Michael Bitsas

Oak Brook, IL

Cruise Travel Agent Specialist

Cruising offers a unique and convenient way to explore the world, combining travel, leisure, and adventure into one seamless experience. Whether you’re setting sail through the tropical Caribbean, exploring Europe’s historical ports, or witnessing the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska, cruises cater to a variety of travel preferences.Types of Cruises Ocean Cruises: These voyages take place on large ships across seas and oceans, visiting major port cities and island destinations. Popular routes include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska.

Top Cruise Destinations: Caribbean: This classic cruising region offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical islands such as St. Maarten, Cozumel, and Jamaica. Ideal for those seeking relaxation, water sports, and vibrant local cultures.Mediterranean: A cruise in this region allows you to explore historical cities like Rome, Athens, Venice, and Barcelona. You’ll encounter diverse cultures, ancient ruins, and coastal beauty.Alaska: Alaska cruises offer a breathtaking mix of wildlife, glaciers, and rugged landscapes. Passengers can enjoy excursions like whale-watching, hiking, and visiting quaint towns like Juneau. Northern Europe: Sail through the Norwegian fjords, or visit cities like St. Petersburg, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam. These cruises often combine cultural exploration with stunning natural scenery.South Pacific: A cruise through the South Pacific includes tropical paradises like Tahiti, Fiji, and Bora Bora, offering island hopping, snorkeling, and immersion in Polynesian culture. Antarctica: Expedition cruises to Antarctica are for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, with opportunities to observe penguins, icebergs, and explore the pristine wilderness.Dining: Most cruises offer several dining options, including buffet-style meals, specialty restaurants, and fine dining. Some luxury cruises feature menus created by celebrity chefs.Entertainment: Expect live performances, including Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, and musical performances. Some ships also have outdoor movie theaters, nightclubs, and themed events.Recreation: Modern ships are equipped with swimming pools, gyms, rock climbing walls, mini-golf courses, and even surf simulators or water parks. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean are known for their innovative on-board attractions.Spa and Wellness: Relax with a variety of spa treatments, from massages to facials. Many ships also feature thermal suites and offer yoga or fitness classes.Kids' and Teens' Clubs: Family-friendly cruises provide designated spaces for children and teens, with age-appropriate activities, from video games to arts and crafts.Choosing the Right Cruise Line ... Royal Caribbean International: Known for its large, activity-filled ships, Royal Caribbean caters to families and couples. Ships feature unique attractions like rock climbing walls and zip lines.Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival offers affordable cruises with a fun, laid-back atmosphere, ideal for families and friends looking for entertainment and casual dining.Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian is known for its "Freestyle Cruising" philosophy, allowing passengers to dine without set schedules. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility.Celebrity Cruises: A more upscale option, Celebrity focuses on fine dining, modern decor, and service. It’s suited for couples and those looking for a refined experience.Princess Cruises: Princess offers a well-balanced experience with a focus on service and well-planned itineraries, making it popular among couples and older travelers. Oceania Cruise Line: Oceania is my favorite!: a mid-level reasonably-priced luxury line, with more port stops per cruise than any other line. Viking Cruises: Viking specializes in both river and ocean cruises, known for its cultural enrichment and small er, more intimate ships. It’s ideal for mature travelers interested in history and culture.Shore Excursions One of the highlights of cruising is the opportunity to explore multiple destinations during a single trip. Shore excursions are activities offered at each port of call and range from city tours to adventurous outings. Popular options include:snorkeling / diving in tropical waters Guided historical tours in cities like Rome or Athens Wildlife safaris or glacier hikes in Alaska Wine-tasting in the Mediterranean Cultural experiences in places like Havana or St. Petersburg. Most cruise lines offer these excursions as part of a package, or you can book independent tours for a more personalized experience.Conclusion: Cruising is a versatile travel option, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to relax by the pool, explore ancient ruins, or seek adventure in remote corners of the world, cruises combine convenience, luxury, and adventure in one unforgettable journey. From family vacations to luxury escapes, cruising remains one of the most popular and enjoyable ways to travel.

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Iceland Travel Agent Expert

Iceland is a land of stunning contrasts, where fire and ice coexist, and dramatic landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Traveling through Iceland offers breathtaking scenery, unique cultural experiences, and opportunities for adventure at every turn. Most travelers explore Iceland via the Ring Road (Route 1), a highway that circles the country, covering about 1,322 kilometers (820 miles). Renting a car or campervan is the best way to experience the country at your own pace. In winter, four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended due to icy conditions, while in summer, even a standard car can handle the well-maintained roads. For those who prefer not to drive, guided tours are available, offering everything from multi-day excursions to day trips from Reykjavik. Public buses connect major towns, but they are less frequent and not ideal for remote areas.

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is a vibrant city known for its colorful buildings, creative arts scene, and cozy cafes. From here, many visitors take the classic Golden Circle route, which includes Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The route also features the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, and Gullfoss Waterfall, a massive, two-tiered waterfall that roars with immense power.

