On this month's edition of Hear From the Experts - hear from Lori Graham, as she shares a little about herself and some tips and tricks for any upcoming travel you may have!

"I started as a part-time travel agent with Travelmation in September of 2024 to share my love of traveling with others and increase my travel experiences.

I am the virtual director for the Vincennes School Corporation and have been in education for over 30 years.

My husband Tom and I have two grown sons who are both married and one granddaughter!

I also serve as Treasurer for the Knox County 4-H Council, lead an after-school 4-H Club at Riley Elementary School, the Secretary for the United Way Board of Directors, and part-time Youth Director at Community Church of Vincennes."



Read more about Lori's travel tips, and how she can help in our April Hear From the Experts Article!

New Travel Requirements

Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers from the United States aged 18 and older will need the REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. If you do not have a REAL ID, a valid passport or other federally accepted identification can be used. REAL ID can be obtained from your local BMV.

Make sure you know when your passport expires. Some countries will not let you enter if your travel date is within six months of your passport’s expiration date. Passports can easily be renewed online if your current one has not expired. You can even take the passport photo on your phone.

Renew your passport at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html

Beginning in 2025, travelers from non-European countries including the United States, Canada, and Australia will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before visiting or traveling through the United Kingdom. This includes landing at a UK airport for layovers. The cost for the ETA is $12.00 and grants entry for two years or until your passport expires.

To apply for your ETA:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta

Best Time to Book Travel

The best time to book your vacation is 9-12+ months before departure. You will receive the best pricing and availability on resorts, cruises, and tours. You will have plenty of time to customize your trip as well as giving you time to pay. Most trips will allow you to pay a deposit and then pay overtime with final payment being made 30-90 days before travel.

Booking your trip 6-9 months prior still will give you a board selection of accommodations and competitive pricing. Payment plans are still available, but payments will be higher. If you have specific experiences or dates, talk to your travel advisor so they can watch for the best prices.

Booking 3-6 months could limit accommodation and pricing options. Travelers may need to be flexible with dates especially during peak travel periods. If you want to secure the best spring break location those trips should be booked before summer begins.

Plan ahead so you can make the most of your travels.

National Parks

Summer is the perfect time to explore our national parks but before you start making your plans make sure you check the national parks website for specific information. Some national parks require reservations and spots can fill up quickly. They will provide you with information about the cost of entering the park and activities available.

All fourth-grade students receive free admission to national parks. If you have a child in fourth grade who has not brought home any information, contact their teacher before the end of the school year. Admission is only valid until Aug 31. If you have a child entering fourth grade in the fall, ask their teacher to provide you with the free admission information early in the year so you can benefit throughout the school year. Don’t forget to ask about the Junior Ranger program at each park.