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Yellow Bug Travels
March 2, 2026
| | March has arrived and here are your updates: | |
- Heading to Amsterdam in a week!
- River cruise myth-busting
- Greece by land or sea?
- Two new 2027 groups??
- Client Spotlight
- Italy in September
- Ireland in 2027
| | Heading to Amsterdam for ASTA River Cruise Expo (RCE) again! | |
From March 9 -22, 2026 I am heading to Amsterdam (yes, again!) for the ASTA River Cruise Expo!
Events like this aren’t just industry gatherings. They’re where I go to deepen relationships, evaluate cruise partners, and stay ahead of trends that directly impact your travel experience.
My goal is always the same: To come home better informed so you travel smarter. Oh--and to get you more Future Cruise Benefits!
While in the Netherlands, I’ll also be visiting Keukenhof Gardens, which I am super excited about — one of the most iconic spring experiences in Europe.
After the expo, my trip takes a personal turn.
I’ll be meeting my husband and we’ll continue on to Poland and Berlin — two places neither of us have visited, but have wanted to explore for quite some time. This area is a land extension on some river cruises as well as some land tours, and I want to explore it even more.
When you’re already adjusting to the time change and moving through jet lag, you might as well take advantage of it, right?
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Out of office, River Cruise Expo.
March 9 - 22, 2026.
If you have anything you need, please try to plan ahead so I can
take care of it before I leave. Thank you!
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River Cruise Myth Busting
Let’s clear up a few common myths about river cruising.
- “River cruises are only for retirees.”
Today’s river cruise guests range from multi-generational families to active couples in their 40s and 50s. Many sailings now include biking tours, culinary experiences, and themed itineraries.
- “There’s nothing to do onboard.”
River cruising isn’t about waterslides and casinos — it’s about enrichment. Think wine tastings, cooking demos, cultural lectures, and panoramic lounges perfect for relaxing between ports.
When you factor in accommodations, dining, daily excursions, transportation between cities, drinks and Wi-Fi, the value becomes clearer.
- “You’re stuck with the same people.”
Yes, the ships are intimate — and that’s often the magic. Guests frequently tell me the connections they make onboard are one of their favorite parts.
River cruising isn’t for everyone. But for the right traveler, it’s transformative.
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I have opened space for TWO new groups for 2027 with AmaWaterways!
I did it! We now have new group space with AmaWaterways, and the current offers are VERY strong:
- Paid gratuities for staff, cruise manager, tour guides and drivers
- Combinable with Complimentary Land through March 31
- Potential $50 onboard credit per cabin
- Combinable with the 10% off back to back cruise promo
- Combinable with my additional 5% off cruise fare
** To get these offers, deposits must be made by June 30, 2026. **
Join us on these two sailings!
Magna on the Danube wine cruise with the BRAND NEW AmaRudi (double wide layout) Nov. 7, 2027!
Essence of Burgundy & Provence Festive Delights cruise, Nov. 18, 2027.
Scroll down to our GROUPS section and you'll see these two new groups added, then click on the booking page of each for details!
I am waiting on pricing, but these are LIVE links, so check back soon for updates with pricing!!
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A Mediterranean
Escape:
Greece by Sea
If the idea of waking up to a new Greek island each morning sounds appealing, this sailing is worth a look.
I currently have access to excellent pricing on a Celebrity cruise through Greece — combining iconic ports, relaxed sea days, and the comfort of a premium cruise experience.
Why this sailing stands out:
- Beautiful island-hopping without repacking
- Elevated dining and onboard service
- Time in ports like Santorini and Mykonos
- A balance of culture and relaxation
This is a wonderful option for travelers who want the beauty of Greece with the ease of unpacking once.
If Greece is on your list — whether for 2026 or beyond —
reach out if you’d like more information.
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.
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Aegan Elegance: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini by land
8 days 7 nights
October, 2027
Embark on a journey through Greece’s most iconic destinations—where ancient wonders, island charm, and breathtaking beauty come together. Begin in vibrant Athens, where history and modern life intertwine.
Imagine.... arriving in Athens and being greeted by your private driver, waiting to escort you in a deluxe Mercedes to your hotel.
No stress. No navigating. Just Greece — handled.
You’ll spend three nights at the beautiful The Athenian Callirhoe Hotel, exploring ancient history with your private English-speaking guide and enjoying time to wander at your own pace.
From there, a private transfer brings you to Piraeus Port for your high-speed ferry to Mykonos. Upon arrival, you’re whisked away to Porto Mykonos Hotel for three nights of whitewashed charm, sparkling waters, and relaxed island elegance.
Next, Santorini awaits.
After another scenic ferry ride, your private driver escorts you to Costa Grand Resort & Spa for three unforgettable nights filled with caldera views, golden sunsets, and unforgettable dining.
Every transfer.
Every ferry.
