Category: Vacation Travel Blog

Exploring the Heart of the Southwest: My Santa Fe Travel Guide

The American Southwest is a favorite destination for many travelers, but Santa Fe, New Mexico is a hidden gem. Recently, I was able to explore what makes it a destination unlike any other. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a quick guide to experience the best of this city.

Start at the Santa Fe Plaza, the historic city square surrounded by traditional adobe buildings. Local Native Americans sell handcrafted jewelry and pottery here in front of the Palace of the Governors.

Be sure to explore the extensive arts scene! Make a stop at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, stroll down Canyon Road with its many galleries and shops, or visit the Tumbleroot Pottery Pub for a fun combination of crafting your own pottery with a cocktail.

Take a hike at Bandelier National Park, just north of the city, to climb into cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

And don’t forget the food! Enjoy authentic New Mexican cuisine from local favorites such as The Pink Adobe, Kawaka Chocolate House, or the Santa Fe Farmers Market.

If you’re looking to relax, there are plenty of spas to choose from. Ten Thousand Waves is a unique Japanese-style spa and resort where you’ll have no problem unwinding.  

Santa Fe is more than a destination – it’s an experience steeped in culture, art, and history. Whether you’re wandering through galleries, enjoying a margarita, or hiking mountains, this city will leave you enchanted. Ready to explore the heart of the Southwest? Santa Fe is waiting. Contact us at Witte Travel to plan your trip!

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

Hong Kong Disneyland: The Most Magical Party of All!

Disney fans, add Hong Kong Disneyland to your bucket list! It’s the smallest Disney park, but it’s packed with incredible rides, entertainment, and seasonal magic.

This year is extra special because Hong Kong Disneyland is celebrating its 20th anniversary, accurately named, “the most magical party of all!” The celebration includes a beautiful parade, a brand new castle show, and magical additions to already incredible seasonal offerings.

Tips for Visiting

My first suggestion is downloading the Hong Kong Disneyland app. It’s helpful for navigating the park, checking ride times, finding show schedules, ordering food, and planning your day. If you’re worried about language barriers, don’t be. The majority of cast members speak enough English to assist you, and if they can’t, they’ll find someone who can. The signage around the park is also in English.

Crowds can be intense, but are generally manageable due to the park’s size. If you prioritize what you want to do, you can see a lot in a day, even on the most crowded days! And during the busiest periods, you have options. Premier Access allows you to skip lines for certain attractions, but I recommend waiting until you’re in the park to decide if it’s worth it. Sometimes, buying a single fast pass for your favorite ride is all you need, and you can do it on the spot.

Entertainment and Seasonal Offerings

Hong Kong Disneyland doesn’t hold back when it comes to entertainment! Halloween celebrates the Disney Villains through a show called “Let’s Get Wicked,” and this year there was a special show on Main Street called “Uninvited.” The performers, dancers, and creative team went above and beyond with this show.

I may be biased, but Christmas here is pure magic! You’ll find carolers on Main Street and in Fantasyland, fantastic music from the Marching Band and the Toy Drummers, a nightly Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Disney Live! In World of Frozen you’ll find more music from the Carolers of Arendelle (that’s me!), and the Royal Troubadours. If you’re lucky you might even see Elsa bringing some snowy magic, and help Kristoff decorate an ice sculpture of Sven.

A few shows remain staples year-round: Mickey’s Wondrous Book and The Lion King. Both are must-sees. There’s something special about hearing Mickey speak Cantonese (don’t worry, there are English subtitles) — it’s a reminder that Disney magic transcends language. And the Lion King cast delivers consistently stellar performances.

Featured Friends

Character interactions are a highlight at Hong Kong Disneyland, and some favorites here might surprise you. Elsa is, unsurprisingly, the star of the show. You can meet her and Anna in an interactive experience called “Playhouse in the Woods,” where you get to witness Elsa’s magic!

Have you ever heard of Duffy and Friends? Duffy is a teddy bear who was hand-sewn by Minnie Mouse and given to Micky to take on his travels so he wouldn’t be lonely. Duffy has gathered many friends, and they’re all very popular throughout Asia!

You may also encounter rare characters like Esmeralda from The Hunchback of Notre Dame and everyday you can enjoy a special Moana show that brings the spirit of adventure to life.

Rides, Fireworks, and Hotels

If you’re a ride enthusiast like me, Hong Kong Disneyland does not disappoint. With Grizzly Gulch, Hyperspace Mountain, RC Racer, Mystic Manor, and Frozen Ever After, I am constantly laughing, screaming, and having the time of my life. The Jungle River Cruise here is the only one where the skipper speaks three languages, Mandarin, Cantonese, and English — it’s incredible!

At the end of the day, don’t miss Momentous, the iconic firework show, which is all about living in the moment and loving the memories you make along the way. For the 20th anniversary, new projections have been added on Main Street, so you can be totally immersed no matter where you’re viewing from. It’s the perfect way to end a magical day.

How can I forget the hotels? The classic Disneyland Resort Hotel with Mickey and Friends in the dining area, the Explorers Lodge, focused on adventure, and the Marvel-themed Hollywood Hotel. Excellent options to get the entire Disney experience in Hong Kong!

