Aiko Legge

Vancouver Travel Agent Professional

 Urban Pulse: Vancouver

I worked in the Vancouver, B.C. for over 10 years and loved being able to see all the sites.  I was able to experience this beautiful city by the ocean: stroll along its shores, sunbath on the beaches and shop at the boutique stores nearby. I would look out at the sparkly waters of Burrard Inlet from my desk in downtown Vancouver and watch the boats traversing to and fro on sun shiny days. The mountains were a spectacular backdrop to my view. Stanley Park, with its majestic trees and lush, green lawns, was nearby - walking along the 5.5 mile Seawall -- a paved walkway following the water's edge --was a favorite lunch time pastime.  People strolling along, power walking, running, cycling or just sitting relaxing.  There are many highly trendy areas with their unique shops and restaurants.  Flowers were abundant - cherry blossoms and magnolias in the early spring, daffodils & tulips in the spring,  vibrant colors of rhododendrons & azaleas  and roses & hydrangeas in the summer & fall.  It is a multicultural metropolis with many ethnic groups therefore one can dine on authentic cuisine from different countries. Dim Sum in Chinatown for example.  The transit system is amazing - even better than many cities.  One can go from downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver by SeaBus or by Sky Train from the Vancouver's International Airport to downtown Vancouver, or even take it into the country.  Two ferry terminals transport vehicles and passengers to certain islands in Puget Sound or take a bigger ferry to Vancouver Island where the city of historic Victoria is located.  Hiking, boating, and fishing keeps many the adventurer relishing their life pleasures.  Whether you're craving city sophistication or outdoor thrills, Vancouver delivers.

Tokyo Travel Agent Expert

Experience Japan, an island nation in East Asia, which seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge innovation. From serene temples and exquisite cuisine to dynamic cities and breathtaking natural landscapes, Japan offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

Iconic sights include:

Tokyo’s neon-lit skyline, Mount Fuji’s majestic peak, and the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms.

Best Times to Visit:Spring (March to May): Celebrate cherry blossom season with hanami (flower viewing) in parks across the country.Autumn (September to November): Enjoy vibrant fall foliage in gardens and mountain regions.

Top Destinations in Japan:

Tokyo: A dazzling mix of modern skyscrapers and historic temples, with lively districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Kyoto: Renowned for its traditional teahouses, ancient temples, and scenic spots like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Osaka: Famous for its street food in Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, and the thrills of Universal Studios Japan.

Hakone: A tranquil retreat with hot springs, views of Mount Fuji, traditional ryokan inns, and Lake Ashi.

Must-Do Activities in Japan:

Cherry Blossom Viewing: Join locals in celebrating spring under blooming sakura trees.

Temple and Shrine Visits: Discover spiritual heritage at places like Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto and Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.

Stay in a Ryokan: Immerse yourself in Japanese hospitality with tatami rooms and onsen baths.

Mount Fuji Adventures: Hike in summer or admire the view from nearby lakes.

Explore Tokyo’s Neighborhoods: Experience the energy of Akihabara, Harajuku, and the famous Shibuya crossing.

Attend a Sumo Match: Witness Japan’s traditional sport in action.

Savor Japanese Cuisine: Delight in sushi, ramen, tempura, and regional specialties.

Stroll Through Japanese Gardens: Visit masterpieces like Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo.

Shop Local Markets: Discover fresh seafood at Tsukiji and traditional snacks at Kyoto’s Nishiki Market.

Enjoy Traditional Arts: Participate in tea ceremonies, watch kabuki theater, or see geisha performances in Kyoto.yoto.

Alberta Travel Agent Expert

Throughout the province, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy waterskiing, canoeing, camping, hiking, skiing, exploring waterfalls, immersing themselves in the western spirit at dude ranches and indoor enthusiasts also have a variety of things to keep them busy.

Canadian National Parks

Alberta is home to some of Canada’s most iconic national parks, each offering unforgettable landscapes and adventures.

•  Historic Hotels: Between 1888 and 1927, the Canadian Pacific Railway commissioned majestic hotels nestled among mountain peaks. The famous “Castle in the Rockies” and the Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton stand as historic relics of this era—places I’ve often imagined staying.

• Banff National Park: A world-renowned destination where Rocky Mountain peaks meet glacial lakes. Adventure seekers flock here for ice climbing and cross-country skiing.