Every detail.
Thoughtfully arranged.
This is Greece by land — immersive, effortless, and designed so you can simply enjoy the experience.
If Greece is even a “maybe” for you, now is the time to start the conversation. Click below to request pricing and available travel dates — and let’s see if this journey is the right fit for you.
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Why does a river cruise boat look like that?
After the ASTA River Cruise Expo last year, I sailed one night from Vienna to Budapest on the AmaBella and got to sit and talk with Rudi Schreiner, founder of Amawaterways, and I got a much better understanding about how these ships are built and why.
Unlike ocean vessels that prioritize height, size, and onboard amenities, river cruise ships are engineered around three main constraints:
• Low bridges
• Narrow locks
• Shallow water levels
Everything about their design revolves around those factors. River cruise ships have a very shallow draft — meaning they don’t sit deep in the water. This allows them to navigate rivers that fluctuate seasonally.
Many European rivers experience high and low water levels depending on rainfall and snowmelt. Ships must be able to operate in varying depths.
The result?
An intimate, beautifully balanced ship designed not for open ocean spectacle — but for docking steps away from city centers and gliding through the heart of Europe.
It’s thoughtful engineering that creates a completely different travel experience.
If you’re curious what it feels like to sail one of these ships — I’d love to share more.
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Client Spotlight
One of my favorite parts of this business is seeing your experiences come to life.
Cathie Mulgrew, who recently sailed the Taste of Bordeaux with a group this past November, said:
“I truly don't know if it was the itinerary (Taste of Bordeaux) or the people that made my last cruise my most favorite (quite honestly it was both)! I find myself yearning to revisit that moment in time because it was SO MUCH FUN! I will post some pictures here on this post, they may not be the best quality, however, they are the best people!!!”
If you’ve traveled recently, I’d love to feature you in an upcoming issue. Your stories inspire others more than any brochure ever could.
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Italy in September
There’s something special about Italy in September.
The summer crowds begin to soften, the temperatures are comfortable, vineyards move into harvest season, and the pace feels just right.
In September 2026, our curated Italy journey designed for travelers who want to experience all of the major sites in just 10 days.
Why September?
- Wine harvest season in many regions
- Warm days, cooler evenings
- More enjoyable sightseeing
This itinerary balances iconic highlights with immersive local experiences — the kind that turn a trip into a memory you carry for years.
If Italy has been on your “someday” list, this is the kind of timing that makes it exceptional.
I’m happy to share details and see if it’s the right fit for you.
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We only need one more couple to book into our Italy group to be full.
Will it be you?
What are you waiting for?
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Spring is one of the best times to cruise Europe’s rivers.
Tulip Season in the Netherlands
Late March through April brings vibrant tulip fields near Amsterdam — a bucket-list sight.
Spring in France
The Rhône and Seine
regions begin to bloom, with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
The Danube in Bloom
Budapest, Vienna, and smaller villages feel alive in spring, without peak summer congestion.
Spring often offers:
- Lower pricing than peak summer
- Softer crowds
- Beautiful seasonal landscapes
It’s what I call the “insider season.”
Let’s talk timing for your Europe plans, Jen 910-382-6511.
| |  | What is a Daily Cruiser on the MyAma App? | |
When you sail with Amawaterways, each day of your trip you will receive a Daily Cruiser on your app. If you don't want to manipulate the app, you can visit the Receptions desk and they will get you a hard copy.
The Daily Cruiser is your guide each day as to what to expect. You'll see the drink special of the day, what the Wellness instructor has to offer, and of course your excursions. Ama tries to limit paper printing so it is digital now.
I wanted to share a copy of one so you can see it (button below). This was from my Gems of Southeast Europe this past December.
Enjoy!
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If a river cruise is on your radar for 2026 or 2027, now is the time to start exploring options.
Send me an email or schedule a planning call — even if you’re just in the dreaming stage.
Planning early doesn’t commit you. It gives you options!
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Looking Ahead: Ireland in 2027
Some journeys are worth planning well in advance.
In 2027, I’ll be offering a CIE tour of Ireland — a thoughtfully designed land experience that showcases the landscapes, history, and warmth the country is known for.
Why plan this early?
- Ireland’s guided tours often fill quickly
- Strong demand for key regions and accommodations
- Early planning allows for better flight strategy and pacing
If Ireland has been on your heart for a while, 2027 may be the perfect time to make it happen.
Details are available, and I’m happy to walk you through what makes this experience special.
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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MAGNA ON THE DANUBE
NEW----WINE CRUISE
WITH THE BRAND-NEW AMARUDI
November 7, 2027
Vilshofen to Budapest
MORE INFORMATION
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ESSENCE OF BURGUNDY & PROVENCE
NEW----FESTIVE DELIGHTS
November 18, 2027
Dijon to Arles
MORE INFORMATION
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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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