What To Do If You Lose and How to Protect your COVID-19 Vaccine Card Before Traveling

You got your COVID vaccine and you're tired of keeping it in your wallet? Is that the safest place? Be prepared what to do if you or a loved one loses or damages their CDC Vaccination Record Card!

Certain destinations, tour operators and travel providers may require proof of a COVID-19 vaccination, or accept proof of vaccination as an alternative to strict testing and quarantine requirements.  (Some operators, like Viking Ocean Cruises, are requiring passengers to have COVID-19 tests daily!) Streamlining those processes is something the travel industry has been working on in the form of digital vaccine passports but at this time there are no universally accepted methods of verification.  There may never be…

Even though it’s a low profile, small piece of paper, it’s an extraordinarily high value for you as a person to be able to travel.  Take care of it like you would your passport.  Store it in a safe place, make photocopies and take photos of it for your backup.  Until there’s a universal verification tool, some travelers say they will laminate and wear a "I've been vaccinated" button after being vaccinated when hitting the road. Click the photo below to find these at Amazon:

Other travelers I’ve spoken to have said they plan to laminate their vaccination cards to prevent damage — and Staples will even do it for free.  We’re not fans of laminating our cards because you may need to add information about a booster to it later.  Of course you can use a sandwich bag to protect it, but we prefer a sleeve where the card can be removed and updated if booster shots become recommended in the future. Click the photo below to find these on Amazon:

If you do lose or damage your card, don’t panic. First, check your email for instructions which may tell you exactly what to do. If not, remember that all COVID-19 vaccination providers are required to report data within 72 hours in their state’s immunization system. That means there will likely be a back-up record of your vaccination status.  Check your state and print up their online record of your vaccine too! We recommend doing this anyway and stashing their record in a safe place. 

The CDC recommends contacting the immunization information system in your state to see if they have records (but not to contact the CDC since they do NOT keep a record of COVID-19 vaccines). You can also contact the place where you got your shot or health department of your state. If you didn't already know, you have this option with all vaccines — not just the COVID-19 shots.

Recently, a friend who got vaccinated in Florida accidentally lost his card before receiving a second dose of the Modern vaccine, and workers at the facility where he obtained his first vaccine happily provided him with a new card. Remember, depending on where you received your vaccine, there may be options available for a replacement card.  Be prepared to provide proof of identity!

American Airlines and British Airways introduced a mobile health passport called VeriFLY for international travel. Copa Airlines and the Panamanian government are also partnering with IATA Travel Pass to create a health passport. If you plan to travel to a destination or with a provider that allows you to present digital verification of your vaccination status, that may be adequate in place of your paper vaccination card.  These are the days when we suggest working with a travel agent to help you navigate the nuances that are changing daily for traveling during the pandemic.

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The Best Mothers Day Gifts For Moms Who Plan to Travel in 2021

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to splurge on your mom, or any loved one who is a mom, and give her something extra special!

❤️❤️There is still time to order for Mother's Day. Remember, all proceeds from our links are donated to charity. Please SHARE this post to help...❤️❤️

Let's face it - she may not have the time or knowledge to look for great traveling items herself.  Fortunately, LTD can give you some outstanding selections for all budgets that will certainly put a smile on her face!!  Our guide includes items that are fashionable, healthy, useful and practical for the traveling female.  Click on the product photo if you wish to learn more!

1.  One of Our Favorite Travel Pants are Unitop Women's Quick Dry Cargo Hiking Pants with Drawstring  

With a high level of breathability and flexibility, unitop’s Quick Dry Hiking Collection are designed for daily cragged adventures. They are always actively seeking soft fabric that is both lightweight and suitable, but with durable elements to adapt to a range of terrain, so the key element of these pant’s versatility is functional motion which results in a relaxed aesthetic and dynamic movement. They can be worn everyday too, providing a balance of outdoor activities and casual life when she needs versatility.

2. The MIZOO 140db Emergency Personal Alarm Keychain is perfect for Self Defense.  

While some may use their car key alarm as a safety when walking to your car, what do you do when you're traveling or away from your car?  This compact alarm has a flashlight and a loud Alarm.  Test it outside because it is LOUD.  