   •  Lake Louise: Known for its striking turquoise glacial waters, it’s a postcard-perfect alpine setting.

•  Jasper National Park: A more laid-back wilderness vibe, with awe-inspiring peaks, Maligne Lake, the SkyTram, and the Icefields Parkway. Wildlife sightings include black bears, grizzlies, elk, and big horn sheep.

•   Columbia Icefields.

Alberta Cities

•  Calgary: Famous for the Calgary Stampede, a celebration of western heritage featuring bronco riding and chuckwagon races.

•  Edmonton: Home to the West Edmonton Mall, a massive entertainment and shopping complex with attractions for children and adults alike.

•  Lethbridge, my hometown, offers a blend of culture and natural beauty. The Japanese Gardens provide a serene retreat, while Henderson Lake is perfect for leisurely strolls around it’s Park.

Japan Travel Agent Professional

Do you crave the thrill of riding the legendary bullet train/Shinkansen or standing amidst the electric chaos of Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo—the busiest intersection in the world? Japan offers these unforgettable moments and so much more.

This mountainous country is a tapestry of rich cultural traditions, breathtaking architecture, and distinctive cuisine that delights every sense. From serene temples to neon-lit cityscapes, every corner reveals a new layer of beauty and wonder.

What truly sets Japan apart is the warmth and generosity of its people. During my travels, I was overwhelmed by the hospitality of relatives who whisked me away on an all-day volcano tour. We visited an elderly aunt—stooped yet spirited—who welcomed me with a meal and, astonishingly, gifted money despite meeting me for the first time. Later, I experienced the surreal sensation of being buried in hot volcanic sand, a tradition both therapeutic and unforgettable.

The culinary journey was equally extraordinary: towering platters of sushi, sizzling shabu-shabu prepared before my eyes, and evenings filled with the haunting melodies of the Biwa, a traditional Japanese instrument reminiscent of a guitar.

Japan is not just a destination—it’s an immersion into generosity, artistry, and adventure. Every encounter, from the bustling streets to the quiet countryside, leaves you with memories that feel timeless.

London: A City That Rewards The Adventurous

Explore London, one of the oldest of the world’s greatest cities situated on the River Thames. 

Tour the Tower of London and experience the iconic castle through the eyes of the Beefeaters/Yeoman Warders.  See the Crown Jewels and hear of the castle’s history – even the horrific occurrences.  I even found a distant relative who was the head of the Fusilier’s.

Go to a concert at the exquisite Royal Albert Hall of Arts & Sciences which seats over 5,000 people but originally was to hold over 8,000 or take a tour as I did.  It has the second-largest pipe organ in the British Isles.  Queen Victoria named it after her beloved deceased husband who initially had the vision for the hall – it is magnificent.

Buckingham Palace (the British monarchy’s royal residence) viewings are of the Throne Room, the Ballroom and the White Drawing Room.  A spectacular tradition is the Changing of the Guards, a ceremony which is only performed as per a schedule posted online. The King’s guards are known for their distinctive uniforms, tall black bearskin caps and white gloves.

One must experience the London Underground or “The Tube” a rapid transit system that services greater London and some other parts of England.  I remember at one point going down, down, down, 3 levels – amazing.  At night, enjoy the London Pubs for a lot of atmosphere and good food!  Double-decker buses, and so many other things to see and do. 

Call me anytime to schedule your London vacation.  As your travel agent representative, I look forward to working with you.  Anytime is a good time to arrange a vacation.  So, why not do so now?

Sydney, Australia Travel Agent Advisor

Sydney, Australia – A Vibrant Coastal Metropolis.

The city’s heart is its spectacular harbor:

The Sydney Opera House, with its sail-like architecture is a world-class working opera house. It hosts everything from classical ballet performances, innovative theatre and symphony music to contemporary dance and, of course, stunning opera productions

The Sydney Harbour Bridge aka “The Coathanger” is a magnificent and iconic bridge. Climb up it?  YES! There are different climbs you can take, depending on your comfort level and pocketbook. The views from the bridge are incredible, especially overlooking the Opera House and the sparkling water below. It has such a powerful presence and really captures the beauty and energy of Sydney.

