(27 Reviews)
100% Recommended

marian wattel

Stockton, CA

Experience: CustomTravel & Adventure by Design

Travel has taught me to plan well and always have at least a plan B; it encouraged adaptability, patience, savoring the moment, and determination; it created The Optimistic Tourist, me. I have a degree in Recreation and credentials in both elementary and secondary education from the University of the Pacific. From my earliest memory, I have always loved to travel. The means of travel and the location were matched by the many things I learned along the way. Travel has educated my children and grandchildren, also. Throughout my teaching career, I never hesitated supplying materials and techniques for parents to educate while traveling. Wanting to share the joys of travel, created the travel advisor-consultant that I am today.

My Travel Specialties

United Kingdom, England Travel Concierge

Cornwall is the county of the most southern part of the U.K.where a lot of families  vacation here in the summer.   Fans of Martin Clunes arrive in the early spring to watch the filming of the TV show Doc Martin and sometimes become part of the show. For some pictures and other information about Cornwall,...
Read more from my United Kingdom, England Travel Concierge bio.

Yes, a British beach

Speciality: Adventure & Destinations for All Ages

I have always wanted to travel.  The journey was just as important as the destination.  Seeing new things, meeting new people, and having new experiences was a treat.  I never envisioned I would get too far from home.  Little did I know my future when I took my first solo trip to Hawaii at 20.  

Since...
Read more from my Speciality: Adventure & Destinations for All Ages bio.

Tikal under restoration.

A Co-Parenter's Guide to Quality Kid Travel

What do you do?  You are now a single parent who is co-parenting with your former spouse.  You had great plans of sharing so many things with your child/children when you were a couple; does that dream have to end?  ABSOLUTELY NO!!!

You need to keep in mind that your special times with your...
Read more from my A Co-Parenter's Guide to Quality Kid Travel bio.

A visit to Washington, D.C. with Mom

Cruising:Both Relaxation & Exotic Adventure

I have been on many cruises, many cruise lines, and have manage to make it  around the world by ship.   I love cruises and I can help you with your cruises  to any where or to nowhere.  Yes they do exist. 

Favorite cruises are repositioning cruises.  The #1 reason for loving cruises is they...
Read more from my Cruising:Both Relaxation & Exotic Adventure bio.

Tendering at anchor.

Roatan Adventure & Relaxation Advisor

Honduras has many faces and stories to tell.  Visit the ancient ruins of the Mayans at Copan, watch cigar making in Santa Rosa de Copan, and explore the bustling city of Tegucigalpa.  After exploring the mainland, catch a flight or ferry to the Bay Islands and explore the largest reef system in the...
Read more from my Roatan Adventure & Relaxation Advisor bio.

Experienced Eurostar Travel Advisor

Rail travel today from London to Europe aboard Eurostar  is comfortable, affordable,  and you can remain in contact with your family, friends, and followers along the way. Rails extend from Lille to Belgium or Paris and then Beyond to  countries and cities in all directions.  The degree of luxury...
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Amtrak Travel Agent Advisor

All aboard for adventure! When you choose AMTRAK for your holiday trip, not only are you in for a relaxing ride, but you'll also have ample opportunities to see some of America's most breathtaking and must-visit destinations. Sd your AMTRAK rail travel agent advisor, I know you’ll love traveling this...
Read more from my Amtrak Travel Agent Advisor bio.

Travel along the Pacific Coast

Panama Travel Planning Professional

Panama is a great place to visit from the San Blas Islands to the Panama Canal. Explore the sights and sounds of Panama City; its architecture, restaurants, and activities are as varied as the population in this diverse country.  

Visit the Mira Flores locks and learn the history of the canal...
Read more from my Panama Travel Planning Professional bio.

In the San Blas

River Cruise Travel Agent Specialist

Being a boater at heart and living in the California Delta, it is always a pleasure to get  on any river boat and enjoy the relaxed pace and scenery.  Over the years, I have been fortunate to travel on the Danube, Rhine, and Rhone Rivers. Each castle and village was pure eye-candy and a delight.  

