There’s something exciting about deciding to take a trip.
Sometimes it starts with a destination you’ve dreamed about for years. Other times, it’s simply a feeling: I need a vacation.
Then the questions begin. Where should we go? Which resort is best? Which cruise line fits us? Is that itinerary too busy? Is an all-inclusive worth it? Which excursions should we book? And how did something that was supposed to be fun suddenly turn into 27 browser tabs?
That’s exactly why I created Brandstetter Travel & Hospitality.
Travel Has Always Been Part of My Story
I’m Shayla Brandstetter, and I love exploring—not just seeing new places, but learning about them.
As a native Floridian, I grew up with Walt Disney World practically in my backyard. Tourism, hospitality, and the excitement surrounding vacations were simply part of the landscape.
Over the years, my own travel interests expanded well beyond Florida. I fell in love with cruising, exploring cities, relaxing at all-inclusive resorts, and discovering destinations through their food and drinks.
Give me a great local restaurant, an interesting glass of wine, or a bourbon with a story behind it, and I’m probably happy.
Alaska Became Part of My Story
Alaska isn’t just somewhere I’ve visited.
My husband and I were married at Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau.
Standing in front of a glacier to get married is the kind of experience that changes the way you think about travel. Some destinations become more than photographs or places you’ve checked off a list. They become part of your story.
Your unforgettable place might be Alaska. It might be a tiny café in Paris, your children’s first glimpse of the ocean, a Caribbean sunset, or sitting on your balcony as your cruise ship sails into a new port. The destination is different for everyone.
There Isn’t One “Right” Way to Travel
Some travelers want to be up early every morning with an itinerary full of tours and activities. Others want a beautiful beach, a comfortable chair, a tropical drink, and absolutely nowhere they need to be.
I think both sound pretty great.
The important part is finding the vacation that fits you.
That’s why my approach to travel planning isn’t about recommending the same resort, cruise, or destination to everyone. I want to know what you actually enjoy. Do you care about incredible food? Do your kids need plenty to do? Would you rather explore a city on foot or spend the afternoon by the pool? Are you celebrating something? Do you want nightlife—or do you consider being in bed by 10 p.m. one of the best parts of vacation?
Those details matter.
What You’ll Find on This Blog
This blog will be a place to explore destinations and make travel planning a little easier.
I’ll be sharing ideas and advice about some of the travel experiences I especially enjoy, including beach and all-inclusive vacations, Alaska, ocean cruises, European river cruises, city travel, food and wine experiences, and more.
You can also expect destination inspiration, resort and cruise spotlights, planning tips, itinerary ideas, and answers to questions travelers commonly have before booking. And occasionally, I’ll share places or experiences simply because I think they’re worth knowing about.
Because sometimes the best trip starts with discovering somewhere you hadn’t considered before.
Travel Should Feel Exciting, Not Exhausting
Planning is important. But planning shouldn’t take all the fun out of anticipating your vacation.
Make getting there relaxing—and being there exciting.
So whether you’re already dreaming about a specific destination or your entire vacation plan currently consists of “somewhere warm,” you’re welcome here.
Explore. Get inspired. Ask questions.
And when you’re ready, tell me what you’re dreaming about.
Let’s go somewhere.
— Shayla Brandstetter
Travel Advisor
Brandstetter Travel & Hospitality
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