As the pandemic spread across Europe, summer travel was in jeopardy. In May, the EU announced borders would reopen under strict guidance. As we know, the majority only opened for fellow member states or selected ‘safe’ nations.
 
Across continental Europe, social distancing protocols are now in place to protect residents and tourists, including:

• Face masks are mandatory in enclosed public spaces and public transport.
• Diners zap QR codes to browse digital menus in restaurants - after passing a temperature check.
• Hotels adhere to advanced hygiene practices while self-service breakfast buffets have ceased.
• Southern Europe’s beaches have thinned as sunbathers practice social distancing.
• The vast majority of Europe’s museums have reopened, mainly targeting locals.

 
Here is a brief overview of what travel currently looks like across Europe.
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For those of us that live on the east coast, visiting the west coast is always a stark difference in scenery, from the high peaks to the unforgiving Pacific Ocean. Oregon is known for its sprawling forests, rolling hills, abundant farms, and top-notch vineyards. The city of Portland, Oregon, is an adventure in itself, and the Willamette Valley offers many wineries to visit.
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The City of Roses or Rose City, as the locals call Portland, is a cultural melting pot with many people from all walks of life living here.  The city offers high-end dining, and for those who love street food, visiting one of the 600 food carts is sure to please.  Portland has the most craft beer breweries than any other city in the states.  The city has so much character as far as culture, food, beer and wine, and music that some forget that the city offers one of the best outdoor enthusiast’s recreational areas in the state.  Forest Park is a hidden oasis that offers hiking, biking, and outdoor adventure right in the heart of the city.  Portland also has excellent shopping since there is no sales tax, and you can save on your treasures to bring home.  Portland is also home to the Willamette River that brings you to the Willamette Valley about an hour south of the city where there are several of the wineries; we will be sharing with you.  

Each week there are new changes in where we can travel, what we need to do to travel there and when we can go to some destinations.  Here are some of the latest updates.
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Hawaii – The state of Hawaii has extended the two-week quarantine for the islands until October 1st.  They have also moved the pre-testing program out until October 1st, which would have allowed travelers to arrive with a negative Covid test within 72 hours of arrival.  The island of O’ahu has seen an increase in cases, so the Governor and Mayor have announced additional restrictions on the island.  The inter-island quarantine will also remain in effect for all residents of the other Hawaiian Islands.

When people think of Miami, Miami Beach always comes to mind with the chic shopping and the glitz of the rich and famous.  But there is more to Miami besides the beach and Lincoln Road Mall.  With vast beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, Miami has something to offer everyone besides the world-renowned beaches. Here are five places to try out on your next trip to Miami.

1. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Visit this gorgeous park on a sunny day and enjoy the vast array of exotic and rare plants and wildlife. Explore the Rare Plant House, which is home to 450 species of rare tropical plants such as palms, orchids, and fruit trees. The Tropical Fruit Pavilion displays fruit species only found in exotic locations such as the Amazon. You can also visit the Butterfly Garden to enjoy rare species of these beautiful insects.

​The California coast is a wonderful place to explore from the north around San Francisco all the way south to San Diego.  The ocean and the beaches on the west coast are so different from the east coast that you just have to experience it to appreciate the beauty.  Stretching more than 650 miles, California Highway 1 has long been the best way to take in all the sights the California Coastline has to offer. When you think of the West Coast, you’re probably familiar with images of beach attire and surf culture. And while it’s perfectly acceptable to conjure these images of the coast, not everything about the California coast is big cities and bigger personalities.