Laurie Walter

Ft Lauderdale Travel Agent Advisor

Hi — I’m Laurie, your Fort Lauderdale travel expert. Drawing on many firsthand experiences exploring the area, I create custom travel experiences for all audiences: family-friendly beach getaways, romantic escapes for couples, group trips and incentives, and luxury VIP services. I coordinate accommodations, transfers, private boat charters, water sports, dining reservations, and insider recommendations so every detail is covered. Expect personalized service, local knowledge, and stress-free planning from booking to return. Sunlit beaches, scenic waterways, and a lively dining and arts scene. Known as the “Venice of America,” this coastal city blends relaxed oceanfront lifestyle with vibrant urban energy: palm-lined Boardwalks, expansive marinas, and a network of more than 300 miles of navigable waterways.If you are looking for Beaches Ft. Lauderdale offers wide, clean stretches like Fort Lauderdale Beach and quieter options such as Deerfield Beach for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Engage in the Yacht-lined Intracoastal Waterway, boat tours, private charters, fishing, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing. Dining & nightlife options feature fresh seafood, waterfront dining, craft cocktails, and lively spots along Las Olas Boulevard. The Sea Watch on the Ocean is a favorite mine over the years it is a coastal sanctuary for locals and visitors alike, where ocean views, handcrafted cuisine, and genuine hospitality come together to create timeless memories. Ft. Lauderdale offers major Museums (NSU Art Museum), arts venues, galleries, and frequent festivals and cultural events. FATVillage Arts District, contemporary galleries, artist studios, monthly First Friday’s art walk and murals. Las Olas Boulevard, galleries, boutique art shops, public sculptures, and regular art fairs. Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District — outdoor art, cultural programming, and waterfront exhibits. Interested in shopping? Ft. Lauderdale offers luxury and designer brands (Las Olas, Galleria), outlet bargains (Sawgrass Mills), coastal apparel and swimwear, art and gallery purchases, home furnishings, specialty foods, and unique local gifts and jewelry. Ft. Lauderdale Best for beach lovers, boating enthusiasts, families, couples seeking a relaxed coastal getaway with easy access to urban amenities.Top experiences:- Walk or bike the Fort Lauderdale Beachfront Promenade and the Boardwalk for sun, swimming, palm-lined promenade, beachfront cafes- Riverwalk & Las Olas Boulevard — waterside strolls, shopping, galleries, restaurants.- Take a water taxi to see waterfront mansions and hidden dining spots. Many offer hop-on hop-off options.- Everglades airboat tour — wildlife viewing (alligators, birds) and scenic sawgrass marshes- Deep-sea fishing or private boat charter — sport fishing, sunset cruises, snorkeling trips- Visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for trails, kayaking, and picnics.- Sunset cruise or paddle board at dusk — romantic/calm way to enjoy waterways and skyline.- Bonnet House Museum & Gardens — historic home, art, and tropical gardens on the beach.Museum of Discovery and Science & IMAX — hands-on exhibits and large-format films (great for families).Las Olas Dining & Nightlife — rooftop bars, seafood restaurants, cocktail lounges.Snorkeling/diving at nearby reefs — shore dives and charters to coral reefs and wrecks.Historic Stranahan House — guided tours of Fort Lauderdale’s oldest surviving structure.Shopping at Sawgrass Mills — extensive outlet shopping (about 25–30 minutes west). Combine a Fort Lauderdale stay with day trips to Miami, Boca Raton, Everglades, Deerfield Beach and Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Hollywood Beach, and the greater South Florida attractions.Easy access to Fort Lauderdale:–Hollywood International (FLL) — main airport serving domestic and international flights; closest to downtown, beaches, and Port Everglades.- Miami International (MIA) — larger international hub ~30–45 minutes south (useful for more international connections).-Palm Beach International (PBI) — another regional alternative north of Fort Lauderdale.-Major interstates: I-95 and I-595 provide primary access; ample rental-car options at FLL and downtown.-Taxis, Uber/Lyft, and private car services operate citywide; ride-share pickup/dropoff zones at the airport and busy corridors.-Port Everglades — major cruise port and commercial harbor; also used for some private yacht charters.-Water taxis, private boat charters, and sightseeing cruises provide on-water transport and hop-on hop-off access along the Intracoastal

