Introducing the 2024 Villas & Suites Collection, thoughtfully curated by Classic Vacations to deliver the pinnacle of luxury travel. This exclusive collection enhances your vacation experience, whether you seek the spacious seclusion of a villa or the refined elegance of a suite. Each property is designed to provide unparalleled comfort and style, setting the stage for an extraordinary getaway.

​Villas offer a private retreat with expansive living areas, full kitchens, and often a dedicated staff, making them ideal for families or groups who value space and privacy. In contrast, suites present a more intimate ambiance with luxurious amenities and sophisticated style, perfect for couples or smaller parties. Explore the beauty and allure of destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and beyond, and embark on an unforgettable journey with Classic Vacations.

Each suite is crafted to offer a luxurious and intimate retreat, combining sophisticated design with the finest amenities. Whether you’re savoring the serene beauty of the Maldives, soaking up Costa Rica’s lush landscapes, enjoying the vibrant energy of Mexico, relaxing amidst Hawaii’s stunning vistas, or embracing the Caribbean’s coastal charm, these suites provide an elegant haven tailored for comfort and style.

​Click on each destination below to see the best offers available.

​Offers are subject to availability at time of booking and may be changed or discontinued at any time without notice. No cash refunds for unused services and inclusions. Blackout dates, minimum night stays, resort fees (if any), and other restrictions may apply. Offers not valid for Group Travel. Booking and travel dates vary by hotel.

Travel Advisor, Agency Owner, and Avid Traveler...

Dear fellow traveler,

A distinctive meal — be it simple or refined — can quickly shoot to the top of our “best” lists and become what we’ll refer to ever-after as a highlight of the trip. Memorable dining experiences often encapsulate everything that drew us to a location. The convergence of authentic flavors, an extraordinary setting and a particular atmosphere deliver the true essence of place. Savoring magical moments around a table with cherished friends and family is what we wish for each of our clients.

In this issue, we celebrate the pursuit of epicurean perfection from the shores of Northern Ireland to the bayous of Louisiana. Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast invites visitors to experience the salty bounty of the day’s catch in cozy pubs animated with heartfelt Irish hospitality. Embark on a multi-day culinary and cultural tour of New Orleans with Amy Mutscher where you’ll hear of innovative tasting menus and beloved dishes that draw visitors to the Big Easy year after year. Chef Masaharu Morimoto, best known as the Food Network star of Iron Chef America, describes his collaboration with Holland America Line to helm their port-to-plate program as Fresh Fish Ambassador.

We hope the stories, images and essentials contained in this issue inspire you to craft a culinary journey of your own.

Happy travels!

How to spend the perfect three-day weekend in New Orleans

​Rum, reefs & rainforest: the new Sandals resort in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Circumnavigate the island nation of Japan on an 11-day sailing

Savor the cuisine of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast

​Our guide to Athens, Greece, and its 3,000-year history

Have you ever dreamed of renting a private villa with your family and friends? Rates start at what you'd expect for a nice resort, but with the added luxury and exclusivity that only a villa can offer. Plus, you won't have to worry about sudden cancellations—a common concern with typical vacation rental services.

There's a villa out there that matches your style and desires, and we are here to help you find it. Imagine a place where some villas come fully staffed with a maid, personal chef, butler, and driver—all ready to make your stay unforgettable. 

​Explore these unique villas with us below​​​​...

​Ready to find your dream villa? Let's make it happen!

If you know me, I'm the foodie. In fact, that's how Jason and I initially bonded. Many years ago, I texted him, asking what he was doing. He said nothing and that he'd probably just stay home. I told him there was this frozen custard place near his house I'd been wanting to try. He immediately replied, "I'm ready. Come pick me up!" We've been enjoying meals together ever since. Some of the best one's home cooked by him.

Even as a child, I loved food. One day when I was little, I noticed my mom hadn't cooked breakfast. When I ask why, she said we'd be going out for brunch instead. I didn't know what that was, but she said instead of eating breakfast and lunch, you just get one meal called brunch. I was pissed. I felt like I was being cheated. It turns out my uncle Willie was treating the whole family to a huge brunch buffet for Mother's Day. All we could eat. Ever since then, I've loved brunch. And who says you can't have breakfast, brunch, lunch, linner, dinner, supper, and a late-night snack too?