3. Wide Brim Paper Straw Fedora 

With an adjustable drawstring, this positively pink hat won't fly off when the beach breeze hits. Multiple colors are available.

4. For the Sofa, Car or Plane Snuggler!

If she loves to curl up with a good blanket, let her relax more with cozy feet. An ordinary throw blanket usually just doesn't do to keep her toes warm, and that's why PediPocket developed their patented throw blanket with a pocket for feet!  She'll say, "Why didn't I think of that?"

We are proud to recommend two books this year, each from REMARKABLE mothers! Please be sure to check out numbers 5 and 6!

5. The Extraordinary UnOrdinary You by Simone Steinbach Knego 

"Follow Your Own Path. Discover Your Own Journey." These inspirational words couldn't ring truer in life and Simone is a perfect example. She realized that what you do every day matters and inspires others. By sharing her story, she motivates and encourages all of us—and in doing so, maybe change the world.  As a wife, mother to six children (and three dogs - since publication FOUR dogs), and a serial entrepreneur, she splits her time between her family, businesses, and personal growth.  Simone takes you inside her unique journey and the extraordinary moments which have shaped her life and defined her mission. Sharing the lessons she’s learned from life’s ups, downs, and laugh-out-loud moments, you’ll be inspired to discover your own journey, and to go out into the world and be the good. The world is waiting for the Extraordinary UnOrdinary You, and you already have everything you need to get started, simply by being you.

6.  Everything But the Toast: Anti-Inflammatory Recipes by Haley Broyhill

After studying Holistic Nutrition at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, the cutting-edge leader in holistic nutrition education, Haley created this Anti-Inflammatory recipe book that is designed to benefit anyone, but especially those with risk of auto-immune diseases, hormonal imbalances, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and more.  She has learned that Inflammation can be very sneaky in our lives, and it has been inappropriately vilified. She created her book to educate people about what role inflammation can commonly play in our bodies. It explains what the most common symptoms are, why they happen, and how to heal through dietary holistic and lifestyle choices. Readers will discover the deleterious roles that gluten & other inflammatory foods play in our bodies, and how our environment can make a drastic impact in our overall health. Haley says, "I grew up in a small town where living holistically was not common. The incentive for writing my book came from my love for my family and hometown. My hope is to help the people that suffer from limited resources learn how wholesome choices can change their lives." Pre-order this from Amazon for delivery  the May 8th, Mother's Day weekend! 

7.  MORE MEANINGFUL THAN A CARD! I Love You Mom: And Here's Why

After all she's done, your mom deserves an entire book spelling out all of the ways she shown her love to you over the years. Take a night to fill this book with all of the memories, inside jokes, and characteristics that the two of you share. Put photos of your travels together or places you want to see with her!

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TravelInsurance.com Recognized as Best for Comparing Travel Insurance Quotes by Money.com

TravelInsurance.com honored to be named one of the "6 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2021" and recognized as "Best for Comparing Quotes" by Money

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, the need for travel insurance became painfully obvious for many globetrotters.  LTD has always been a proponent of travel insurance (like we talk about in our "Primer for Trip Insurance,") and we feel even more strongly about buying it now.  This article should prove very useful to you! 

NEW YORK, March 12, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- TravelInsurance.com has been named by Money as one of the "6 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2021" and singled out for its fast and easy travel insurance quote comparison system.

Factors used in Money's ranking of travel insurance providers included the availability of a variety of plans with a wide range of coverage and access to customization and upgrades, ease of use in requesting a quote and comparing options, customer service and support, and the company's business reputation.

During their evaluation process, the Money team looked for companies that not only offered policies that covered the needs of the average traveler but provided options for people with other specific coverage needs.

They looked at the method by which consumers entered the information needed to generate quotes and the ease with which they were able to access and compare the results. They also evaluated the purchasing process and gave a higher grade to companies who streamlined this process for consumers.

The rankings took into consideration how responsive the companies are to their customers' needs. From giving their customers the ability to contact their support team through a mobile app to providing them with access to round-the-clock emergency assistance, the companies that scored high on the list showed that they were dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Money acknowledged those that went above and beyond with concierge services such as helping their customers with answers to lost or stolen passport questions, recommending a local translator, or even searching for legal assistance.

