Destination Proposal

Photo Credit: Tumisu/Pixabay 

Fun Facts About Proposals

• During ancient Rome times, the Groom would give the father of the Bride a symbolic coin. By the Father accepting the coin, he gave permission to marry his daughter. 
• Proposing on one knee dates back to Medieval Knights.
• During the 1700's proposals transcended economic or financial gain. 
• In 1939, De Beers Diamond Jewelry hired a leading advertising agency which ran magazine ads creating a huge effect on proposals. 
• In 1948, the leading advertising agency introduced the popular slogan, "a diamond is forever". 
• Historically proposals were conveyed in a form of a written letter.
• Long engagements were once common in formal especially with arranged marriages. Today average between 6 months -  2 years.
• Giving of "the ring" was borrowed from Judaism by Roman Marriage Law, the Fiancé presenting it after swearing the oath of marriage intent, "will you marry me".
• The negotiation of Bride Price or Dowry is still practiced today in select cultures and countries.
• An engagement ring is a gift and separate from the wedding ring.
• The fourth finger on the left hand (aka: ring finger) dates back to Romans, whom believed this finger to be the beginning of the "vein of love" (vena amoris) as the vein leads to the heart.
• The bride's engagement diamond ring is worn on top of the wedding band post nuptials and thereafter.
• Not all countries practice the bride's engagement diamond ring.
• In our American culture, engagements are announced at during an Engagement Party, traditionally hosted by the bride's parents. 
• The bowing on the left knee reflects that majority are right handed.
• Today rarely are Fiancés not involved in choosing or designing their engagement rings.

Photo Credit: StockSnap/Pixabay 

Shopping for Bling, Bling, the Ring

• Have a budget range in mind.
• Take note to the jewelry material usually worn whether rose, white gold, or yellow gold.
• How will the size and style impact their job?
• Research and learn about the 4 diamond C's: Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color.
• Knowing the preferred ring style will help whether a antique or modern setting.
• Consider taking a loved one with you most familiar with their taste that won't ruin the surprise either.
• Carefully consider the diamond shape (aka: cut). Most popular: Cushion, Emerald, Marquise, Oval, Princess, Radiant, or Round.
• How will a wedding band fit and look with the engagement ring?
• Research reputable jewelers. Ask loved ones who they used.

Photo Credit: Scott Webb/Pixabay 

Proposal Tips

• Have the candid conversations about marriage, children, and finances before proposing. Otherwise you could be disappointed that you don't have the same life vision.
• Ask or convey your proposal wishes to the parents before proposing. The proper etiquette is to ask the father's permission before proposing.
• Determine whether a proposal is a private or public event amongst loved ones.
• Listen to your future Fiancés dreams and wishes before planning "the proposal".
• Give them a minutes to process the proposal. Remain kneeled until you hear "yes".
• Don't plan during someone's special moment whether a anniversary, birthday, engagement party, milestone celebration, retirement, or wedding.
• Insure the ring in the event it's lost or stolen.
• Post hearing "yes" do discuss how you plan to tell your loved ones. Always nice to prioritize and your visit loved ones to share your exciting new news. 
• Respect their cultural and/or family traditions.
• Knowing the ring size will best ensure it fits.
• If you're not sure you'll hear a "yes", then keep it private and intimate.
• Choose a meaning location and/or props special to you both.
• Hire a photographer to capture the special moment.
• Somewhat rehearse what your going to say. Make it personable.

Your Destination Proposal is a sacred secret with us; we'll work with you to create an extraordinary experience with memories to last a lifetime!

Photo Credit: TréVoy Kelly/Pixabay 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.  

Fellow Passengers "Goodie Bag" for your Child's First Flight

Photo Credit: Tania Van den Berghen/Pixabay 

Here's the prefect note for the weary adult traveler flying with a infant or toddler with concern to unpleasantries from fellow flight passengers whether sensed judgement, sighs, or staring:

Hello, my name is <First Name>.

I am <Child's Age> traveling with my <Relationship to Child>.

We're traveling to <Destination> because <Why>.