From street food to fancy food, I love it all. It's a main focus when I travel. At Matt Travel, we understand that everyone's preferences and reason for traveling are different. So before making recommendations, we ask a lot of questions to get to know you better and help us understand what your desired trip looks like.

Take a look at this list of travel vibes we've defined and let us know which one fit you best. You can match more than one. I'm also the Explorer and the Relaxer and the Partier. =)

Let's be real—being comfortable on a flight can seem almost impossible. For me, it's not just about the cramped seats and lack of legroom, though those definitely don't help! I've got a pretty intense fear of flying, and as if that wasn't enough, my usual travel buddy is my three-year-old who acts like they're thirty. Fun times, right?

But hey, I love to travel. Seriously. As a travel advisor, it's basically in my blood. And since flying is part of the deal, I've had to figure out some tricks to manage my fears and make the whole experience as comfortable as possible. Trust me, it's been a journey—and not always a smooth one!

Here are a few of my go-to tips to survive, and dare I say, even enjoy a flight:

Tip 1: CBD Oil for Anxiety
One word: CBD. Whether it's prescribed meds or over-the-counter natural options, having something to tame my anxiety is a game-changer. I keep my CBD oil in my carry-on to use as needed. Just a heads-up, though—CBD oil isn't allowed in all destinations, so do your homework beforehand. When I can't bring it, I opt for ashwagandha and magnesium for similar calming effects.

Tip 2: Box Breathing to Calm Down
Box breathing is my tried-and-true technique for those inevitable waves of anxiety that hit—whether it's on the way to the airport, right before boarding, during takeoff, or mid-turbulence. Here's how it works:

• Breathe in, slowly counting to four. Feel your lungs fill with air.
• Hold your breath for four seconds. Seriously, try not to inhale or exhale.
• Slowly exhale through your mouth for four seconds.
• Repeat until you feel re-centered.

It's kind of magical, honestly.

Tip 3: Distractions—a Few of Your Favorite Things
Home comforts can work miracles when you're thousands of feet in the air. I make sure to pack a good book and several hours of classical music to drown out the airplane noises. Wearing my comfiest clothes also helps. The goal is to feel as close to being at home as possible.

Of course, these are just the tricks that work for me. Everyone's different, so you might need to experiment to find what helps you best. There are plenty of online resources and apps designed to combat flight anxiety, so do a bit of research and prep before takeoff!

Safe travels, and remember: the journey is just as important as the destination.

​

Poets and greeting card manufacturers claim that the international language is love, but travelers know better. For anyone who has spent a good deal of time in a foreign destination, surrounded by people they cannot understand, the international language is effort — as in making the effort to communicate slowly, thoughtfully and with the intent of being understood. Here are some helpful tips to get your message across in any situation.

English 101
English comprehension is growing around the world, creating more students of the language. As students, their grasp of English is tenuous at best, so speak slowly and clearly, annunciating each word as if you’re speaking to someone reading your lips. Just like you cannot understand a Spanish film even though you took two semesters of Español in high school, international English students may not be able to understand you because you’re talking too fast.

App Up
Download and test a few translator apps to your phone before you go. Be sure to practice with the app so that you can smoothly and quickly use it when someone is waiting for the translation.

Choose Your Words Wisely
Use simple, straightforward English phrases without slang (“Where can I chow down on some grub?”), colloquialisms (“Y’all know where the bathrooms are?”) or idioms (“I’m looking for a place to drown my sorrows.”).

Word Economy
There’s no need to communicate a complex message or mangle a foreign phrase when one word will suffice. “Toilet?” works better than “Excuse me, sir, but where is the toilet?” And “Photo?” will do instead of “Can you please take our picture next to this cathedral?”

Keep Moving 
Language is only one small part of communication. Don’t forget that facial expressions and gestures work just as well, especially when exaggerated. Rub your belly if you’re hungry or mimic drinking with your pinky extended if you’d like a cup of tea.