The South Coast is one of Iceland’s most accessible and stunning regions, featuring breathtaking waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, where visitors can walk behind the cascading water or climb a staircase for panoramic views. The black sand beach of Reynisfjara is famous for its towering basalt columns and powerful waves, while Vatnajökull National Park offers glaciers, ice caves, and the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift toward the sea.

The eastern fjords offer quiet fishing villages, scenic drives, and wildlife sightings, including puffins and reindeer. In the north, Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, serves as a gateway to the spectacular landscapes of Lake Mývatn, a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools and lava formations. Húsavík, known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, provides an opportunity to spot humpback and even blue whales in the surrounding waters.

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula offer remote and rugged beauty. The Westfjords are characterized by dramatic fjords, steep cliffs, and natural hot springs, while the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature," showcases volcanoes, black beaches, and the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain.

Iceland is also known for its unique experiences. Beyond the famous Blue Lagoon, visitors can soak in natural hot springs such as the Secret Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths, or the wild geothermal pools of Reykjadalur. Winter travelers have the chance to witness the Northern Lights, with peak viewing from September to April. For outdoor enthusiasts, Iceland offers countless hiking opportunities, including the renowned Laugavegur Trek and glacier hikes on Sólheimajökull.

Choosing the best time to visit depends on the experience you seek. Summer (June-August) offers long daylight hours, mild weather, and ideal conditions for road trips. Winter (November-March) brings a chance to see the Northern Lights, though snow and limited daylight can impact travel. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October offer fewer crowds and a mix of winter and summer landscapes.

Iceland captivates travelers with its raw beauty and wild spirit. Whether you're road-tripping around the island, hiking volcanic trails, or relaxing in geothermal pools, every moment in Iceland feels like an adventure.

My Reviews

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Trip throughout Japan

Michael made arrangements for us to travel from Tokyo, Mount Fuji and Hakone by bullet train to Osaka, Kyoto and Nara. He arranged all the activities for us and made it so easy! We overnighted in Hiroshima and even visited a Shinto temple on Miyajima. Then back to Osaka and home! We did just the right amount of sightseeing. Michael was a tremendous help and Advisor.

By Anna from Olympia, WA
Traveled to Japan | East and Southeast Asia

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Michael Bitsas responded:
I loved all the places I arranged for you to go! I am very happy that you appreciated them as much as I do. You're welcome!

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1 of 1 people found this review helpful

One of My Top Travel Experiences - Australia

I used them to book my trip to Australia and I was extremely pleased with everything. It started with a conversation of where, when, etc. and it translated into a seamless & well organized trip. My flight to LA with a connecting flight to Melbourne went without a hitch. Mr. Bitsas is well traveled and was able to recommend some places he experienced when he went to Australia. He also connected me to this couple that reside in Australia that further elevated my experience. While in Australia, we mostly stayed in Melbourne but also flew into Sydney, took a ferry, stayed in a chalet, visited several animal parks. It truly was an experience. I loved my flight as I love planes. I appreciated my travel arrangements as all of my questions were answered, flights made, recommendations given and a lasting memory made. Highly recommend using Michael.

By MMachelle from Chicago
Traveled to Australia | Australia & New Zealand

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Michael Bitsas responded:
I'm glad I was able to provide such a wonderful experience for you!

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1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Greek Delight!

My husband and I went to Greece for two weeks, and had the most amazing time. We went island hopping, from Cypress to Rhodes, Crete, Santorini and Mykonos. Michael was tremendously helpful and made sure all of our needs were met. He even made some special plans for our anniversary. We couldn’t have asked for more :)

By TheCarrs from Nashville
Traveled to Greece | Europe

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Michael Bitsas responded:
Glad to make your Greek island anniversary trip special and memorable! May you enjoy many more years - and anniversary trips! and other travel plans together.

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1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Norway trip

Michael was so helpful and attentive. He helped map out details. He had great tips about what to do and where to stay. If I had another trip abroad, I would definitely seek his advice. He truly cared and went that extra mile to plan the trip.

By GlobeTrotter from Chicago
Traveled to Norway | Europe

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Michael Bitsas responded:
It was a pleasure to help you and work with you. I learned a bunch researching itineraries and places to stay, as well. I very much appreciate you contacting me! Please feel free to contact me again anytime.

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1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Turkey

Mike planned our trip to central Turkey. We flew into Ankara and spent a few days there, visiting museums and historical sites. We took the bus to Cappadocia, which was amazing! We then made our way to the old Roman town of Antalya, and the Roman ruins were very interesting. Then we flew back to Istanbul as a finale, stayed 3 days, and flew home. What a fascinating and enjoyable trip!

By Ptrz from Villa Park, CA
Traveled to Turkey | Middle East

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Michael Bitsas responded:
I am so glad that you thoroughly enjoyed your trip to Turkey! Please let me know when you're ready to travel again. It'll be a pleasure to work with you again soon.

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