Since, this is my first ever flight! I'm really not sure what to expect but, you may notice I may cry or make too much noise. Just incase, I do here's a Special Goodie Package just for you. Enjoy your trip!

P.S. Try to be nice to my <Relationship to Child> because this is their first travel experience with me too!

May you enjoy the flight!

Photo Credit: Samantha/Pixabay 

Special Goodie Package Ideas

• Altoids Mints
• Disposable Ear Plugs
• Candy
• Chewy Fruit Snack
• Dried Fruit
• Gift Card (Check for airport eateries)
• Gum
• Individual Health Bar
• Individually Packaged Hand Sanitizer Wipe
• Listerine Pocketpaks
• Mentos
• Miniature Snack Packet (Beef Jerky, Chips, Crackers, Gold Fish, Popcorn, Pretzels, etc)
• Crossword Puzzle (Great finds at the Dollar Store)
• Scratch Off Lottery Ticket
• Tic Tacs
• Trail Mix

Photo Credit: Terri Cnudde/Pixabay 

Tips to Help Your Flight

• Book Flights during Childs Bedtime or Naps
• Bounce Child in Aisle or Seat if Permits
• Bring their Favorite Blanket and/or Toy
• Consult with your Pediatrician for Medication i
• Download & Play their Favorite Books, Movie and/or Music
• Determine a Diaper Change or Feeding is Not Required
• Make Feeding Time during Takeoff & Landing
• Rear of Plane Seating Aids to Drowning Sounds
• Remain Calm 
• Use a Bottle or Pacifier during Takeoff & Landing

May you find comfort in knowing at one point or another we have all been there or will be in the future.

Photo Credit: Orna Wachman/Pixabay 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn Pinterest Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.   

Why use Louvet Travel?

Photo Credit: Pam Patterson/Pixabay 

                                                   

                                                   10 Reasons Why to Use Louvet Travel

1. We know travel is more complicated than ever.

2. We are on top of what’s new and exciting!

3. We will save you so much time and stress!

4. We will advocate on your behalf should a issue arise.

5. We know there is no do-over for a trip gone wrong, so we do it right the first time!

6. We add a human element and an element of trust!

7. We know the world is constantly changing, as Consultants we are on the ground experiencing it.

8. We often will save you money and if not, will deliver more value!

9. We offer unique services for discerning clients.

10. We are professional advisors!

Photo Credit: Photo Mix/Pixabay 

About Louvet Travel...

We are your full-service local Travel Agency: Accommodations, Air, Car Rentals, Disney, Cruises, Excursions, Tours, Transfers, Travel Insurance, and/or Vacation Rentals. Whether traveling for business or leisure our services are FREE to you! 

Members of the Signature Travel Network (STN), American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and our OASIS affiliation. These platforms provide us with worldwide access to a network of preferred and vetted partners ranging from luxury hotels, ocean and river cruises, resorts, private personal guides, tour operators, and more and most often include Exclusive Benefits and Amenities.

As your one source for all your questions and travel support. Our valued Clients know when your last name hangs on the door that their travel experience matters! 

We look forward to working with you offering to offer our custom and personalized services!

Photo Credit: Bob/Pixabay 

About the Travel Consultants at Louvet Travel...

Janet Louvet, Travel Consultant & Jacques Louvet, Travel Consultant

About your Travel Consultants...

Janet Louvet

A lifetime resident of Chester County, PA. My passion for travel began many years ago while traveling in Corporate Sales & Marketing; truly a perk of the job. Most fortunate, to travel domestically to several major metropolitan cities and, on occasion, internationally. When I’m not consulting travel; I enjoy baking; canning fruits, jelly, and jams; crocheting “Louvet Couture” masterpieces; exploring the Chesapeake Bay by powerboat onboard “Silver Lining”; scenic touring on our Harley Davidson Road Glide; hosting annual theme parties for family and friends; reading Nicholas Sparks novels.

