Postcards from the Pollard August 12, 2025

And then there were SEVEN!

Good news keeps rolling in: we now have seven delightful calves! Of these, we're fairly certain there are three little girls (heifers) and two boys (bulls)—the remaining two are still on the "mystery" team, as we haven’t attempted the “undercarriage check” yet. Wish us luck. 

Fun Calf Fact: A newborn calf can stand and walk within one hour of birth—a small marvel of nature that never fails to amaze us.

Travel News: Cruise Craze---Popularity Breezing Up Prices

The Today show recently highlighted a big travel trend: cruises are hotter than ever. Demand is so strong that major cruise lines are raising prices, even for last-minute bookings. Lines like Royal Caribbean still offer excellent value — Often up to 40% less than comparable hotel vacations — but booking early can save you hundreds. In short: if you’re considering a cruise for 2026 or beyond, the sooner you reserve, the better.

Some Tips:

• Book early. We are reserving vacation packages, all-inclusives, tours, and cruises into 2027 - secure your prices before any increases.
• Ask about specials that help stretch your budget - Cruise Planners has exclusive promotions you can't get through booking directly.
• Be flexible -  moving your vacation even a few days can reduce pricing - we can help with this!

Looking Ahead—Holiday Travel = Cherished Family Memories

This year, why not give the gift of time together? A holiday getaway — whether it’s a snowy mountain escape, a sunny cruise, or a cozy cabin rental — can spark traditions, laughter, and memories you’ll talk about for decades. We have a family taking an early Holiday trip in October - compliments of Mom and Dad - everyone wins!

Yearning for Fall Leaves?

Fall is nearly here—and with it comes breathtaking fall foliage across northern New England and eastern Canada. It’s the perfect season to swap your afternoon walk for a scenic drive or a leisurely picnic under a canopy of crimson and gold.

Or, what about a taste of New England’s coastal beauty or a scenic Eastern Seaboard voyage? Here are three standout options:

• Oceania’s “Canadian Connoisseur” — An 11-day cruise from Boston to Montreal departing October 5, 2025, visiting Bar Harbor, Halifax, Saguenay, Quebec City, and more. Fares start around $4,680 per guest.

• American Cruise Lines’ “Northeast Harbors Cruise” — A charming 8-day small-ship journey from Boston to New York, calling on classic Northeast seaports like Plymouth. Sailing from September 2025 with fares starting around $5,000–$7,000/pp.

• Royal Caribbean’s Eastern Seaboard Cruise aboard Independence of the Seas — A 9-night Canada & New England cruise departing from Cape Liberty (New York/New Jersey) on October 15, 2025, stopping in Boston, Portland, Halifax, and Saint John.

Travel & Climate: When Wildfire Smoke Reaches the Skies — and the Skies You Fly Through

From Canada to California, wildfire season is producing smoke that drifts for hundreds, even thousands, of miles. This haze doesn’t just impact health — it can also disrupt travel. Reduced visibility can delay or cancel flights, especially in busy air corridors.

Tips for Traveling During Smoke Events:

• Monitor air quality with apps like AirNow or IQAir before you travel.

• Pack for comfort — N95 masks, eye drops, and a refillable water bottle.

• Allow extra layover time to reduce stress from delays.

• Have a back-up plan — a later flight, train option, or a flexible arrival day.

Where We Come In:
When smoke causes last-minute disruptions, we can help when we've booked your flights:

• Rebook flights quickly, often before you've landed.
• Pivot to alternate destinations if needed. 
• Handle the calls and emails so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Why Travel Insurance Matters:
The right policy can cover extra hotel nights, missed connections, or rebooked flights when smoke or weather interferes. It’s peace of mind in an unpredictable travel landscape.

If you ever want to chat about how travel is evolving—or how to explore with purpose—we’re all ears.

What matters to us

We don’t want “clients.”
We want relationships.
We want to hear your stories, know your dreams, and help you discover this beautiful world in ways that feel deeply personal.

Coming Soon: On Stage Alaska

Save the date! October 26 at Journal Plaza in Lake Placid, Florida. 
We’re thrilled to host a special evening with Holland America’s On Stage Alaska team—including onboard naturalists who will bring Alaska’s wild spirit to life right here in Florida.

This free event is for dreamers, planners, and anyone who’s ever wanted to see whales breach beside a glacier. Want early access to seats?

Let us know you're interested!

P.S. We will have a virtual event you may also attend, so even if you are not in the Central Florida area, you too can attend, and will receive the same promotional offers from Holland, available ONLY to 'On Stage Alaska' attendees!

We'd Love to Hear From You!

Whether you're planning a trip or just need a break from the news—we’re here for you.
Tell us what’s on your bucket list, or just say hello.

With muddy boots and warm hearts,
Samuel (Leon) & Deborah Pollard
Your Travel Advisors for Life!
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