Meet Maureen Johnson
When my husband and I started having children, we decided that we wanted to show our kids the greater United States. We spent at least two weeks each summer taking them through National Parks, such as Yosemite and Yellowstone, and to cities like San Francisco and Washington DC. Now that my kids have grown, my husband and I have continued to explore this great nation of ours, and I can say that I have an advanced specialty level of experience in some of the most popular USA destinations. I can help you find a trip that will open your eyes to the beauty and history of our nation. From custom independent itineraries to escorted tours, however, you would like to explore the USA, I know I can help. Give me a call at (855) 515-6560 today to start planning.
Niagara Falls
For many years, my husband and I had dreamed of going to Niagara Falls. Every year, we would plan out where we would like to stay, what we would see, and where we would go. But every year, something came up, forcing us to change our plans. Finally, after years of planning, we realized our dream of seeing Niagara Falls. But because of all the planning and research, I have done in this area over the years, I can honestly say that I am an advanced specialist in this area. Call me today at (855) 515-6560, and I will talk with you about things to see, things to do, and where to stay!
Spain
In college, I lived an entire year in Spain and studied at the University of Madrid. I have unique experiences when it comes to traveling in Spain because as a student, I traveled all around for different reasons. I have a lot of interests, like art and history. But I also like wine and culture, as well as relaxing on the beach. Spain has all of this, and I know some great areas. One great place is Santiago de Compostela, which is a pilgrimage town with a cathedral dedicated to St. Peter. Shells have long been a symbol of pilgrims, and the entire city, including the cathedral, is decorated with sea shells from pilgrims who have left them there over the centuries. I also loved Mijas, which means ‘bread crumbs’, and is a Costa del Sol town. The town is famous for its bread, but what I so loved about it is the picturesque village feeling, with all the buildings being white washed, and red tile roofs. The locals still travel by donkeys, and from the town’s little hills, you can see the sea. For the young and young at heart, I recommend tapa and bar hopping in the town of Zaragoza. At night, the streets are filled with music and dancing. These are just a few of the experiences I can share with you, so give me a call at (855) 515-6560, and I can create an experience that you will never forget in Spain!
Spain: Madrid
Madrid is much more than just the capital of Spain. Madrid is a city of lively nights filled with music, adorned with art, and full of history. I should know, I lived in the city and went to the University of Madrid for a full year! One favorite experience is Café and bar hopping after about 8 pm. Each Café in the corridors surrounding the Plaza Mayor is themed around a specific ingredient, like mushrooms or sausage. Outside of the nightlife, check out the unique Temple of Debod, which I only more recently saw on a return trip. This Egyptian tomb was given to the dictator Franco in the 60s. It was reassembled brick by brick just off the Plaza Mayor. Another must-see is Goya’s tomb. The chapel was designed and painted by this Spanish artist, and his body was moved there. The only way to see the fresco is by using mirrors to view inside the copula itself. So call me today at (855) 515-6560 or email me, and whether you are looking for just Madrid or all of Spain, I can help you create the trip of a lifetime.
Portugal
Having lived in Spain, it was natural for me to want to explore Portugal. Even though the beaches to the south are a continuation of the Spanish Costa del Sol, the Portuguese coastline offers so much more: stunning, white sand beaches, great golf courses, and the freshest seafood available. I love Lisbon because it is both a big, modern city and a quaint, small town. And don’t miss the country’s many diverse and exciting festivals celebrating everything from religion, culture, and history to festivals filled with music, singing, and great comfort food. You’re sure to be swept away! I love this combination of old-world culture and family-value charm. This is also what defines me as a person.
Morocco
Living in Spain as a college student, I had many opportunities to travel to nearby countries. Morocco in the 1970s was alluring to young people. As an adult in a very changed world, Morocco’s modern history makes it appealing for those interested in experiencing the exotic feel of North Africa, and yet wanting to feel safe. I have experienced the Sahara at sunset and sunrise, seen the original Kasbah, haggled with sellers in the Medina, and experienced the snake charmers of Marrakesh. Strolling the Roman ruins of Volubilis gives me chills. Seeing the goats in the trees and the storks’ nests on tall monuments reminds me that, even today, modern countries have incredible moments of nature. The huge vats used for leather tanning in Fes are the same as they have been for hundreds of years. I can recommend high-quality cooperatives where you can see rugs being made by hand and fabric being woven into scarves.
France
While I was in college gave me close and easy access to France, so of course, I went often. Exploring France as a college student gave me a youthful perspective. Going back almost yearly as an adult with children has given me a more rounded and worldly perspective. I have enjoyed France for its history, architecture, gastronomy, art, fashion, and culture. Americans have a great history with France. The Statue of Liberty is a gift from the French to celebrate our independence and the assistance they gave us. The French are very grateful for D-Day and the liberation of France from Germany. France is more than Paris, and I enjoy planning trips for my clients to see Provence, Burgundy, Alsace, and Normandy.
Peru
As a student, I was so interested in the indigenous people of North and South America, that I did my final thesis on Incan and Mayan Culture. I studied the why and how of the Peruvian Incas, and have been fascinated with the development of Peru with the Incas and Spanish. There is more to Peru than Machu Picchu. I love the mysterious Nazca Lines, Paracas National Park, the Ballestas Islands, the Palomino Islands, and of course Lake Titicaca with its floating islands. Peru is a land of mystery and nature. I have studied the Incas and how they built Machu Picchu, and whether the Nazca lines were done by aliens or incredibly talented indigenous peoples. Enjoying the wonders of nature in the Ballestas or the wonders of survival in Lake Titicaca has been an enriching experience that I am thrilled to share with my clients.
All-Inclusive Resorts
My favorite way to travel is all-inclusive! But not every all-inclusive is created equally. With so many destinations offering all-inclusive resorts, and every resort being unique, save time and sanity by calling me. As an all-inclusive specialist, I am familiar with several brands and offerings from Mexico to the Caribbean. Whether you are looking for a romantic adults-only getaway or a family adventure, I can match you up to the best possible resort experience at the best possible price. Give me a call at (855) 515-6560 or email me at Maureen@content.amttravel.com and I will get to work on your upcoming vacation.
Girls’ Getaway
Like a lot of girls out there, my husband is either working or refuses to go to destinations like Paris or Napa for a spa weekend. So, my daughter and I find ourselves taking girl getaways all the time. If you and your girls are thinking of taking a special trip out to Las Vegas, Napa, the Caribbean, Mexico, or even as far as Europe, give me a call. I thrive on helping you find that perfect experience for your girl getaways. Wine tours, spa packages, tickets to shows like the Moulin Rouge, and more, I shine at finding that special something to make your girl getaway the perfect opportunity to bond and relax.
“…with Platinum Journeys everything was booked and ready to go, once we got to the airport until the day we came back everything was planned and taken care of…thanks again.”
Brent and Wendy Watson