Florida Keys Travel Agent Expert

I’ve traveled the Florida Keys to Key West many times and it’s still a favorite.  Driving the Overseas Highway (US Rt 1) is a favorite scenic famous road trip.  It’s about 150 miles from Miami to Key West and can take about 4 hours but there are many roadside attractions to see along the way.  Key Largo is a fav with lots to see and do.The Great Whaling Wall Murel featuring manatees, rays, dolphins, turtles and more.  Jules’ Undersea Lodge is a unique underwater motel where visitors dive 21 feet with full scuba gear to get to their room.  John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is home to only living coral reef in the continental United States best known for its underwater beauty offering swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and camping. There’s also a glass-bottom boat tour that gives you a peek at the underwater world if you’re visiting with kids or people who aren’t going to be able or interested in snorkeling.

Islamorada, (about halfway to Key West) fun, laid-back, cool and interesting village atmosphere and known as the “Sport Fishing Capitol" of the World”.  Visit the fascinating History of Diving Museum. a really special place for anyone interested in scuba diving. Then there is Robbie’s of Islamorada a conglomeration of food, art shops, souvenirs, boat rentals and more. Famous for feeding tarpon. There are also snorkeling and sandbar tours that leave from Robbie’s.  There is history here too like the monument commemorating the devastating 1935 Labor Day Hurricane that killed over 400 people and destroyed much of Flagler’s railroad to Key West. It may be a more somber attraction, but important part Florida Keys history.  See Hemingway’s boat, the Pilar inside the Bass Pro Shop – Worldwide Sportsman Islamorada where there’s a vintage cocktail bar upstairs. Visit Florida Keys Brewing Company, the Upper Keys first microbrewery offering tours of the brewery, and live entertainment.

Key West a vibrant, tropical, bohemian style, laid-back atmosphere offering rich maritime history,  lively nightlife and dining options ranging from waterfront fine dining and bustling bistros on to casual seafood shacks and historic spots.Visit the Hemingway Home for literary heritage and 6-toed cats, Fort Zachary Taylor National Historic Monument for maritime military.  The park also offers a beach for picnicking, swimming, snorkeling, paddling and fishing.  Truman’s Little White House, described as a “working retreat” allowed the president to conduct official government business in a quiet, warm and secure location as ordered by his doctor due to health issues.

Key West is home to some of the most iconic bars known for the lively activity on Duval Street. Famous spots include Hemingway's favorite Sloppy Joe's, the live music hub Green Parrot Bar, a locals fav, and the rustic Captain Tony's Saloon. Other top, historic, or must-visit locations include Hog's Breath Saloon, founded and owned by Clint Eastwood for 27 years, Schooner Wharf Bar and Turtle Kraals on the docks.

Key West is renowned for its historic, dining featuring prized local seafood and waterfront locations. Visit Blue Heaven for Floridian-Caribbean cuisine & key lime pie with al-fresco dining.  Known for unique, delicious breakfasts and roaming roosters. Sloppy Joe's Sloppy Joe's Bars’ rich history dates back to the 1930s when it was Hemingway's favorite haunt. Offering live music and dancing all day and night.  Yes, there is a Sloppy Joe sandwich on the menu!  Louie's Backyard premier upscale dining in a romantic, historic converted Victorian home offering stunning views of the sunset. Creative cocktails make for an ideal spot to visit to watch the sunset.   Ocean Key Resort and Spa hosts the famous Sunset Pier where the Gulf meets the Atlantic featuring breathtaking views, indulgent tropical culinary delights and live daily music – not to mention the best seat in town for our sunset celebrations Key

West Must See’s include: Southernmost Point Buoy: Mile marker “0” on U.S. Route 1 the southern most point in the continental U.S., Only 90 miles from Cuba.  Key West Lighthouse: Climb Lighthouse Tower to experience the best views of the island.  Looking for something unique to celebrate, a proposal, or just a romantic gesture, reserve the Lighthouse for a sunset tour. Duval Street, Shopping Experience your fix of retail therapy strolling Duval St. Browse the art galleries, eccentric shops.