Finally, the team at Money evaluated each company's reputation by looking at factors such as feedback from previous customers, how many years they have been in business, and their credit rating as an indicator of financial stability.

The companies named as the "6 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2021" all rank well in each of these categories, and TravelInsurance.com was rated as the best travel insurance company for comparing quotes. Its comparison engine allows customers to fill out one simple form and receive multiple quotes from top-rated insurers in an easy-to-read format. This helps consumers see the policies and their costs side-by-side and evaluate the pros and cons of each. Customer can click on any policy benefit to open a window with details about the coverage offered, including any exclusions that may apply, and then buy online at the guaranteed lowest price.

Drew Sharma, Co-Founder of TravelInsurance.com, said, "We are honored to be recognized by Money as the best travel insurance company for comparing quotes. Our mission since inception has been to make it easy to understand, compare and buy travel insurance online, and we will continually invest in our platform in order to exceed customer expectations for years to come."

Co-Founder Stan Sandberg commented, "As the travel world begins to open again, more than ever before, travel insurance has become a must-have add-on to any trip. TravelInsurance.com helps travelers easily find the best plans, including plans that provide coverage for COVID-19."

Comparison shopping with TravelInsurance.com offers consumers the benefits of choice, transparency, and value. The company's comparison engine and online learning center helps consumers to understand what is included in the quotes they receive from top-rated insurance companies. These companies are thoroughly vetted and are removed from the system if their rating falls below 4 out of 5 stars based on customer reviews. Having a variety of options and being able to make an informed choice between these options provides the company's customers with value that goes beyond the price of the policy, but TravelInsurance.com understands that it's important to save money as well. Customers can save with TravelInsurance.com by seeing at a glance which plans have comparable benefits and coverage limits and choosing the best option that fits their budget. Since insurance prices are regulated by law, potential customers won't find a lower price on another site for any plan offered by TravelInsurance.com.

In addition to being recognized for its quote comparison system, TravelInsurance.com also received high marks from Money for its price guarantee, glossary of insurance terms, and instant coverage confirmation. Money also noted that many of the insurers that TravelInsurance.com works with offer customers coverage for COVID-related trip interruptions or cancellations, emergency care, and medical evacuations.

Customers can learn about the benefits of travel insurance, compare prices, research exclusions, purchase policies, and get instant coverage confirmation on the company's fully responsive, mobile-friendly website at https://www.travelinsurance.com/. One visit is all it will take to see why Money named them as one of the "6 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2021."

Everyone needs a good antitheft bag when traveling. Spend less than $100 on this important and practical item that looks amazing!  Work, Travel, Everyday - The Indie is designed to accompany her wherever your day takes her. The simplistic, modern shape fits all daily essentials and tablet without weighing you down. Wear as a tote or crossbody with the removeable, adjustable strap. This bag is designed with RFID lining and Anti-slash fabric. These materials not only disable anyone from stealing her credit card information from the exterior, but also helps protect her belongings from thieves trying to slash her bag. All products in this AT collection are fully equipped with anti-theft features including zipper locks, anti slash bottom and strap, chair loop lock system and RFID protection. Click the photo to learn more about this item and check prices at Amazon. 

About TravelInsurance.com:

TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, TravelInsurance.com is owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes. For more information, visit TravelInsurance.com.

About Money:

Money has a nearly 50-year legacy of guiding people to financial victories with up-to-date information, education, and tools. Money, a digital destination, helps create richer lives for everyone—in every sense of the word. Signature franchises include a bevy of Best-In categories such as Best Mortgage Lenders, Best Homeowner Insurance, Best Life Insurance, Best Auto Insurance, Best VA Loans, Best High-Yield Savings Accounts, Best Credit Cards, Best Colleges, and Best Places to Live, with an aim to improve your finances and promote your well-being. For more information, visit Money.com.

