CITY….Groups heading to New Orleans will discover a city that welcomes them with two big open arms. There is so much to discover in the Crescent City, starting with its incredible heritage.

It is home to more National Historic Landmarks than any other city in the United States. Groups will explore a destination distinctively its own, whether it’s a walking tour of the historic French Quarter, including countless restaurants and fascinating architecture; discovering the Arts District, with its endless galleries; or shopping on Magazine Street, one of the oldest and most diverse shopping districts in the city.


NEW ORLEANS & BEYOND…There’s no disputing that New Orleans is a city filled with countless attractions and activities of its own. However, when clients head here and just stay within its environs then they are missing out on a host of excitement all within a radius of a two-hour drive.

Whether it’s a repeat visitor to New Orleans, or a first-timer looking for a longer stay, they won’t want to miss out on all there is to see and do beyond the city.


WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR CLIENT GOES…Welcome to New Orleans…where the motto of “Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler” (Let the Good Times Roll) sums up the celebratory atmosphere of the city while paying tribute to its French heritage. The Crescent City’s European and Caribbean influences date back more than 300 years and can be felt, seen, heard, and tasted in its music, architecture, and cuisines.

New Orleans is also proud to be a part of the great American South with historical architectural gems such as antebellum plantations along the Mississippi River and mansions in the Garden District, as well as a steamboat paddlewheel that harkens back to another time.

Visitors can stroll through New Orleans’ diverse neighborhoods, experience Mardi Gras, listen to jazz, eat Cajun favorites, shop for antiques, and embrace life the New Orleans way.


Book Your New Orleans Adventure !


Let’s Do This Thing….

Email: wmlumpkin@digitalagetravelprofessionals.com
Phone: 731.334.2106
Booking Site: https://willielumpkin.inteletravel.com


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Hilton Garden Inn… 821 Gravier New Orleans CBD

been there….done that….

Hotel Evaluations Based On Personal Stays…….


Located in New Orleans’ Central Business District, two blocks from the French Quarter’s famous Bourbon Street. Countless bars, restaurants, and shops are within a 10-minute walk. The Caesars Superdome and Smoothie King Center are under a mile away. Enjoy our rooftop pool, 11th floor lobby lounge, and Great American Grill.


The Great American Grill host daily breakfast buffet between the hours of 6am and 10am daily. Staff members Ursula, Marlene, anchored by Keith (mgr) offer above board hospitality. Cost is 19.95/ea. Dinner served evenings.


Rooms are very accommodating bosting plenty of space for both working and relaxing.


Buy the Galaxy Book3 Series and Double your storage to 1TB for the price of 512GB on Windows 11 Home PCs ($200 value)

Enjoy rooftop pool, exercise room,11th floor lobby lounge, and Great American Grill. WiFi is Free!


Rent Cars US

InteleTravel Hotel Inspection Form

First Impression of Hotel…………………………….. ( 4)

Accessibility Of Front Entrance…………………….. ..( 2)

Lobby Appearance and Size …………………………. (4 )

Number of Elevators ………………………………… ( 4) one not operational

Number of Available Bellstaff ……………………….. ( 4)

Number of Staff at Front Desk ………………………. (4 )

Appearance and Diversity of Dining Areas …….. ……..( 5)

Appearance and Diversity of Entertainment …………… (N/A )

Closeness to Restaurants, Shops, etc. ……………… …( 5)

Closeness to Public Transportation …………………. ..( 5)

Appearance/Apparent Safety of Neighborhood ………… ( 5)

Size of Guest Rooms …………………………………..(5 )

Appearance of Guest Rooms …………………………..(4 )


this is how I see it…..

Pros:

  • Central Location
  • Staff; Keith (mgr), Ursula, & Marlene provide excellent customer care..and a wonderful breakfast experience!
  • Spacious/Comfortable Rooms

    Cons:

    • Front Entrance
    • Parking
    • Accessibility to Lobby

    All said and done I enjoyed my stay! I give this 3 Star hotel…

    My Personal Rating of 4 Stars!…

    Visit New Orleans CBD

    Book Your Stay @ Digital Age Travel Professionals

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    Text TSA if you need anything (Ok, not literally anything)

    You can now text TSA for your urgent packing questions.

