Need a Reason to Cruise Paul Gauguin Cruises?

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Paul Gauguin Cruises is a luxury cruise line that specializes in providing unique and intimate travel experiences in the South Pacific. They have been operating in the South Pacific for several decades. The cruise line was founded in 1997, and it is named after the French post-Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin, who spent much of his artistic career in Tahiti, a part of French Polynesia. The cruise line focuses on providing luxury cruises in the South Pacific, particularly in the waters surrounding French Polynesia. When deciding if Paul Gaugin is a fit for your South Pacific vacation experience, consider these.


Reasons to Cruise Paul Gaugin Cruises

  1. It is an ideal setting for a large vessel that never carries more than 300 guests. 
  2. There is no nickel and diming. It is one all-inclusive price for the experience. 
  3. It is a laid-back luxury. No more worries about carrying that formal wear and wondering which night is formal. 
  4. It is ideal for people who only want to unpack once while seeing various sights. 
  5. The cruises have exclusive access to private retreats on Bora Bora and Le Taha ‘a islands.
  6. They are port intensive, meaning they spend a lot of time in each port.
  7. It is a wholly immersive experience of French Polynesian culture with nightly entertainment.
  8. The crew-to-guest ratio is one crew to 1.5 guests.
  9. It is unregimented, allowing you to plan your day as you see fit. 
  10. They are the industry leader with the highest rating and longest sailing time in the South Pacific. 

There is an array of sailings to choose from, from their most popular 7-nights exploring the Society Islands to itineraries that take you to the Marquesas and sailings that include other parts of the South Pacific, such as The Cook Islands and Fiji. A travel agent versed in the South Pacific is your friend and guide in your selection for itinerary, activities, and extension of stays.


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslNeed a Reason to Cruise Paul Gauguin Cruises?
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Passport for Your Palate-Tim Tam Slam

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Let’s begin with what a Tim Tam is. It is Australia’s most delectable little chocolate-covered biscuit and legendary snack. It would be purely sacrilegious to visit Australia and not eat one of these treats. The biscuit has been around since 1964 and has been an Australian diet staple ever since. It has the original cookie, but Aronott’s, the creator, also has other options, including gluten-free, double chocolate, caramel, dark mint, and more! And the excellent news for you is that you can purchase them in the United States at various grocery stores. 

Now, here is the fun part: enjoying a Tim Tam Slam. A Tim Tam Slam is where your cookie becomes a straw for your hot cocoa or coffee. How does this cookie become a straw? My children and I were fortunate to have my dear Aussie mate, Melissa, demonstrate and teach us the art of a Tim Tam Slam one New Year’s Eve several years ago. And, this holiday, after receiving a box of Australian chocolate treats, my daughter Greta and I had to give it another go. 

Tim Tam Slam

What you Need:

  • Tim Tams-purchase at your local store or online.
  • Beverage-select and make your beverage Hot Chocolate, Coffee, Tea, or Port. It can be any drink that is not too thick that you enjoy.
  • Napkins

How to Slam:

Tim Tam Slam

  1. Remove one biscuit from the wrapper.
  2. Hold the biscuit on a diagonal.
  3. Take a smallish bite off one corner of the biscuit.
  4. Take another small bite diagonally off the other end of the biscuit. (be careful that neither of these bites is too large, as tempting as it might be)
  5. The final piece is one seamless move. Have your drink close. You are going to use your altered Tim Tam as a straw. Put your mouth on one bitten end and place the other into your drink. Suck the liquid up through the cookie, then once the liquid comes through, pop the entire cookie into your mouth for an incredible chocolate flavor bomb. 
  6. Use a napkin to dab up any chocolate fingerprints. 
  7. Repeat. 

For the most fun, add friends!  

Tim Tam Slam


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslPassport for Your Palate-Tim Tam Slam
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Passport for Your Palate-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

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Fall is truly one of my favorite seasons. The colors, crisp air, earthy smells, and comfort food. This is the time of year when winter squashes are ready for harvest. Your pumpkin, acorn, butternut, hubbard, and so on. Winter squashes are so versatile, making great additions to soups, stews, casseroles, and as a simple side dish. However, one of my favorite parts of these squashes is the seeds. 

It is a tradition in our house during pumpkin carving to roast the seeds. Even with my kids, who are now young adults, we love to get a pumpkin for the seeds. Roasted pumpkin seeds are easy to do and make a delicious, nutritious snack. This method can be followed with any of the winter squashes. 

Here are the simple steps to roasted pumpkin seeds:

Ingredients:

  • Pumpkin seeds (seeds from a pumpkin)
  • Olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt (optional)
  • Seasonings of your choice (e.g., garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, etc.)