Circular Quay serves as a bustling hub for ferries, dining, and entertainment, while The Rocks district preserves cobblestone streets and heritage buildings that tell the story of Sydney’s early days.

Experience the best of Australia’s wildlife right in the heart of Sydney at the Wildlife Zoo! Discover some of the most endangered creatures in the world including Tasmanian Devils, a friendly Goodfellow Tree Kangaroo and adorable Bilbies. Plus, get up close and personal to Kangaroos, Koalas, our Wombat and Platypus.

Sydney’s natural beauty is equally captivating. Bondi, Manly, and Coogee beaches attract surfers, swimmers, and sunseekers year-round, while the Royal Botanic Garden and nearby Blue Mountains offer lush escapes from the urban bustle. The city enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making outdoor living a central part of its lifestyle.

Queen Mary II Transatlantic Travel Agent Cruise

For over 180 years, Cunard has been synonymous with elegance, tradition, and the romance of ocean travel. Among its most celebrated offerings is the iconic Transatlantic Crossing, a voyage that connects Europe and North America in timeless style. Unlike typical cruises, this journey is not about island-hopping or sightseeing ports—it’s about the experience of the sea itself.

The flagship of the fleet, Queen Mary 2 (QM2), is the only true ocean liner in regular service today, purpose-built for the often challenging waters of the North Atlantic. Launched in 2004, QM2 combines modern engineering with classic maritime heritage, boasting a sleek hull, powerful engines, and stabilizers designed for speed and comfort. She carries around 2,700 guests and offers a refined onboard atmosphere reminiscent of the golden age of travel.

Life aboard a Cunard Transatlantic voyage is a blend of leisure and enrichment. Guests enjoy formal gala evenings, high tea, world-class dining, lectures by historians and celebrities, live music, and the largest planetarium at sea. The ship’s design encourages both social connection and quiet reflection, with grand ballrooms, libraries, and sweeping promenade decks.

Cunard’s QM2 2 is the only cruise line to date that permits dogs and cats to travel on their transatlantic sail between New York and Southampton.  Each pet is issued a life jacket, a welcome aboard gift and are pampered, well fed and exercised on their own deck space.  They will stay in kennels that you can visit them at designated times. 

Sailing between Southampton, England and New York City, the crossing typically lasts seven nights, offering a rare opportunity to disconnect from the rush of modern life. For many, it’s not just transportation—it’s a journey steeped in history, tradition, and a sense of occasion.

Cunard’s Transatlantic service remains a living link to the golden era of ocean liners, proving that some travel experiences are truly timeless. 

King Ludwig II Fairy Tale Castles Travel Agent

Imagine waking to the soft mist of a Bavarian morning, the air scented with pine and the distant chime of church bells. As you travel through rolling green hills and crystal lakes, the silhouette of Neuschwanstein Castle appears—its white towers piercing the clouds like something from a dream. Crossing the Marienbrücke bridge, you pause, heart racing, as the castle rises before you, framed by waterfalls and snow-dusted peaks. Inside, gilded halls and painted ceilings whisper tales of knights, swans, and eternal love.

A winding road leads you next to Linderhof Palace, nestled in a secluded alpine valley. Here, the gardens bloom in perfect symmetry, fountains dance in the sunlight, and the palace glows with Rococo elegance. You wander through mirrored rooms where candlelight once flickered, imagining Ludwig himself lost in reverie.

Finally, a boat glides across the shimmering waters of Lake Chiemsee toward Herrenchiemsee Palace. The island feels like a secret world, and as you step ashore, the grand façade greets you with Versailles-like splendor. The Hall of Mirrors stretches endlessly, reflecting golden chandeliers and your own awestruck gaze.

By day’s end, the castles feel less like monuments and more like portals—gateways into a realm where beauty reigns and reality bends to the will of dreams. In Bavaria, under Ludwig’s spell, you don’t just visit castles—you fall in love with them.

A Visit to Saint-Pierre/Miquelon

Do you want to go to France without crossing the Atlantic Ocean or Pacific Ocean?  If so, try this French archipelago off Newfoundland, Canada that can be accessed by plane or ferry from Canada.

By air its just a short flight on Air Saint-Pierre’s small, French-registered turboprop, from Halifax to the French islands of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon was relatively surprising – an all French crew. It was like being on a plane in France. 