    Author | Kaylen Achong

    TSA is throwing a bone to the last-minute packer in your life by introducing a mobile texting option to help travelers with last-minute travel packing questions.

    If you’re in the midst of packing and need to know what you can or can’t bring, ‘AskTSA’ is now at your beck and call, in addition to the agency’s social media accounts and “What Can I Bring?” website.

    You can text “Travel” to AskTSA (275872) for answers to your packing queries. Automated responses are provided 24 hours a day, and TSA experts are available from 8 am to 6 pm EST. 

    Users can choose from the following topics to get started: TSA PreCheck, What’s Allowed, Identification, Medical Questions, Damages/Claims, and Other.

    Travelers interested in getting answers from the “What’s Allowed” section, for example, will choose between “Carryon” or “Checked” luggage, followed by the following topics to help specify your needs: E-Cigarettes, Electronics, Firearms, Flammable Aerosols, Food, Grooming Items, Knives, Lighters and More.

    With this new texting option, travelers can finish their packing with the confidence that their suitcases won’t be rummaged through. But in my experience, those forgotten nail clippers at the bottom of your bag means they probably still will be.

    Airport Marriott….Atlanta GA

    been there…..done that…..

    Expect an effortless blend of style and service at Atlanta Airport Marriott. This modern hotel sits on 14 acres of scenic grounds near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Take advantage of their free airport shuttle, available 24 hours a day.

     Fuel up for a day of sightseeing in Atlanta at VOYA Bistro or linger over a delicious dinner at Bentleys Steakhouse, two of five hotel dining outlets. 

    Then unwind in stylish, soundproof hotel rooms with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, smart TVs, balconies, and views of our hotel pool.

    Nicely Appointed Bathroom

    Adequate Work Space

    Combination Indoor/Outdoor Pool

    If you’re looking for things to do near our airport hotel, you’re in luck. From small-town coffee shops and breweries to nearby event venues and museums, Atlanta Airport Marriott puts you close. Utilize the digital concierge to explore before you head out.

    InteleTravel Hotel Inspection Form

    First Impression of Hotel………………………………. ( Curb appeal is outstanding )

    Accessibility Of Front Entrance…………………….. ( Drive very accessible)

    Lobby Appearance and Size …………………………. ( Hugh Open Lobby )

    Number of Elevators …………………………………….. ( Nice and roomy )

    Number of Available Bellstaff ……………………….. ( On Point )

    Number of Staff at Front Desk ………………………. ( Available & Efficient )

    Appearance and Diversity of Dining Areas …….. ( On-site Coffee Shop, and Restaurants)

    Appearance and Diversity of Entertainment ……. ( Weekend Entertainment )

    Closeness to Restaurants, Shops, etc. ……………… ( Restaurants on Site / Shopping UA)

    Closeness to Public Transportation …………………. ( Airport Shuttle (public trans @airport Uber/Lyft)

    Appearance/Apparent Safety of Neighborhood … ( Suburban)

    Size of Guest Rooms …………………………………….. ( Spacious )

    Appearance of Guest Rooms ………………………….. ( Very Nice)

    How I See It…..

    Wonderful Stay, Very Comfortable.

    BOOK YOUR STAY @ https://willielumpkin.inteletravel.com

    Explora Journeys Unveils Onboard Entertainment and Enrichment Programs

    By NewsdeskNov 30, 2022 11:41am

    Explora JourneysExplora ILuxury CruisesCruise Information

    Explora I (Explora Journeys)

    Explora Journeys has unveiled its program of onboard entertainment and activities. Guests can explore seven onboard venues offering a range of entertainment options. Instead of a single main event, they can freely enjoy any experience they wish whenever they choose.

    Guests can enjoy pre-and post-dinner poolside chill-outs in the Astern Lounge or contemporary pop inspired by Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox in the Explora Lounge. They can head to the Journeys Lounge for a laidback, candlelit evening of music inspired by the route the ship is sailing. There is also always music to accompany a coffee or a drink in the Lobby Bar.