Your Adventure Awaits

If Hong Kong Disneyland wasn’t on your list, it should be! Shorter lines, year-round entertainment, stunning hotels, and warm hospitality make it a truly magical destination.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

Hong Kong: Things You Might Not Know (and Why You Should Visit)

What Comes to Mind When You Hear “Hong Kong”?

Is Hong Kong part of China? Is it its own country? Where is it? Let’s clear up a few misconceptions and explore why Hong Kong is such a unique and exciting travel destination.

Is Hong Kong a Country or Something Else?

Here’s a quick history lesson — it’s key to understanding Hong Kong today. From 1841 to 1997, Hong Kong was a British colony (except for a brief Japanese occupation during World War II). British influence is still strong: cars drive on the left, double-decker buses are abundant, and English remains an official language.

Currently, Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) in a 50-year transition period under Chinese sovereignty. This arrangement, often called “one country, two systems,” means Hong Kong has its own legal system, culture, and language—though its future beyond 2047 is a topic of debate.

Where is Hong Kong?

I definitely did not know where Hong Kong was before coming here, and I’ve found that’s the case for a lot of people! A common misconception is Hong Kong is close to Japan or Taiwan, and that’s not the case. It’s actually farther south — closer to Vietnam and the Philippines than Japan. The climate is therefore quite warm and humid, comparable to Florida in a lot of ways!

Why Visit Hong Kong?

1. Accessibility

Thanks to its British legacy, Hong Kong is very traveler-friendly. Signs and public transport announcements are in English, and many locals speak English fluently.

2. Shopping Paradise

Love shopping? Hong Kong is packed with malls and markets. You can browse luxury brands at K11 Musea and then haggle for bargains at the Ladies Market—all in the same afternoon. You’ll wonder into malls on accident whether you like shopping or not!

3. Outdoor Adventures

Prefer exploring nature? Hong Kong offers incredible hikes with city skylines, ocean views, waterfalls, and island trails — all easily accessible from the city. I use the app AllTrails to help plan hiking adventures!

4. Food Culture

Dim sum is a must-try: small, shareable dishes like dumplings and steamed buns, always served with tea. Hot pot is another favorite—cook meats and veggies in flavorful broth right at your table. And don’t miss bubble waffles and boba tea for a sweet treat!

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong has something for everyone. It’s an international hub where people and cultures mix, city and nature collide, and beauty is all around you. If you’ve never been to Asia, Hong Kong is an excellent first destination—vibrant, accessible, and full of surprises.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

The Pacific Northwest: Highlights From My Trip to Seattle, Vancouver, and Victoria

Have you ever had a place you’ve wanted to visit for years and finally made it happen? For me, that place was the Pacific Northwest—Seattle and Vancouver in particular. After thinking about it for so long, I finally went, and it was a trip I’ll always remember.

I started in Seattle, a city full of interesting things to see and do. One of my first stops was Chihuly Garden and Glass, which was unlike anything I’d seen before. I also spent time at the Seattle Art Museum, took in the views from the Space Needle, and wandered through Pike Place Market, where the mix of food, flowers, and local vendors made it a fun spot to explore. The Museum of Pop Culture was another highlight, especially if you enjoy music and film. Between sightseeing, I had great meals: fresh seafood along the waterfront and breakfasts in small, diverse restaurants around the city.

Getting to Vancouver was easy with a smooth border crossing. Vancouver felt like a big city but still close to nature. I visited Granville Island, checked out the Museum of Anthropology, and spent time at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. That park was one of my favorite experiences. Walking through an old-growth rainforest with towering Douglas firs and western red cedars was incredible. Some of those trees have been standing for over 1,500 years. Even though it rained, the mist in the forest made it feel peaceful and quiet.

To finish the trip, I took a ferry to Vancouver Island. Butchart Gardens was beautiful, especially in the fall when the trees were full of color. I also explored Victoria, the capital city, which had a relaxed vibe and great views along the water.

Looking back, this trip was worth the wait. The Pacific Northwest has so much to offer: art, culture, nature, and good food. If you’ve ever thought about going, I’d say do it. Whether it’s sunny or raining, Seattle and Vancouver are places you’ll enjoy.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

Hong Kong for the Holidays

At the end of October, I’ll be returning to Hong Kong to sing as a Christmas Caroler at Hong Kong Disneyland for the third year in a row! This incredible opportunity began when I performed with the Goode Time Carolers in Nashville, TN. Through my connection with Goode Time, I was invited to audition for the caroling contract at Hong Kong Disneyland, and the rest is history.

So, what do I actually do there?

This year, I’ll be spending most of my time in Arendelle! Hong Kong Disneyland is the first Disney park to feature a World of Frozen, which opened during my first contract in 2023. There are three quartets who will be spreading Christmas cheer all around the park seven days a week (each quartet having normal five-day work weeks).

On my days off, I try to balance rest and recovery with adventure and exploration—but I usually lean toward adventure! With limited time, I want to soak up as much as I can.

