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Fly Like a Pro: Making Coach Feel Like First Class

5/14/2025

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Long flights can be tough, but who says you can't pamper yourself even if you're not flying first class? In 2024, I took my longest non-stop flight ever from Dallas to Sydney, and I managed to make the journey pretty comfy. Here’s how I did it and how you can too!

Arrive Early and Indulge
Why rush? Get to the airport 3 hours early. This gives you time to relax, maybe grab a lounge pass or treat yourself to a nice meal. It's a great way to kick off your trip on the right foot.

DIY First-Class Amenity Kit
Make your own little luxury kit! Here’s what you need...

  • Notepad and Pen: Great for jotting down random thoughts or doodles.
  • Eye Mask and Ear Plugs: Absolute lifesavers for some quality zzz's.
  • Collapsible Water Bottle: Keep hydrated without constantly waiting for the beverage cart.
  • Neck Pillow: Because comfort is everything.
  • Yummy Snacks: Jason and I love chocolates, so we bring a selection and have little tasting sessions. You can do the same with chips, cookies, or spicy snacks. Make it fun!

Entertainment is Key
Load your phone with everything you need...
  • Movies and Shows: Download a bunch of fave's.
  • Language Packs: Why not brush up on a new language?
  • Music: Get your favorite tunes and some calming music too.
  • Calm App: Sleep stories, meditations, and relaxing music to keep you chill. Download your favorites before the flight takes off. 
  • Travel Docs: Have all your travel documents handy on your phone, just in case.
  • Noise Cancelling Headphones: Must-have for all your in-flight entertainment.

Get Cozy on the Plane
Once you’re on board, get yourself set up ASAP. I love a window seat so I can create a little nook. Have everything you need within reach to avoid digging through your overhead bag.
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  • Set Up Comfort: Neck pillow, eye mask, and ear plugs—get comfy!
  • Entertainment Ready: Have your movies, music, or sleep stories ready to go.
  • Stay Refreshed: Keep your water bottle and snacks close by.
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By following these steps, you can make your long-haul flight almost as good as flying first class—well, almost! So next time you're boarding a long flight, remember: it's all about the prep. Treat yourself, because why not?
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Matt Wahlgren
ADVISOR / aGENCY OWNER
I work with both new and experienced travelers in order to provide them with an unforgettable experience
learn more
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Celebrate the Holidays in Style with a Luxury Villa Escape

5/13/2025

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Celebrate the Holidays in Style with a Luxury Villa Escape

The holiday season is fast approaching, and while the world is just starting to think about Thanksgiving or New Year’s Eve plans, prime holiday villas are already being scooped up. If you're dreaming of celebrating in sun-drenched Caribbean estates or cozy alpine retreats, now is the time to book.
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​Whether you're escaping to the beach or chasing snow, Matt Travel has the perfect villa waiting for you.
The holidays may feel far off, but peak-season villas are filling fast. For clients still dreaming of a luxury escape, we have select holiday availability at some of our most requested properties—from sun-drenched beachfront estates in Turks & Caicos to cozy alpine chalets in the French Alps.
Find Your Escape

Caribbean Escapes with Festive Availability

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Dune House

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
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Up to 8 Bedrooms | Up to 16 Guests

Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.

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Rose of Sharon

St. James, Barbados
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Up to 6 Bedrooms | Up to 12 Guests

Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.

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Angelique

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Up to 6 Bedrooms | Up to 14 Guests

Available during Christmas and New Year's Eve.


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Alma

Sint Maarten, St. Martin

Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests

Available during Christmas and New Year's Eve.


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More Beachfront Escapes with Festive Availability

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Hacienda Jaguar
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Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya

Up to 12 Bedrooms | Up to 26 Guests

Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.
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Puako’s Ocean Edge

The Big Island, Hawaii

​Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 10 Guests

Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.
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Retreats with Festive Availability For Snow Seekers

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Mountain Bear Lodge
Breckenridge, Colorado

Up to 5 Bedrooms | Up to 13 Guests

Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.
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Chalet Kilian
French Alps, France

Up to 8 Bedrooms | Up to 17 Guests

Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.
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Clients Just Returned From Antarctica – Their Impressions in Their Own Words

5/5/2025

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Clients Just Returned From Antarctica –
​Their Impressions in Their Own Words

There are places that move you — places that challenge everything you thought you knew about travel. For our latest group of clients, that place was Antarctica.

They just returned from the bottom of the world, and their reactions say it all: awe, gratitude, and a deep connection to something wild and wonderful. As your trusted travel advisor, I get to curate meaningful journeys. But hearing directly from travelers who’ve stood among penguins and sailed through floating cathedrals of ice? That’s the magic.
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Here’s a glimpse into what they experienced — in their own words.