    Explora Journeys has unveiled its program of onboard entertainment and activities. Guests can explore seven onboard venues offering a range of entertainment options. Instead of a single main event, they can freely enjoy any experience they wish whenever they choose.

    Guests can enjoy pre-and post-dinner poolside chill-outs in the Astern Lounge or contemporary pop inspired by Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox in the Explora Lounge. They can head to the Journeys Lounge for a laidback, candlelit evening of music inspired by the route the ship is sailing. There is also always music to accompany a coffee or a drink in the Lobby Bar.

    Here’s what to expect:

    Activities

    • Ombré Sunsets: Guests can hone their photography skills in the Explora Lounge.
    • The Spirit of Whiskey: A tutorial from mixologists in the Malt Whiskey Bar, where guests try their hand at making signature drinks.
    • Melodic Master Class: Resident artists will share their talents and discuss songwriting, improvisation, and composition.

    Events

    • Captain’s Log… Secrets of the Sail: Guests join the captain or bridge officers on a walk around the deck.
    • Bal Mythos: At the stroke of midnight, guests can don handcrafted masks of local deities and dance to the resident Bacchus Band and singers.
    • Midnight Wayfinder: With guitar music and storytelling under the stars or around the Conservatory Pool, guests learn how sailors have long relied on the sea, wind, and stars to bring them safely to shore.
    • Inferno: A nod to the glamour of Manhattan’s Studio 54Soul Train and Europe’s 1970s discos, where guests can enjoy cocktails and dance the night away.

    Experiences

    • An Evening by Candlelight: Guest musicians and vocalists perform in the main lounges, creating a range of experiences from classical music to movie soundtracks.
    • Decadence: The themes of this experience switch from lounge to lounge, with live music and immersive performances.
    • Le Jazz: Guests on journeys that include France can enjoy a Parisian jazz club experience, accompanied by French martinis and canapés.
    • Let the Good Times Roll: Jiving to New Orleans jazz cabaret is an essential part of the Caribbean itinerary, with a French Creole menu, absinthe cocktails, and music.

    Rituals

    • Ocean State of Mind: Every morning, guests can participate in guided meditations against a backdrop of sky and ocean.
    • Sundial Salutation: This twice-daily, movement-based wellness ritual is held in the morning and at sunset.
    • Midday Melodies: Every day onboard Explora I, the Atrium comes alive with acoustic music.
    • Sunset Aperitivo: Signature drinks and canapés associated with the ports of call are served in the bars and lounges, each with its own sonic vibe.
    • Moonrise: Every 28 days, guests clad in shades of silver and ivory gather to honor the full moon, sipping signature cocktails and dancing to live music.

    Enrichment

    • The Book Club: Occasional journeys will have a particular book relating to the region in which the ship is sailing, culminating in a reading with the author.
    • Single Origin: Led by a barista, guests get familiar with local coffee cultures through tastings relevant to the countries they visit.
    • Artisanal: Courses on destination-themed crafts representative of local heritage, from textiles and tapestries to baskets and chocolate making, are taught by a local expert.
    • Dance the Day Away: On select journeys, guests can enjoy an afternoon of learning some of the region’s movement culture, accompanied by local dance music. Sessions are led by local experts, resident artists, and the international host.
    • The Creative’s Journey: Behind-the-scenes stories and iconic moments in stage and cinema are discovered through talks by resident and guest artists, together with other prolific talents. Among them are writers, directors, producers, actors, musicians, choreographers, costumiers, and set and lighting designers.

    For more information, visit explorajourneys.com.

    Related Stories

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    Explora Journeys Details Itinerary for Explora I’s Maiden Voyage

    “Marvel Day At Sea” Announced Aboard Disney Dream in 2023

    On-Site: First Impressions of the New Celebrity Beyond

    New Orleans Holiday Cocktail Crawl

    There’s perhaps no place better than New Orleans for a holiday cocktail crawl. In addition to signature cocktails, festive decor is found in abundance throughout the French Quarter and Central Business District. Block out an afternoon or evening for the spots below, and please remember to drink responsibly on your crawl.