My...
Read more from my River Cruise Travel Agent Specialist bio.

River cruise down the Volga

Moorea & Bora Bora Travel Specialist

As a child, I always loved stories about people in far away places.  One particular story was of a girl who lived on an island in the Pacific Ocean.  The descriptions were so vivid I could see them in my mind.  I told my teacher that I wanted to go to that island some day.

My teacher responded,...
Read more from my Moorea & Bora Bora Travel Specialist bio.

Just as beautiful as I imagined at 8 years old.

Bespoke Italian Rail Adventure Consultant

Italy by rail is efficient, economical, and scenic beyond expectation.  You may arrive by rail in Italy from another country or board at the airport or your cruise ship arrival port; no matter how you get to Italy, there will be a rail station and train ready to take to you to the cities of your choice....
Read more from my Bespoke Italian Rail Adventure Consultant bio.

Sleek, stylish trains

Oahu Island Travel Specialist

 If your goal is to see Hawaii in all its glory, I can lead you to some beautiful attractions. As a travel agent advisor for Oahu, I can make your tropical dream vacation come true. Indeed, this part of Hawaii is home to some of the most stunning sights in the world. From its breathtaking beaches...
Read more from my Oahu Island Travel Specialist bio.

Waikiki and Diamond Head

Petra Travel Agent Expert

Never in my wildest of day dreams would I ever dream  about being on a 42 day cruise, being an adventurer or being up close and personal with history.  When I watched all of the Indiana Jones movies, I thought "That's nice,"  and dismissed the idea. 

Newly retired from my full time gig, I would...
Read more from my Petra Travel Agent Expert bio.

Peru Travel Agent Professional

Like most people, the main reason I wanted to visit Peru was to see Machu Picchu. While the 15th century Incan citadel in the sky is incredible and a must-do for everyone visiting the country, I soon found out that there is so much more to fall in love with in this country. Coastal deserts, high-altitude...
Read more from my Peru Travel Agent Professional bio.

Maui Travel Agent Expert

As your Maui travel agent advisor, I can plan your dream holiday to the beautiful island of Maui.   Indeed, Maui is a stunning piece of paradise. Its wide array of travel attractions is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. From its massive waterfalls, snorkeling sites, and world-class...
Read more from my Maui Travel Agent Expert bio.

GUESS WHAT I BROUGHT HOME FOR YOU!!

People usually bring something home from their adventures away.  It might be some  souvenirs or a bag of dirty laundry.  Me?  I brought back knowledge of  how to use my smart phone to make my travels go more smoothly and add joy to everyday life.  

I am sharing this knowledge with you in hopes...
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Free #1

Traveling creates lifelong learning adventure.  We bring home memories, photos, and a souvenir or two; I brought back knowledge of  how to use my smart phone to make my travels go more smoothly and add joy to everyday life.  Don't forgot to use these suggestions in preparation for your next out of...
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I HAVE GOT TO GET AWAY!

Have you ever felt so locked in to your everyday routine that you just feel like shouting,"I DONT CARE. WHERE, I JUST NEED TO GO!"???

Being a dreamer and planner, I have a way to fix that!  I take into consideration the following things. 

1.What gaps are there in my personal calendar?...
Read more from my I HAVE GOT TO GET AWAY! bio.

A weekend in Cambridge, UK

Train travel on 6 continents!

AMTRAK and Eurostar are both well know train companies.  Train travel in the USA was common place prior to the mass production of automobiles and the later development of air travel.  Europe has retained a great deal of its rail service and. with time made it faster and more efficient.  

Historically,...
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Bespoke Travel Creates World Connections

Everyone has a brilliance, a special talent that makes us glow and stand out among the crowd.  This concept was posed recently and each in the cohort was asked to reveal three things which  create our personal brilliance and sets us apart. 

