FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes Divine Sunshine Travel different from other travel agencies?
Answer: I specialize in giving you the absolute best value for your vacation investment. I select high-end, well-located lodging so you’re steps—not train rides—away from the places you want to explore. I can plan your entire journey (saving you dozens of research hours), or I can help with just the piece that’s giving you a headache. Think of me as your travel sherpa, minus the mountain climbing.
2. What exactly is a PRAYcation™?
Answer: A PRAYcation™ is a customized, faith-infused vacation designed for multigenerational families, couples, friends, church groups, or schools. It blends spiritual sites with meaningful cultural and historical experiences so your trip feels both holy and human—in all the best ways.
3. Do you only book Catholic or faith-based trips?
Answer: Faith-based Europe trips are my specialty, but I also plan luxury Europe itineraries, ocean and river cruises, and Alaska cruise tours. If it’s meaningful, beautiful, or delicious—I can book it.
4. Do you plan trips for non-Catholics?
Answer: Absolutely. My clients are about half Catholic and half “just travelers who like good planning and great hotels.”
5. How does your trip-planning process work?
Answer: Start by filling out a quick questionnaire or booking a consultation call. I gather details, prepare your quote, and you decide whether to accept or tweak it. Once approved, I handle the bookings, polish the details, and stay available for questions before and during your trip.
6. What kinds of group trips do you plan?
Answer: Multigenerational families, friend groups, parishes, and school groups. If you can imagine the group traveling together—I can build the itinerary.
7. How far in advance should I start planning my trip?
Answer: Small groups with a clear plan can be organized in 2–3 months (availability permitting). Large groups should start a year out. Flights can only be booked 300 days in advance.
8. Do you offer payment plans?
Answer: Most suppliers operate on a deposit plus final payment schedule due 60–90 days before travel. Flights typically require full payment when booked.
9. Is travel insurance required?
Answer: Everyone should have travel insurance. No exceptions. Your future self will thank you.
10. Do you book flights?
Answer: I can handle as much or as little as you need. Points? NP—book away. Prefer to hand everything over? I’ve got it. A fee applies for flight-only bookings.
11. How do I prepare my family for a pilgrimage or PRAYcation™?
Answer: You’ll receive my Praycation™ Prep Guide, packing list, Praycation™ Conversation Cards, and my Interior Pilgrim email series. I help make sure everyone—from grandparents to teens—is ready for the journey.
12. How do you support travelers while they’re abroad?
Answer: I’m available by text, email, and phone. If I booked your full trip, you get full-trip support. If I booked flights only, I’m here for flight support.
13. What destinations do you specialize in?
Answer: All Europe- esp. Lourdes & France, Fatima & Portugal, Italy, Austria, Poland, Ireland, Scandinavia, ocean & river cruises, and Alaska. I will also book Japan, Egypt, and Holy Land.
14. Do you plan cruises, including transatlantic and Mediterranean?
Answer: Yes! Cruises are a wonderful way to explore faith-rich regions without repacking your suitcase every two days. Transatlantic cruises are a wonderful way to get to/from Europe as well!
15. Can you help with accessibility needs or slower-paced itineraries?
Answer: I regularly assist travelers with moderate mobility limitations (like cane users). Lourdes is especially accessible for wheelchairs.
16. Do kids do well on pilgrimages?
Answer: Yes—when the group welcomes them! PRAYcations™ are ideal for families since they are custom designed. Pilgrimages can be kid-friendly if the group is designed that way. Adults wanting kid-free can choose adults-only groups.
17. How do I book a consultation?
Answer: When you’re ready to book, schedule a call so we can discuss your trip and expectations. If we’re a great match, we’ll take the next step together. Links for both are at the top of the page.
18. What’s the average cost of a PRAYcation™?
Answer: My planning fee ranges from $200–$1000 depending on complexity and length of trip. A generous multigenerational budget is usually $500–$1000 per adult per day and $250–$500 per child per day. First-class flights, 5-star hotels, and private tours increase that range. If you're on a tighter budget, but don't want to plan your trip alone, you can pay my fee to consult you on booking your budget friendly trip with confidence.
19. Why should I use a travel advisor instead of planning everything myself?
Answer: I keep your best interests at the center of every decision. I respond quickly, communicate clearly, and know these destinations personally. I’m Catholic first, travel advisor second—and your trip is planned with both expertise and good conscience.
20. Do you work with last-minute travelers?
Answer: Yes! I’ve planned full trips within one month that turned out beautifully.
21. How do I visit the Vatican without crowds?
Answer: Book during off season when possible and early morning entries. Avoid Wednesdays (Papal Audience) and Sunday afternoons (angelus) - though these are often in Castel Gandolfo during the summer months, it's still very busy during the summer. A private guide can help you glide past lines like a holy VIP.
22. What’s the best time of year to visit Europe for Catholic sites?
Answer: April–May and September–November offer the best weather and atmosphere. Christmas markets are magical in Mid-November to December. Avoid Lourdes in early spring due to flooding; expect humidity along Mediterranean during summer.
23. Can I visit multiple countries on a pilgrimage?
Answer: You can—but it’s easier on your soul (and feet) to choose one or two destinations. Multi‑country trips tend to be more expensive and more exhausting, though I have to admit are very popular.
24. Where can I see the incorrupt saints?
Answer: Popular sites include St. Bernadette (Nevers), St. Catherine Labouré (Paris), St. Clare & Bl. Carlo Acutis (Assisi), and Padre Pio (San Giovanni Rotondo).
25. Is Assisi walkable?
Answer: Yes—but bring your calves. Assisi is small, beautiful, and very hilly.
26. What’s the difference between a pilgrimage and a PRAYcation™?
Answer: Pilgrimage = structured, prayerful, retreat‑like, group‑oriented. PRAYcation™ = fully customized, blends spiritual + cultural experiences, includes unique activities (think cooking classes in Salzburg or hot air balloons over Tuscany), and welcomes kids.
27. How do I keep kids engaged on a Catholic trip to Europe?
Answer: Prep ahead of time is critical (I provide a guide for this!) Tell the stories behind what they’re seeing—don’t read plaques at them. Act things out. Add snacks every 2–3 hours. Gelato is a ministry of peace.
28. Are business‑class flights worth it for long European trips?
Answer: Yes—if your budget allows. You arrive rested and are much more comfortable. Economy is perfectly fine when needed, but business class is a beautiful slice of heaven on earth.
29. Is travel to Europe safe right now?
Answer: Europe is as safe as any major US city. Stay aware, enroll in STEP, avoid being loudly American, and use common sense. All clients get a guide to safety before their travels with additional tips.
30. Should I visit Lourdes, Fatima, or both?
Answer: Lourdes has more to do and connects easily with Paris, Barcelona, and the coast. Fatima is deeply beautiful with a Eucharistic miracle nearby but sits farther from other major hubs. Both are worth visiting.