Instructions:

Remove the Seeds:

    • Start by removing the seeds from a pumpkin. You can do this by cutting the pumpkin open, scooping out the seeds and any stringy bits, and placing them in a bowl. Rinse the seeds in a colander under cold water to remove any remaining pulp, and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Preheat Your Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

Season the Seeds:

    • In a bowl, toss the cleaned and dried pumpkin seeds with a little bit of oil, about a teaspoon for a cup of pumpkin seeds. This will help the seasonings stick and make the seeds crispy. 
    • Experiment with your choice of seasonings. Common choices include salt, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, or any other spices you prefer. You can buy a pre-made season salt as well. (The seeds pictured have salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. The ratio of spices will depend on your taste, but I used about 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and a 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.)

Spread on a Baking Sheet:

    • Spread the seasoned pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they are evenly distributed and not crowded to ensure they roast evenly.

Roast in the Oven:

    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the pumpkin seeds for about 15 minutes. You should check on them every 5 minutes and give them a little stir. You will know they are done when you smell them and see they have become golden brown. Be careful not to overcook them.

Let Them Cool and Enjoy:

    • Once the pumpkin seeds are done, remove them from the oven and cool them on the baking sheet. They will become even crispier as they cool down. Once cooled, you can enjoy or store them in an airtight container for about two weeks. Though they are likely to last only a short time. 

I love eating roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack or sprinkling a handful on a salad. They are a tasty treat and nutritious treat. Do you roast your pumpkin or squash seeds? What are your favorite seasonings? We would love for you to share. 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslPassport for Your Palate-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
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The Wonderful Wombat

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One of the draws to visiting Australia is the unique wildlife. They have some of the most unusual animals in the world and are only native to their prominent island destination. You will find creatures such as the kangaroo, wallaby, emu, Tasmanian devil, platypus, koala, and the one we will be diving deeper into, the wonderful wombat. 

What makes the wombat so wonderful?  

First, as we mentioned, they can only be found in Australia. (zoos don’t count) There are three species of wombats that you will find on your travels:

  • The common wombat (pictured)
  • The hairy-nosed northern wombat
  • The hairy-nosed southern wombat 

You will likely find at least one species in all but the Northern Territory. However, the hairy-nosed northern wombat is at the highest risk of extinction and is harder to see in the wild. 

Second, unlike other marsupials, the wombat’s pouch faces backward. The pouch is a uniquely designed trait for the wombat is a digger. Having it backward prevents them from throwing dirt into the joeys that may be residing in the pocket. 

Third, speaking of digging, the wombat has strong, powerful claws. They are the largest burrowing mammals in the world and can dig up to three meters deep. That is almost 10-feet. They create an intricate tunnel system beneath the ground to include bed chambers.

Fourth, a fun fact, the wombat has cubed shape poop. The shape results from their diet, but it also serves a purpose. The wombat uses their poop to mark their territory and entrances to their burrows. 

Fifth, despite their short, stubby stature, the wombats are quick. They can run up to 25 miles per hour. I wouldn’t recommend getting too close in the wild as they could catch you and take a nip. They do bite. 

Finally, I’ve only touched on several characteristics of the wonderful wombat. What is not so wonderful is they are at risk. Predators, habitat, and even mange (an infection of the skin) contribute to their decline. However, all over Australia, licensed rehabilitation organizations are helping to secure their longevity. Boomerang Escapes is happy to support one of them as a “Wombassador.” You can read more here.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslThe Wonderful Wombat
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Top 5 Reasons to Visit New Zealand

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New Zealand, The Land of the Long White Cloud (Aotearoa). While not a large destination, it is both refreshing and unique. It is the youngest land and is brimming with untouched natural beauty. Everywhere you look, from the pristine alps to the lush forest valleys to the crystal clear lakes. And to top it all off, an amazing, unique culture, a flare for cuisine, and world-class accommodations. What I hear from my clients is, “I would move here.”  

Let’s explore the top 5 reasons to visit New Zealand.

  1. New Zealand is small but has a big punch. It is about the size of the length of California or the United Kingdom. The smaller size allows visitors to see a good portion of the country in an average two-week vacation.
  2. New Zealand is a destination at any time of year. While you want to pack some layers, the temperatures in New Zealand hover from the low fifties to the upper seventies. You experience some temperatures in winter that are a bit cooler, and vice versa, and can be a bit warmer in summer. 
  3. The Māori. New Zealand’s indigenous culture first came to the islands in the 1300s. Their culture is an integral part of life and is one of the best examples of two cultures working together. Spending time with them is a must.
  4. English is the spoken language, making it highly comfortable and easy for travelers to communicate. However, the Māori language is prevalent; you will see signs and announcements delivered in both languages.
  5. New Zealand caters to so many special interests. You can hike, golf, fish, cycle, cruise and more. There is something for everybody, especially those who love to be outdoors. 

