Journal

Notes from the road

Occasional writing on where I'm sending clients, what I'm watching in the industry, and how to travel well.

Antarctica expedition cruise — icebergs and expedition ship
January 5, 2026

Is an Antarctica Expedition Cruise Really Worth It?

A candid, cost-by-cost look at what makes a polar expedition sailing worth the investment -- and who it's not right for.

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Packing for a European river cruise
January 2, 2026

What Should I Pack for a European River Cruise?

The real river cruise dress code, from daytime excursions to Captain's dinners -- and the packing mistakes to skip.

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Rhine River cruise through the gorge
January 1, 2026

How Water Levels Affect Rhine River Cruises (And Why You Probably Won't Notice)

What actually happens when the Rhine runs high or low, and why premium lines keep it from derailing your trip.

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What's included on a river cruise
December 31, 2025

What's Actually Included on a River Cruise? The Full Breakdown First-Timers Need

A full breakdown of what's covered in a premium river cruise fare -- meals, excursions, and the suite features worth paying for.

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Rhine vs Danube river cruise comparison
December 30, 2025

Rhine vs Danube River Cruise: Which One Wins for You?

A simple decision framework for choosing between Europe's two signature river cruise routes.

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Rhine River cruise through European villages and castles
December 27, 2025

When is the Best Time for a Rhine River Cruise? Your Ultimate Guide

A season-by-season guide to timing a Rhine River cruise, from spring tulips to Christmas markets.

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River cruise ship gliding through scenic European landscape
December 12, 2025

Is a River Cruise Worth the Cost? The Honest Answer Most Travelers Never Hear

An honest look at river cruise pricing, who it's built for, and where the value actually comes from.

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Travel Planning with Korty Reserve
January 10, 2024

Unveiling the Value of Travel Planning Fees

Why a travel advisor's planning fee pays for itself -- in relationships, resources, and peace of mind.

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Top 5 Travel Tips
June 21, 2023

Top 5 Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Journey

Five practical habits for smarter travel -- and where a travel specialist changes the outcome.

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The Ben Hotel, West Palm Beach
June 19, 2023

Experience the Enchanting Paradise of West Palm Beach at The Ben

Why The Ben Hotel makes an ideal pre- or post-cruise stay in West Palm Beach.

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
June 19, 2023

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas: Luxurious Suites and CocoCay Paradise

Inside Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas -- from its Royal Loft Suite to a day at CocoCay.

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June 16, 2023

What Multigenerational Luxury Travel Actually Requires

Three generations, one itinerary — what it actually takes to get the pacing, the privacy, and the togetherness right.

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NCL Haven Suites
June 15, 2023

NCL Haven Suites: Your Gateway to Luxury on the High Seas

What sets Norwegian's Haven apart -- the privacy, service, and access of a ship within a ship.

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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
June 15, 2023

A Paradise for Adults: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Why Punta Cana's adult-only resorts -- and Live Aqua in particular -- make for an indulgent escape.

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A Love Affair with Travel
January 28, 2023

A Love Affair with Travel

Founder Laura Korty on a lifelong love of travel -- and how it became Korty Reserve.

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