River Cruise Specialist,Hawaii-Mexico & Rentals

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Patricia Aitken, Travel Agent in Medford, OR

Patricia Aitken

Medford, OR Travel Agent

Patricia Aitken

Medford, OR · 25+ Years of Experience

LadyBug Destinations, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(8)
100% Recommended
I feel so fortunate to have worked with Pat Aitken. She is a fabulous travel advisor! Pat helped me with some rather complicated travel... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
Itineraries
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Italy, Greece, Germany, Austria, France

Interests:

River Cruises, Christmas Markets, Dude Ranches, Cruises, Vacation Rentals

Suppliers:

Viking, Pleasant Holidays, AmaWaterways, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line

About Me

Alberello, Italy
Alberello, Italy

I reside on the West Coast (PNW-Oregon), was a Marine Corps military wife for many years enabling living and travel to Japan and Hawaii, which further enabled my love of travel and meeting people of many diverse cultures, many of whom are still friends today. I have been an advisor of travel for 29+ years. Like many other agents, I belong to ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) which organization strongly advocates charging of fees. I do charge a concierge/research fee for my experience, education, and travel knowledge.

As a widow and now SOLO Traveler, I have since continued to travel extensively in the USA, Alaska, Hong Kong, Japan, Europe, Caribbean & Mexico. A plethora of experience taken from years working with Vacation Rentals in Europe for 17 years. Following 9/11, diversification was key--so change became a necessity. Europe became one of my "Go To" places, specializing in Viking River and Ocean Cruises, Riviera Travel especially for SOLO TRAVELERS, AMA Waterways (plus a great deal of experience, & travel on, with Regent, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Adventures by Disney) together with fabulous fun river cruises in the USA on the beautiful Mississippi River, Puget Sound, Snake River and Hudson Bay (new and exciting).  I LOVE traipsing through Europe whether it's during a river cruise or doing trains and walks on cobblestones. Talk about History Lessons!

RIVER AND OCEAN CRUISE EXPERTISE: I love River and small Ocean ship cruises. They are perfect for the 40 year and beyond crowd, Adults and Adult Children, on smaller ships where you receive superb attention, excellent excursions, food and more. I am a Master Cruise Expert with Viking (13 years), a graduate specialist with AMA Waterways and Riviera Travel. Think River Cruises to Europe, Asia, Africa, Egypt (and soon others in 2027) bring history, food, wine, and so much more to you on a daily basis--different places to explore with friends or on your own! Christmas Markets are a favorite for many. I have a short book on Winter River Cruising, please ask and I will send.  Bigger ships are excellent for families with children as they have lots to see and do-keeping everyone happy and occupied. (I.E. Princess, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean)

VACATONS IN HAWAII AND MEXICO:  I am super familiar with booking destinations in Hawaii, having lived there, and am a Master Agent for all Hawaiian Islands.  I have returned to the Islands many times to get revitalized! Nothing like toes in the sand to warm your feet. (No all inclusives per se in Hawaii)

I am a MEXPERT for Cancun and the Riveria Maya. With that certification and organization I have access to many informational pdfs, information on regulatory visas and changes, pictures and do's and don'ts which will enhance your visit. 

I also love the Cabo San Lucas area - perfect for Mexico related Cruises and land vacations. 

VILLA RENTALS EXPERTISE: From cottages to Villas and Chalets--Experience life in your own “house” with chefs (if you want), water sports, tennis courts, private pools, access to historic places, golf courses and wineries worldwide to visit. With 10 to 20 (more, or less, if you wish) people to share the cost, often less overall than a hotel room with extra costs.

Please note that we do NOT represent or book VRBO’s or Air BnB’s 

 

For all countries and information I have, no information is AI and none of the pictures are AI generated. My expertise in Europe really lies in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the UK, Greece, Hungary and Austria. It's more of a been there done that information to assist you in making well informed decisions about your travel. 

I have many reviews and marvelous photos on the website so feel free to go there to look. I am a strong believer in education, certification and personal travel.

 ALWAYS get travel insurance, don't leave home without it.

Testimonials

Aysha K: 2022 Oahu Family trip, birthday celebration) I hope all is well! So sorry I haven’t reached out sooner, things got a little hectic when we got back. Anyway, we had such a good time! Thank you for helping with everything). The hotel was great.

Kathy D: (2022 Viking River/Oberammergau) If you're asked by other clients about the river cruises, I can tell you we were thrilled. The service was so good. Food was incredible. We met really great people on the boat and learned about all their travels. I met a lady who had done a 4 month world cruise! Viking met us at the airport when we arrived and escorted us to the airport check-in when we left. We never had to worry about where we'd be or whether we'd get lost or left behind.