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Click here for client testimonials
Join Matt in Antarctica
January 2026 (summer in Antarctica), Matt is embarking on a breathtaking journey to one of the most untouched places on earth, and you have the opportunity to join this unforgettable adventure. Here's why you shouldn't miss out:
  • Penguin Encounters: Experience up-close mingling with the cutest locals in their natural tuxedos—it's an adorable expedition with lots of charm.
  • Digital Disconnect: Enjoy unmatched serenity away from buzzing phones and emails. It's the ultimate unplugged getaway paired with a backdrop of playful seals.
  • Antarctica Credentials: Touch down on the frozen continent and elevate your travel narrative—adventures don't get cooler than this.
  • Discovery in Style: Dive into the wonders of Antarctic ecology and geology, playing the part of a true explorer soaking in insights few ever get to see firsthand.
  • Breathtaking Scenes: Snap stunning photos of boundless icy vistas contrasted against vibrant skies—perfectly Instagram-worthy without the need for any filters.
So, bundle up, get excited for penguin serenades, and prepare for an epic tale. If not now, when?
Click here to learn more about this once-in-a-lifetime journey!
Questions? Email us at [email protected]

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From the Team @ Matt Travel
If not now, when?
408-718-4872
​[email protected]
www.matt.travel​
3141 Stevens Creek Blvd #40475 San Jose, CA 95117

​Affiliate of KHM Travel Group

Hawaii Seller of Travel License # TAR 7231
Washington Seller of Travel UBI # 602 775122
Florida Seller of Travel Registration # ST37113
California Seller of Travel Registration # 2089491-50.
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What is the #1 Villa Destination in Central America?

4/23/2025

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​Uncover your sanctuary in Costa Rica where luxury meets nature. Nestled amidst lush tropical landscapes, Matt Travel invites you to indulge in elegance—from private pools and modern amenities to curated gourmet experiences. Here, every sunrise promises a new adventure and every sunset wraps you in serenity, making your stay not just a getaway, but a journey into paradise that will be remembered for years to come.
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CASA KAILUA
Pinilla, Guanacaste
Personal service by the villa staff including daily housekeeping.
EXPLORE VILLA
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​PALAZZO DEL MAR
El Tesoro, Guanacaste
Personal service by the villa staff including a housekeeper.
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COCOON LUXURY ESTATE
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Personal service by the villa staff including a housekeeper.
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CASA ALANG ALANG
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Personal service by the villa staff including a housekeeper.
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CASA COLIBRI
Uvita, Costa Rica
Personal service by the villa staff including a gardener, housekeeper and pool maintenance.
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Don't Travel Without These Apps!

4/16/2025

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Matt and Jason in Seville, Spain
I love discovering ways to do things more efficiently. In fact, in another lifetime, I was a business analyst where part of my job was to help my co-workers work smarter.  Read on to learn about my two favorite travel apps that help me travel with ease. 

Hopper
With airfare constantly fluctuating, it's hard to know when to buy your ticket to get the best rate. You can check one moment and by the next moment, the rate has already increased. Hopper has a data science team mining through trillions of archived flight records to spot trends and predict when you should book your flight to get the best rate possible. It also has a 95 percent accuracy rate! If you are traveling while on a budget, this travel app is perfect for you!

​Download it here

Google Translate

After you download the app, find the languages you'll need during your trip and download them as well. This will allow you to translate even if you're offline. Translate menus using your camera, translate live conversation, and translate frequently used words and phrases. These are my three favorite uses for Google Translate.

Download it here

FlightAware

Keep track of your flights and setup alerts. FlightAware will notify you as soon as there is a change with your air arrangements. Once it even alerted me that my flight was cancelled before the airline made the announcement over the intercom. Guess who was first in line to pick a new flight?

Download it here


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Matt Wahlgren
ADVISOR / aGENCY OWNER
I work with both new and experienced travelers in order to provide them with an unforgettable experience
learn more
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Three Unique Experiences

4/2/2025

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Here are a few of some of the most popular experiences travelers are booking this year.
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​Jacobite Steam Train & Scottish Highlands

All aboard the real-life Hogwarts Express! Ride the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, and journey deep into the Scottish Highlands.

A must for Harry Potter fans and adventure seeker alike.
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Japanese Garden Walking Tour with Tea and Sweets

Scroll through the scenic Hamarikyu Gardens, learn the art of Japanese garden design, and experience a traditional tea ceremony with matcha and sweets.
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Classic Waltz Workshop at The Waltz School

Step into the elegance of Vienna's ballroom tradition with a workshop led by international pros in a private hall.

No experience needed, just a love for music and movement!
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When to Villa? Here Are Three Great Ideas!

3/24/2025

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​Private villas offer the ideal getaway for large groups. With a Matt Travel experience, your guests will create memories together - without sacrificing privacy. They might reconnect with the family by the pool, dine on a gourmet, chef-prepared meal, or relax & rejuvenate in the comfort of their private suite or cottage.

