Recently, a simple train ride turned into a costly ordeal for one of our guests when a clever thief swiped his backpack, along with his passport, iPad, and camera gear. This incident highlights that theft can strike anywhere, even in the midst of an idyllic French river cruise.

To help travelers protect themselves and respond effectively if their belongings are stolen, we've compiled a guide with practical tips:

Pre-travel Preparations: Share and carry copies of your passport, and ensure your travel insurance covers theft-related disruptions.

Onboard Security: Use tracking devices like Apple AirTags, secure bags with a strap, and always keep your luggage within sight.

They said, 'Fill Your Heart with Ireland,' and oh, how we did! Our tale began on a whimsical press trip in 2021, during a time when the world was quiet, and Ireland's call was loud and clear. 🌿🚗 Wrong side of the road, sheep traffic jams, and fields of emerald—straight out of a storybook, this land whispered promises of magic.

Fast forward through countless tales and a leap of faith into a sea of possibilities. We stumbled upon a cluster of cottages, whispering for love and care, nestled in the heart of Ireland's enchanting landscapes. Run-down but radiant with potential, they called to us. And just like that, with hearts and hands full of dreams, we took the plunge. 🏡❤️

In recent years, the allure of immersive travel experiences has soared, capturing the imaginations of those yearning for more than just a typical holiday. This surge in popularity reflects a growing desire among travellers to dive deeper into their personal passions, connecting on a profound level with the destinations they visit. Immersive trips offer more than a glimpse into different cultures and landscapes; they provide a pathway to live out one's hobbies and interests in stunningly unique settings, creating memories that resonate long after the journey ends.

Embarking on a 21-day journey across five enchanting countries was not merely a trip; it was a profound voyage back to a city brimming with nostalgia and awaiting new adventures. Hong Kong, a city that pulsates with life, welcomed me back into its vibrant embrace. From the moment I stepped off the plane, the vivid colours and dynamic energy of the city wrapped around me, reminding me of the captivating allure that had seized my heart years ago. Hong Kong: A City That Never Sleeps

Hong Kong stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a city that never sleeps. The streets are alive, a dazzling kaleidoscope of neon lights dancing across the skyline, and markets overflowing with a vibrant array of goods. Each corner turned unveils new discoveries, from ingeniously transformed spaces hosting art installations to pop-up markets that beckon with curiosity and wonder.

As the Epicurious traveller, I am the embodiment of a globetrotting food enthusiast. For me, being a traveling foodie means that my journey is as much about savoring the world's flavours as it is about exploring new destinations. I find joy in discovering culinary gems beyond traditional restaurants—whether it's navigating vibrant artisan markets, engaging in cooking demonstrations, or visiting farms to meet the artisans behind the delicacies.

Embarking on the exhilarating journey of global exploration is an experience like no other, yet recent reports of a bedbug epidemic sweeping through the enchanting city of Paris have cast a shadow over the wanderlust-filled escapades. As someone intimately acquainted with the myriad intricacies of traversing the globe, I've meticulously curated a comprehensive set of detailed tips to empower fellow travelers in navigating the world while strategically steering clear of the tenacious bedbug menace.

Today is Black Friday and arguably the biggest day to save money on just about everything and this includes travel.

This is the time I wait for each year to book what I think I might need for the coming months at the best prices.

Savings can be up to 60% off in some cases and worth trying to lock in some deals even if you find you may have to change dates later.

Where to buy?

I always suggest buying any travel through your travel agent more than buying online.

If you don’t have a travel agent and you insist on "flying solo" then I highly recommend you book directly with the airline. Here is why.

Today the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada, effective October 1, 2022.

Here is what you need to know..

‘We knew what we were getting into:’ Niagara travel expert on life quarantined aboard a ship

It wasn’t the dream cruise Lorraine Simpson planned for.

She spent 11 days on a ship, but instead of enjoying a cruise through the Caribbean, Simpson was holed up in a cabin on a three-masted ‘quarantine’ ship, docked on the island of Saint Martin.

Well, as I mentioned yesterday, even though I am vaccinated and boosted and mask wearing etc I tested positive on check in for my cruise.

A huge problem for the cruise and for us. Especially at this time of year.

So what happened next?

Fully Vaccinated, boosted, tested negative and off we went on a cruise only to test positive at check in! Now I must spend the week in quarantine. asymptomatic. Feeling fine and really sad to miss my New Years cruise. How was it handled, what you need to know and what happened next! #shipcovid #quarantineonship #cruisingcovid #cruiseindustry

As we look to our future of a greener earth travel is a difficult one to call green here are some ways we can still be eco conscious when we think about travel..

We don’t automatically think eco friendly when we think overseas travel but there are ways we can be more eco aware shall we say..

The future of travel will be all about vaccinations.

International travel is ready for take-off and you can certainly be in the front of the line if you are fully vaccinated.

Many countries are making travel easier for people who have been double vaccinated and welcoming you back with open arms.

So, where can you go right now and what do you need to know before you fly?

When travel was grounded I decided to get creative to get people in through my door so I opened a coffee shop! My motto #Letsbrewthis

With the help of family we set about turning the Travel Agency store front into a fabulous Travel Themed Coffee bar.

Simpson has been nominated in the Category of Innovation Award.
“I am truly humbled and elated to be nominated for an RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award,” says Simpson. “This year has sure been a challenge, but it has been totally rewarding – an uphill battle, but yet an opportunity to take a look at what I was doing and once again think differently, which I am good at.”

Like many people in the travel industry during the pandemic, Lorraine Simpson has had to change direction a bit. A well-known travel agent in the Niagara region for many years, Simpson is also a guest speaker and regular travel expert for Citytv’s CityLine and was recently nominated for a 2021 RBC’s Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award.

Though her engagements keep her busy, there are still bills to be paid – Simpson says her last travel booking was last February, so it was time to reengage her entrepreneurial side.

If you board an international flight with Air Canada in January 2021, then chances are likely that Lorraine Simpson played a big part in you booking the ticket.

You see, ever since COVID-19 shut down most of the world, the popular travel expert and travel personality has been working tirelessly on behalf of travel industry and she’s the big reason why consumers have more confidence to book trips again, according to scores of media outlets.

Where can you find a blue elephant in Thailand? How did an elephant make history in St. Thomas, Ontario? And what do you do with an orphaned albino elephant in South Africa?

So, as you know, I just launched my new TV show, “What’s on Your Post-Pandemic Bucket List?” in late September, and now Episode 2 is out and it’s already getting rave great reviews from audiences around the world.

The good news, as you will see in my new episode, is that you can start travelling now and a large number of tropical destinations have all the right guidelines in place for tourists on the COVID-19 testing, insurance, and safety fronts.

It was great to meet with Dr. Jim Chung today live on LinkedIn on my series Lorraine Linkin up. We discussed safety on planes, testing and the need to replace quarantine with safe testing and the results of some latest studies.