This release was issued through Send2Press®, a unit of Neotrope®. For more information, visit Send2Press Newswire at https://www.Send2Press.com 

SOURCE TravelInsurance.com

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The Karol Hotel Gracefully Pays Tribute to its Namesake: Legendary "Miss Florida" and "Weather Girl", Karol Bullard

In 2021 Florida's Saint Pete Beach takes not only the title by TripAdvisor of number one beach in the United States, but is also rated fifth in the world. When you've been a integral part of the Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg culture for over 50 years, you've seen a lot of changes in your city but one thing is for sure: you know what your guests are looking for: service, comfort and experiences. We've stayed at many boutique hotels over the years, some of which have bore witness to absolutely amazing events, like the Southern Hotel in Covington, Louisiana, and The Karol Hotel is another that represents a completely different experience: Sunshine State Nostalgia. But don't be fooled by the salmon-hued velvet lobby furniture, the Karol represents true Florida nostalgia via its namesake.  It doesn't get any more Florida orange than Karol Bullard who, just to name a few, was the Florida Citrus Queen, Miss Florida, and Florida's first female meteorologist!

With its grand reopening in late 2019, only to be closed for several months due to Covid, the Karol Hotel began welcoming guests again in late 2020 to relax in a beautifully-appointed establishment, with personal service and attention to detail that makes for an unforgettable stay.  The Marriot Tribute Portfolio hotel does not spare on the comforts and luxury, with a signature bar & bistro as well as a rooftop bar and a ballroom, in addition to the 123 guest rooms. Hotels in this collection are each boutique-style with their own palette and personality, but closely integrated into their communities and meant to help people connect.

This was an exciting trip for LTD! Not only did we participate in the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim, but we could immerse ourselves in part of Florida's history during our stay at the Karol Hotel. This was one of several ventures away following the COVID-19 pandemic that caused a worldwide shutdown of most travel and our experience was all we hoped for!

Check Reviews for the Karol Hotel, rates, and book by clicking here!

1. Location

The Karol Hotel is adjacent to a hidden gem in St. Petersburg, Feather Sound, another community achievement of the Bullard Family.  Feather Sound is safe, quiet and isolated but yet located near both the St. Pete and Tampa airports, restaurants, downtown St. Pete and beaches.  Access to all of these locations is simple via nearby interstate 275. That is the beauty of it. For any visit to the Tampa/St. Pete area, it's hard to find a more centralized location to explore all of it. 

2. Check-in

We were greeted promptly and checked in without difficulty from very accommodating employees wearing masks appropriately. The entire staff is eager to engage you and tell you about the hotel's namesake, Karol Bullard.  They are proud of the hotel and it shows in their enthusiasm. Since it is a Marriott-affiliated property, we were greeted and treated appropriately for our Marriott status. The staff oriented us to the hotel and the surrounding area. Once we were informed about COVID policies, we elected to receive daily room cleaning and received this without any problems whatsoever. A nice touch was that we could request the time of housekeeping service and generally it was performed exactly as we asked during our stay (see below). 

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Smart, Sexy, Secure but Accessible: Keep Your Small Valuables Discreetly Locked Away with TROVA Go

When privacy and security is a must, try TROVA, a smart storage device designed with equal attention on discretion, security and appearance – perfect for jewelry, medications, credit cards and more. Tightly sealed and attractive by using a sleek aluminum alloy, TROVA vessels range from pocket or handbag sized to larger containers that can be openly displayed, while concealing its contents from inappropriate audiences. Wirelessly connected via Bluetooth and accessible through biometric scanning, TROVA’s proprietary app allows only paired users to unlock it keeping TROVA and its contents secure.

"Keep your valuables secure, but not out of sight." That’s the intriguing premise behind Trova, a smart storage device designed by a team from Colorado. Its purpose is to protect small things from theft, snooping, children or any prying eyes.

Designed as “a discreet physical storage device”, the TROVA Go is definitely a device of the times in more ways than one. Portable, sleek, and finished in a contemporary palette that would easily blend in amongst a variety of modern lifestyle and tech products, the TROVA Go could be mistaken for an eyeglass case or portable battery charger. This is the premise that makes this security Bluetooth-enabled accessory perfect for stashing away small goods discretely – a purpose TROVA founders and Colorado-based husband and wife team, Scott and Jonell Loeppert, cite as the inspiration for its creation.