Sharing these personal thoughts is sometimes difficult,...
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My visualization became reality.

My Travel Albums

Visiting Cornwall in the Steps of Doc Martin
Doc Martin''s Surgery on the left.
Rollin' On The River--Mississippi, that is.
Mississippi River, American duchess at landing
Panama
Canal observation and Lake Gutan
Honduras/ Roatan & others
sandy Bay, Roatan

My Travel Stories

EVERYONE can go this time!

A few years back I decided I wanted to learn to write.  Why I thought I could or had anything to say, I am not sure.    The class I was taking said to concentrate on making a small book about  a favorite topic.   My two main favorite topics  were kids and travel.  Having my own children as well as...Read more.

Customer Testimonials

Trains, Boats, and Planes Adventure Abounds

Thank you, Marian, for our diverse, detailed adventure. Having us meet fellow cruisers prior to the cruise was brilliant. We are particularly grateful for the door to door care. Our fears of not getting to the right place were eased when we saw our greeter and our names on his sign. The Glacier Express and our stay in Zermet far exceeded our expectations. We loved arriving in San Moritz and staying in our castle-like hotel. The Bernina Express was more great scenery and so uplifting. Enjoyed exploring the Milan train station completing our loop. Flying to Edinburgh, exploring the castles, streets, and lunching on the royal yacht made our short stay fly by. The train to London was a peaceful, pleasant end to our side adventure and way to ease into our week's stay in London. At King's Cross station our greeter whisked off to our lodgings via a real London taxi. Loved the theaters, royal mews, and Keys ceremony. So much to see; so little time.
L.W.

My Reviews

8 of 10 people found this review helpful
upcoming trip
Marian is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She also thinks of things I never would. Which is way you would use a travel agent.
By  Rob  from  Los Angeles, California
Traveled to  Barcelona ~ Spain ~ Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

marian wattel responded:
Thank you, Robert. It has been delightful organizing your adventure in Barcelona. Planning this adventure has helped me learn about the many cultural offerings available. Eager to hear about the trip and see your pictures. Mew

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6 of 9 people found this review helpful
The most unbelievable trip!
Anything less than amazing would be an understatement without Marian my trip wouldn’t have been as productive and organized. With Marian’s help I got to see the most stunning places of Italy. Marian was so easy to work with and was very flexible with time there wasn’t a moment she wasn’t available seriously. I am so grateful that I got to work with Marian and I will not go anywhere else for a travel agent!
By  Nelson James   from  San Jose California
Traveled to  Italy ~ Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

marian wattel responded:
Thank you Nelson! It was such a pleasure working with you. Thank you for keeping in touch with me throughout your adventure. It was fun to experience your enjoyment of Italy and travel. Looking forward to working with you in the future. Marian, The Optimistic Tourist

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7 of 11 people found this review helpful
Spectacular Family Cruise
Marian made our travel arrangements to take our children on a Caribbean cruise. She picked the correct ship for our 3 children and us. When we needed a little adult time, there were clubs for the children to attend. We are adventuresome, and that was the vibe of our ship. Bravo, Marian, for assessing our needs and matching us up so well.
By  JT  from  California
Traveled to  Caribbean Sea ~ At Sea ~ At Sea
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

marian wattel responded:
Thank you for the opportunity to assist in making your family adventure a success. I really knew we had a fit but needed to have a work through. You made my hunch become a reality. I know there will be other family adventures to follow.

