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marian wattel

marian wattel

Stockton, CA Travel Agent
Super Agent

marian wattel

Stockton, CA Travel Agent
A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
28 reviews
100% Recommended
25+ Years of Experience

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

Certificates & Awards

Travel Stories & Media

Client Reviews

My Places

Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations
At Sea
Italy
California
Alexandria
Mediterranean Sea
Rhone River
See All Destinations >
Interests
Accessible Travel
Adventure
All Inclusive
Beach Vacations
Cruises
Family Vacations
See All Interests >
Supplier Partners
Amtrak
Amtrak Vacations
Classic Vacations
Europe Express
Globus
Pleasant Holidays
See All Supplier Partners >

My Travel Specialties

United Kingdom, England Travel Concierge
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 ...
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Speciality: Adventure & Destinations for All Ages
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.  <...
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A Co-Parenter's Guide to Quality Kid Travel
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 you...
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Cruising:Both Relaxation & Exotic Adventure
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 the...
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Roatan Adventure & Relaxation Advisor
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 t...
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Experienced Eurostar Travel Advisor
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
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 ...
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Panama Travel Planning  Professional
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 ca...
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River Cruise Travel Agent Specialist
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. ...
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Moorea & Bora Bora Travel  Specialist
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 respo...
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Bespoke Italian Rail Adventure Consultant
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 ...
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Oahu Island Travel Specialist
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...
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Petra Travel Agent Expert
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 ...
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Peru Travel Agent Professional
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-...
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Maui Travel Agent Expert
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 w...
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GUESS WHAT I BROUGHT HOME FOR YOU!!
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 h...
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Free #1
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 o...
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I HAVE GOT TO GET AWAY!
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 calenda...
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Train travel on 6 continents!
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.   H...
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 Bespoke Travel  Creates World Connections
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 diff...
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Certificates & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world.Go with the pros.
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Seacademy - Scarlet Certification
Seacademy - Scarlet Certification
super agent
Hawaii Destination Expert Certification
History/social studies/recreation degree
Kaua'i , Maui, Oahu Specialist
Los Cabos Specialist
Hawaii specialist
American Queen Voyages
Royal Caribbean specialist
Royal Caribbean Specialist (certified)
American Steamboat Academy

My Travel Stories

REAL All-inclusive Travel; No nickels, no dimes
What is the worst thing for you about returning from your vacation adventure? For me, it is not having bills beat me to my door; then, they trickle in to my mailbox over the next three months. By that time, the thrill of my special adventure—not just that exquisite dinner—has gone by and I wonder what the charge is. The souvenir, on that ...
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Baby knows it ALL
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 working with other peoples’ children for over 32...
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Private Paddle Wheeler on the Delta
See the USA: On water and land
Watching old movies depicting early travel, you might have seen adventurers covered in soot, on hard wooden benches of wagons or steam trains. Others portray,  small raft type boats being picked up and pitch by the current hurling down stream. Or you might see a majestic riverboat's paddlewheel churning while  well-dressed  gentry enjoy the crui...
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3 generations  gather in Nuevo Vallarta
Multi-Generational Adventures made Easy
Multi-generational vacations and holidays are no longer reserved for the family cabin or camping trip.  Multi-generational  holidays have evolved to expand to almost every conceivable  means.  If you can think of something you would like to do, there is usually a place for the whole family.   Cruise ships have been designed to meet the ne...
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Busy port day with several ships.
50+ Travelers Move by Water: What floats the boat?
Grandma, Grandpa, and Great Aunt Lucy are no longer staying in the neighborhood.  Today's seniors are an active, inquisitive bunch.  They are taking adventure, cultural, culunary, and inspirational trips around the world.  All of those places that there was limited or no access as they grew up are accessible now--mostly.   China was just ...
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My Photo Albums and Videos
Visiting Cornwall in the Steps of Doc Martin
VIEW ALBUM
Adventures with the Optimistic Tourist

CLIENT REVIEWS

Rating: 5
28 reviews
100.00% Recommended
upcoming trip
Reviewed By Rob - Los Angeles, California | Traveled to Barcelona ~ Spain ~ Europe
Marian is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She also thinks of things I never would. Which is way you would use a travel agent.
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"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
8 of 10 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
The most unbelievable trip!
Reviewed By Nelson James - San Jose California | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
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!
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"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
6 of 9 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Spectacular Family Cruise
Reviewed By JT - California | Traveled to Caribbean Sea ~ At Sea ~ At Sea
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.
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. "
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
7 of 11 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Biggest Trip in Retirement
Reviewed By David &amp; Carla - Stockton, CA | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
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.
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"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Held my hand throughout.
Reviewed By Lynne - Winters, CA | Traveled to Tunisia ~ Africa
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.
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"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

Client 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.
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