Whether you are visiting the North Island, the South Island, or Stewart Island, each part of New Zealand is beaming with impressive things to explore. And you are never more than 75 miles from the ocean. Plan your exploration today.  


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslTop 5 Reasons to Visit New Zealand
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Why I Love Australia

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As I prepare to embark on yet another Down Under adventure, it is evident that I love Australia. At the time of writing, I will be making my eighth trip to this country that has captured my heart and soul. While I have yet to hit every corner, I have covered a fair amount of ground, having visited six of the seven regions and states thus far, with several being my third or fourth trip to them.  

A common question I receive is, “What is your favorite part of Australia?” It is almost impossible for me to choose. Each visit seems to outdo the last, and I fall in love over and over again. What I can tell you is why I love Australia. 

Why I love Australia:

 

The people.

No matter where you travel, the destination’s people and culture draw you in. Australia’s people are kind, genuine, and laid back. They love life. And their indigenous history is so rich. My soul comes alive during each visit when I spend time with the Aboriginals. Their connection to the land and everything around them draws you in. 

The wildlife.

Australia has the most unique and unusual creatures. These are animals that are native nowhere else in the world. You’ve got your Koala (my personal favorite), Kangaroo, Wombat, Tasmanian Devil, and the very peculiar Platypus, to name a few. And what is so unique is how you experience this wildlife on a visit. You can get so close to these animals even in their wild habitat. (Tip: go in their spring to see the babies.)

The coastlines. 

Australia herself is an island. There is an abundance of white sands and crystal clear blue waters. Beneath those waters lie the most incredible color displays, from coral to sea life. I don’t know about you, but I’ve never had a bad day at the beach, and with more beaches than you can visit in a year’s time, that makes Australia one happy place.

The food.

You can get just about any cuisine your heart desires, but I enjoy some of their traditional fare. A meat pie is always a must. You have to try the Barramundi, a lovely white fish found off the coast of Queensland. Lamb, they do it right. Then there are the unusual, such as camel burgers with beetroot, kangaroo filets, and crocodile bites. And don’t cringe before you try it. 

The list only covers the tip of the iceberg, the high-level overview of why I love Australia. You really need to experience it for yourself. One visit and you will soon discover why “There is nothing like Australia.” I, for one, will continue to visit and let my list grow. 

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslWhy I Love Australia
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Iceland-Where Real Adventures Begin!

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It’s time to step off the beaten track and let the real adventures begin.

Iceland gained much popularity among travelers after being showcased in several reality TV shows. It continues to remain a hot destination request. It is a hidden gem in the North Atlantic, where Mother Nature’s handiwork is nothing less than spectacular. With its dramatic landscapes, stunning glaciers, geothermal wonders, and vibrant culture, Iceland is a destination like no other. If you’re seeking real adventures that will leave you in awe of the natural world, then Iceland is the place to be.

Let’s explore some of the reasons why Iceland is the place to travel. As with any destination, I like to begin with the people. Here, you will meet friendly, unassuming folk with a cultural heritage that dates back to the time of the Vikings, who first sailed across the Atlantic. Today, their society is one of modern vibrance and top on the foodie scene.

The Golden Circle is a must-visit for those looking to experience Iceland’s natural wonders up close. This popular route takes you to three of Iceland’s most famous attractions: the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park. Witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser eruptions and Gullfoss’s power as it cascades into a deep canyon. Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Iceland’s geological history, with its rift valley formed by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

A visit to Iceland would only be complete with a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon. This otherworldly geothermal spa is renowned for its milky-blue waters, rich in minerals, which are said to have healing properties. Soak in the warm, soothing waters surrounded by a stark lava field, and you’ll understand why this place is a bucket-list destination for travelers worldwide.

Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to witness the magical Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. From late September to early April, the night sky comes alive with green, pink, and purple dancing lights. Head to remote areas with minimal light pollution for the best chance to witness this mesmerizing natural spectacle.

Iceland is home to some of Europe’s largest glaciers, offering thrilling opportunities for ice climbing, glacier hiking, and ice cave exploration. Strap on your crampons and explore the crystal-blue ice formations within Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. These adventures are not for the faint-hearted but promise an adrenaline rush and the chance to marvel at the ice world beneath your feet.

