Home / Travel TipsFrom the desk of Donnetta Byrd

Travel tips & inspiration

Notes, guides, and straight advice on the trips I plan most, train travel, river cruising, and ocean cruising. Pull up a chair.

Rocky Mountaineer 2027: what sells out firstThe 2027 Rocky Mountaineer season fills up fast. I'm a travel advisor, and here's what sells out first plus how to plan your Canadian Rockies trip.August 10, 2026 Is Rocky Mountaineer worth it?San Antonio travel advisor here. I have ridden Rocky Mountaineer in both GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf, and here is my take on whether it is worth it.August 2, 2026 The One Question That Determines Your Perfect River Cruise Line (And Why Most People Get It Wrong)The one question that really determines your perfect river cruise line, and why your cabin choice matters more than the brand.July 28, 2026 Exploring the Most Breathtaking Scenic Train Journeys Around the WorldThe most scenic train journeys in the world and what makes each one worth taking, from a travel advisor who specializes in train travel.July 29, 2026 Exploring the Best Transatlantic Cruise Packages for Seniors: A Guide for 2026A practical guide to transatlantic cruises for senior travelers: the ports, the cruise lines, and how to pick the right crossing.July 29, 2026 The Top 10 Reasons to Experience a River CruiseTen reasons a river cruise works so well, from the scenery and the ports to the value, written by a travel advisor who plans them.July 29, 2026 Discovering the Charm of the Centovalli RailwayThis 52-kilometer journey takes you through picturesque valleys, charming villages, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-see for anyone visiting theJuly 9, 2024 Experience Luxury Travel with the Blue TrainThe Blue Train is a world-renowned luxury train in South Africa. It has been operating for over 70 years, becoming a symbol of sophistication. This iconicJuly 2, 2024 The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Glacier ExpressThe Glacier Express runs from Zermatt to St. Moritz and takes approximately 8 hours to complete. The stunning views of snow-capped mountains, crystalJune 25, 2024 Discover the Scenic Wonders of the Bernina ExpressThe Bernina Express takes you over the Bernina Pass and through the Swiss Engadin Alps and the Italian Alps. Here's what you can expect from thisJuly 29, 2026 Bergen Railway: Norway’s Scenic Train JourneyBergen is Norway's second-largest city and Oslo is the country's capital. It is one of the most scenic train routes in the world, passing throughJuly 29, 2026 Belmond Royal Scotsman: Scotland LuxuryPeople know Scotland for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned whisky. What better way to experience all of this than on a lavish trainJuly 29, 2026
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