There's a lot to remember before heading out on your next adventure. That's why I always use a checklist to remind myself of all the things I need to pack before I embark on my next trip. Keep reading to discover the three must-have items you need while traveling! Use this handy packing list to make sure you are prepared for all of your traveling needs! After all the packing is done and just before I head to the airport, I double-check to make sure I have these three things on me. Without these items, I may not even make it to my destination, or at a minimum, my traveling experience will be considerably more difficult. If all I have are these three things, I'll be able to get by and can always purchase anything else I need. #1. Don't forget your passport If you're traveling internationally, you won't even make it on the plane without your passport. Even if you somehow manage to slip through all the check points and make it to your destination, they’ll put you on the next flight home as soon as you land. I've seen it happen a number of times. The traveler who forgets their passport has to go back home to get it, no exceptions. Their travel plans are delayed, plus they incur stiff fees from the airline to re-book their airfare. Bonus Tip: Make sure your passport doesn't expire until six months after the date you return home, or they might not let you go abroad. #2. Don't forget your money/credit card I was pickpocketed while traveling once. They took my wallet with all my money and credit cards. They were so talented that I didn't even realize it until the next day! The worst part? I was only halfway through my month-long journey. I begged my parents to send money via Western Union at each new city I went to so I didn't have to come home early. Thankfully, they agreed, but it was quite the process. The time difference between us was about 10 hours, which made communication while traveling extremely difficult. I wasn't sure how much money I needed for the rest of the trip and typos in my name made it difficult to collect the cash. All-in-all, lesson learned: do not forget your money or credit cards while traveling! #3. Don't forget your phone With the world’s shift from paper to digital almost complete, your most important travel information is now on your phone. Plus, your family and friends expect to hear from you frequently while you travel to make sure you're alive and well. We've grown so dependent on our smart phones, it's hard to travel without them. To top it off, many of us no longer use a physical camera; it's now just an app on our phone. Can you imagine traveling to all these beautiful sites and not being able to take pictures of any of your food? Lame! Before you leave for your next trip, double-check to make sure you didn't forget your three most important travel items: your passport, money and phone. Matt Wahlgren ADVISOR / AGENCY OWNER I work with both new and experienced travelers in order to provide them with an unforgettable experience. Get answers to all your questions, along with expert guidance from Matt Travel Dear fellow traveler, Bright, carefree summer months are the ideal backdrop for travel plans. The ultimate summer luxury — time with family and friends — should be considered judiciously, and you might find just the right journey within these pages. There’s always a stretch of coast, seasonal dish or annual festival that beckons. In this summer issue of Postcards, we’re pleased to feature Pól Ó Conghaile, author of Secret Dublin and Travel Editor at the Irish Independent, who gives us his guidance for visiting the Irish capital. Rebecca Barnes traces an 11-night Crystal Cruises itinerary that departs Bali and heads north along the Makassar Strait before hopping between the Philippines’ emerald islands and ending in iconic Hong Kong. And the gastronomy of the Ionian Islands of Greece comes into focus thanks to Emily Brown, who shares her favorite seafood tavernas. Sand, sea and celebration: long dinners outdoors, building sandcastles and splashing in crystal-clear waters are the things of family lore, and our agency is here to help you make the most of it. Backed by our specialized resources, we can turn your travel dreams into reality. All you’ll need to do is switch to airplane mode and head into endless summer. Happy travels!
