St. Johns Travel Expert Shares Top Tips for Family Vacations

Vanessa Kromer's clients on a trip to Italy. (Courtesy of Vanessa Kromer)

Tired of Disney trips and looking for something new?

Travel expert Vanessa Kromer has spent 15 years helping families plan amazing vacations. She loves making dream trips come true and hearing how much her clients enjoy their travels.

Trending Destinations

Kromer, who owns Luxury Boutique Travel, says families are looking beyond Florida. More people are choosing trips to Europe and the Caribbean instead of crowded theme parks.

One big reason? Flights. Delays and cancellations are common, so families prefer direct flights over long connections. Many are skipping trips out west to places like Colorado and Utah because getting there is too complicated. Even Hawaii is losing popularity because of the long travel time. Instead, families are heading south to the Caribbean or across the ocean to Europe.

Cost is another factor. A trip to Amsterdam can be the same price as going to Aspen, making international travel more appealing.

European Adventures

Popular European destinations include London, Italy, and Greece. Many families take direct flights from Orlando to London and add a few days in Paris. Kromer arranges luxury trips, handling everything from hotel stays to private tours and even boat rides on the Amalfi Coast.

A favorite experience for her clients? Private Vespa tours through Rome.

Caribbean Getaways

For a relaxing beach vacation, all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Cancun are top picks. Sandals resorts, in particular, are a favorite for Florida families because they offer luxury at an affordable price. The British Virgin Islands are also becoming more popular for travelers looking for quieter, less crowded beaches.

Cruising in Demand

More families are choosing cruises because they are easy and fun. Most go to the Caribbean, but Alaskan cruises are also gaining interest. Many Florida travelers want a different experience from the usual beach trips, and Alaska provides stunning scenery. Kromer recommends Princess Cruises for families looking for a great adventure.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

Some of Kromer’s more adventurous clients are exploring places like Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador. She advises working with a travel expert to avoid any safety issues in these destinations.

Hidden Gems in Florida

For families who want to stay close to home, Kromer recommends two great Florida resorts: Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys and Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast. Both offer a relaxing getaway without the need for flights.

For the best deals, she suggests booking off-season and looking for Florida resident or military discounts.

Whether you’re looking for an international adventure or a local escape, planning ahead and choosing the right destination can make all the difference.