Travel Insider - September

As travel experts, we know more than just where to vacation - we also know how to vacation. Each month we’ll feature our travel favorites from several categories and a client that recently returned from a unforgettable vacation. Enjoy!

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Favorite Travel Item

Travel Toiletry Bag

I snagged this clever bag six months back, just before jetting off to the Caribbean. It's like a magician in my luggage – it swallows up all my necessities and even the "just in case" items with ease. And the real showstopper? It's a hanging champ, defying stingy hotel countertops by suspending itself on any hook or shower.

You can find it on Amazon here: Buy on Amazon.

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Travel Inspired Recipe

Hawaiian Cheesecake Salad

With the devastating fires in Maui, I have Hawaii on the brain and many fond memories of the fresh fruits this island is known for. Our hearts and prayers go out to the people in Maui. We can’t wait to return to Maui. Until then, enjoy the flavor of the Hawaiian islands through this recipe.

Ingredients

▢ 8 ounce package cream cheese

▢ 3.4 ounce package instant cheesecake pudding, unprepared

▢ 1 cup International Delight French Vanilla Creamer, liquid

▢ 1 pound strawberries sliced

▢ 4 mandarin oranges, peeled and sectioned

▢ 20 ounce can pineapple tidbits, drained

▢ 3 kiwi, peeled and cut

▢ 2 mangoes, cut into bite size chunks

▢ 1 banana, cut into coins

▢ juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

In a medium tall bowl using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until it becomes smooth. It may bind up in the beaters, but continue as is and it will loosen up. Add the dry pudding mix. Beat until well combined. If the mixture is too thick you can add a splash of the measured creamer to losen it up. With the mixer on low, slowly add the remaining creamer to the cream cheese mix. Add it about a tablespoon at a time and then mix until it becomes a smooth mixture and all of the creamer has combined into the cream cheese, repeat until all of the creamer has been added to the mixture. Whip until smooth. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, oranges, pineapple, kiwi and mango. Add the cheesecake mixture to the fruit. Gently fold cheesecake mixture into fruit. In a small bowl combine the banana coins and the lemon juice. Toss until well coated, drain the excess lemon juice. Gently fold the banana into the cheesecake salad. Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately.

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Hot Travel Destination

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Introducing the latest sensation gracing the Hawaiian islands: the exquisite 1 Hotel in Kauai.Experience the epitome of Hawaiian luxury. Nestled on a pristine beach overlooking Hanalei Bay, with majestic mountains as your backdrop, this haven offers a beachfront paradise and easy access to legendary surf breaks. Unwind in elegant pools, savor delectable dining, and explore charming nearby towns. Elevating itself beyond, 1 Hotel Kauai is a wellness sanctuary, boasting cutting-edge spa and fitness offerings, all anchored in sustainability. A fusion of opulence and well-being, this is the evolution of lifestyle hotels we've awaited. Embrace transformative luxury at 1 Hotel Kauai.

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Travel Tip

Apple AirTag

Has your luggage ever been lost on vacation? Or have you ever been waiting at baggage claim wondering when your luggage would arrive? The Apple AirTag is a must for travelers who use iPhone. Put one of these in each checked bag and you’ll have peace of mind knowing where your luggage is at all times. Buy on Amazon

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Featured Client

The Barton Family

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, reminding us of the value of each moment we have. The Barton family's story serves as a poignant reminder that we should all be living life to the fullest and cherishing every precious moment. Jen Barton (@vacationsbookedbyjen) is one of our trusted advisors with Vacations Booked and her family story deserves to be shared.

At the end of May, the Barton family chose Costa Rica as their destination to celebrating their son Jake's high school graduation. Little did they know that this vacation would become a source of immeasurable gratitude and inspiration just a month later.

On July 2nd, tragedy struck the Barton family when Jason (Jen’s husband) was involved in a terrible accident that left him with a fractured skull, temporal bone injuries and a severe traumatic brain injury. Their future suddenly seemed uncertain. After a month in ICU and rehab, Jason was able to come home.

He continues to regain strength with continued therapy and rehabilitation. When you ask him how he is doing, he smiles and says, “I’m alive”. We’re very thankful he is with us today. He has shown remarkable courage and his progress is evident in his improvements.

The Barton’s experience should be a reminder to all of us to cherish time spent with loved ones. Life is unpredictable and tomorrow is never promised.