Design

Credit goes to NYC design firm Aruliden for the TROVA Go’s minimalist pocketable portability, a form expressed using aluminum die forging, CNC machining, and an anodization process. The resulting product is a small, durable case intended to keep precious contents securely incognito, including aromas that might be emitted from other storage containers, thanks to the TROVA Go’s silicone over mold sealant.

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Unique, Meaningful and Healthy Valentine's Day Travel Gifts for Home and Away: 2021 Pandemic Edition

To say that 2020 was a unique year is an understatement. Since the pandemic was declared in March, safety precautions and protocols have become the stuff of everyday life — at home and on the road. With the end in sight, many of us are getting itchy feet to hit the road again with those we love. For some, romance within the restrictions of a public health crisis will be worth it; for others it won’t. LTD comprised this list of some of our favorite gifts for these unusual times that will be helpful both at home and on the road to capture memories, inspire adventure and make life healthier and more meaningful! 

Let's face it - they may not have the time or knowledge to look for great traveling items themselves.  Fortunately, LTD can give you some outstanding selections for all budgets that will certainly put a smile on their faces!!  Our guide includes items that are fashionable, healthy, useful and practical for the traveling female.  Click on the product photo or links if you wish to learn more!  By clicking and/or buying, you support our blog and our mission to bring you information about meaningful and healthy travel!  Thank you so much!!!

1.  Champagne & Whipped Cream?   

Aromatized with the finest essential oils, ESNA HOME natural scented candles are crafted from 100% natural, non-toxic, vegan soy wax. This carefully blended with the seductive scent of Champagne & Whipping cream will offer consistent fragrance release during the long burn time of 50 hours. Light it up for a moment of indulgence this Valentine's Day for someone dear to warm their heart and home.  If Paris is not for you check out scents like Fresh Cut Roses & Berries!

2.  Give them the next best thing to holding their hand!   

Banish soreness, popsicle fingers and stiffness with a hand massager!  Comfier Electric Hand massagers are specially designed to use air pressure and compressed hot air to pamper every part of their hand and work on the fingers and knuckles to ensure total relaxation. 

3.  OOLER by Chili Technologies - This is our number one recommended product because it has been a "sleep changer" for us!

Give the gift of sleep!!!! Our number one recommended product of 2020.  We first encountered Chili Technologies at the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas in 2019!  In a matter of no time we became customers ourselves and can't say enough how much the OOLER and chiliBLANKET have contributed to our well-being and healthy travel!  Interrupted sleep is when our sleep is studded with prolonged periods of waking up throughout the night, usually at least four times over the course of eight hours. This condition can be caused by a sudden shift in routine (for example, a new baby in the house), travel, unexpected noises (such as a party at your neighbor’s house or a partner’s snoring), bathroom trips, menopause or other health issues or racing thoughts.  Temperature affects your baseline sleep quality and regulating temperature can help you phase shift your sleep for travel and help prevent jet lag. And do you know what we love best about the company? They stand by their product and you get a 90 day money-back sleep trial. See our full review of OOLER by clicking here! Use our coupon code to EXTRA $$ off!

4. Dual Therapy Weighted Blanket!

If you're not sure a Chili weighted blanket is for them, start with a Dual Therapy Weighted Blanket by Brooklyn Bedding. It is designed to provide the deep touch pressure support that can result in a calmer, more soothing night’s sleep and provide the best of both worlds with its cozy and cooling features. Its dual therapy features come from a flippable and removable duvet cover: one side blankets you in a traditional, ultra cozy warmth and security; the other side provides the tranquility of weight, coupled with an advanced cooling fabric. This makes for a great improvement to your current sleep experience or a great gift that your friends and family didn't know they needed!

5.  Load Photos on this Digital Frame from Wherever you are! 

It's easy to stay in touch with this highly-rated 10" digital photo frame. You send photos through the Nixplay app, Google Photos, Instagram or Facebook, and the images automatically appear in the frame, anywhere in the world.  Want a larger frame? Check out this 15.5 inch version. 

6.  If they Love to Cuddle in the Cold   

Cuddle on those cool nights at home! She can keep her side extra toasty, while he can keep his a little cooler, and no one has to fight over who gets the controller — because this heated blanket conveniently comes with two!