Jacques Louvet

Born in a family of Globetrotters in the Belgium Congo, 2.5 miles from the equator, I inherited a passion for traveling and exploring. After growing up in Brussels, Belgium, I started my career with SABENA Airline, which afforded me many opportunities to travel. I eventually emigrated to the US and obtained my Private Pilot’s license providing me another way to explore. When my health made flying unpractical, I transitioned to boating. My dream is to continue to explore by boat and navigate America’s Great Loop.

While we have traveled extensively domestically and internationally for both business and personal, our favorite travels thus far have been to Antarctica, Big Island, Hawaii; Venice, Italy; Fez, Morocco; Brugge, Belgium; Sedona, Arizona; Boise, Montana; Algarve, Portugal, and Luxembourg. Our goal is to visit all seven continents and all 50 United States. Of course, our favorite travel is always the current one!

We love to travel! We truly enjoy being submerged in different cultures; the arousal of our five senses: to see architectural differences, taste the local cuisine, hear and attempt to speak the local language, whether the purest of air to smell or aroma of spices and touch fine architect and fabrics. Our favorite destination travel is always the next experience.

Combined, we hold too many destination and supplier certifications to list. We are most proud of our industries measurement and designations earned:

• Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP)
• Caribbean Specialist
• Honeymoons & Destination Weddings Specialist
• Luxury Specialist

               

                We look forward to working with you when the opportunity arises!

Photo Credit: Dorothe/Pixabay 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.   

Best Cruise Deal Offers

Photo Credit: Ed Judkins/Pixabay 

When to Expect the Best Cruise Deal Offers

1. Book your next cruise while onboard! Ask us for our Future Cruise.
2. During Wave Season between January - March. Offer varies by cruise line.
3. Expect the first price drop at about six months before departure sailing.
4. Expect the second price drop around 90 days before departure when the final payment.

Photo Credit: Toni Paul/Pixabay 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn Pinterest Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.    

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Flag

Why visit Zimbabwe?

Ideal for the adventurous experienced traveler seeking to enjoy culture, game parks, hiking expeditions, hunting, ruins (ancient and medieval), scenery, and wildlife.

At a Glance

• Souvenirs to Buy: Baskets, batiks, beads, bronze, ceramics, copper wall plaques, crocheted clothes, dolls, jewelry, minerals, safari clothing, soapstone goods, spears, stone sculptures,  tablecloths, thumb pianos, wood carvings, wooden spoons, and woven hats.
• Local Cuisine to Try: Boerewors (sausage). Kapenta (fish dish). Mabhonzo Emombe (stew). Muboora (soup). Muriwo na Nyama (stew). Muriwo Unedovi (cabbage dish). Nyama (meat dish). Sadza (corn porridge).
• Local Drink to Try: Count Pushkin (vodka). Mazoe Orange (fruity). Mukuyu (wine). Nikolai (vodka). Whawha (maize beer). Zambezi (lager).

Fun Facts

• Great Zimbabwe is thought to have been the capital of the great kingdom during the Late Iron Age (1200 BC).
• Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.
• Mopani worms are eaten as a form of protein.
  
• Has 16 official languages.
  
• Formerly known as Southern Rhodesia, Rhodesia, and Zimbabwe Rhodesia.
  
• Highest point is Mount Nyangani (8,504 feet).
• Largest trading partner of South Africa.
• Hwange National Park is their largest natural reserve.
  
• Has won 8 Olympic medals.

Harare, Zimbabwe. Photo Credit: toubibe/Pixabay 

Special Holidays/Occasions

• Annual Events: (April) Harare International Festival of Arts (HIFA), Harare Jazz Festival, International Trade Fair, (May) Bulawayo Music Festival, (June) Annual Golf Tournament, (July) Zimbabwe International Book Fair, (August) Chibuku Neshamwari Dance Festival, Chimanimani Arts Festival, Zimbabwe International Film Festival (ZIFF), (September)  Intwasa Arts Festival, Midlands Arts & Culture Festival, Shoko Festival, (November) Harare International Food Festival, and Jikinya Traditional Dance Festival.
• Holidays: New Years Day: Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter, Easter Monday, Independence Day of Zimbabwe, Workers' Day, Africa Day, Heroes' Day, Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day, National Unity Day of Zimbabwe, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Good to Know

• A great stop combined with Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia.
• Considered a developing country.
  
• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (Victoria Falls) offers a Certificate after visitors eat Mopani worms.
  
• Antelope, crocodile, and warthogs are meats consumed.
• Dinner service is usually between 7 - 10PM or later. 
• Photography of banks, bridges, dams, government buildings, and post offices is not permitted.
• Overnight rail service operates between Bulawayo - Victoria Falls, Harare - Bulawayo, and Harare - Mutare.
  
• Driving is on the left side.
  
• Rainy Season is October - March.
  
• Homosexuality is illegal; subject to a $5,000USD fine and/or 1 year in prison.
• English is not spoken in rural areas.
• Native women lack freedom and rights compared to men.
• Arrival via South Africa requires at least 6 blank passport booklet pages.
• Take sufficient cash for the duration of your trip.
• Few places accept international credit cards, so prepay expenses prior to arrival.
  
• Avoid display of large sums of money or valuables.
  
• Thieves are known to break car windows while you're stopped at intersections and take things within arms reach. 
• Avoid evening explorations.
• Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur.
• Possession, trafficking, or use of illegal drugs is severe; 3 - 7 years in prison and a hefty fine.
  
• Staying beyond your VISA is over $1,000USD fine and possibility of prison. 
• Car seats are not mandatory.
• Hunters are required to be accompanied by a licensed operator. 
  
• Medical care and treatment does not meet our Western standards.
• Prevalent Diseases: African Tick-Bite Fever, African Trypanosomiasis, Chikungunya,  Cholera, Crimean - Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), Dengue, Hantavirus, Hepatitis A & B, Leptospirosis, Malaria, Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever, Measles, Rabies, Rift River Valley, Schistosomiasis, Tuberculosis (TB), Typhoid, and Yellow Fever.
• Air quality varies by season.
  
• Avoid tap water consumption.
• Offers no national network of roadside emergency service.
• Use of cell phones while driving is illegal.
• Seatbelts are mandatory.

This international destination requires:

• A valid passport with six months of validity upon return and two blank pages for entry stamp.
• Tourist VISA required.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination required . 
• Currency Restrictions for Exit: $2,000USD.

Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe. Photo Credit: Albrecht Fietz/Pixabay 

• Best Time to Visit: July - September
• Coolest Months: May - September 
• Hottest Months: November - February
• Peak Season: May - September

Your Must-See & Do

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Great Zimbabwe, Khami Ruins, Mana Pools National Park, Matobo National Park, and Victoria Falls. 

Maleme Dam, Zimbabwe. Photo Credit: Gavin Kadey/Pixabay 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.  

Zambia

Zambia Flag

Why visit Zambia?

Ideal for the experienced adventurous traveler seeking to enjoy birdwatching, cave, culture, game parks, rivers, safaris, white water rafting, waterfalls, and wildlife.

At a Glance

• Souvenirs to Buy: Baskets, copper wall plaques, jewelry, local fabrics, masks, pottery, reed mats, spears, stools, and wood carvings.
• Local Cuisine to Try: Bondwe (vegetable). Chibwabwa (pumpkin leaves). Chikanda (delicacy). Impwa (vegetable). Gizzards (delicacy). Kapenta (sardine). Kandolo (sweet potato). Lumanda (vegetable). Michopo (kabob). Nshima (corn mush). Samp (fine corn). Tente (wild mushroom).
• Local Drink to Try: Maheu (traditional). Mosi (beer). Munkoyo (fermented corn). Rhino (beer).

Fun Facts

• Kafue National Park (western region) is the largest game African reserve.
  
• The 38th largest country in the world.
  
• Legalized (2019) cannabis for medicinal and export purposes.
• Legal age of marriage is 16 with parental consent and 21 without consent.
  
• Stink bugs and mopani worms are eaten.
  

