Our Blog

Ten nights on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, June 10 to 20, 2027: Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos and a 38-hour overnight in Egypt. What it costs and how to go.

CLIA calls advisors "the most important distribution channel by far" for cruising. 63% of cruisers used one in the last 12 months, satisfaction runs higher when they do, and booking windows have stretched 9-18 months out. Here is what that means for your next sailing.

From 1920s gala nights to Studio 54, from Ibiza White Parties to Virgin's Scarlet Night — the colored theme party tradition on cruise ships is actually a fascinating blend of maritime ritual, nightclub culture, destination branding, and social psychology. Here is how the tradition was really born.

Most cruise lines don't allow pets — but a few do, and one of them lets your dog cross the Atlantic in a private kennel suite. Here's the real list, the rules, and how to plan a sailing with your pet.

For the first time ever, bourbon is being aged across an entire cruise fleet. Here's how Holland America's partnership with Jefferson's Bourbon — and the America's 250th 'Spirit of Independence' celebration — turns your winter cruise into a once-in-a-lifetime tasting experience.

Thinking about spending Christmas or New Year's at sea? Here's an honest look at holiday cruising — the magic, the headaches, and why having the right travel advisor makes all the difference.

Now in its second year — sail Dec 13-19, 2026 from Miami to Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios, and the Beach Club at Bimini aboard the adults-only Resilient Lady.

Cruise travel insurance isn't optional — it's essential. Here's what it covers, what it costs, and which policies we recommend.

The complete packing list for a Caribbean cruise — what to wear on the ship, at ports, and for formal nights.

Never cruised before? Here's how to pick the right line, ship, and itinerary for an incredible first experience.

Looking for a grown-ups-only cruise? Here are the best adults-only options — from party vibes to quiet luxury.

Should you buy the drink package? How much are gratuities? What add-ons are worth it? We break down every cruise extra.

The honest answer about what cruise fares cover — and what will cost you extra. Line-by-line breakdown inside.

River cruises go where ocean liners can't — through the heart of cities, into wine regions, past castles and vineyards. If you've only thought about ocean cruising, this post will change your mind.

Most travelers overpay for cruises because they book emotionally instead of strategically. Inside: the 90-day window, Wave Season, group pricing leverage, and the AF Travel Timing Formula seasoned cruisers use to travel better for less.

Discover South Africa's diverse landscapes, from the Wine Lands to dramatic coastlines and vibrant cultural experiences.

Discover countries where you can live comfortably on a modest budget, with detailed cost breakdowns for housing, food, and healthcare.

How to plan successful corporate retreats and incentive trips that boost morale and strengthen team bonds.

Discover Portugal's stunning coastlines, historic cities, and authentic culture that remains refreshingly uncommercialized.

A guide to Ghana's most visited slave castles — the history, the emotional weight, and why these UNESCO sites remain essential for diaspora travelers.

East of Accra, the Volta Region unfolds in green hills, thundering waterfalls, the world's largest artificial lake, and villages that welcome visitors like family.

From Osu Street Market's beads and batik to Makola's spice towers, here's how to shop, bargain, and experience Accra like a local.

Beyond Accra and the coast, Northern Ghana offers mud-brick architecture, savannah wildlife, village hospitality, and the vibrant Damba Festival.

Just inland from Cape Coast, Kakum National Park offers one of Africa's most thrilling canopy walkways and a rainforest teeming with life.

From Osu Street food to Volta Region village kitchens, Ghanaian cuisine is a delicious journey through jollof, fufu, waakye, banku, and grilled tilapia.

Group travel is one of the single best opportunities to earn miles, unlock rewards, and cut your real out-of-pocket costs dramatically. Here's exactly how we do it.

Discover how professional travel agents transform group travel from chaotic headaches into seamless, memorable experiences for everyone involved.

From the Independence Arch in Accra to the slave castles of Cape Coast, discover the landmarks that make Ghana the cultural heartbeat of West Africa.

In an age of online booking, discover why professional travel advisors provide irreplaceable value and peace of mind.

