The Grey Bruce Explorer Virtual Reality

I was looking for interesting pictures in the cottage country of Grey County in southwestern Ontario....

 Owen Sound Marina

 Jones Falls

Owen Sound Harbour

...and I found this awesome website.

This agency, Augmented Marketing, has gone to businesses in the area and done a 360 degree virtual tour of their establishments, which is really cool. 

If you are ever in this neighbourhood and want to check out the businesses in the area then you must go to their website ' greybruceexplorer.ca '.

I was amazed at how easy it was to check out retail stores, restaurants, fitness gyms.. heck, even the beaches and tons of waterfalls in the area.

If you haven't experienced 360 virtual reality yet you need to see it for yourself!

Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)
The Travel Agent Next Door
http://ladyvacay.com
Contact me at
kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com
call or text me at 519-374-4359 or
at 416.367.8263 ext 2712

Destination Weddings with The Travel Agent Next Door

Destination Weddings

More and more, Destination Weddings are becoming popular with couples today.  This sort of 'eloping with a crowd' kind of wedding appeals to those that want to get married, want to share the big day with friends and family, but don't want the traditional wedding that comes with lots of headaches.

10 Top Reasons to have a Destination Wedding:Budget, budget, budget

Destination weddings can be far less expensive for couples than a traditional wedding at home.Planning the wedding

Because everything is at one place, you decide what you want your wedding to look like and the destination wedding coordinator takes care of all the work. From the wedding decorations and flowers right to the "I dos", it's all done for you.Location, location, location

Whether you decide on lush tropical gardens, barefoot on a white sandy beach or a wedding gazebo overlooking the 

most vibrant coloured waters, these are just a few of the choices you will find at your destination resort.Your Wedding in one place

From the walk down the aisle to the last dance, everything can be found at your destination wedding resort.  

No fighting traffic on the way to church, travelling to have your pictures taken, and then back in the car to the reception.Quality of time

With a traditional at home wedding you barely have time to speak with your family and friends through this very busy day.  Destination weddings allow you to spend quality time with those who have come to share your wedding with you.Vacation time

Everyone gets to relax and enjoy a vacation as well as being a part of your wedding day.  Everyone is more at ease and can enjoy themselves more easily.The guest list

No feeling like you have to invite Aunt Milly because you invited Aunt Audrey.
Only those that are truly dear to you will make the effort to enjoy your wedding and spend time with you.  

Smaller guest list, but usually the best of the bunch.Hubby likes it too

The soon to be groom would much rather organize a game of golf or deep sea fishing with his buddies during your stay 

at destination than picking out the wedding table center pieces.the Honeymoon

The honeymoon begins immediately after the ceremony. No early morning planes to catch, no time wasted travelling and the big one – no additional costs!The Destination Wedding Specialist

Finding the right travel agent who specializes in destination weddings can be tricky.  

I am accredited with the Destination Wedding training, and I have helped many bride and grooms 

with their destination weddings.

Both of our children had Destination Weddings; one was married in the Dominican Republic; the other was married in Cuba.

From our own children's experiences I have to wonder 

why everyone doesn't have a Destination Wedding!

Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)

The Travel Agent Next Door

http://ladyvacay.com

kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com

Contact me at 519.374.4359

or 416.367.8263 ext 2712

Jamaica with The Travel Agent Next Door

Jamaica

If you're looking for a stunning beach, great people and relaxation then Ocho Rios is for you.  

For those looking stunning beaches with more adventure Montego Bay and Runaway Bay are likely more up your alley.  

And if you want luxury with stunning beaches then Negril is where you want to stay.

Language is Jamaican English and Creole

​Currency is Jamaican Dollar

Between the beautiful beaches, the excellent resorts, and the abundance of things to do, there is something for everyone in Jamaica Mon!



Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)
The Travel Agent Next Door
http://ladyvacay.com
kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com
Contact me at 519.374.4359
or at 416.367.8263 ext 2712​ 

Dominican Republic with The Travel Agent Next Door

Dominican Republic

Punta Cana has the best beaches and some of the more luxury resorts.  The closest small village is Higuey.

La Romana has beaches equal to Punta Cana, with more to do outside the resorts. 

Santo Domingo has nice beaches but the sand is not as white as in Punta Cana or La Romana.  The history of the DR is definitely found in the Santo Domingo area, with a Wendys or McDonalds thrown in. 

Puerto Plata has nice beaches but the sand in more of a golden colour and you are on the Atlantic Ocean so the water is a bit more rough.  Shopping is the venue in Puerta Plata, with many large open flea markets.  Or maybe you'd prefer a little zip-ling at the Monkey Jungle and Zip Line Adventures.

Language is predominantly Spanish.

Currency is the Dominican Republic Peso.  
US dollars are widely used in the Punta Cana areas. 

If you are looking for luxury and or white sand beaches you need to go to the Punta Cana areas.  For more things to do outside of the resort you need to go to the Puerta Plata areas.

There are great resorts in each area.

Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)
The Travel Agent Next Door
http://ladyvacay.com
kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com
Contact me at 519.374.4359
or at 416.367.8263 ext 2712

Mexico with The Travel Agent Next Door

Mexico

Mexico has some wonderful beaches and for most North American's the food is excellent.​

​There are a lot of great places to visit in Mexico, some with a North American feel, others more of a Caribbean feel.  

Make sure you know which is which.  I get a lot of feedback where clients have booked Mexico only to be disappointed that there was a Wal-Mart down the street and the area didn't feel like the Caribbean.

​Language is predominantly Spanish

​Currency is Mexican Peso

There are some great resorts in Mexico.  Whether in the Cancun area, the Mayan Riviera area, or the areas in between, the beaches are some of the best anywhere.


Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)
The Travel Agent Next Door
http://ladyvacay.com
kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com
Contact me at 519-374-4359

or at 416.367.8263 ext 2712

Cuba with The Travel Agent Next Door

Cuba

Cuba has tons of history, beautiful beaches and great people. 

However, no one ever goes to Cuba for the food.  

Remembering that Cuba is a dictating country, the people of Cuba eat relatively simple, with chicken, rice and beans as their main meal, little spices are used and to a North American the food tastes bland.  

No problem tho, just bring some of your favourite spices with you and you're all set.  

​Language is predominantly Spanish

​Currency is Cuban Convertible Peso

There are some great resorts in Cuba.  The beaches are gorgeous and there is an abundance of culture to be found.


Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)
The Travel Agent Next Door
http://ladyvacay.com
kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com
Contact me at 519-374-4359
or at 416.367.8263 ext 2712

Travel Tools and News

Travel News and Tools

Let's face it, we all want to know what other people think about travel destinations, we want to know the weather at destination, and how far our money will go once we get there, and Travel Advisories are becoming the norm.  

Now you don't have to search for this information, it's all right here for you!

​Click on the links below to access the information you're looking for...

Canadian Customs                                                            ​Canadian Passport Offices

Currency Converter                                               Carry-on Luggage

Children and Travel                                                           Debbie's Caribbean Resort  Reviews

Flight Tracker                                                                       Health and Travel

Insurance and Travel                                                        Travel Check List​

Travel Advisory Board                                                      Trip Advisor - Resort / Hotel Reviews

Weather Network                                                                World Time Server

World Maps 

If you are still having trouble finding the answer to your questions, I suggest you ask your travel agent for advice.

But of course, if you booked your travel vacation online, other than with 

The Travel Agent Next Door, with an automated system and no travel agent to be 

there for you, well, I'm afraid you're on your own.

Did you know that the tour operators set the prices charged, and travel agents, online or otherwise, cannot change the price?

So why wouldn't you use the services of an experienced travel agent 

to make sure you get the vacation you are dreaming of?

At The Travel Agent Next Door you can book your next vacation online 

and know that I will be there for you!

Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)

The Travel Agent Next Door

http://ladyvacay.com

kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com

519.374.4359

or 416.367.8263 ext 2712

Travel Insurance and Why You Need to Consider It

Travel Insurance 

Questions and Answers

No one likes to spend more money when travelling but here are some good reasons 

why you should always have travel insurance....​

Q: Why do I need travel insurance? If I get sick when I'm travelling, won't our government health plan pay for my medical expenses?

A: Provincial health insurance plans provide only limited coverage for medical treatment and hospital costs outside of Canada. If you are injured or become ill while out of the country, the government plans pay only a portion of your medical bills. You might have to pay substantial medical bills out of your own pocket that could amount to thousands of dollars. That is why it`s highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance.

Q: Will travel insurance pay my expenses if I am away on a trip and am called home by an emergency?

A: Some travel insurance products protect you for these situations. If you purchase "Cancellation and Interruption" insurance, it will help pay your expenses to return home. There are a number of circumstances that qualify as an emergency (for example the death or serious illness of a family member). The cost of cancelling a trip prior to departure can be very expensive, as most trips are non-refundable, especially if you have to cancel just before leaving on your trip. Having to return early from a trip can also be very expensive. Either way, Cancellation & Interruption is very important to protect the financial investment you make in a trip.

Q: I'm only going to the United States for a few days. Do I really need travel insurance?

A: Yes, you do need travel insurance to protect you against the unexpected, even if you are going to the United States for a few days. An illness or accident can happen at any time, whether you're on the road for a few days, or a few months. And remember the cost of health care is very expensive in the United States and very little of this cost would be covered by your government health insurance plan. For a short trip, the cost of travel insurance is minimal, and it gives you peace of mind.

Q: I am over age 65 and I have a few health problems. Is it still possible for me to purchase travel insurance?

A: Unless your health problems are severe, you should be able to purchase travel insurance. You may pay a slightly higher premium for travel insurance, depending on your age and health problems. Your premiums and coverage will be determined according to your answers to medical questions. You may not be covered for pre-existing health conditions you have prior to your departure on your trip.

