Welcome!
Hi Everyone!
Welcome to the September Edition of Worth the Trip!
Each month, I'll bring you a mix of travel news, destination inspiration, Frederick's Finds, and things I think are worth knowing, considering, or putting on your travel calendar.
Whether you're already dreaming about your next trip or just looking for some inspiration, I hope you'll find something here that makes you want to start planning!
Thanks for coming along for the journey!
What’s New in Travel!
2027 & 2028 Cruises Are Here
The Sun Princess!
Thinking about a future cruise? Now is the time to start looking.
Cruise lines are beginning to release and open bookings for their 2027 and 2028 itineraries, giving travelers an early look at everything from Alaska and Europe to longer Grand Voyages and bucket-list sailings.
For Pacific Northwest travelers, 2028 Alaska cruises are especially worth watching. Princess recently opened its 2028 Alaska sailings, giving travelers an early opportunity to compare itineraries, choose preferred cabin categories, and take advantage of early-booking offers and promotions.
Holland America has also opened bookings for its 2028 Grand Voyages, including itineraries featuring Antarctica, Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and six continents.
Why it matters: If you're considering a specific ship, cabin type, itinerary, or travel date for 2027 or 2028, getting an early start can give you a much better selection, especially for popular Alaska sailings and specialty cabins.
Frederick's take: You don't necessarily need to book two years ahead for every cruise, but if you have a particular itinerary or cabin in mind, I'd rather start looking early than wait until your first choice is gone.
New Alaska Airlines Routes from Seattle!
Alaska Airlines Dreamliner!
Ever wanted to travel to Paris or Athens nonstop from Seattle on your hometown airline, Alaska Airlines? Well, now you can!
Alaska Airlines has announced new nonstop flights from Seattle to both Paris (CDG) and Athens (ATH)!
These new international routes will be available starting in spring 2027, giving Seattle travelers even more ways to get to Europe without a connection.
Paris or Athens? Which would you choose?
Let me know and let’s get you on board!
Frederick’s Finds!
Southeast Asia Is Looking Surprisingly Affordable
Phuket, Thailand
While I understand Southeast Asia isn't for everyone, I've been seeing some great value on travel to Thailand and Vietnam, and I think they're worth putting on your radar!
From beautiful beaches and incredible food to rich history, culture, and unique experiences, Thailand and Vietnam offer a lot for travelers willing to venture a little farther from home.
And yes, the flights from the PNW are long. Like, "Did we really just cross half the planet?" long. But once you get there, the combination of incredible experiences and attractive travel pricing can make the journey well worth it.
Frederick's Take: If Southeast Asia has been sitting on your "someday" list, this could be a great time to start looking. Thailand and Vietnam are both destinations I'd seriously consider for a 2027 trip, especially if you're looking for somewhere that feels completely different from the typical vacation!
Destination Spotlight!
Hawaii: More Than Just a Beach Vacation
A photo I took from Kihei, Maui
Hawaii is one of my favorite places to travel, and after visiting Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island more than 10 times, it's a destination I keep coming back to.
Maui is a great mix of beaches, resorts, outdoor adventures, and easygoing island life.
Kauai is the place I'd look for dramatic scenery, lush landscapes, hiking, and a quieter feel.
The Big Island offers an incredible amount of variety, from beaches and snorkeling to volcanoes, coffee farms, and some of the most diverse landscapes in Hawaii.
Frederick's Take: Don't feel like you have to see all of Hawaii in one trip! I'd rather see you spend a week really enjoying one island than spend your vacation trying to squeeze three islands into seven days.
And if you're planning a Hawaii trip, where you stay can make a huge difference. The right island, resort, location, and transportation setup can completely change the experience.
Worth the trip? In my opinion, absolutely.
Book it Now!
Thinking About a Winter Escape? Start Looking Now.
If you're dreaming about trading the rain and cold for some sunshine this winter, September is a great time to start exploring Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an all-inclusive resort, or something a little more adventurous, starting your search now gives you more time to compare destinations, flights, hotels, and experiences before the winter travel season really gets going.
Frederick's Take: If your ideal winter vacation involves sunshine, a beach, and absolutely no concern about whether you remembered to pack a jacket, I'd start looking now.
Upcoming Travel Events!
Virtual Travel Talk - “Passport to Paradise - Mexico, Central & South America”
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Zoom
AAA Fall Travel Show
Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 8:00 AM
Olympia, WA
AAA Fall Travel Show
Saturday, October 17, 2026 | 8:00 AM
Everett, WA
AAA Winter Travel Show
Saturday, January 23, 2027 | 8:00 AM
Tacoma, WA
Interested in attending? Contact me for location and RSVP details. I'd be happy to help you get the information you need!
Ready to Go?
Do you have questions about something I mentioned? Maybe a destination caught your attention, you're curious about a cruise, or you're wondering if a trip you've been dreaming about is right for you. I'd love to help!
As a Travel Advisor, I can help turn your travel ideas into a personalized trip, from finding the right flights, hotels, and cruises to planning transportation, activities, and all the details in between.
Have a trip in mind? Let's start planning!
Have a quick question? Feel free to email me at [email protected]
Explore More on the Website!
Want more travel inspiration between editions of Worth the Trip?
Visit my website for destination guides, travel tips, trip inspiration, and more. I’m continually adding new content to help you discover your next great trip and make planning a little easier.