Erin Evans 3/28/25 Erin Evans 3/28/25

March 2025

Welcome to The 4 Winds Travel Company’s First Blog! I’m excited to have you join me on this travel adventure! Each month, I’ll share inspiring destinations, travel tips, safety hacks, and highlights of the best destinations, resorts, and hidden gems. So grab your passport (or just a coffee) and let’s explore the world of travel inspiration!

Welcome to The 4 Winds Travel Company’s first blog post! I’m excited to have you join me on this travel adventure! Each month, I’ll share inspiring destinations, travel tips, safety hacks, and highlights of the best destinations, resorts, and hidden gems. So grab your passport (or just a coffee) and let’s explore the world of travel inspiration!

🌍 Bucket List Destination of the Month: Machu Picchu, Peru

March is an excellent time to visit this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the World's New Seven Wonders.

During this shoulder season (between a destination’s busiest and off-peak season), you'll encounter fewer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather—ideal for exploring the ancient Incan city and taking in its breathtaking views. Hike the legendary Inca Trail, discover the mysteries of this once-thriving civilization, and admire the stunning landscapes of the Andes.

Experience the magic of Peru with the 7-Day “Peru Escape” from Globus. I'd love to help you plan your trip!

Travel Tip of the Month

Passports - Know Before You Go!

Check Passport Validity: Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
Apply Early: Submit applications for new passports or renewals well in advance. Routine processing takes 4-6 weeks, and expedited service takes 2-3 weeks for an extra $60 (as of March 2025).
Apply Online: U.S. citizens can renew their passports online for routine service; expedited service must be done by mail.
Children Under 16: Passport renewals for children under 16 must be done in person and are good for five years.
Make and Store Copies: Make copies of your passport and essential documents and save digital photos on your phone or cloud storage.
Register with STEP: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for travel and safety updates and allow the embassy to contact you in an emergency.
Research Your Destination: Learn about visa requirements, local laws, and safety conditions before traveling.

If you would like more passport information, please click here.

Prague - June 2019

🇨🇿 Off the Beaten Path in Prague: Ride the Paternoster Elevator!

Tucked inside Prague's City Hall, this vintage wooden "infinity" elevator is a rare find! Unlike modern lifts, the paternoster never stops; it keeps moving, making for a quirky (slightly nerve-wracking) ride.

Once a hidden gem, its growing popularity led to temporary closures due to disruptions and damage. But good news! As of June 2024, it has reopened to tourists - for a fee.

Want more adventure? There are over 20 other paternoster elevators hidden throughout Prague. Can you find them?

Watch the video below for more on Prague’s paternoster elevators.

From Travel Fails to Travel Tales

The Best Memories Start with “Remember That Time…?”

Back in 2002, my husband, David, and I were on our first European vacation together. We headed to the Paris metro, and as the train pulled up, David said, “Wait, no seats in there,” and headed for the next car. I disagreed and hopped on. The doors slammed shut, and David yelled, “Erin!” I looked back to see him waving from the platform as the train pulled away. This was pre-cell phone days, so I got off at the next stop, figuring I’d wait for him and play it cool. When the next train rolled in, there he was, poking his head out, calling my name. I joined him, and we laughed our way to the next stop. He thought I was ditching him, and I said, “Drat, it almost worked!”

Got a funny travel story? Email me, and I might share it in my blog!

Thank you for reading!

Until next time, keep dreaming, exploring, and making memories!

Erin