Expecting a quiet archipelago with an equally quiet French flavor I found instead a vibrant quirky community with a long, complicated history that shapes daily life. Sitting just off the coast of Newfoundland, the islands are the final remnant of France’s former North American empire, and their past is visible everywhere—from the fishing docks to the government buildings flying the tricolor French Flag.  A visit to the museums showcases the history of these two islands.  Most residents are predominantly of French descent, mainly proud Basques and Bretons. Saint-Pierre is a quaint and compact town, while Miquelon is larger, quieter, and more exposed to the Atlantic.

The narrow isthmus connects the two islands. The people identify strongly with France—using the euro, following French law, and often sending students to the French mainland—yet their daily reality is shaped by North Atlantic conditions. Buttery croissants and quiche, just like in France, can be purchased at quaint bakeries or patisseries.  As I walked along the cobbled streets of Saint-Pierre on my final day, I passed the war memorial, the harbor, and the steep streets lined with brightly painted houses and French colonial architecture. The night before, I could hear sounds from a lively bar up the street.

Going to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is absolutely worth it.  I'd love for you to experience it also!

Germany: Historical and Multifaceted

As a travel agent with wonderful memories of Germany, I specialize in creating immersive vacations to this vibrant country, known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, music festivals, wine tasting events and world-class culture.

From exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Brandenburg Gate, Luther memorials in Eisleben and Wittenburg, and the Rhine Valley vineyards, to indulging in delicious German cuisine like pretzels, schnitzel, and sausages, I can tailor a trip to match your interests.

Whether you’re eager to cross the countryside, speed along the famed autobahn, drift along the Rhine on a river cruise, savor Mosel Valley wines, celebrate at Oktoberfest, wander through Christmas Markets, or marvel at the Black Forest—I’ll ensure every detail of your German adventure is unforgettable. Let’s plan a journey that reveals Germany’s best-kept secrets alongside its most iconic destinations.

Be Royalty on Princess Cruises

Having travelled with Princess Cruises several times, I would say it is highly likely I would do it over and over and over again. As the name suggests, Princess Cruises: they are for special people of which you are one! 

Some fantastic features:

The OceanMediallon, a digital device which is exclusive to Princess Cruises, allows one to have a stress free and leisurely trip by allowing passengers to check-in early, to unlock stateroom doors automatically as they approach, to make purchases, using your mobile app order food and drinks from anywhere aboard ship, and locate travel companions on the ship, plus more…  The Medallion knows when the steward can come into your stateroom to service it when you are out.   

A centrally located bright/elegant Italian-inspired multi-leveled Piazza, connected to circular stairways and glass-walled lifts is a social and entertainment hub that one can be actively involved in or just watch while sipping a specialty drink or having a gelato. It is surrounded by cafes, bars, and shops.   

Paper itinerary for the next day's performances, excursions and activities that steward's leave the afternoon/night prior in order to plan or look at to see what is going on. 

For those wanting to go to Alaska, Princess has the market cornered, not only with their cruises but with their Alaskan trains, lodges and exclusive access to the most northern Alaska destinations.    

Famous European Spiritual Pilgrimage Destinations

Do you want to go on a Roman Catholic pilgrimage? Start with UNESCO Heritage site Santiago de Compostela. My husband was invited there as a member of the media when the Pope visited – seeing the pope and the thousands that followed his procession on the Way of St. James was impressive. Then in Lourdes, a center for Marian devotion, we experienced Catholic Pilgrams seeking healing and inspiration. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal followed, documenting the pilgrimage tradition of crawling on your knees up a steep road as an act of penance and devotion. Lastly in Rome we were invited to spend a night at a Catholic ambassador’s home near the Vatican where we peppered him with questions regarding the Roman Catholic faith. It sure made for an interesting article!

However besides Roman Catholic monuments there are so many other iconic cathedrals and churches, monasteries and sacred places to visit. Many of these sites offer guided tours, religious ceremonies and accommodation for pilgrims.  Tours often combine multiple destinations, allowing travelers to experience both spiritual and cultural aspects of Europe’s Christian heritage.  Whether walking a historic route, attending a mass, or exploring a cathedral such as the Canterbury Cathedral in the UK, these sites provide opportunities for reflection, prayer, and connection to centuries of faith.