A day-by-day walkthrough of our most popular Kenya safari route — from Nairobi wildlife to Maasai Mara Big Five to Diani Beach paradise.

Complete guide to Kenya's e-Visa process, required vaccinations, and health precautions for travelers from the US, UK, and Canada.

Safari or beach? You don't have to choose. Here's why combining Maasai Mara with Diani Beach makes for the ultimate Kenya trip.

The definitive packing list for a Kenya safari — clothing, gear, health supplies, and the items first-timers always forget.

From budget camping to luxury lodges, here's exactly what a Kenya safari costs — flights, parks, tips, and everything in between.

When should you go on a Kenya safari? We break down wildlife, weather, crowds, and pricing for every month of the year.

Experience Dubai's perfect blend of ancient culture and futuristic vision in this dynamic Middle Eastern destination.

Wellness travel is no longer a spa add-on. From Sedona and Scottsdale to Asheville and Austin, these are the U.S. cities leading the wellness boom — and how our Open to Overflow retreat, planned for April 2027 in Arizona, Costa Rica, or Mexico, turns the trend into an actual restoration.

Overstimulation is the modern epidemic. For Black professionals carrying invisible weight, true luxury isn't another packed itinerary — it's permission to do nothing, beautifully. Here is where AF Travel sends clients when they need to remember what stillness feels like.

Dream of retiring somewhere warm and affordable? These 10 countries offer the best combination of quality of life, healthcare, and cost savings.

Explore beyond the Maasai Mara and discover Kenya's lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries that offer intimate safari experiences.

Booking through the wrong travel advisor can cost you money and derail a vacation before it starts. Here is the exact checklist we recommend for verifying credentials, understanding cancellation terms, and spotting the payment red flags that signal a scam.

Carnival Corporation confirmed nearly 6 million travelers had personal data stolen in an April 2026 cyberattack. Here is what happened, what was taken, and the steps every cruise traveler should take right now.

The EU's long-promised ETIAS travel authorization has slipped again, with no firm launch date on the calendar. Here's what changed, what you still need at the border, and why this window favors travelers who plan now.

The grassroots effort to resurrect Spirit Airlines fell short of its $5 million bid deadline — and is now pivoting to building a brand-new, people-owned airline from scratch. Here's what AF Travel clients should actually take from the headline, and why the smart move right now is not waiting on a startup carrier to save your fare.

Ahead of a record-breaking summer travel season, TSA is rolling out a limited-time PreCheck discount for young travelers. Here's what it costs, who qualifies, and how to use it on your next AF Travel adventure.

The US-Iran ceasefire hasn't lowered aviation fuel costs yet. Here's what smart travelers should do now to protect their budgets and lock in the best deals for Africa, Caribbean, and cruise travel.

Geopolitical tensions are reshaping high-end travel. Here's why Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and beyond are emerging as the world's most sought-after luxury destinations — and how we help you get there.

The EU just backed sweeping new tourism regulations. Here's how it compares to what's happening in the Caribbean and Africa — and why smart travelers should pay attention now.

TSA staffing is restored, wait times are dropping, and travel is becoming smoother again. Here's how to take advantage of this strategic window before demand surges.

From picking the perfect destination to coordinating group payments, here's everything you need to plan a stress-free, unforgettable girls' trip overseas.

Travelers today want more value, more convenience, and more confidence in every booking — and the ones who get it aren't booking blind on cheap-flight apps. Here's the insider playbook AF Travel clients use to choose the right brands, the right all-inclusives, and the right experiences for the way they actually want to feel.

When headlines spike and clients call worried about their upcoming trip, your response defines your value. Here's the exact framework we use to turn anxiety into confidence — and why forwarding a news article is the fastest way to lose a booking.

After 45 days of TSA disruption, airports are returning to normal — but smart travelers prepare before they fly. Here's your complete pre-flight checklist.

Expert advice to make your travels smoother, safer, and more enjoyable, from packing hacks to cultural etiquette.

Everything you need to know about hosting a destination wedding in the Caribbean, from venue selection to legal requirements.