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2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Biggest Trip in Retirement
My wife and I are currently having the pleasure of working with Marian on our upcoming two week trip to Italy. We have found that Marian is resourceful, knowledgeable and timely in answering any questions we have. Marian gave us a beginning itinerary and has worked with us to adjust and change it to meet our goals. Her recommendations and expertise has made this process simple and smooth.
By  David & Carla  from  Stockton, CA
Traveled to  Italy ~ Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

marian wattel responded:
Thank you David and Carla. I know you will thoroughly enjoy you Italian adventure. Please send a picture of you in Cinque Terre. Looking forward to assisting with the next trip. Mew

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3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Held my hand throughout.
Marian did the impossible - she got a flight that met up with my Australian girlfriend in Frankfurt so we could arrive together. She also kept me calm when not one, but two flights were missed and guided me through the steps to get back on track. Her fee is ridiculously low for the service she supplies. I will use her once again as I have in the past.
By  Lynne  from  Winters, CA
Traveled to  Tunisia ~ Africa
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

marian wattel responded:
Lynne, It is always a pleasure working with you. So glad you are back home, safe, and with a smile in your voice. Mew

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Destination Expert:

  • At Sea
  • Italy
  • California
  • Alexandria
  • Mediterranean Sea
  • Rhone River
  • Roatan
  • Panama Canal
  • Brussels
  • Cornwall
  • London
  • Cinque Terre
  • Petra
  • Sacred Valley
  • Moorea Island
  • Oahu Island
  • Wailea, Maui
  • Central America
  • USA
  • Panama
  • Belgium
  • Peru
  • Aegean Sea
  • Atlantic Ocean
  • Rhine River
  • Copan
  • Plymouth
  • Paris
  • Rome
  • Aqaba
  • Bora Bora
  • Grand Canyon
  • Maui Island
  • Waikiki, Oahu
  • On the River
  • Belize
  • Jordan
  • French Polynesia
  • Colorado
  • Caribbean Sea
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Danube
  • Trujillo
  • Panama City
  • St. Ives
  • Bologna
  • Florence
  • Machu Picchu
  • Honolulu, Oahu
  • Kaanapali, Maui
  • Honduras
  • United Kingdom
  • Irrawaddy River
  • Seine River
  • Tegucigalpa
  • San Blas
  • Penzance
  • Milan
  • Wadi Rum
  • Lima
  • Papeete Tahiti
  • Lahaina, Maui
  • Makaha Valley, Oahu
  • Glacier National Park
  • Costa Rica
  • France
  • Hawaii
  • Baltic Sea
  • Mekong
  • Jaco Beach
  • San Pedro Sula
  • Gatun Lake
  • Falmouth
  • Naples
  • Amman
  • Cuzco
  • Rangiroa Atoll
  • Hana, Maui
  • New Orleans
  • Europe

Travel Specialist:

  • Accessible Travel
  • Adventure
  • All Inclusive
  • Beach Vacations
  • Cruises
  • Family Vacations
  • Rail
  • River Cruises
  • Scuba
  • Air Travel
  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • Bespoke Travel
  • European Culture
  • Executive Corporate and Luxury Travel
  • Hiking & Backpacking
  • Independent Travel
  • Luxury
  • Luxury Cruises
  • Luxury Hotels
  • Outdoor Activities & Sports
  • Singles
  • Small Ship Cruises
  • Sustainable Travel
  • Water Sports
  • Business Travel
  • Couples & Romance
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Film
  • Animals & Wildlife
  • Arts & Culture
  • Historical Sites
  • Honeymoons
  • International Business Travel Specialist
  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Sailing & Boating
  • Women's Travel
  • Holiday Travel
  • Museums
  • National Parks

Top Travel Partners:

  • Amtrak
  • Amtrak Vacations
  • Classic Vacations
  • Europe Express
  • Globus
  • Pleasant Holidays
  • Rail Europe
  • Railbookers
  • Shore Excursions Group
  • Viator
  • Delta Vacations
  • Funjet Vacations
  • Journese
  • CIE Tours
  • Rocky Mountaineer
  • Avanti Destinations
  • Insight Vacations

Certifications/Awards:

  • Hawaii Destination Expert Certification
  • Kaua'i , Maui, Oahu Specialist
  • Los Cabos Specialist
  • American Queen Voyages
  • Royal Caribbean Specialist (certified)

Connect with Me:

Industry Affiliations:

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