A Culinary Journey with Tour Plan International Welcome to a world where travel and holiday treats unite to create a delicious adventure. As we look ahead to 2025, we invite you to join Tour Plan International on small group journeys that combine the joy of exploring new destinations with the pleasure of savoring your favorite…

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to rethink gift-giving. What if you could give a gift that reduces stress, boosts creativity, and creates memories that last a lifetime? Enter the gift of travel—a present that goes beyond material things and opens the door to unforgettable experiences. Travel enriches the mind and soul, offering new…

Embarking on a river cruise is more than just a vacation—a journey that blends luxury, culture, and unparalleled convenience. Imagine gliding through Europe’s enchanting waterways or exploring the exotic rivers of Asia and Egypt, all while enjoying top-tier accommodations and carefully curated excursions. A river cruise is the perfect way to experience the world without…

Air travel can be an exciting gateway to adventure, but airports often add an unwanted layer of stress. Crowded terminals, long security lines, and the ticking clock before your flight can create a recipe for anxiety. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Whether you’re facing a long layover or wondering what to do…

Over 40 years ago, I embarked on my first international adventure and have been traveling ever since. But one thing has changed over time…the way I pack. Heavy suitcases, airline fees, and packing stress led me to refine my approach to packing. So, I traveled full-time with my husband for four years. Yes, we were…

What is Dupe Travel? “An emerging slang term short for duplicate, “dupes” is a growing trend for travelers looking for locations that imitate the qualities of hotspot destinations without the steep price tag. In fact, nearly 60% of travelers are seeking out copycat vacations in 2024, according to a Bookings.com report,” Dupe travel promises to…

Would you believe that spending hours in a cramped airplane cabin could appeal to many travelers? Flying at 35,000 feet for an extended period presents a unique set of challenges, from limited mobility to dry air and jet lag. However, with the proper preparation and mindset, long-haul flights can transform a dreaded ordeal into a…

2024 is setting a new travel course guided by three key trends: connecting with local communities, immersing in local cultures, and seeking authentic experiences. These trends mark a shift from traditional tourist hotspots to more intimate, off-the-beaten-path destinations. The travel and tourism sector is also gearing for substantial growth, as highlighted by a McKinsey and…

When it comes to phone apps for travel, Tour Plan International travel advisors use the best in the business. Our current top choices? WhatsApp and our own Tour Plan International smartphone app powered by Travefy! In this blog, we will explain both smartphone apps and why our travel advisors use the apps for their travel.…

Hopping between continents and exploring new destinations is thrilling, but securing your finances is paramount. Enter Apple Pay and Google Wallet, the superheroes of travel finance. The benefits of digital pay apps like these are profound, particularly in keeping your monetary dealings secure. The sweet and safe part is that the store doesn’t get your…

Traveling is a joy, allowing us to explore different cultures, landscapes, and cuisines. But one thing can turn any trip sour: misplacing or damaging essential travel documents. Tour Plan International, with its 50+ years of experience providing exceptional small group tours, family vacations, and solo adventures, understands the importance of managing travel documents effectively. We…

As travel advisors, we often receive questions about passport applications and renewals. Beyond the application process, there are many passport facts to understand.  In this guide, we will answer the top passport questions received at the Tour Plan office. How much does it cost and what do I need to submit to obtain or renew…

Why do Tour Plan International travel advisors always travel with insurance?  In this blog, we will provide our Ten Reasons to Purchase Travel Insurance. Is this you? “You pack way too much, realize your suitcase won’t close, then start taking stuff out. The snorkel gear, the sarong, that second jacket… you don’t really need those. But there…

Diane has ten years of experience as a travel advisor. As an advisor, she has won numerous travel vendor awards. Her formula includes cultivating a clientele with her knowledge, patience, and outstanding customer service. Diane loves the exhilaration of piecing together the perfect tailored trip for you and your group. Her favorite motto is, “If…

An Afternoon with Rome’s Premier Guide,  Antonella Capocelli With a rich tapestry of history, culture, and gastronomy, Rome is a city that continues to allure travelers from around the globe. For over 50 years, Tour Plan International has taken the pleasure of introducing small groups to Italy’s wonders, homing in on what makes the country…

Tips from Avid Cruisers: Set Sail the Right Way! For this blog, we spoke to three avid cruisers, each with over 30 cruises sailed.  If you have a cruise booked or you are thinking about a cruise vacation, these “Tips from Avid Cruisers” will answer some of the top questions…while providing some tips from seasoned…

Imagine spending decades exploring the world, navigating the oceans, scaling mountains, experiencing diverse cultures, and savoring global cuisine. For some, this might sound like an unattainable dream, but it’s a thrilling reality for Kissy Gordon. A seasoned Tour Plan International travel advisor, Kissy has turned her passion for travel into a fulfilling career. In an…

A particular thrill comes with planning your next big travel adventure, but there’s an even bigger thrill when you share this experience with a group of like-minded individuals. Welcome to the world of travel clubs, where wanderlust thrives, friendships form, and unforgettable journeys unfold. So, why join a travel club? Here, we explore the benefits…

Technology is changing how we cruise, and we are here to provide tips for planning a fantastic voyage. As both ocean ships and river cruise boats return to near or full capacity, cruise lines use technology created during the pandemic in new and exciting ways. From smartphone apps to SkyLink fast Internet, change is fast-paced.…

When booking a vacation or long weekend with Tour Plan International, all you have to do is pack your bags. Our travel advisors do the planning, but you may still have questions about packing for your adventure. Or, you may want to try packing “Carry-On Only” for your next flight. Tour Plan International advisors in…

If you are thinking of a bucket list trip, you may wonder about the benefits of small-group travel. You ask, and we answer. The benefits range from price to extra perks, convenience, safety, and even better trip photos. (Yes, to find out how a small group tour can provide great trip photos, keep reading).  …

Enjoy our photos from Simply Sicily 2023.  From history to culture and food, the Tour Plan International small group tour enjoyed Sicily, Italy in April 2023.  We are happy to share our photos, and we hope to see you on a tour soon. For information about small group tours, vacations and excursions, visit the Tour…

A lot has changed in the travel industry in the past forty years…but much has also stayed the same.  Travelers still enjoy the history, culture, views and the incredible food of countries across the globe. Today, we talk with Stephany Capocelli Pishko.  Stephany has been a Travel Advisor for forty years with the Tour Plan…

How I Spent Three Days Exploring the Food and Culture of Old San Juan Less than four hours from wheels-up in Washington DC, I sat in a café across from my boutique hotel on Fortaleza Ave in Old San Juan. I started the day in jeans, a long sleeve shirt, and a jacket, but by…

Solo Travel Soars in Popularity   Solo travel soars in popularity…with a spin. Keep reading to find out what solo travelers want this year. “I want to travel the world, and I don’t want to wait for others.”  That’s the number one reason solo travelers give as they plan their next adventure. 46% said that…

You have a bucket list vacation booked with a travel advisor. Now is the time to add an excursion (or a few) to your travel plan. Layering excursions on top of your plan ensures you will experience all the region has to offer. And the excursions are led by locals who can provide an experience…