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, Indian Ocean, South Pacific, South and Central America, Asia and Africa, Japan and Iceland.

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 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.

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 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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Morocco Travel Agent Expert - North Africa

Morocco is a captivating destination in North Africa, offering a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert, this country provides travelers with a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, particularly in the desert, while winters bring cooler temperatures, especially in the mountains.

One of Morocco’s most iconic cities is Marrakech, known for its vibrant energy. The lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square is a sensory overload, filled with street performers, food stalls, and local artisans. The historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a maze of alleyways, traditional riads, and colorful markets. For a peaceful escape, the Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum provide a touch of art and tranquility. Fes, another cultural gem, is home to the Fes el-Bali Medina, one of the world's oldest medieval cities. Here, visitors can explore the ancient Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest in the world, and witness the traditional leather-dyeing process at the Chouara Tannery.

For a more picturesque experience, Chefchaouen, the "Blue City," enchants visitors with its charming blue-painted streets and relaxed atmosphere. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, it also offers excellent hiking opportunities. No trip to Morocco is complete without a journey into the Sahara Desert. Visitors can take a camel trek across the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga and spend a night in a desert camp under a sky full of stars. Adventure seekers can also try sandboarding or explore the region by 4x4.

Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, showcases a more modern side of the country while still preserving its history. The stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, is an architectural marvel set against the Atlantic Ocean. Along the Corniche, visitors can enjoy oceanfront views and fresh seafood. For those seeking nature and adventure, the Atlas Mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking and exploration. The Toubkal National Park is home to Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, while the ancient fortified village of Aït Benhaddou offers a glimpse into Morocco’s cinematic past, having been featured in many films.

Moroccan cuisine is rich in flavor, blending aromatic spices like saffron, cinnamon, and cumin. Signature dishes include tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables; couscous, often served with meat and vegetables; and pastilla, a unique savory-sweet pastry. A visit to Morocco wouldn’t be complete without trying mint tea, a staple drink served with generous amounts of sugar.

Traveling around Morocco is relatively easy. The train network is the most comfortable way to move between major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. For longer distances, buses operated by CTM and Supratours are reliable. Within cities, petit taxis are useful for short rides, while grand taxis serve longer routes. Those looking for more flexibility can rent a car, though driving in busy areas requires confidence.

To ensure a smooth visit, it’s essential to be mindful of local customs. Dressing modestly is recommended, especially in rural areas and religious sites. A few Arabic or French phrases can be helpful for communication, and haggling is a common practice in markets. Travelers should also note that Friday is a holy day, meaning some businesses may close. It’s always polite to ask permission before taking photos of people. While Morocco is generally safe, travelers should remain cautious of pickpockets in crowded places, drink bottled or filtered water, and respect local traditions, particularly during Ramadan.

Morocco is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern influences, and bustling cities give way to serene landscapes. Whether you're interested in history, adventure, or simply soaking in the local culture, Morocco offers an unforgettable travel experience.

My Reviews

3 of 3 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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2 of 2 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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2 of 2 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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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

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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