Bucket List, Small Ship Cruises & Unique locations

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Jo Ann Simpson, Travel Agent in Covington, KY

Jo Ann Simpson

Covington, KY Travel Agent

Jo Ann Simpson

Covington, KY · 5 Years of Experience

Jogotravel, an independent agent with Cruises & Tours, Unlimited, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
4.9
(20)
100% Recommended
Putting a trip together by yourself is always stressful but, Jo Ann takes all that stress away. She is very knowledgeable about advising you with helpful... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Africa, Antarctica, East and Southeast Asia, South America, Europe

Interests:

Small Ship Cruises, River Cruises, Expedition Cruises, Adult Only, Christmas Markets

Suppliers:

AmaWaterways, Virgin Voyages, Windstar Cruises, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Hurtigruten

About Me

Livingstone Game Drive, Zambia, Africa
Livingstone Game Drive, Zambia, Africa

Hi, I’m Jo Ann—globe trotter, and unapologetic passport stamp collector. With over 70 countries (and all 7 continents!) under my belt, I’ve learned that the best travel stories don’t always start with “I found it in a brochure.” Sometimes they begin with “Wait… where is that?”

I am grateful that I prioritized my passion for travel while working before retirement, which spans over 73 countries.  Three and a half years ago, I embarked on a new chapter of my life as an independent travel advisor following a long and fulfilling career. My journey into the world of travel was fueled by a passion for exploration and a desire to connect with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for discovering the world. 

I love off-the-beaten-path adventures.  Whether I’m camping in the Wadi Rum desert in a luxurious bubble tent, cruising the Arctic, or standing among Moai statues on Easter Island, I seek out experiences that are immersive, authentic, and sometimes a little wild.  I help clients go beyond the ordinary—whether that means planning a luxury river cruise, chasing polar bears in Churchill, or finally checking off that dream trip you’ve been putting off for “someday.”  I also specialize in crafting bucket-list travel that doesn't feel like a tour group on autopilot and in Small-Ship cruises that are small in size but big on immersive excursions and personalized service.

Don't get me wrong, there is a time and place for the larger ship cruises.  When my inner introvert needs attention, getting lost in the crowd and indulging in a heavy dose of entertainment options helps me recharge and focus on myself.

I bring personal experience and professional know-how, including certifications as a Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) through the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and as a Certified Accredited Cruise Counselor through CLIA, as well as numerous supplier-specific certifications and a healthy dose of humor to every itinerary I design.

If you’re looking for a travel advisor who listens, gets excited about the details, and might even join you on the journey (seriously, don’t tempt me)—then we should talk. Let’s make your next trip the one you’ll be talking about for years.

 

Small Ship Ocean, Riverand Expedition Cruising

 

If you’re ready to swap crowds and casinos for culture and caviar, small ship cruising might be your new favorite way to travel. With fewer than 1,000 passengers (and often fewer than 200), these cruises are all about luxury, intimacy, and access. You get into the heart of the destinations—no endless tender rides, no herding. Just fine wine, personal service, and unforgettable experiences. I’ve cruised with and/or certified with the top providers such as AmaWaterways, Windstar, Viking, Oceania, and more. If you enjoy cultural immersion, wine tasting, golf, or just relaxing in style, there is a ship for you. Let’s find your perfect match on the water

REVIEWS

Rating: 4.9
20 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 20 reviews

What a wonderful trip!
Reviewed By Nonnie - Jamestown TN | Traveled to Tahiti | French Polynesia | South Pacific
Putting a trip together by yourself is always stressful but, Jo Ann takes all that stress away. She is very knowledgeable about advising you with helpful hints and especially in helping you with on land arrangements before and after a cruise. She always wants to be sure you have the best trip possible at the best price.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Fantastic cruise in French Polynesia
Reviewed By Friend - San Mateo, CA | Traveled to French Polynesia | South Pacific
From the moment we discussed the trip, Jo Ann kept me updated on every aspect of the cruise. I did not need to worry about any details. Jo Annis great at communicating regularly with her clients.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Fantastic Cruise!
Reviewed By Halmoni - Evesham, NJ | Traveled to Greece | Europe
Jo Ann was an incredible help in planning my cruise! Her extensive knowledge and expertise in all things cruising made the entire process smooth and stress-free. She’s not only professional and friendly, but also truly passionate about what she does. I really appreciated her guidance and attention to detail. I’ve already recommended her to my friends and family—she’s an outstanding travel agent!
Jo Ann Simpson responded
"Thank you so much for the kind words! I’m so glad I could help make your cruise planning experience smooth and stress-free. It’s always a joy to share my love of cruising with fellow travelers, and I truly appreciate your trust—and your referrals! "
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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A Great Girls trip
Reviewed By Ellie - Salisbury, MD | Traveled to Auckland | New Zealand | Australia & New Zealand
Was a wonderful time spend with some wonderful people. JoAnn had everything under control and kept us all going in the right direction. We made some life long friends.
Jo Ann Simpson responded
"Thank you so much for your kind words! You made it easy for me and I appreciate your recommendation and look forward to working together again soon!"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Fantastic carefree trip.
Reviewed By Monica - Jamestown, TN | Traveled to Vienna | Austria | Europe
Jo Ann thought of everything to make this trip seamless. Her planning went smoothly. Because of her past experience, she was able to suggest excursions that fit our likes and preferences.
Jo Ann Simpson responded
"Thank you for the kind words and continued trust! It means so much to hear that my travel experience and ideas made your trip memorable. I love working with you and can’t wait to help plan your next adventure!"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Certifications & 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.
AmaWaterways Specialist
AmaWaterways Specialist
NCL University - Master's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Travel Advisor
Oceania Certified Travel Advisor
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Windstar Star Specialist
Windstar Star Specialist
CLIA - CCC
ASTA Verified member

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.
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