I will also continue to work for Witte, remaining reachable to talk about performance tours, contacting potential clients, preparing for upcoming conferences, and making as many connections as possible in Hong Kong. To get to do it all is a dream and a gift!

What am I most looking forward to this time around?

Friends, visitors, and nature!

The friendships I’ve made through this experience are truly special. I’ll be returning with my same quartet as last year, as well as many other friends from the other two quartets. Sharing this experience with them is magical.

This year will be extra special—my parents will be visiting for the first time, and my husband will be returning for his second visit! I already know my time with them will be rejuvenating and memorable.

I love Hong Kong as a city, but especially the way the city blends seamlessly with the nature. The hiking in Hong Kong is phenomenal, and there are plenty of perfect weather days for getting outside in December.

Follow Along!

I’ll be documenting this journey right here on the blog. Expect posts about tourist attractions, food, what makes Hong Kong a fantastic travel destination, performing updates, and more!

Some might call this a “once in a lifetime” opportunity. I call it an “as many times as possible in a lifetime” opportunity—because I’ve truly fallen in love with this contract. The people, the city, the adventure, the performing… I’m grateful for all of it, and I can’t wait to be back!

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

Exploring English: A Traveler’s Journey Through Regional Terms

When traveling, we often encounter words that have different meanings than what we were taught.  I am especially aware of this when English is the first language.  For example, in the US, Midwesterners call carbonated beverages “pop”,  while in the South it is “coke” no matter if a Coke, Fanta, or 7-up. Elsewhere in America? “Soda.”

 

The difference in word choice is even more exaggerated when the speakers are across the ocean from one another. While on my travels, here are a few of the words that gave me pause as I took a moment to figure out what they meant:

 

 

  • Plaster (Band-Aid)
  • Jumper (crew neck sweater)
  • Hoover (vacuum sweeper)
  • Boot (trunk of car)
  • Hob (stove top)

What a joy to live in and experience a world of differences!

Planning my trip overseas

When planning a trip overseas, a few questions to consider:

Where do you want to go?

Do you want to visit one or more cities in the same country or perhaps multiple countries? If you aren’t quite sure, start a list of what you’ve always wanted to see.

When I was planning my recent trip to Europe, knew I wanted to travel to Germany next; however, the cities to visit were up-in-the-air. When you think of Germany, what comes to mind? For me, it used to be Oktoberfest in Munich, the history of the Nazi’s, or the romantic Rhine River. There is so much more to Germany and I knew I wanted to visit the beauty and uniqueness of this amazing country.
Street and Gate in Rothenburg

Do you want to travel independently or would you prefer to join a tour?

Myself on Marienbrucke bridge with NeuschansteinNow that I had my general destination, I had to decide if I would travel with a group or on my own. If you are wondering if you should travel with a group, the easiest way to decide is to consider if you feel comfortable traveling on your own or if you prefer to be  a part of a group. Also, would you be comfortable navigating around on your own or prefer for someone else to be in charge? I have actually traveled with one of our Witte signature tours, the Netherlands Waterway Cruise, and loved it. I was part of a group, but at the same time there was free time to investigate the areas visited on my own if I so chose. This time around, I decided to travel with a co-worker on an independent trip.

What resources to use for a fun and successful trip?

Would you use the Internet, buy a book on traveling to the country chosen, or contact a travel agency?

For me, the next step is to talk to the professionals. I always encourage family and friends to contact a travel agency to help them plan their trip…whether you join a group or go it alone, using an expert ensures you will have all of the information needed to make the best decision possible.

Hohenschwangau with village and lake

Tracy, my colleague and I talked to our German expert in the Witte Tours group department to help us with our itinerary. We gave her our general ideas on the cities we wanted to visit and what we wanted to accomplish. She knew we’d be traveling via train from city to city vs. renting a car. Knowing all of this, she helped us decide on a “home base” that would help us get around most efficiently. She also helped us narrow down the cities we should visit based on the time and goals we had for our trip.

I have planned vacations using just the Internet and find using an agent is so worth it. They have the knowledge, resources, and experience to plan an independent trip or book a group tour that will fit your needs to a tee.

Do you need travel insurance?

Cologne Cathedral-CloseupFor me, I always get the insurance whether I’m traveling independently or on a group tour. The reason is simple, if something happens and I can’t go on the trip for a covered reason, I won’t lose the money that the trip cost. OR, what happens if your flight gets cancelled, luggage lost, you get sick on the trip, etc? You have invested in this trip, it only makes sense to protect this investment.

Witte Travel & Tours In the News…Ask the Expert

Witte Travel & Tours In the News…Ask the Expert

As featured in the 2012-2013 issue of NTA Trip Planner

Henk Witte launched Witte Travel & Tours in 1975 in his home in Ada, Michigan, after working for two international airlines and a tour operator, because he wanted to use his expertise to arrange performance tours for choirs, bands and orchestras traveling throughout Europe. Over the decades, the high demand for special interest tours led Witte to expand into custom-designed tours for art, architecture, religious, historical, cultural heritage and study-abroad programs…view the rest of the story