Maamba, Zambia. Photo Credit: TOM Chiponge Baroque M. C./Pixabay 

Special Holidays/Occasions

• Annual Events: (February) Kuomboka Festival, Nc’wala, Zambian Harvest Festival, (March) Elephant Epic MTB Race, (April) Fireworks Colour Festival, Flavours Music Festival, Kenneth Kaunda Day Marathon, (May) Kufukwila Ceremony, (June) Zambia International Trade Fair, (July) Lwiindi, Tangila Trail Series, (August) Kulamba, Likumbi Lya Mize, (September) Elephant Charge, Livingstone Cultural & Arts Festival, Mulungushi Mountain Bike Challenge, Zambezi River Challenge, and (October) White Water Rafting Festival.
• Holidays: New Year's Day, International Women's Day, Youth Day, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Monday, Kenneth Kaunda Birthday, Labour Day, Africa Day, Heroes Day, Unity Day, Zambia Farmers Day, Zambian National Day of Prayer, Zambian Independence Day, and Christmas.

Good to Know

• Official language is English.
  
• Ideal for travelers who have been to Kenya, Tanzania, and/or Zimbabwe wanting to experience wilder game parks with fewer tourists.
  
• Game parks are among the best in the world.
  
• Avoid Lusaka.
• Required to carry your passport booklet (original) or a certified copy with you at all times.
• Popular rapids: Gnashing Jaws of Death, Overland Truck Eater, Silent Assassin, and The Terminator.
• National Museum (Livingstone) sells authentic folk art goods.
  
• Complimentary local monthly magazine, Lusaka Lowdown offers valuable information.
• Avoid Angola and Democratic Republic of Congo borders.
• Roads are in poor condition.
• Avoid evening explorations.
• Guides are required in the game parks.
  
• Avoid standing or swimming in freshwater streams, lakes and ponds due to Bilharzia (parasitic worm).
• Pack insect repellent.
• Airport Departure Tax is included in the cost of international flight tickets.
• Photography of airports, bridges, government buildings, government personnel, military installations, ports, post offices, and/or public buildings is not permitted.
• Walking safaris are best between August and September.
• Rainy Season is November - April.
• Avoid public demonstrations.
• Flood Season is December - June.
• Sweaters are required year round in the evening.
• For safaris wear boots, khakis, and neutral tones.
• In destination, flying is the best way to get around.
• Driving is on the left.
  
• Crime is a known issue.
• Government is considered sensitive to criticism.
  
• Homosexuality is s illegal and punishable to 15 years in imprison.
• Choma, Kapiri Mposhi, Livingstone, and Lusaka are the most populated areas.
  
• Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur.
  
• Purchasing elephant ivory, rhino horns, and/or tortoise shells is illegal.
• Certification of Purchase is required for animal bones, crocodile teeth, crocodile skins, flat skins, hippo teeth, and/or horns. 
• Certification of Purchase (in person) from the Department of National Parks & Wildlife officials is required within 45 days of departure for an Export Permit. Otherwise a 5 year minimum prison sentence is enforced. 
• Medical care and treatments does not meet our Western standards.
• Avoid tap water consumption.
• Nearest air ambulances are based in South Africa.
  
• Shortages of medicine and medical supplies exist throughout.
  
• Prevalent Diseases: African Tick Bite Fever, African Trypanosomiasis, Chikungunya, Cholera, Dengue, Hantavirus, Hepatitis A & B, HIV, Leptospirosis, Malaria, Measles, Rabies, Rift River Valley, Ross River Virus Disease, Schistosomiasis, Tuberculosis (TB), and Typhoid.
• Illegal to turn left on a red light.
• Water splashing a pedestrian as you drive by is a traffic violation.
• Seat belts are mandatory.
• Child seats are not mandatory.
  
• Use of cell phones while driving is illegal.

This international destination requires:

• A valid passport with six months of validity upon return and three blank page for entry stamp.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination required from select countries. 

Victoria Falls, Livingstone, Zambia. Photo Credit: Simon Berger/Pixabay 

• Best Time to Visit: May - October
• Coolest Months: May - August
• Hottest Months: September - November
• Peak Season: June - October

Your Must-See & Do

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park & Victoria Falls.

Photo Credit: TOM Chiponge Baroque M. C./Pixabay 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? 

Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.