Discover some examples of our most-popular large group travel occasions, and some of our favorite villas to match. Contact a Matt Travel and start exploring today.
Find Your Villa

Your Celebration: The Villa Way

Multigenerational Family Travel
Large family travel is on the rise, and with a variety of ages and abilities, each guest may have specific requirements. With a private villa experience, we'll cater to everyone - from travelers who need accessibility options to young children that may need nanny services, connected bedrooms, cribs, and more.

You'll make memories to last a lifetime in a way that meets everyone's comfort level.​
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Orfea Estate, Italy
Up to 14 Bedrooms | Up to 28 Guests
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​Daybreak Lodge at Bachelor Gulch, Colorado
Up to 8 Bedrooms | Up to 23 Guests
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​Weddings
​​From grand weddings in Europe to intimate beachfront ceremonies in the Caribbean, you will celebrate your special day with those closest to you - and no one else. Our team can make arrangements with local wedding planners and handle all the details - leaving your guests to simply enjoy the day with their loved ones.
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​Hacienda Jaguar, Riviera Maya
Up to 12 Bedrooms | Up to 26 Guests
Can be booked alongside sister villas Hacienda Magica, Hacienda Corazon, Hacienda del Mar to accommodate 150-200 guests.
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​Mes Amis, St. Martin
Up to 13 Bedrooms | Up to 28 Guests​
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Groups of Families or Friends
For families or friend groups looking to travel together, space is of the utmost importance. The right villa provides multiple master suites, separate wings, and even neighboring villas that can be rented together to accommodate large groups. You might snorkel off the beach, ski right out the door, or simply relax around the firepit or game room.
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Sandy Bottom, Turks & Caicos
Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests
Can be booked with nearby Sandy Shore Villa
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Canoe House at Champion Ridge, Hawaii
Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests
Can be booked with nearby Beach Walker at Champion Ridge
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Your Complimentary Luxury Travel Magazine from Matt Travel

3/18/2025

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Special Offers on Luxurious Cruises, Resorts and More

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THE DEFINITION OF LUXURY
In your complimentary digital issue of Luxury Travel magazine, you’ll discover a handpicked collection of luxury escapes where every detail reflects your personal tastes, and each day unfolds with curated discoveries designed just for you. Booking with Matt Travel ensures unparalleled value and exclusive benefits. With years of expertise and insider knowledge, we craft bespoke itineraries enhanced with exclusive perks, such as room upgrades, spa credits, private tours and VIP event access. We handle every detail, so you can immerse yourself in the experience.
VIEW MAGAZINE
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Matt Travel Will Pay for Your Passport

3/12/2025

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Matt in Korcula, Croatia
Europe is one of my favorite international travel destinations. Some of my all-time favorite cities to visit are Rome, Valencia, and Dubrovnik. But the best thing about traveling to Europe is being able to explore the smaller, picturesque towns all over the continent such as San Gimignano, Alicante, and Korčula . 
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I wish more people took the time to travel internationally. Did you know that only 51 percent of Americans have a passport? Surprising, right?  When I discovered that barely half of Americans have passports, I knew I needed to do something to change that. 

If you book an international travel package with Matt Travel for at least 7 nights, we'll pay your passport fees!

​Already have a passport? We'll pay for your Global Entry, which includes TSA pre-check! This means you'll be able to get through TSA and customs lines in the U.S. faster. Traveling made easy!

Let Matt Travel help you plan an unforgettable international travel experience sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact us today for more details on how to get your passport or Global Entry for free! Don’t be shy, We’re here to help!
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Matt Wahlgren
ADVISOR / aGENCY OWNER
I work with both new and experienced travelers in order to provide them with an unforgettable experience
learn more
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Family in Ireland

3/7/2025

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Two years ago I had the privilege of traveling to Ireland with my Husband, Daughter, and some of my Husband’s family. My Husband’s last name Shanahan is very obviously Irish so this was a special trip that allowed some of his family to reconnect with their family roots. While Robert, Harper, and I opted for a more 3-year-old-friendly Itinerary in Dublin, some of my in-laws explored the natural beauty and history of the southern and western coasts of Ireland. They traced their original Shanahan ancestry from Dublin to Galway.  

Ireland is definitely on our list to return and explore outside of Dublin once Harper is older. We had a wonderful time exploring the more common Dublin spots that are kid-friendly while the rest of our family delved into more cultural and historical sites. Being able to travel in a group and have everyone meet their travel preferences was critical for this trip since we had very different goals. 

We love to integrate our client's interests into their custom trips. Whether you are tracing your Irish heritage, traveling with kids or you are a Game of Thorns Fan, we can customize your trip to fit your interests and preferences. Ireland offers so much for so many different types of travel. 

Unsure of your travel style? Check out Matt’s travel vibes and let us know what kind of trip you are looking for! 

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