In our My New Braunfels Life interview series, we talk to local business owners and residents and ask them to share their favorite things about our great town.
Today, we’re excited to talk to Royce Staley, a 20+ year New Braunfels resident and independent travel advisor with Cruise Planners.
With Royce, you get the best of both worlds with the backing of a national travel network and the personal touch of someone who calls New Braunfels home. He knows the town, the people, and exactly what locals want when planning their trips.
Let’s get to the interview…
To start, why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
I come from a military family. Myself, my wife, and all of my children have served in the armed services of the United States.
I have spent most of my life working in healthcare and hold a master’s degree in healthcare administration from UT Tyler.
I was fortunate to be able to live while in the military and working for the military in Europe and that is where I found my passion for travel. Taking my love of history and being able to see the places that I had only read about in school books and seen in movies.
You’ve made New Braunfels your home. What do you love most about living here?
We moved to New Braunfels in 2004 and lived off County Line Road and FM 725, and our neighbor was a cow. I grew up in a small farm town, and New Braunfels reminds me a lot of where I grew up, with the festivals, small town gatherings, and the sense of community.
I can’t imagine living anywhere else as it sits in the perfect location with river access, along with the proximity to both Austin and San Antonio.
When you’re not helping clients plan dream vacations, where might we find you around town?
I spend a lot of time with my grandchildren, so I might be going to either a Unicorn cross country or track event or watching my granddaughter play youth soccer.
I also enjoy riding out in the country, and my favorite place to drive is on River Road with all the switchbacks over the Guadalupe River. I don’t believe you can find a better drive in TX than on River Road.
Do you have a favorite New Braunfels restaurant or go-to meal in town?
I love the Gristmill and their chicken fried steak. You can sit outside and listen to the music from Gruene Hall or local musicians while you wait, or the water rushing down the river while you eat your dinner. It’s an amazing place with great food.
Tell us a little about Cruise Planners and what you do.
Cruise Planners, where I operate my business, is the nation’s #1 At-Home Travel Franchise.
This means:
- I own the Cruise Planners – Royce Staley franchise. When you’re speaking to me you’re speaking not only to the owner but to your neighbor who has a vested interest in ensuring you have an amazing vacation.
- My franchise is powered by Cruise Planner’s massive, respected network. As a part of Cruise Planners, I have the backing, training, and powerful relationships of a leading national brand. This gives me access to exclusive deals, preferred pricing, and exceptional support from every major cruise line, resort, and tour operator in the world.
- You get personalized, expert service with big-brand benefits. Unlike a generic online booking site, you work with me, your dedicated travel advisor. I leverage Cruise Planners’ industry clout to get you the best value and amenities, while providing the hands-on, concierge-level care an online portal simply cannot.
- Your journey is my priority. From monitoring price drops after you book to handling every logistical detail and offering support before, during, and after your trip, I’m personally invested in making your vacation seamless and unforgettable. Expedia sells you a trip; I’m here to ensure you experience a dream come true.
What makes working with a local travel advisor different than just booking something online?
Here’s how we work together to bring your travel dreams to life:
- Your Vision, My Expertise: I listen intently to your travel dreams, preferences, and budget. Then, I leverage Cruise Planners’ powerful network and my personal expertise to provide tailored recommendations that perfectly align with your vision.
- Big-Brand Benefits, Personal Touch: As part of a leading national brand, I have access to exclusive deals, preferred pricing, and exceptional support from every major cruise line, resort, and tour operator. I bring these benefits directly to you, ensuring you get the best value without the hassle.
- Proactive Care & Seamless Planning: Unlike generic online sites, I constantly monitor pricing even after you book. If a price drops before final payment, I’ll let you know! I handle all the intricate details and logistics, saving you countless hours of research and stress. I offer ongoing support before, during, and after your trip, acting as your personal advocate if anything unexpected arises.
- The Difference: Online booking engines sells you a trip; I’m here to be your dedicated advisor, ensuring your choices lead to an unforgettable, stress-free dream come true.
What’s been one of your favorite destinations to book for clients or even travel to yourself?
My wife has a delightful obsession with “hairy coos,” as the majestic Scottish Highland cattle are affectionately known. This charming fascination set the stage for our very first European cruise, the “Scottish Serenade.”
This unforgettable journey took us through the breathtaking British Isles, with several enchanting stops in Scotland.
A highlight was witnessing the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular display held each year at the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The pipers, the drums, the vibrant atmosphere—it was truly magical.
That trip ignited a deep passion for cruising within us. The ease of unpacking once, waking up to a new destination daily, and experiencing such diverse culture and beauty all from the comfort of a ship was simply captivating.
What started with a quest for adorable cattle quickly turned into a lifelong love affair with the open sea and the endless possibilities of travel.
What travel trends are you seeing right now?
The way we explore the world is constantly evolving, and we’re seeing some exciting trends emerge that redefine how families and friends are experiencing unforgettable journeys. These shifts emphasize connection, shared passions, and creating deeper, more meaningful memories.
Forget solo trips; travelers are increasingly seeking shared experiences. We’re seeing a significant surge in passion-driven group travel. People are gathering around common interests, transforming hobbies into adventures. Imagine church groups exploring ancient lands, scrapbooking enthusiasts cruising with dedicated creative time, or history buffs embarking on immersive tours. It’s about connecting with like-minded individuals while discovering new places.
