Catherine 
One of the most defining things I heard during a recent 7-night trip to Portugal was that “500 years ago, Portugal discovered the world, just now the world is discovering Portugal.” This couldn’t have been more true for me. I went to Portugal knowing that it is becoming increasingly popular, and I really wanted to … Read moreWhy You Should Visit Portugal Now
After an incredible 9-day trip to Scotland, I must admit that I was completely blown away by this beautiful destination. Sure, I’ve read Outlander and watched Braveheart, but exploring Scotland is so much more than you think. My on-the-ground travel partners at Dream Escape created an amazing itinerary that allowed me to see so much … Read more9 Reasons to Visit Scotland
It all started with an innocent birthday wish: my daughter wanted a trip to Paris for her 9th birthday. Now, I love that my career as a travel advisor allows my children to experience the world and encourages a love of travel, but that request is just a little outside my thoughts of the typical … Read moreNew York Travel Guide for Families
To all you ocean cruisers and even the anti-cruisers… it’s time to give river cruising a chance! It has been all the buzz in travel and not just for the traditional cruisers – families, couples, and friend groups of all ages are heading to the rivers. And now after experiencing it for myself during a … Read moreFirst Timers’ Guide to River Cruising
Have you ever dreamed of discovering an untouched destination? A stunning location that offers the finest of life’s simple pleasures? A culture that embraces the land they live on and works to protect its beauty? Good news: this destination does exist – it’s Nicaragua! I had the absolute pleasure of spending six incredible nights at … Read moreDestination Nicaragua – Morgan’s Rock
I’ve always been more of a “do-it-yourself” traveler. The idea of a guided tour group immediately made me imagine a flag-yielding guide herding swarms of fanny-pack wearing tourists jockeying for the best photo-op. Not the authentic, exciting travel experience I prefer. However, since starting Catherine Parkin Travel, I’ve learned so much more about small group … Read more7 Myths of Small Group Travel – Debunked!
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the Riviera Maya boasts long, white-sand beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and hidden freshwater cenotes. This area on Mexico’s Caribbean coast is perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, and fun adventures. Use this essential Riviera Maya travel guide to help plan the perfect trip! WHEN TO GO November – April: perfect … Read moreThe Essential Riviera Maya Travel Guide
Winter is winding down, but before you jump into spring activities get your travel plans in order. When you plan ahead, you get first dibs of room types, restaurant reservations, top guides, and more. Even better, you can relax as the year moves forward knowing that I’m taking care of your travel arrangements! So take … Read more3 Trips to Book Now
Making time for a getaway with your spouse is important, but it’s easy fall into the pattern of let’s go in a few months when we’re not so busy…especially when you’re a parent. So when I looked at my husband recently and realized that we hadn’t had a break from the kids in a long … Read moreBeaver Creek Weekend Getaway
Since founding Catherine Parkin Travel, a lot of people have asked me why they should use a travel advisor instead of booking a trip online themselves. It’s a great question, and there are a lot of great answers. I could give you, at least, fifty reasons why you need a travel advisor, but, in honor … Read more5 Reasons Why You Should Use a Travel Advisor