(78 Reviews)
97% Recommended

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX
Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
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Viking Great Lakes Cruise Travel Agent Expert

As a travel advisor with firsthand experience on the Viking Great Lakes cruise, I’m passionate about creating memorable trips for my clients. I’ve explored each destination and know all the best spots to visit. My journey onboard taught me about the ship’s comforts, exciting excursions, and delicious dining options. I’m here to help you plan the perfect Great Lakes adventure and make lasting memories! 


 


Here are several reasons to consider a Great Lakes cruise:


A Comfortable Floating Hotel


From the moment I stepped onboard, I was impressed by the elegant design and spacious accommodations. The ship felt like a luxurious floating hotel, with every detail meticulously attended to. My stateroom was a perfect retreat, complete with a balcony where I could enjoy the views as we sailed through the serene lakes.


All-Inclusive Convenience


One of the standout features of my Viking experience was how everything was included. Excursions, dining, and even complimentary wine and beer with meals – it made planning so effortless! I loved knowing that I could fully enjoy my vacation without worrying about extra costs.


Explore Iconic Cities and Hidden Gems


The itinerary included stops in charming cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Mackinac Island, where I immersed myself in local culture and history. I enjoyed guided tours, like exploring the fascinating architecture of Chicago and learning about the rich heritage of the Great Lakes region. Each destination had its own unique charm, and Viking provided insights that enriched the experience.


Culinary Delights


Dining onboard was a true highlight. The menus featured dishes inspired by the regions we traveled through, showcasing local flavors. I even participated in a cooking demonstration, learning to prepare a regional dish, which was both fun and delicious! The meals were a fantastic way to experience the local culture.


Engaging Enrichment Programs


Viking is known for its commitment to cultural enrichment, and this cruise was no exception. I attended fascinating lectures about the Great Lakes’ ecology, history, and the Native American tribes that originally inhabited the area. These sessions added depth to my understanding of the places we visited and made the journey even more enriching.


Ideal for 55+ Travelers


What I appreciated most was the atmosphere onboard, where I met so many fellow travelers in their 50s and 60s. The pace of the cruise was just right – not rushed, allowing plenty of time to relax or explore on my own. Plus, the excursions were designed with varying activity levels, so there was always something to suit everyone’s preferences.


Nature’s Beauty at Your Fingertips


Sailing through the Great Lakes was breathtaking. I marveled at the pristine waters and stunning landscapes. Whether we were cruising past the dramatic shorelines or docking in quaint lakeside towns, the natural beauty was a constant reminder of why this region is so special.

My Travel Albums

Viking Cruise: The Great Lakes

My Travel Stories

Explore Great Lakes Parks with Viking

Nature’s Masterpieces Await You 

Imagine standing on the edge of a breathtaking cliff, overlooking the vast expanse of shimmering waters and rugged landscapes. The Great Lakes region is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the United States, and a Viking cruise...Read more.

See more travel stories

My Reviews

70 of 114 people found this review helpful
Another fabulous trip!
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent, he is patient with groups and always provides stellar customer service. The resorts are always fabulous and his recommendations on what to do when we arrive at our destinations make my vacations more enjoyable. I’ve counted on Rey to book fabulous vacations for over 10 years and he always delivers the best. I’ve always enjoyed the individual attention and care Rey provides his clients. He understands the apprehension that comes along with trying new places and is thorough and accommodating as a result. He’s also great at making suggestions on future vacations and I’ve never been disappointed when I follow his suggestions. Rey will remain my travel confidante for many years to come. He’s the best, hands down!
By  TC  from  San Antonio, Texas
Traveled to  Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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72 of 121 people found this review helpful
Travel Expert
We have worked with Rey for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Most of our travel has been river cruises in Europe but last year we did a trip to South Africa. Rey is very thoughtful, thorough and responsive.
By  Randy  from  Houston
Traveled to  Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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62 of 108 people found this review helpful
Destination Wedding Planner
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
By  Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz   from  Houston, Texas
Traveled to  Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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63 of 112 people found this review helpful
July 4th Fun!!!
Rey and the Almeda Travel family have been so good to my family in assisting us in all of our travel needs/goals from beginning to return. Rey has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism, patience,guidance, and quality service that is so difficult to find these days. We have trusted Almeda Travel for the last 5-6 years for our vacations and will continue to do so, I also strongly recommend if you’re looking for an agent/team that is knowledgeable and consumer responsive go with Almeda Travel!
By  Lady on the Go  from  Beaumont, Texas
Traveled to  Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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56 of 100 people found this review helpful
Anniversary Trip
I have the opportunity to book travel with Rey at Alameda Travel several times over the past 5-8years. He is very informative and knowledgeable about different places to travel and the hospitality service companies in those areas. I have been very pleased with every interactions and trip we have been on.
By  Chris Cooper  from  Humble, Texas
Traveled to  Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Destination Expert:

  • Mackinac Island
  • Thunder Bay
  • Niagara Falls
  • Ontario
  • Detroit

Travel Specialist:

  • Adult Only
  • Luxury
  • Luxury Cruises
  • Cruises
  • Holiday Travel

Certifications/Awards:

  • CTIE
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2013
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2011
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2009

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