Iceland’s volcanic activity is both a marvel and a potential danger. The island boasts numerous active volcanoes, and you can even descend into the magma chamber of a dormant one, Thrihnukagigur, for a truly unique experience. Monitor local alerts and eruption predictions to witness volcanic activity safely.

Iceland’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it a prime destination for whale watching. Venture out to sea on a whale-watching tour, and you might spot humpback whales, orcas, minke whales, and more. Additionally, Iceland is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with puffins, arctic terns, and other seabirds making their homes along the rugged coastlines.

In Iceland, real adventures begin. It is for all traveler types. It has breathtaking beauty, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences. Whether exploring glaciers, chasing the Northern Lights, or simply taking in the stunning landscapes, Iceland promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in the Land of Fire and Ice!


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey, with agents in  NJ, TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslIceland-Where Real Adventures Begin!
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What to do When Your Flight Gets Cancelled

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Cancelled, it is the most dreaded word in the travel industry. Airline cancellations are the worst. Whether it is weather, mechanical issues, or even a missing flight crew that causes the disruption, it is bound to put even the best of travelers in a bad mood. And as great as having a travel planner on your side, we can do little to prevent this situation from happening. You will experience this at some point in your travels. When your flight gets cancelled, it can be frustrating and inconvenient, but there are steps you can take to address the situation and minimize disruptions to your travel plans. Even with a travel agent by your side, you will want to know some of these when the problem arises. 

Here’s what to do when your flight gets cancelled. 

  1. Stay Calm: It’s essential to remain calm and composed, even though flight cancellations can be stressful. Take a few deep breaths to help you stay focused.
  2. Check for Notifications: Often, airlines will notify passengers of flight cancellations through various means, such as email, text message, or phone call. Check your communication channels for any news from the airline.
  3. Contact the Airline: Call the airline’s customer service or visit their service desk at the airport. Be prepared for potentially long wait times, especially during peak travel seasons. Explain your situation and ask about the next available options. 
  4. Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your passenger rights, which can vary by country and airline. Airlines typically have policies in place for compensating passengers in the event of cancellations. These policies may include providing you with alternative flights, accommodations, meals, and, in some cases, compensation. Ask the airline about your rights and entitlements.
  5. Ask About Rebooking: In many cases, the airline will offer to rebook you on the next available flight to your destination at no extra cost. Discuss your options with the airline representative and choose the best choice for your situation. 
  6. Consider Alternative Airports: If the airline can’t provide a suitable replacement flight, ask if there are other nearby airports you can fly into or out of that might have available flights. Be aware that you may need to arrange your own transportation to or from these airports.
  7. Check Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, review your policy to see if it covers flight cancellations. Depending on the policy, you may be eligible for reimbursement of expenses related to the cancellation.
  8. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the situation. Flight statuses can change, and alternative options may become available. Use airline apps or websites to monitor your flight’s status.
  9. Arrange Accommodations: If you’re stranded overnight due to a cancellation, and the airline doesn’t provide accommodations, consider booking a hotel room near the airport. Keep any receipts for expenses related to the cancellation, as you may be able to seek reimbursement.
  10. Rebook as Soon as Possible: Once you’ve secured alternative travel arrangements, confirm your new flight details and make necessary adjustments to your plans. Flights can fill up quickly, so rebooking as soon as possible is essential.
  11. Follow-up: After resolving the situation, consider contacting the airline’s customer service again to ensure that you received any entitled compensation or assistance.

Remember that airline policies and procedures can vary, so it’s essential to be patient and polite when dealing with airline staff. While flight cancellations are frustrating, being respectful and cooperative can often lead to more favorable outcomes when seeking assistance and alternative arrangements. As the saying goes, “You’ll attract more bees with honey.”


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslWhat to do When Your Flight Gets Cancelled
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Is Your House Ready For Vacation?

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It is the unofficial end of summer here in the Northern Hemisphere. Kids are back in school, and you are preparing for all the fall festivities and holidays that approach way too quickly. Your thoughts might have already turned to where we will go and what we will do over the school breaks, even though the year has just begun. 

 I travel a lot during the year. Not always with my family, but when we all manage to get our calendars to jive, I like to know my house is as ready as I am. What do I mean?

There are several things I like to do to prepare my home for being empty while I’m gone. Just like you have a packing list for your suitcase, you should have a list of things to prepare your house. 

Do your neighbors know you will be gone? I like to let my immediate neighbors or friends know when the house will be empty so they can watch for any strange activity. Or in case of storms that may cause damage. As I write this, we are getting hit with another torrential downpour, and these next few months can be some of the worst for hurricane and storm activity. 

