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Yellow Bug Travels
February 2, 2026
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This month’s newsletter is here, and I’m sharing:
- why river cruising is one of the most effortless ways to see Europe
- an update on our upcoming Italy experience
- a first look at a Spring 2027 Ireland trip for those who love planning ahead
- and some helpful insight on when to book European adventures
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Fall in love
with
European Travel
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Why River Cruises Are the Most Romantic Way
to Experience Europe
There’s something special about seeing Europe from the river.
You unpack once, settle in, and wake up each morning in the heart of a new city — often steps away from cafés, historic streets, and quiet corners you’d never find on your own. River cruises allow for a slower, more intimate way to experience Europe, with smaller ships, immersive ports, and time to truly savor each destination.
For couples, friends, and even solo travelers, it’s one of the most effortless ways to explore Europe without feeling rushed — and one of the reasons I specialize so heavily in river cruising.
To explore upcoming European river cruise experiences, scroll down.
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Future Cruise Benefits
What are they?
An AmaWaterways Future Cruise Benefit (FCB) is a program where you pay $200 per person when you sail (refundable within 30 days) to secure a future sailing, receiving a 5% discount on the cruise fare, having the $200 act as your deposit, and gaining a low deposit.
As your advisor, I often purchase these for you when I sail with Amawaterways, saving you that $200 and still giving you the reduced deposit and the 5% off.
I currently have 9 available, and when I attend the River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam in March, I plan to purchase more! Just one of the benefits of booking with me!
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Greek SOLO cruise?
Yes, please!
Celebrity Infinity
October 16-25, 2027
Best of Greece
Sip cappuccinos by the sea, relax under the warm Mediterranean sun, and enjoy stunning sunsets in this iconic region. From its sunny shores to vibrant coastal towns, the Mediterranean is the dream destination you’ve always imagined. Explore charming landscapes, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in rich history and culture. With Celebrity Cruises, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that make your journey truly special. Discover why nothing comes close to the Mediterranean.
You don’t need to be traveling alone to join this cruise.
It’s ideal for solo travelers, but couples and friends are absolutely welcome.
I have 9 veranda cabins (V2) currently available WITH a drink package, wi-fi, and $100 on-board credit for $5064.60, double occupancy. Once they are gone, that price is no longer available. For 9 nights, this is a great value.
| | "Jennifer made it so easy to line up 20 friends and family members that all joined us for this special birthday cruise. I dont know how I could have pulled this off without her! Thank you Jennifer!" ~C. Hutchison | | |
Tulip Time Countdown!
It’s hard to believe, but our 2026Tulip Time Cruise to Amsterdam begins March 27, and we’re officially in the getting-ready phase!
For those of you sailing, here are a few things to have on your radar:
You should be able to begin selecting your shore excursions around mid-February.
Be sure you’ve downloaded the My Ama app and logged in. This is where you’ll find your daily schedule as well as your excursion details.
Tulip season is truly special, and this trip is going to be beautiful 🌷
As always, feel free to message me if you have any questions — I’m happy to help!
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Italy trip spotlight
Italy has a way of staying with you — the meals, the conversations, the moments that don’t feel planned at all.
This upcoming Italy experience in September 2026 is designed for travelers who want more than highlights. We’ll move thoughtfully, enjoy time in each place, and experience Italy the way it’s meant to be enjoyed — unhurried and immersive.
We’re currently finalizing details for this trip, and I wanted to be sure anyone who’s been quietly considering it has the opportunity to join us.
View the Italy experience details
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Thank you to those who came out for our LIVE event to hear Chris Barnikel talk about the Italy itinerary and traveling with CIE Tours.
| | When an ocean cruise makes sense in Europe | | |
Is an Ocean Cruise the Right Way to See Europe?
For travelers who prefer a more refined and destination-focused experience, small-ship ocean cruising offers an appealing middle ground between large resort-style ships and river cruising.
Lines like Azamara are designed specifically for travelers who care deeply about where they’re going, not just how they get there. With fewer than 700 guests onboard, Azamara’s ships are intentionally smaller, creating a calmer, more personal atmosphere.
This size allows for longer stays in port, frequent overnight stops, and access to ports that larger ships can’t reach — all of which mean more time to explore Europe at a relaxed pace.
Another advantage is what’s included. Gratuities, select beverages, and thoughtful extras like shuttle services in many ports help create an experience that feels smooth and well-considered, rather than rushed or transactional.