7.  Cashmere Scarf   

Winter is here, so help keep him them warm this season with a stylish cashmere scarf. It comes in lots of colors, so you can choose which one will go best with their style

8.  Temperature Controlled Mug   

Using an app on their phone, they can control the temperature of this sleek smart mug to ensure that their coffee or tea stays between 120ºF and 145ºF a.k.a. the perfect drinking temperature for nearly two hours. This is the newest Ember mug for those who enjoy a larger cup of java! 

9.  TUSHY Spa  

Give them the gift of a clean hiney with this bidet toilet attachment. Choose from different colors that offer water pressure control. The TUSHY bidet gives you a high-end feel without compromising quality or the price tag. 

10.  Custom Pet Portrait

Send in one of the hundreds of pictures that they've taken of their pup or cat and get a printed digital portrait shipped straight to your door. There are so many styles to choose from, even if you don't order one take a look for a smile today!

11.  Luna Bean Keepsake Hands Casting Kit

Preserve Every Precious Detail!  Share the experience of life casting from the comfort of your own home. You can't go wrong with this gift of a priceless memory and with a satisfaction guarantee why not give it to all of your loved ones?

12.  Handmade Envelope Slippers

Does she have popsicle toes? These slippers are handmade in a family studio with customizable size and soles.  These slippers have rave reviews for the quality and comfort! If you're shopping for him, check out the men's selection.

13.  Handmade Caricature Drawing

Hand-drawn caricatures are 100% proven to make a great gift. A perfect loving and fun gift for your special person. Just send a photo of the person you would like drawn and any instructions about what they should be doing in the drawing, such as in front of your favorite landmark!

14.  Is that Silverware in Your Pocket or are You Just Happy to See Me?

These have become very popular during the 2020 due to the pandemic, and what a thoughtful gift!  These portable utensils come in several different finishes so you know which set is which! They come with an elegant carrying case and include straws and chopsticks. 

14.  Phones are Important for Travel, but How Can They be Clean??!  PhoneSoap is the answer!

This is a customer favorite! AS SEEN ON SHARK TANK AND DISCOVERY CHANNEL. PhoneSoap's revolutionary bacteria-zapping technology was featured on ABC's Shark Tank and tested and proven on the Discovery Channel.  Think of the germs we are exposed to during travel! Stay healthy and charge a phone all at the same time.

15.  For the Traveler who Carries Tension (who doesn't???) or Experiences Pain

Getting a post-flight massage can beat jet lag, improve circulation, and release tension. If they can’t make it to the spa, these palm-sized firm massage balls act like a portable foam roller to work out the knots and loosen tight muscles in feet, hips, back, shoulders, legs, etc. They could use a tennis ball, but the crevice in the middle of this design is more comfortable to use around places like the spine and come with a handy carrying bag. 

16.  What Says Love more than Dreaming of Paris?   

Picture yourself walking hand in hand in Paris in a classic film. Ahhhh Paris. Doesn't this travel poster for Paris take you back and make you feel nostalgic and amorous? If you feel that way, your favorite explorer will to.  If Paris is not for you check out other vintage travel posters by Canvas On Demand.

17. Swap Travel Dreams Over A Beautifully Laid Out Cheese Board 

We love this unique gift from Vintage Garden Art.  For anyone who loves to entertain, give them this set of Silver Plated Spoon handles which are hand stamped cheese markers for cheeses from around the World.  Even better, set up a special evening for them with wine and cheeses from around the world and use these markers to make the finishing touches!

18. Build Famous Buildings!

Longing to see some famous buildings? Inspire travel in the young Valentines in your life or the young at heart with a Famous Buildings 3D cut puzzles.  Choose from other cities including Moscow, New York, Notre Dame and Italy.

19.  Watch the Most Romantic Movie of All Time and Dream of Morocco  

Inspire travel to Morocco and give the gift of enjoying the most romantic movie of all time with your favorite Valentine....Casablanca: A jaded nightclub owner in war-torn Casablanca, whose loyalties are put to the test when his old flame, Ingrid Bergman, reappears to seek Rick's help in escaping from the Nazis.

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