Explore Near and Far Travel, LLC

09/02/2026

Edinburgh in August… what an experience!

From the incredible energy of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival to the breathtaking Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the history of Edinburgh Castle overlooking it all, there is so much to see and experience.

We simply didn’t have enough time. There are more shows, markets, hidden corners, history, and experiences waiting for us, and we’re already looking forward to coming back.

So… would you like to join us?

If Edinburgh in August is on your travel wish list, let Explore Near and Far Travel help you plan your adventure for 2027 or 2028. The best accommodations and experiences book early.

Explore Near and Far Travel
You dream it. I’ll detail it.

09/01/2026

Until September 7th Virgin Voyage's Semi-Annual Sale is dropping anchor and making a splash, with cabins starting from $99 per Sailor per night on select sailings!

Sailors can jump on that offer, or jump on up to $400 onboard credit (stackable with 70% off 2nd Sailor and instant savings) on select sailings. With rates like these, cabins will go quickly — don’t miss out. Contact Rob or Faith if you would like to learn more.

08/30/2026

AMSTERDAM… BUT MAKE IT A CRUISE!

Imagine waking up in Amsterdam without packing and unpacking again. With Virgin Voyages, you can dock overnight in Amsterdam and have more time to explore this incredible city — canals, Anne Frank’s House, the Rijksmuseum, amazing food and so much more.

And when you’re back onboard? The entertainment is anything but ordinary.

Magicians. Comedians. Mentalists. Acrobats. Singers. Dancers. DJs. Game shows. Live performances. And so much more.

One trip. One unpack. An unforgettable European adventure.

When is it your turn to explore Amsterdam with Virgin Voyages?

Let me help you plan it!
Explore Near & Far Travel | Faith & Rob Ericksen, Travel Advisors

08/28/2026

Wellness at Sea® awaits—set sail on an immersive journey of discovery and enrichment, with elegant evenings and crew who know you by name. Explore what’s possible and tap https://inspires.to/experiences/wellness-at-sea-qzp1gv to learn more.

Set sail for an immersive journey filled with discovery and enrichment.

08/27/2026

Leaving on our next Virgin Cruise to idyllic Iceland, with a little taste of Scotland along the way!

Since the ship departs from Portsmouth, we arrived a little early to explore—and we’re so glad we did! Portsmouth has fantastic pubs, is safe and incredibly walkable, with flat sidewalks and historic treasures around every corner.

A highlight was the incredible naval museum, especially the Mary Rose exhibition. Built for Henry VIII in 1510, the ship sank, was buried and forgotten beneath the sea, and was finally raised 437 years later. Walking through the exhibit felt like taking a fascinating step back in time.

Great news for travelers: the newer ETA requirement for Europe was a breeze at Gatwick Airport. There were no additional lines—just the regular passport check. Simply complete the application and payment in advance, and it’s electronically attached to your passport.

We’re loving our extra time in Portsmouth and can’t wait to set sail! If an Iceland cruise—or adding a few days in Portsmouth—sounds perfect for you, send me a message. I’d love to help plan your next adventure!

08/18/2026

Happy National Couples Day! ❤️ The choice is yours—near or far, where will you go together? Call Explore Near and Far Travel, and we’ll create a getaway you’ll both love!

08/14/2026

Virgin has added sailings to Scandinavia and Baltics for 2028. If this is on your bucket list contact us to reserve your favorite suite today.

07/26/2026

07/24/2026

Sometimes the best travel memories happen in between the big adventures.

While in Cleveland for our travel conference, Rob and I took some time to enjoy one of his favorite passions; baseball. He has a goal of visiting every Major League Baseball stadium in the U.S., so checking out a Cleveland Guardians game was the perfect way to experience another iconic ballpark.

Gorgeous weather, a fun game, and surrounded by wonderful people who kept us laughing all evening, exactly the kind of moments that make travel so special.

Travel isn’t just about the destinations; it’s about the experiences, the connections, and finding a little passion wherever you go.

When it’s your turn to explore near or far, we’d love to help you create your next unforgettable journey.

07/20/2026

Rob and I are excited to be attending the Destination Success Travel Conference in Cleveland this week!

There’s always something new to learn in the travel industry, and we’re looking forward to connecting with our travel partners, discovering new destinations, and learning tips, tools, and insider knowledge that help save our clients time, reduce stress, and create even more memorable vacations.

First stop: West Side Market! We’ve heard great things, so we’re heading there now. Stay tuned—I’ll share our thoughts (and maybe a few delicious finds) later today!

The more we learn, the better we can help you plan your next adventure.

I hope you follow along this week as we share highlights, travel tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at what we’re learning to make your future travels even better.