Mallory Square Sunset Celebration: This nightly tradition must be experienced. Local arts & crafts, stunt performers, live music street performers, food vendors, gather to watch the magnificent sunsets.  Key West offers an abundance of watersports, and world class fishing charters .Plan a day trip to the Dry Tortugas National Park for snorkeling and diving.

Accommodation are available for every budget and taste in Key West. From high-end waterfront options, luxury and boutique, resorts and villas to budget friendly hotels.  We’ll discover what’s right for your vacation

Alaska, Inside Passage Travel Agent Specialist

I'm your Alaska specialist dedicated to crafting unforgettable journeys through the Inside Passage. I’ve personally cruised from Juneau to Ketchikan viewing Glaciers, hump-back whales, serene mountains and fabulous sunsets. From Juneau take the helicopter tour to Mendenhall glacier. The flight path takes you over the glacier, giving you an eagle's-eye view of its icy spires, deep blue crevasses and melt water pools. Step out onto the ice to explore the glacier's surface with an experienced, knowledgeable guide — an opportunity to take once-in-a-lifetime photos.  In Sitka go on a wilderness kayaking adventure where you'll see some of Alaska's moat rugged coastline and glimpses of wildlife. Or, take the pedal and pub crawl tour on a 15 passenger bicycle where you’ll pedal your way through this quaint little fishing town and get a taste of locally crafted beer.  Explore the historic stilt-house boardwalk of Creek Street in Ketchican, viewing totem poles at Totem Bight State Park, and take a floatplane to Misty Fjords National Monument, experience the lively Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Whether you are looking for an intimate small-ship expedition or a premium balcony cabin for panoramic views, I specialize in tailoring itineraries that match your passion for adventure. I handle all the details—including pre-cruise rail journeys and shore excursions—so you can focus on the majesty of the Last Frontier. Let's start planning your Alaskan adventure today!"

London, England Travel Agent Specialist

Hi, I’m Laurie, your dedicated London and England travel specialist! With many years  experience planning travel to the UK I can recommend the best hotels, famous sites, shopping and attractions that most interest you. I have personally inspected many of the city’s finest hotels, sites and attractions. I create tailor-made adventures that go beyond the guidebook. Whether you’re dreaming of Afternoon Tea, private tours of famous attractions, finding the best gastronomic dining experience or hidden pubs in London, I handle the logistics so you can enjoy the magic. I blend iconic sights with local, off-the-beaten-path experiences for a truly unforgettable British escape.