 

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
8 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 8 reviews

"Experience Matters"
Reviewed By Carol - Brookings, Oregon | Traveled to Wisconsin ~ USA
I feel so fortunate to have worked with Pat Aitken. She is a fabulous travel advisor! Pat helped me with some rather complicated travel arrangements that I could not have made without her.
She gave me a lot of great advice and helped me through every step of my trip.
Pat is extremely experienced, knowledgable, is a great communicator and so very kind and patient. Any questions I had (and there were many) she answered immediately and in my best interest. I would highly recommend Pat Aitken for any and all of your travel needs. Thank you Pat, you’re THE BEST!
Patricia Aitken responded
"Thank you, Carol for calling and asking for help in getting back to Wisconsin for your family emergency. I am glad I could help and that really enjoyed meeting you over the phone and in emails. The next time I am in Brookings, I will let you know and coffee is on me! Pat PS We were able to get ALL of her hotel, air and car cancelled and totally refunded."
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Can’t go wrong with Pat!
Reviewed By Claire - Portland, OR | Traveled to Puerto Rico ~ Caribbean
Pat is smazing! She is knowledgeable, provides personalize service, and is always looking for the best fit for her clients. We are doing our second cruise with her and she is so good about sending us suggestions, and monitoring flight changes and things like that. She is a real gem!
Patricia Aitken responded
"Claire and Andrew - Thanks for the note...and, it is more than fun working with all of you, refreshing! pat"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Terrific value and memorable trip!!
Reviewed By Kathy - Xenia, Ohio | Traveled to Norwegian Sea ~ At Sea ~ At Sea
Pat was easy to communicate with by text, phone, or email. She grabbed the best deals and upgrades.
Patricia Aitken responded
"Excellent repeat clients!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Great trip of a lifetime!
Reviewed By Pam - Jacksonville, OR | Traveled to Rhine River ~ On the River ~ At Sea
Pat was great to work with. She guided us through the process of trying to make decisions on companies, hotels, and tours. Pat helped us plan the trip by giving us very good suggestions. Then she booked everything we decided on and there were no problems. It was a pleasure and a relief to have her help.
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Grand European Adventure a Viking Cruise
Reviewed By Russ - Medford, Oregon | Traveled to Europe
Excellent Pat has been making my travel arrangements for 8 years.
✓ 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.
AMResorts Master Agent
AMResorts Master Agent
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Pleasant Premier Ambassador
Pleasant Premier Ambassador
Regent Seven Seas Luxury Cruise Expert
Regent Seven Seas Luxury Cruise Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking River & Ocean Certified Specialist
Villa Specialist
Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Specialist
Certified Travel Counselor
Hawaii Certifications