    Davenport Lounge Holiday Cocktail (Photo: Justen Williams)

    BAR MARILOU

    Bar Marilou may be the newest spot on this list, but it makes for an excellent starting point before heading off into the French Quarter. Enjoy a handful of holiday cocktails including Diable de Noël with vodka, ancho chili liqueur, Cynar, dark chocolate Godiva, pomegranate, cranberry, and disco snow.

    THE SAZERAC BAR

    Head to the Roosevelt Hotel next, first to ooh and ahh at their lobby decorated with over 60,000 twinkling lights. Then pop on over to The Sazerac Bar to sip on the Winter Old Fashioned, a holiday-spiced twist on the old drink with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, apple-clove syrup, and cranberry and orange bitters.

    Carousel Bar (Photo: Rebecca Todd)

    DAVENPORT LOUNGE

    Our next stop is the festive Ritz Carlton, which will be fully decked out for the season. Head to Davenport Lounge for jazz and a cocktail during your stop.

    CAROUSEL BAR

    Located inside Hotel Monteleone, Carousel Bar is as whimsical as it sounds. Add the lobby’s festive decor, and it makes for a perfect holiday cocktail setting. Enjoy the Reveillon Buttered Rum or Holiday Sidecar this December.

    French 75 Bar Holiday Cocktail (Photo: Rebecca Todd)

    FRENCH 75 BAR

    Arnaud’s French 75 Bar serves classic New Orleans cocktails and tasty bites, including their famous soufflé potatoes. Stop by to see which seasonal cocktails they have up their sleeve.

    BOMBAY CLUB

    This spot specializes in martinis, but we’d recommend the Brandy Milk Punch, a sweet, creamy Cognac drink perfect for the holidays.

    RIB ROOM

    Step inside the Rib Room at Omni Royal Orleans Hotel for a special holiday cocktail: Aged Creole Eggnog. Enjoy the notes of bourbon, Cognac, and dark rum all while cozying up to the bar. 

    For even more holiday cocktail ideas, and for everything Holidays New Orleans style, see here.

    Post Written and Produced by; neworleans.com

    Find the perfect accommodations & book NOW @ https://willielumpkin.inteletravel.com/booktravel.cfm

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    90 Riverview…Residence Inn Charleston SC

    been there…..done that….


    Adjacent to a marina, this informal all-suite hotel is 4 miles from the Port of Charleston and 2.7 miles from the Historic Charleston City Market.


    Bright, unfussy studios come with kitchens, coffeemakers and pull-out sofas, as well as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The 1- and 2-bedroom suites have separate living rooms, and some feature fireplaces.

    Hot breakfast, parking and a regular evening socials are complimentary. Other amenities include an outdoor saltwater pool, a hot tub and a 24/7 exercise room.


    Digital Age Travel Professionals

    …..Hotel Inspection…..

    First Impression of Hotel………………………………. ( 5)

    Accessibility Of Front Entrance…………………………. (5 )

    Lobby Appearance and Size ……………………………. ( 5)

    Number of Elevators …………………………………… ( 5) four available

    Number of Available Bellstaff ………………………….. ( ) N/A

    Number of Staff at Front Desk ………………………. …(5 )

    Appearance and Diversity of Dining Areas ……………….(5 )

    Appearance and Diversity of Entertainment ……. ……….( ) N/A

    Closeness to Restaurants, Shops, etc. …………………… (3 ) No Restaurant on Location

    Closeness to Public Transportation ……………………… (5 )

    Appearance/Apparent Safety of Neighborhood … ………..( 5)

    I chose this particular Hotel for a very special event which was very dear to me personally. This was the location chosen and developed by me to host my 50th year college fraternity reunion. So, naturally Lodging was pivotal.

    The twelve of us enjoyed six premium two bedroom suites. Each suite featured a Full Kitchen, two separate bedrooms, each containing a private full bath. Total Privacy.

    Best accommodations that I have personally experienced!

    My RATING ——-5 STARS——-

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