Seattle Travel Agent Specialist

Hi, I am Laurie, your travel agent specialist for Seattle, Washington, a vibrant Pacific Northwest city framed by evergreen hills, Puget Sound, and the Olympic and Cascade ranges. Known for its coffee culture, tech-driven energy, and thriving arts and food scenes, Seattle blends urban sophistication with easy access to nature. Popular cruise port for Alaska for pre and post trips.Visit historic Pikes Place Market in downtown Seattle (founded 1907) overlooking Elliott Bay—one of the city’s top attractions combining fresh produce, seafood, artisans, craftspeople, specialty foods, and restaurants including the first retail Starbucks, handmade goods, jewelry, art, and souvenirs. Watch the fish throwers and lively vendor banter, Sample local foods, catch street performers and seasonal events, stroll down to the waterfront (Elliott Bay) and nearby Olympic Sculpture Park.The Space Needle built for the 1962 World’s Fair and a city landmark offering panoramic views of the entire area. An enduring symbol of Seattle’s skyline and mid-century modern optimism, which is frequently referenced in popular culture and recognized worldwide as an architectural and civic icon. Check out the observation deck and rotating restaurant. Enjoy refreshments at the Casual café or plan seasonal/or special-event dining options. Architecture is Mid-century modern with frequent special lighting for events/holidays.For outdoors activities & day trips there is hiking, kayaking, whale watching, island-hopping (San Juan Islands), and quick access to Mt. Rainier and Olympic National Park. Take a harbor or whale-watching cruise; visit Bainbridge or Vashon Island by ferry.Seattle is the birthplace of the major coffee culture and independent roasters. Seafood (notably fresh salmon and oysters) is abundant with an array of restaurants and diverse neighborhoods offering creative dining.Experience the Seattle Gum Wall, meander  to Post Alley, beneath Pike Place Market between Pike Place and Pike Street to see the quirky, unofficial tradition by theatergoers and market visitors. The ally walls are covered in thousands of chewed gum pieces layered into a colorful — and sticky — public installation/novelty. Don’t forget to take gum to add your own piece of this tradition. An extremely popular photo spot with arrow walkway so be prepared for crowds.Seattle offers many types of lodging including major hotels & chains, best for amenities, consistent service, meeting space. Boutique hotels offer local style, smaller, often walkable to nightlife and budget hotels & motels which are cheaper and vary widely.The city is accessible via Seattle–Tacoma International (SEA, SeaTac) — primary airport with frequent domestic/international service. Link light rail runs directly downtown.Amtrak: Coast Starlight and Cascades stop at King Street Station (downtown). Station is accessible; many trains have wheelchair spaces and assistance.Seattle Streetcar: South Lake Union and First Hill lines for short local trips.Sound Transit: Link light rail (North–South through downtown to SeaTac, University District, Bellevue & Redmond extensions expanding), Sounder commuter rail (north to Everett, south to Tacoma), and regional express buses.Washington State Ferries: major car/passenger ferries (e.g., Seattle–Bainbridge, Seattle–Bremerton) connecting islands and peninsulas. Ferry terminals downtown (Colman Dock) and nearby islands provide ADA access.I maintain strong relationships with local suppliers, boutique hotels, and guides to ensure quality and responsible experiences, and I provide 24/7 trip support when clients are traveling. I also optimize itineraries for timing, crowd management, and cost-efficiency — saving clients time and often money.If you’re looking for a Seattle-savvy travel partner who values service, sustainability, and real experiences, let’s connect — I’ll create a plan that fits your goals and handles the details.

Chicago Travel Agent Specialist

Chicago sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan and blends world-class culture with bold Midwestern energy. Renowned for its iconic skyline and architectural innovation, the city offers museum-caliber institutions (Art Institute, Field Museum), a lively theater scene, and legendary music venues for jazz and blues. Food lovers flock for everything from deep-dish pizza and classic Chicago hot dogs to cutting-edge fine dining in the West Loop. Outdoors, the Lakefront Trail, beaches, and expansive parks provide scenic escapes, while architecture river cruises and rooftop views showcase the city’s dramatic skyline. With diverse neighborhoods—each with its own character, arts, and dining—easy transit, two major airports, and year-round events, Chicago is a dynamic urban destination for culture seekers, foodies, families, and weekend explorers.

Top Neighborhoods

The Loop: downtown business center, Millennium Park, Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), Art Institute.

River North & Gold Coast: nightlife, galleries, upscale dining, Magnificent Mile shopping

.West Loop & Fulton Market: trendy restaurants, food halls, nightlife.

Lincoln Park & Lakeview: residential charm, zoo, theaters, lake shore parks.

Wicker Park / Bucktown: indie shops, coffeehouses, nightlife.

Pilsen & Logan Square: strong arts, murals, and diverse dining scenes.

Hyde Park: University of Chicago, museums, intellectual vibe, cultural diversity. Easy to navigate with dense urban core and walkable neighborhoods

Must-see attractions Millennium Park & Cloud Gate Art

Institute of Chicago Willis Tower Skydeck or 360 CHICAGO (John Hancock Observatory) Chicago River architecture cruise

Navy Pier and Centennial Wheel

Museum Campus: Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium

Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lakefront

Trail Chicago Cultural Center and neighborhoods’ local galleries

Food & nightlife

Deep-dish pizza (Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, Pequod’s) and thin-crust/tavern-style pizza

Diverse dining: world cuisines, acclaimed fine dining (Alinea area), farm-to-table in West Loop

Iconic eats: Italian beef, Chicago hot dog (no ketchup), pierogi and Polish food in specific neighborhoods

Live music: jazz and blues clubs (Green Mill, Kingston Mines), large concert venues

Outdoors & recreation Lakefront Trail for walking, biking, and skyline views

Beaches along Lake Michigan (Oak Street, North Avenue)

Millennium Park concerts and public art

Kayaking on the Chicago River or boating on the lake

Getting around:

CTA trains (“L” lines) and buses cover most of the city; reliable and affordable.