Client Testimonials

Star Clippers Long Sail
We did another one. This time Russ was able to climb up the rigging with others. Earlier in the year a knee replacement enabled him to really look forward to this voyage as he has wanted to Climb the Riggings forever. Began Malaga,down the Coast-Gibraltor to Morocco to the Grand Canaries to St Maarten, a LONG cruise! Russ got to climb, talk to other sailors and (always) the crew! A 25 day sail, 18 on the open ocean.Clear blue ocean,skies. Excellent weather all the way. I wish we could show the Climb Up the Rigging photos. Met great people ! The only hiccup was in St Maarten coming home-but at that time everyone was having problems with air, changes and cancellations so we weren't alone, created problems in Atlanta and hotels but once again--Pat rescued us. This was so enjoyable the captain and crew outstanding, so on to another Star Clippers Greek Islands 2 week, all different islands sail in 2027. First we came home to Christmas parties and then a move to the Williamette Valley.
Russ-Nancy McK, Jacksonville, OR
Wales Trip 2025
Off to the UK once again. This time we went back to Wales and did the North side. We flew into Manchester from the States and after much going back and forth for months, Jad and I finally decided (me, really) on catching a train after a night's rest in Manchester as that plane ride is a long one from Oregon. Renting a car was an option but the logistics got to be a little much. We did 4 major areas in about 10 days, going back to Manchester to overnight and go home the next day. We saw the ocean, ate in nice restaurants and out the way pubs. We saw caves and castles. Having Pat help with the various different accommodations, we always had 3 good ones to choose from - modern hotels to local "out of the way" types-places that have been there for many generations. She always gives me the most interesting to choose from. Plus the various places we were going, some had tours available and those that did not, we had history plots fro her so that gave us good points of reference. Fun Trip.
Pam D, Jacksonville, OR
Rivers, Oceans, Sailing & More
Russ & I have gone on many Viking cruises with Pat's help-both River and Ocean. She's been there though mishaps and medical cancellations. We keep coming back, for over 12 years of travel with her. We've taken family along as well as two sets of friends who all love to travel as we do. We have come to value Pat's help and expertise, plus her vast knowledge of the world, travel climate, etc. Our newest experience is sailing trips, climbing up rigging and experiencing life!! We will be doing the Grand European again (Fall 2026), again with friends plus another Greek Isles sailing trip for a little over two weeks in 2027 - plus a major move. (We continue to lead an exciting life in our late 70's)
Nancy McK (Jacksonville, OR)
South America & Chilean Fjords with Viking in 2025
Taking the Viking cruise down the coast of Chile, around the (Cape) horn, to the Falkland Islands (a part of the United Kingdom), Uruguay and then to Argentina was something I never thought I would ever do. My husband is the adventurous one, but I’ve done lots of crazy interesting things in the last 31 years. The Chilean Fjords with Viking Ocean was one such trip. The fjords are so different than other places I’ve seen. The coastline is so rugged and beautiful and the glacier was awesome. However the fjords are only one portion of the trip. The ports are interesting and the people were so gracious to us. South America is different than other countries we have been to and was well worth seeing. We went with travel buddy's in March of 2025. On to our next adventure: Sailing with Sails (again) in October of 2025.
Nancy McK Jacksonville, OR
Great Hawaiian Trip
Wednesday, February, 2025 Pat did an outstanding job again (we're long-time clients) as she planned our two week trip to Oahu and "The Big Island". She thoughtfully gave us 3 hotel recommendations on Oahu - we chose The Royal Hawaiian...Same for Kona - loved Aston by the Sea. Since Pat is so well-traveled and experienced, we know her choices reflect our preferences. She's also forged professional relationships with tour companies and airline representatives. She worked very hard with the airlines to change a 5am departure to a later flight when she knew it would have been tough on us physically. We were EXTREMELY grateful - so on that point alone Pat got an A+!!! We loved our Hawaiian vacation, expertly planned by the best Travel Advisor in town - Pat Aitken and Epic Travel Journeys.
By Sue - Medford, OR
Tour Comments Castelo Rodrigo
A tiny medieval village on a hilltop, with an interesting history and gorgeous views from the castle ruins. We enjoyed it The coach dropped us off at the top of the hill next to a handful of shops/restaurants; several people chose to stay there rather than take the walking tour. The tour was mostly downhill, lots of uneven places, dirt/gravel/cobblestones. At the end of the tour there was a long flight of stairs back up the hill, but I’m pretty sure we could have skipped the stairs and just walked a little further to get to where the coaches were parked. The tour guide was very good about giving people an “out” if the terrain became too challenging for them; the village is so small you can’t get lost. For those with mobility issues choosing to remain near the shops, the castle ruins are a stone’s throw away; they can view it from the road, or – if they can manage a few stairs -- go inside the ruins and see some amazing views of the surrounding countryside from its windows.
Marla C, Talent, Oregon
River Cruising in Portugal
Not at all what I expected after doing other River Cruises in Europe. We went in October 2024. This was a good introduction to Portugal’s history as a world leader in maritime exploration, a country of culture and education, and the famous Port wine producing Douro River Valley with steep, terraced vineyards planted and cultivated for more than 2,000 years. We learned fascinating details about the history of Port wine. The Douro River itself took me by surprise – it was stunning, far more beautiful than depicted in photos, with deep pools, amazing rock formations, and lush vegetation at every turn – the views from the ship were amazing. The captain, crew and our daily guide (born and raised on the Douro) were like a warm, relaxed family. There is a lot of traveling by coach on this cruise, including getting from Lisbon to Porto and for the daily excursions. This works well for some people, others will prefer more opportunities for exercise. The food was excellent.