Make it One Big Game of Pictionary
For those with artistic talent, keep a pad and pencil on you at all times and draw whatever it is you want. A picture of an airplane will tell the taxi driver where to go, while a stick figure with a stethoscope shows you’re looking for a doctor.

The Most Important Phrase
​While it’s extremely helpful to learn basic phrases in the local language before your trip, the most important phrase to learn is “thank you.” Even if you failed to get the answer you were looking for, you should thank the person for their effort. 

Traveling is exciting, offering new experiences and unforgettable memories. However, there’s nothing worse than starting or ending a fun vacation dealing with sickness, especially when it comes to our kids. As a parent and seasoned traveler, my top priority is to make air travel as smooth as possible while ensuring my family remains healthy throughout the journey. Over the years, I've developed a few key strategies, and I'm excited to share them with you.

Boost Immune Systems Before Departure
Preparing our immune systems for travel begins days before our departure. Here’s a closer look at what we do:

• Elderberry Supplements: Elderberry is renowned for its antiviral properties and is a staple in our pre-travel regimen. It helps to ward off common colds and flu, giving us an added layer of protection.
• Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps boost the immune system, reducing the risk of getting sick. We ensure we're getting enough Vitamin C through supplements or vitamin-rich foods like oranges and bell peppers.
• Vitamin D: As an essential vitamin for immune function, Vitamin D helps us fend off infections. It’s particularly important during the winter months when sunlight exposure is limited.
• Zinc: Zinc supports various aspects of immune health. We take zinc supplements or incorporate zinc-rich foods like nuts and seeds into our diet.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial. We drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and keep our bodies functioning optimally.

Travel Essentials for Health
Packing smart is key to staying healthy on the go. Here are a few essentials we never leave behind:

Fiber & Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. They play a crucial role in maintaining our body’s balance and performance. Here’s why they’re indispensable:

• Strengthening Immunity: Electrolytes help maintain our immune function, making it easier to fight off germs we might encounter during travel.
• Promoting Quality Sleep: Air travel can disrupt your sleep patterns. Electrolytes help regulate our body’s natural rhythms, ensuring we get restful sleep.
• Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Traveling can be stressful. Electrolytes help manage stress levels and keep anxiety at bay.

Digestive health often takes a hit when traveling due to changes in routine and diet. Fiber is great at keeping our digestion moving smoothly - Here’s why:

• Maintaining Regularity: Fiber helps prevent constipation, which can be common during travel. Including fiber-rich foods or supplements ensures our digestive system stays on track.
• Feeling Full: Fiber helps us feel full longer, making it easier to refrain from unhealthy snacks.
  
  

To-go packets are an incredibly convenient way to stay healthy while traveling. 

• Electrolyte Packets are perfect for replenishing our body’s minerals and can easily be mixed with water. They’re particularly helpful during long flights.
• Fiber Packets are a quick and easy way to add fiber to our diet, these packets are perfect for on-the-go digestion support.
  
  

Additional Tips for Healthier Air Travel

• Sanitize: Carry hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces such as tray tables and armrests.
• Healthy Snacks: Pack nutritious snacks like nuts, fruit, and granola bars to avoid reaching for unhealthy airplane food.
• Comfort Essentials: Bring neck pillows, blankets, and sleep masks to ensure comfort and continuous rest.
• Stretch and Move: During long flights, take breaks to stretch and walk around. This helps maintain circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots.

By taking these advanced steps, we can enjoy our vacation with peace of mind knowing we've done all we can to stay healthy. Remember, a healthy trip is a happy trip! If you have any tips or tricks you use to stay healthy while traveling, we’d love to hear them in the comments. Here’s to safe and healthy travels for you and your family!

A river cruise ship is essentially a moving luxury hotel. This concise guide provides a great introduction to River Cruising the European waterways. As as certified agent with the major river cruise companies, reach out to me with any of your questions including river cruise options in the US, Asia, Africa, and South America. ​

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? I recently took a 17-hour flight (regular economy) 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 faves.
• ​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.
• Travel Docs: Have all your travel documents handy on your phone, just in case.
• 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.

• 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.
  ​

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?