Walkable downtown; bike-share (Divvy) and ride shares widely available.

Major airports: O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW).

Chicago is known for striking architecture, world-class museums, vibrant food and music scenes, and rich cultural diversity. Easy to navigate with dense urban core and walkable neighborhoods. Also within driving distance to several vacation destinations in the Great Lakes Region. If you are looking for a city escape let’s make your plans now to experience Chicago.

Walt Disney World Travel Agent Professional

I’m Laurie, your Orlando,Disneyword  travel advisor with over 20 years of experience creating seamless, stress-free vacations across Central Florida and beyond. I specialize in personalized itineraries for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Kennedy Space Center, cruises out of Port Canaveral, and beach add-ons, handling everything from park reservations and dining to hotel selection, airport transfers, and ground logistics. I work with families, multigenerational groups, first-time visitors, and repeat guests to design plans that balance must-see attractions with downtime, budget priorities, and any accessibility or dietary needs. My service includes pre-trip planning, day-by-day itineraries, booking management, and on-trip support so you can relax and make the most of every moment. I keep current on park updates, promotions, and timing strategies to maximize value and minimize lines. Ready to build your perfect Orlando getaway—contact me to book a consultation at Orlando, Florida — the world’s theme-park capital with sunny weather, family-friendly attractions, and a surprisingly rich mix of dining, arts, and outdoor options. Beyond the thrills, Orlando offers upscale resorts, diverse neighborhoods, and easy access to natural springs and nearby beaches.

Why go:

- Theme parks: Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, and numerous smaller parks and water parks.

- Family & thrills: Rides, character experiences, immersive lands, and entertainment for all ages.

- Food & nightlife: From food halls and celeb-chef restaurants to lively bars in areas like International Drive and Thornton Park.- Culture & outdoors: Museums, performing arts, local craft breweries, scenic lakes, and nearby freshwater springs for swimming and tubing.

- Events & conventions: Major conferences, festivals, and seasonal events year-round.

Top experiences:

- Spend multiple days across Walt Disney World’s parks and Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay.-

Explore ICON Park and ride The Wheel for city views.

- Visit Leu Gardens and the Orlando Museum of Art.- Swim or clear-water tube at Wekiwa Springs or Blue Spring State Park (manatee season = cooler months).

- Dine and stroll in Winter Park and Lake Eola Park.

Central Florida destination known for world-class theme parks, family entertainment, warm weather, and a large hospitality industry. Major draw for families, couples, and convention visitors. Contact me now for an itinerary that meets your specific needs and requirements for a dream vacation you’ll cherish forever!

Grand Canyon

Few destinations in the world offer the breathtaking contrast, scale, and natural beauty found in the American Southwest. The combination of the Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona creates an unforgettable journey through time, color, and landscape—where ancient geology meets vibrant desert artistry.The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, it stretches for over 270 miles and plunges more than a mile deep, revealing layer upon layer of red, orange, and gold rock that tells the story of Earth’s geological history.Standing at the rim for the first time is a moment travelers never forget. The scale is difficult to comprehend—vast, silent, and endlessly expansive. The canyon doesn’t feel like a place you simply visit; it feels like a place you experience with all your senses. Light shifts constantly across the rock walls, transforming the scenery from soft morning pastels to glowing sunset reds and purples.Popular viewpoints such as Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and Desert View offer panoramic perspectives that stretch as far as the eye can see. For those who venture deeper, hiking trails like Bright Angel and South Kaibab provide immersive journeys into the canyon itself, revealing its layered geology up close.Wildlife is also part of the experience—elk, California condors, and mule deer often appear along the rim, adding a living presence to this ancient landscape.Beyond its natural beauty, the Grand Canyon is deeply significant culturally and historically. It holds sacred meaning for Native American tribes including the Havasupai, Hopi, Navajo, and Hualapai, who have lived in and around the region for centuries.Whether viewed at sunrise, sunset, or under a canopy of stars, the Grand Canyon delivers a profound sense of scale, silence, and wonder that stays with travelers long after they leave.