The onboard environment is elegant but understated, attracting travelers who value comfort, conversation, and cultural connection over crowds and constant activity.
Ocean cruising isn’t the right fit for everyone — and that’s where thoughtful planning comes in. For travelers who want variety, iconic coastal cities, and an easy way to see multiple countries, a European ocean cruise can be a wonderful choice. For others, river cruising or land travel may be a better match.
The key is choosing the style of travel that aligns with how you like to experience Europe — and that’s a conversation I’m always happy to have.
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When your travel agent asks if you’d like to add travel insurance… don’t hesitate. Say YES.
We had booked a trip to Costa Rica for October 2025 to celebrate our daughter’s 17th birthday. She wanted to learn how to surf, and from everything I’d read, Tamarindo, Costa Rica was the place to be. We were all set for an active vacation in paradise—surfing, yoga, hiking, beach time—while staying in a beautiful oceanfront room.
Three weeks before our departure, everything changed. Our daughter tore her ACL playing soccer and underwent surgery on 10/14/25. Needless to say, the trip had to be canceled. Instead of surfing in Costa Rica, she was on crutches and starting physical therapy, with medical restrictions that prevented her from traveling.
Because I had purchased travel insurance (as highly recommended), we were fully refunded for both airfare and hotel. Allianz Global Assistance was incredibly easy to work with. I uploaded the required medical documentation on 9/26, and by 9/30 I received an email confirming that our Trip Cancellation claim had been approved and paid via direct deposit. I was truly amazed at how quickly and smoothly the process went. The financial relief was huge during an already stressful time.
While we’re looking forward to rebooking our Costa Rica trip in the future, we’ve already planned our next adventure—a Mediterranean cruise in Summer 2026—and you better believe travel insurance was purchased again.
Lesson learned: travel insurance is 100% worth it.
~ A. Rooney, client, Yellow Bug Travels
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When Is the Best Time to Book European Travel?
This is one of the most common questions I’m asked.
For most European travel — especially river cruises — the best availability and pricing often come earlier than people expect. Popular sailings and thoughtfully paced itineraries tend to fill well in advance, particularly for spring and fall.
Planning earlier also allows for:
- Better cabin selection
- More flexible airfare options
- A calmer, more intentional planning process
If Europe is on your list for the next few years, having a conversation early can make a meaningful difference.
Let’s talk timing for your Europe plans, Jen 910-382-6511.
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A Personal Note...
One of the reasons I focus so heavily on European travel — and especially river cruising — is because it allows people to slow down and truly experience a place.
Some of my favorite moments come from hearing clients talk about the unexpected memories: a café they stumbled upon, a conversation with a local, or a view they still think about long after returning home.
That’s the kind of travel I love planning — and the kind I’m always happy to talk about.
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Some trips are meant to be anticipated
Spring in Ireland brings longer days, fresh green landscapes, fewer crowds, and a pace that invites you to linger — in villages, along coastal roads, and over long conversations in local pubs.
I’m currently gathering interest for a Spring 2027 Ireland experience for travelers who enjoy planning ahead and having something wonderful on the horizon. Details will unfold gradually, but the heart of the trip will be connection, scenery, and time to truly experience Ireland.
Join the early interest list for Ireland. Give yourself the gift of anticipating a trip! Spring trips sell out quickly and space is not held.
Irish Gold--8 days Dublin to Dublin
Double occupancy is $3295 pp
May 13-20, 2027
** Prices listed are in US dollars, and are per-person, double-occupancy. If you would prefer a single room, there is a single-room supplement of $1095.
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Click "more information" to see ship layout, current promotions, and maps and images.
You can now also place your deposit to hold your spot!
(No money is charged immediately. I will email you first!)
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ESSENCE OF BURGUNDY & PROVENCE
WINE CRUISE
November 11, 2027
Dijon to Arles
MORE INFORMATION
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ENCHANTING RHINE--FESTIVE DELIGHTS
POSSIBLE--November 21, 2027
Basel to Amsterdam
COMING SOON
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| VOTE on Christmas Cruise! | | | |
Thank you for reading my monthly news! I appreciate each of my
current and future clients!
A quick note: My business grows almost entirely through referrals, which allows me to keep things personal and intentional. If you ever have a friend or family member thinking about European travel, I’m always happy to be a resource — even if they’re just in the dreaming stage.
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