Nature calls!If you're craving crisp air, jaw-dropping scenery, and a front-row seat to some of the most majestic wildlife on earth, let me point you due north—Alaska is calling. From my first step off the plane, Alaska didn’t whisper adventure—it shouted it. Towering glaciers. Breaching humpbacks. Bald eagles soaring across endless sky. It’s no exaggeration to say this place feels epic in every way. But here's the beauty: whether you want to spend a full day winding through the wilderness by rail or just hop on a half-day whale watching cruise, Alaska’s tours make it easy to experience the magic on your own terms. Traveler Favorites: The Best of Wild Alaska![]() 3 Hour Whale Watch Set out on a 3-hour whale watching cruise and witness Alaska’s majestic marine life up close. Spot humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles, all against the stunning backdrop of glaciers and rugged coastline. Perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. ![]() White Pass Summit Rail & Bus Excursion Journey through history and breathtaking scenery on the White Pass Summit Rail and Bus Excursion. This guided adventure combines a ride on the historic narrow-gauge railway—with dramatic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains—with a scenic bus tour that follows the original Klondike Gold Rush trail. Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of Alaskan heritage and unforgettable landscapes. ![]() Icefield Glacier Walk + Helicopter Ride Shore Excursion Experience Alaska’s frozen frontier from the sky and the surface with the Icefield Glacier Walk + Helicopter Ride Shore Excursion. Soar over the stunning Juneau Icefields with an expert pilot, taking in sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and crevassed glaciers. Then, touch down for a guided walk on the glacier itself—an unforgettable adventure through blue ice and natural wonder. Best of all? These aren’t just sights to check off a list. They’re the kind of moments that linger long after you’ve returned home. Ready to go wild? My top pick Alaska tours are available to book instantly-- and if you need help crafting the perfect itinerary, I’m here to help. Let’s make Alaska happen. From boutique shopping districts to designer retreats, explore stylish destinations curated just for you—with exclusive perks along the way.At Matt Travel, we believe your getaway should be as stylish as you are. This season’s inspiration? Think bold couture, elegant retreats, and curated experiences that take you beyond the ordinary. With exclusive perks through our partners and hotel programs, your dream journey is just one click away. All Things Glam: Where Fashion Meets the GlobeSecure Special Rates, Perks and Amenities, Compliments of: Matt Travel An Italian word meaning “Over, Above and Beyond” ALL THINGS GLAM: TRAVELLING A LA MODE: HERE'S YOUR INBOX INSPIRATION TO TAVEL BEYOND.
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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.
- 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?
Celebrate the Holidays in Style with a Luxury Villa Escape
Whether you're escaping to the beach or chasing snow, Matt Travel has the perfect villa waiting for you.
Caribbean Escapes with Festive Availability
Dune House Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Up to 8 Bedrooms | Up to 16 Guests Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. | Rose of Sharon St. James, Barbados Up to 6 Bedrooms | Up to 12 Guests Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. |
Angelique Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Up to 6 Bedrooms | Up to 14 Guests Available during Christmas and New Year's Eve. | Alma Sint Maarten, St. Martin Up to 4 Bedrooms | Up to 8 Guests Available during Christmas and New Year's Eve. |
More Beachfront Escapes with Festive Availability
Hacienda Jaguar Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya Up to 12 Bedrooms | Up to 26 Guests Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. | 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. |
Retreats with Festive Availability For Snow Seekers
Mountain Bear Lodge Breckenridge, Colorado Up to 5 Bedrooms | Up to 13 Guests Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. | Chalet Kilian French Alps, France Up to 8 Bedrooms | Up to 17 Guests Available during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. |
Clients Just Returned From Antarctica –
Their Impressions in Their Own Words
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.
Here’s a glimpse into what they experienced — in their own words.
- 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.
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CASA KAILUA Pinilla, Guanacaste Personal service by the villa staff including daily housekeeping. |
PALAZZO DEL MAR El Tesoro, Guanacaste Personal service by the villa staff including a housekeeper. |
COCOON LUXURY ESTATE Tamarindo, Costa Rica Personal service by the villa staff including a housekeeper. |
CASA ALANG ALANG Tamarindo, Costa Rica Personal service by the villa staff including a housekeeper. |
CASA COLIBRI Uvita, Costa Rica Personal service by the villa staff including a gardener, housekeeper and pool maintenance. |
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
Jacobite Steam Train & Scottish HighlandsAll 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. |
Japanese Garden Walking Tour with Tea and SweetsScroll through the scenic Hamarikyu Gardens, learn the art of Japanese garden design, and experience a traditional tea ceremony with matcha and sweets. |
Classic Waltz Workshop at The Waltz SchoolStep 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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