Do the police know you will be gone? When I lived in Bartlett, TN, our local police had a website where I could register the dates I would be gone. They will actually do drive-bys to check for suspicious activity.

Did you set your alarm system? Do you have an alarm system in your house? If so, be sure to activate it before leaving. Also, notify your security company so they will know how to reach you during your absence, especially if you are out of the country. If you have a house sitter, which I have done to avoid putting our pets in the kennel, make sure they know how to operate the system to prevent false alarms. House and pet sitters are a great option when gone on vacation. 

Do you have timers? Your outside and even some inside lights should be on timers to mimic your regular daily routine. The police, when I registered my house, even asked about this.

Do you have someone checking the mail? If you don’t have a friend or a neighbor to pick up your mail, alert the postal office to hold your mail while you are gone. Mailboxes are a top target for scammers looking to access your personal information. 

Did you empty all the trash? This is a big one if you want to avoid being knocked over by the smell when you return. Also good is to make sure someone puts your cans out on garbage day. I have lived near the woods, and the raccoons love the restaurant au Rossmeissl.

There are lots of other little things to do in the house. For example, I like to ensure my refrigerator is relatively empty so I don’t come home with spoiled food. Adjusting thermostats for your absence is another example. I could go on, but sometimes what you do to prepare will depend on the season you travel. Creating a pre-travel checklist for your home will ensure you cover all your bases before departure. I have used lists for almost everything to keep my home running in some semblance of order. Raising three children, who are now grown adults, minimizing chaos was critical.

So, is your house ready for vacation?


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslIs Your House Ready For Vacation?
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Captivated by the Deep Blue: Exploring the Enigma of the Ocean

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I’ve been captivated by the deep blue since I was a young girl when I lived in Virginia Beach. Squatting on the sand, picking up shells, and watching the waves roll in. The sounds of the crashing waves and the salty air smell always tempted me. You look out to what seems like a neverending blanket. It is a true enigma.

The vast and awe-inspiring ocean has held humanity’s fascination for centuries. Its deep blue expanse has a mysterious allure that continues to captivate us. What about the sea draws us in, leaving us spellbound and eager to explore its depths? This blog post delves into why the ocean is so captivating.

Uncharted Territory:

The ocean covers over 70% of our planet, yet we’ve only scratched the surface of its mysteries. Its depths remain largely unexplored, offering an endless source of curiosity. From undiscovered species to hidden underwater landscapes, the ocean holds secrets that continue to drive exploration and scientific inquiry.

Breathtaking Beauty:

The sheer beauty of the ocean is unparalleled. The play of sunlight on its waves, the myriad shades of blue, and the sky’s reflection create a visual spectacle that leaves us in awe. Whether the tranquil sight of a calm sea or the exhilarating crash of waves against the shore, the ocean’s ever-changing beauty stirs our senses and sparks our creativity.

Connection to Nature:

The ocean reminds us of our connection to nature and our planet’s intricate ecosystems. It’s home to diverse marine life, from the smallest plankton to the most giant whales. The delicate balance of life beneath the surface highlights the interdependence of all living things and prompts us to reflect on our role as stewards of the environment.

Sense of Adventure:

The vastness of the ocean invites us to explore and embark on adventures. Whether sailing into the horizon, diving into coral reefs, or surfing the waves, the sea offers a playground for the adventurous at heart. The unknown and the unexpected create a sense of excitement that ignites our spirit of exploration.

Tranquility and Reflection:

At the same time, the ocean exudes a sense of tranquility that can be both soothing and reflective. The rhythmic sound of waves and the expansive horizon create a space for contemplation and mindfulness. Standing by the ocean, one can’t help but feel the vastness of the universe and the ebb and flow of life itself.

A Source of Inspiration:

Artists, writers, and creators of all kinds have drawn inspiration from the ocean. Its symbolism, its stories of adventure and survival, and its role in mythology and folklore have woven a rich tapestry of human imagination. The ocean’s mystery and power fuel our creativity and remind us of our capacity to dream and envision the extraordinary.

In conclusion, the ocean’s captivating nature lies in its blend of mystery, beauty, adventure, and reflection. It’s a reminder of our place in the natural world, a source of endless inspiration, and a testament to the wonders of the Earth. Whether gazing across its expanse or delving into its depths, the ocean invites us to explore, learn, and appreciate our remarkable world.  

Are you captivated by the Deep Blue?


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey, with agents in  NJ, TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslCaptivated by the Deep Blue: Exploring the Enigma of the Ocean
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