Q: When should I purchase my travel insurance?
A: You must purchase your Cancellation & Interruption travel insurance when you book your trip. You can purchase any other coverage before you leave on your trip. Remember to purchase insurance for your entire trip, which includes the day you leave and the day you return.

Q: My child is travelling with me. Do I need to buy separate coverage for her?
A: If your child is under two years old and you are purchasing any package other than the Non-Medical Package, your child receives emergency medical coverage at no extra cost. If your child is aged two or older, you'll need to purchase emergency medical coverage for your child. Also, if you have purchased a ticket for your child, keep in mind that you may need to buy extra coverage to protect you in the event of cancellation or interruption of your trip. You can purchase emergency medical family coverage. This means your children are insured when they travel with you, or join you during your trip. Your natural and adopted children and stepchildren can all be included in family coverage.

Q: Do I really need to read my travel insurance policy?
A: As with any insurance, some of those terms may limit the benefits payable to you, so it's in your best interest to be familiar with the policy. Also, please remember to take the policy with you on your trip so you can refer to it if necessary.

Q: Why do I need medical travel insurance when I travel abroad?
A:Health insurance plans provided by the governments of the Canadian provinces and territories pay only a fraction of the emergency medical expenses that its residents incur while they are travelling abroad. Travel insurance will protect you in case of a medical emergency, so you'll be able to travel with peace of mind.

Q: Do I need medical travel insurance when I travel within Canada?
A:Yes. There are several reasons why it's important to get medical travel insurance when you're travelling within Canada. One reason is that unfortunately, accidents can happen anywhere. Another is that Government health plans do have limits on the reimbursement of the emergency medical expenses incurred while you are in another province. For example, the ambulance, emergency dental treatment and prescription drugs might not be covered by some government health insurance plans.

Q: Why would I need Cancellation & Interruption insurance?
A:Emergencies happen when you least expect it. You could become sick, lose your job or a family member could have a medical emergency. Cancellation and Interruption insurance covers you for those circumstances and protects the financial investment you've made in your trip. It also protects you if you need to go back home because of an emergency such as a family member becoming seriously ill at home, while you are away.

Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)

The Travel Agent Next Door

http://ladyvacay.com

kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com

Contact me at 519.374.4359

or 416.367.8263 ext 2712

The Travel Agent Next Door - Kelley Brown Travel Consultant

Thanks for visiting Lady Vacay's Blog.

My name is Kelley Brown. I am a TICO certified travel agent with the The Travel Agent Next Door. I have been a travel agent for just over 10 years now and have helped many, many clients find their perfect destination. I am also a Destination Wedding Specialist and love helping groups, whether for a wedding, a family reunion, or just a bunch of friends wanting to get away together.

Making Dreams Come True One Trip at a Time!

I am a T.I.C.O. certified travel consultant

​T702118

I operate my home based business in Owen Sound which allows me greater flexibility to serve my clients better. I sleep from 11 pm to 9 am but other than that I am available to chat with you.

Call or Text me at 1.519.374.4359

or call me at 1.416.367.8263 ext 2712

or drop me an email to  kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com

or travelwithkelley@gmail.com

I am delighted to offer my services, where your all of your travel plans are taken care of with style, sensibility, and comfort in mind. We're a one-stop shop for your travel and exploration needs.

"Travel isn't a hobby, it's a way of life."

- Christina Columbo

The Travel Agent Next Door

55 York Street, Suite 803

Toronto, Ontario

M5J 1R7

1.416.367.8263

Kelley Brown with The Travel Agent Next Door

My name is Kelley Brown and I am "Lady Vacay".

With Over 10 Years Experience In The Travel 

Industry... 

​Why would you trust your wedding and or vacation plans to anyone else?​  Are you looking to book a Destination Wedding, a Family reunion, Romantic getaway or how about experiencing an All Inclusive resort in the Caribbean? 

I would love to help you plan your next vacation so you can just pack your bags and go!!

I am a travel consultant with The Travel Agent Next Door,  I have no quotas to meet and will treat every inquiry with the same quality and respect, whether it be an around the world cruise or a one-way flight on Westjet.  I value you as my client and hope that you will tell everyone you know about my service!! 

I want to be YOUR Travel Agent!!

A great Travel Agent is like a great hairdresser or mechanic.   There are some things that many of us will not compromise on and TRAVEL is absolutely one of those things.  As your travel agent, I will spend as much time as it takes to make sure that you get exactly what you want, at the price you want, with no surprises.  There are no hidden fees.  You will be told at the time of booking the costs involved with the vacation you are planning.  I continually educate myself by attending training seminars with travel suppliers, building strong relationships, so that together we can find the best fit for you.​

​​I do not just sell travel; I help my clients create special memories.

How much time do you spend searching for the perfect vacation?  

Why not save yourself the trouble and work with an experienced senior travel agent 

ready to offer knowledgeable advice on your next vacation.

Kelley Brown (aka Lady Vacay)
The Travel Agent Next Door
http://ladyvacay.com
kbrown@thetravelagentnextdoor.com
Contact me at 519-374-4359
or 416.367.8263 ext 2712