Travel Ventures by Crystal

07/09/2026

YOUR WEEKLY TRAVEL NEWS BRIEF IS HERE!

Every Monday, I’m breaking down 5 travel updates from the past week that are worth having on your radar.

This week:

🇪🇬🇹🇿 Cairo → Zanzibar just got easier! EgyptAir has launched a new nonstop route connecting the two destinations.

🇪🇺 Europe’s EES rollout hits another important phase — and non-EU travellers may want to prepare for longer immigration queues.

🇨🇦 Air Canada is expanding internationally with several new routes planned for summer 2027.

🛳️ Disney Cruise Line is expanding in Southeast Asia, adding Malaysia to select sailings from Singapore.

🚄 Italy & Germany could soon be connected by direct high-speed rail, making multi-country European trips even easier.

07/09/2026

Let’s talk about “scams” in Egypt 🇪🇬👀

One of the things I hear ALL the time is, “But aren’t there so many scams in Egypt?”

And here’s my take after actually living here…

In the major tourist areas, especially somewhere like the Pyramids of Giza (one of the most visited attractions in the world) yes, you are going to encounter people trying to sell you something, offer you a “great viewpoint,” take your photo, show you around, sell you perfume, get you on a camel… you name it. 😂

But there’s a big difference between someone trying to steal your money and someone trying very hard to convince you to GIVE them your money.

Egyptians are very good salespeople.

If you’re not interested, a simple “la shokran” (no thank you)and continuing to walk will go a long way. You do not need to engage, explain yourself or feel guilty saying no.

And outside of those heavily touristed areas? This is not what everyday life in Egypt feels like.

Of course, you should always be aware of your surroundings when you travel anywhere. Pickpocketing and tourist scams exist all over the world. In fact, at our wedding trip this past April, one of our family friends was pickpocketed at the Milan train station — something you hear about constantly in major European tourist destinations.

Yet for some reason, people often feel far more nervous about visiting Egypt.

The biggest thing is knowing what to expect and planning your trip properly.

Having a trusted guide, private driver and itinerary already organized can completely change how comfortable you feel navigating Egypt and that’s exactly where I can help.

If Egypt is on your bucket list but you’re nervous about what to expect, reach out. I can help you plan a trip where you feel prepared, comfortable and excited to experience this incredible country. 🇪🇬✨

05/09/2026

🌊🚢👀

You’ve earned a break, so this Labour Day, AmaWaterways is giving you one 😏.

Save up to $3,000 per stateroom and get $250 USD onboard credit on select 2026, 2027 and 2028 sailings through Europe, Colombia, Egypt, Africa and the Mekong.

Picture farm-to-ship dinners, hands-on cultural moments, engaging onshore experiences, and wellness classes, all built into your day with nothing left for you to plan.

Offer valid September 1-15, 2026.

See comments for highlighted itineraries available on this incredible Labor Day Sale!

04/09/2026

03/09/2026

Now is the perfect time to start planning your shore excursions, tours, adventures, off-resort activities & more — no matter where your travels are taking you!

We just booked this AMAZING day-trip for travellers headed to Italy this October:
Amalfi Coast & Positano: Boat Tour with Snorkeling & Drinks! 🍹🤿

And even better… for a limited time, we can save you an additional 10% on excursions booked with our preferred partner!

Whether you want to explore, relax, eat, drink, snorkel, sightsee or get off the beaten path — there’s an experience waiting for you.

✨ Flexible cancellation & change options available
✨ 10% additional savings for a limited time
✨ Let us help you find the perfect experiences for your trip!

📩 Send us a message to start exploring tours and excursions for your next getaway.

01/09/2026

I spent a few weeks in New Zealand a few years ago and LOVED it! One of my favorite countries 💙

01/09/2026

EXCITING NEW RESORT UPDATE! 🚨

Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection is pleased to announce the opening of Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana, marking the debut of the Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts brand in the Dominican Republic!

Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana is an adults-only escape designed for travellers who want a little bit of everything - from beautiful beaches, great food, wellness, creativity, and plenty of opportunities to simply relax.

Located in the peaceful Cabeza de Toro area with beachfront access, the resort features multiple ocean-facing pools and open-air spaces perfect for lounging, socializing, or soaking up the tropical surroundings.
At this resort, you can get creative with pottery classes, paint-and-sip experiences, cocktail and pastry workshops, or slow things down with poolside yoga and beachside fitness classes. As the sun starts to set, join golden-hour socials or gather around a beach bonfire for a truly memorable evening.

One of the resort’s standout experiences is El Huerto, an onsite eco-garden where guests can take part in a gastrobotany workshop and enjoy a unique hand-to-table culinary experience.

When it comes to dining, there’s plenty of variety without the need for reservations. Choose from à la carte restaurants, a global food hall, grab-and-go spots, and poolside snacks. And before calling it a night, be sure to stop by the resort’s speakeasy-style bar, where vintage-inspired surroundings meet creative cocktails.

For an elevated experience, consider upgrading to Vantage Club, which includes additional perks such as access to a dedicated pool, enhanced service, and upgraded ocean or tropical views.

AND, with direct flights from YQR and YXE every Wednesday, it's easy to get to beautiful Punta Cana!

7 night packages with Sunwing starting at:

$3,025.00 pp in December

$3,295.00 pp in January 2027

$3,275 pp in February 2027

* based on 2 adults to a room

Send us a message to start planning your winter getaway to beautiful Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana! 📩