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Get To Know Your Travel Agent - Julia Stewart's 2025

  • Writer: Carol McKee
    Carol McKee
  • 20 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

Back by popular demand! As 2025 winds down, we’re excited to give you an exclusive peek into our year. One of the best parts of what we do is getting to know you—our amazing clients—and helping you create unforgettable memories through travel.


While we often hear all about your adventures, we realized we don’t always share much about our lives behind the scenes. Curious about who’s crafting those perfectly tailored trips for you? Well, now’s your chance to find out and to get to know your travel agent.


First, we’re shining the spotlight on Julia Stewart’s highlights from the year. In the upcoming newsletters, you’ll get to know the rest of the McKee Travel team—Carol, Lauren, and Sara.


We hope you enjoy this little journey behind the scenes!


A Busy and Exciting Year with Family


A Busy and Exciting Year with Family

It’s been quite a year in the Stewart household! Our kids are growing fast, and keeping up with their ever-changing schedules feels like a full-time job. Sophie, our eldest, started driving, and landed her very first job this year—a big step into independence! We’re also gearing up for college visits this spring, which is both thrilling and a little bittersweet.


Blake, now 7, has been busy chasing balls and dreams, playing baseball, soccer, and basketball. Nothing makes him happier than running around with his friends, filling our home with energy and laughter.


And then there’s Lily, our 4-year-old, soaking in every bit of learning and wonder in pre-K. Watching her discover and grow continues to be such a joy for all of us.


This year's traveling highlights: 


Royal Caribbean Cruise - March 2025
Royal Caribbean Cruise - March 2025
Blake and Lily waiting to swim with Dolphins
Blake and Lily waiting to swim with Dolphins

We wrapped up March with an unforgettable family voyage aboard Royal Caribbean, sailing to the stunning islands of St. Kitts, Antigua, and St. Maarten. Traveling with some of our extended family made the trip even more special. The kids couldn’t get enough of the ship’s fun-filled activities—Adventure Ocean, ice skating, laser tag, water slides, and so much more kept them entertained from dawn to dusk. Meanwhile, the adults delighted in top-notch entertainment, peaceful relaxation, and, of course, amazing cuisine at every turn.


New Smyrna Beach, FL - April 2025
New Smyrna Beach, FL - April 2025

In April we spent spring break in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.  This was a much needed quick getaway, just the five of us.


Lisbon - June 2025
Lisbon - June 2025

I kicked off the summer with a girls’ trip to Spain and Portugal, joined by my sisters and mom. We wandered through the vibrant streets of Barcelona, soaked up the sun in Malaga, and savoured the charm of Lisbon. It was a whirlwind of culture, laughter, and unforgettable moments — the kind of memories that truly last a lifetime.  Getting away without the kids is always a bit of a juggling act, but it’s so worth it for the recharge and quality family time with my sisters and mom.


At the 4th of July Parade in Three Lakes, Wisconsin
At the 4th of July Parade in Three Lakes, Wisconsin

As we do every year, we spent the 4th of July at our family cabin in the north woods of Wisconsin.  Here the days are spent on the lake, nights spent playing games and we love it!


Great Smoky Mountains National Park - July 2025

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - July 2025
Great Smoky Mountains National Park - July 2025

This year, instead of our usual mom-and-kids beach getaway, we switched gears and headed to the beautiful Tennessee Mountains. What a blast we had swimming in fresh mountain waters, hiking scenic trails, riding the alpine coaster, throwing unforgettable dance parties, and playing games late into the evening.


Pro tip: If you visit the Tennessee Mountains, make sure to lock your cars tight—one of us found an unexpected visitor, a black bear, hanging out in the van! Luckily, it turned into a great story and a fun reminder of the wild side of mountain adventures.


Dominican Republic - November 2025

Dominican Republic - November 2025
Dominican Republic - November 2025

Johnnie and I recently returned from an unforgettable escape to Zemi Miches Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. This brand-new all-inclusive resort truly impressed us with its stunning beachfront location, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service—perfect for both relaxation and adventure.


Curious to hear more about our experience and what makes this resort a must-visit? Check out the full details here: Zemi Miches Punta Cana Review


As I reflect on 2025, I’m truly grateful for all the precious time spent and memories made with family and friends. These moments remind me why travel isn’t just about the destinations, but about the connections and joy we share along the way.


 

 
 
 

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