Marla C and Jan R, Talent, OR
Last Minute Emergency Planning
I feel so fortunate to have worked with Pat Aitken. She is a fabulous travel advisor! Pat helped me with some rather complicated travel arrangements that I could not have made without her. She gave me a lot of great advice and helped me through every step of my trip. Pat is extremely experienced, knowledgable, is a great communicator and so very kind and patient. Any questions I had (and there were many) she answered immediately and in my best interest. I would highly recommend Pat Aitken for any and all of your travel needs. Thank you Pat, you’re THE BEST!
Carol W (Brookings, OR)
Hot Air Balloons and Pyramids!
Some definite fun! But scary and quite rough at the same time. I skipped this one (pyramid not shown) - did the early am balloon ride instead and too tired. About 30 of us opted (paid extra) for balloon and didn't bother with this temple - seen too many for too long already? Have video from balloon ride. Also paid for excursion to Abu Simbel. What a trip! Petra, Jordan was probably a top star on the trip. Early morning lift off to view Egypt & Pyramids Susan in Egypt 2022 with Viking Cruises
Susan L. (Medford, Oregon)
Caribbean and West Indies
We have done all our international travel arrangements through our long time Travel Advisor, Pat Aitken. When COVID hit we had to cancel 3 trips scheduled for Europe river cruises (2020). We got all our money back either as cash or vouchers and Pat made it happen. She has been working with Viking Cruises for 10 years, previously with AAA for almost 7 years until Covid, and other contractors as well for many years. She is very educated and well traveled--particularly in Europe; as well as the Caribbean, making our Viking cruise to West Indies most enjoyable with her suggestions as she has been to many places on that route as well. When you are on your trip she checks in to make sure the reservations worked. If you have plane schedule delays and problems just text her and she will make necessary changes. For an older guy who sort of understands computers this is very comforting. We are pleased Pat is available to make our travel reservations. Russ & Nancy
Russ & Nancy McK Jacksonville OR
An African Safari
Made it to Joberg, so on my way home. Safari was spectacular! Saw all of the big five and so much more - even the tracker and guides were impressed with what they/we saw. Some great videos. See you soon - weather permitting. - Susan Micato Safari Nov-Dec 2022
Susan L (Medford, Oregon)
Rome, Viking, Mediterranean and Beyond!
Pat has been our travel advisor for years and we count ourselves very fortunate. Our last adventure was a 3-week trip to Europe, starting with 4 days in Rome (our first time) and a 15-day Viking cruise of the Mediterranean. Pat booked the Viking cruise and, rather than signing up for a packaged tour, we asked Pat to draw upon her many trips to Rome to create a special experience for us. We absolutely loved every minute - transfers from the airport, the perfect hotel, pre-paid vouchers for all the attractions we wanted to visit - no stress...absolutely seamless trip. And - IF we had encountered any problems, we know Pat would have ironed them out immediately. Each trip Pat has planned for us has been great - but this one was the best. - Ben & Sue in Nov 2022
Ben & Sue M (Medford Oregon)
West Indies with Viking Ocean
We had an amazing 10 day cruise on Viking in December, and cannot recommend Pat Aiken enough! She found us great deals, kept us up-to-date on the flights and sent us some helpful tips to plan our packing and excursions. I usually plan all of our travel without any problems, but Pat made it all so easy. I don't ever want to book a cruise on my own after receiving Pat's stellar service! - Claire & Andrew December 2022
Claire & Andrew Y. (Portland OR)
Jamaica Bound! My SOLO trip by Kathy
Hi Pat! I've had a wonderful time in Jamaica at Secrets Wild Orchids in Montego Bay. I'm due to leave tomorrow, 2/3 but looks like flight cancellations are going to happen because of the winter storm. Do you have a moment to discuss options? Yes, (weather) mostly very good. We had rain Sunday though part of the day Monday but it wasn't bad. It's beautiful here. I've decided I must do this again. Hopefully next year. (later next day) Home! I will definitely do a trip like this again!!!! Thank you! (after a long winter weather and air cancellations from Jamaica) Kathy - Jamaica January 2022 (NOTE: This is Jamaica not England but no Destination area for Caribbean, sorry)
Kathy D (Ohio)
An Adventure by Disney with AMA in Basel
Made it to Basel Switzerland without a hitch. Sightseeing in Basel. Great Weather! Start our Disney Adventure (on AMA Waterways) tomorrow. Thanks for everything. Regards , Peter (Medford, OR) June 2019 Peter and family party of 9
Peter S. Medford, OR
Viking and Oberammergau by Kathy D 2021
I bought refrigerator magnets as souvenirs at almost every stop and already have them up on the frig!! Bratislava. My favorite guide was here. She told her story of living under communism and when it fell in 1989. Krems Abby Wine tasting was my favorite! So much fun. The owner supplies 250,000 bottles of Austrian wine to Viking. Vienna. Way too much to see here. We want to go back and stay for a week. If you're asked by other clients about the river cruises, I can tell you we were thrilled. The service was so good. Food was incredible. We met really great people on the boat and learned about all their travels. I met a lady who had done a 4 month world cruise! Viking met us at the airport when we arrived and escorted us to the airport check-in when we left. We never had to worry about where we'd be or whether we'd get lost or left behind.
Kathy D. Xenia, Ohio