Multi-generational getaways are also becoming more common. Grandparents, parents, and grandchildren are choosing to forge unforgettable memories together. Cruises and all-inclusive resorts are particularly popular for this trend, offering diverse activities that cater to all ages, ensuring everyone from toddlers to seniors has an incredible time without the stress of constant planning.
I’m also seeing more immersive and experiential journeys. Beyond simply seeing sights, today’s travelers want to experience destinations. This means cultural immersion that goes beyond tourist traps to really engage with local communities; adventure and soft adventure like exploring Alaskan wilderness (spotting bears and eagles!) and gentle hikes in national parks; wellness journeys where travelers are prioritizing self-care on their travels; and sustainability-conscious travel where travelers look for ways to minimize their environmental impact and support responsible tourism.
All of these trends highlight a desire for travel that is more connected, more meaningful, and more aligned with personal values.
Whether you’re planning a trip for your entire extended family, a group of friends with a shared passion, or an immersive cultural escape, the possibilities for creating lasting memories are richer than ever.
Are there any current deals or promotions people should know about?
MSC Cruises (a fantastic option, now sailing conveniently from Galveston!) is offering 7-night Thanksgiving cruises starting at just $431 per person.
Looking ahead to Christmas? MSC has 3, 4, and 7-night holiday cruises starting from an amazing $266 per person.
Or you can ring in the New Year with a bang! New Year’s cruises are available from just $508 per person.
Beyond MSC, both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also have fantastic specials running for the holiday season, ensuring there’s a perfect sailing for every taste and budget.
If someone is dreaming of a trip but doesn’t know where to start, what’s your advice?
You have a dream destination, a vision of adventure, or perhaps just a feeling of wanting to get away – but the thought of planning it all feels overwhelming. That’s perfectly normal!
Many people have a travel wish list but don’t know where to start. My goal is to simplify this for you, transforming that dream into an effortless, unforgettable reality.
Here’s my user-friendly approach to planning your perfect getaway:
Step 1: The “Dream Discovery” Conversation
This is where we start with what you and your travel companions enjoy!
Before we even look at dates or destinations, we’ll have a relaxed, open conversation. This is all about you and what you truly envision. I want to understand:
- Your Core Desires: What does your “perfect” day on vacation look like? Is it lounging on a beach with a book, exploring ancient ruins, hiking a mountain, or trying new cuisines?
- Who’s Traveling: Is this a romantic escape, a family adventure with kids of different ages, a multi-generational reunion, or a solo journey? Each dynamic shapes the ideal trip.
- Your Pace & Style: Do you crave non-stop activity, a leisurely pace, or a mix of both? Are you thinking luxury, comfortable casual, or adventurous and rustic?
- Passions & Hobbies: If you love history, art, nature, food, or even scrapbooking, we can weave those passions into your itinerary.
- Past Favorites & Dislikes: What have you loved (or disliked!) about previous trips? This helps me understand what truly resonates with you.
My goal is to listen actively and gather all the nuances of your ideal experience. This isn’t about selling. It’s about deeply understanding your unique travel DNA.
Step 2: Curated & Tailored Recommendations
Once I have a clear picture of your dreams, I leverage my expertise and Cruise Planners’ vast network of suppliers to research and present you with hand-picked options.
I’ll go beyond generic search results to find options that truly fit your profile, often including exclusive deals or hidden gems you wouldn’t find on your own.
Instead of presenting hundreds of choices, I’ll provide a refined selection of 2-3 compelling itineraries or destinations, complete with details on activities, accommodations, and estimated costs.
My direct relationships with cruise lines, resorts, and tour operators allow me to recommend the best fit, not just what’s available, and ensure you receive the most value and amenities.
I want to bring your vision to life with concrete, exciting possibilities, giving you easy-to-digest choices that spark joy.
Step 3: Refinement & The Seamless Booking Process
After you review the recommendations, we’ll discuss what excites you most and fine-tune every detail.
Your feedback is key. We’ll adjust itineraries, explore different dates, or look at alternative activities based on your preferences. Remember, you’re in charge!
Best price assurance is also incredibly important. Once booked, I proactively monitor for price drops and special offers right up until final payment, ensuring you always get the best value.
I handle all the bookings, payments, and paperwork. From flights and transfers to excursions and special requests, consider it done.
My priority is to finalize your perfect trip while removing all the logistical burdens from your shoulders.
Step 4: Pre-Travel Prep & Ongoing Support
Your journey with me doesn’t end after booking. I’m with you every step of the way.
I’ll keep you informed of any critical travel requirements, packing tips, or destination-specific advice.
You’ll also receive a detailed, organized itinerary with all your confirmations, making travel day a breeze.
Should any unexpected situation arise before or during your trip, you have one direct point of contact: me. Forget navigating impersonal customer service lines.
I want to ensure you feel completely prepared, confident, and excited from the moment you leave your home until you return with incredible memories.
Finally, why should New Braunfels locals consider working with you for their next trip?
As a fellow resident and business owner right here in New Braunfels, I truly understand our community. When it comes to planning your next unforgettable journey, choosing to work with me offers distinct advantages that an impersonal online booking site simply can’t match.
I’m your neighbor and community partner. You’re not calling a faceless corporation; you’re working with a local business owner and a proud member of the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce. I’m accessible, accountable, and deeply invested in building relationships right here in New Braunfels and the greater Texas Hill Country.
While I offer that personal, local touch, I’m backed by Cruise Planners, the nation’s #1 At-Home Travel Franchise. This means I have the vast resources, purchasing power, and exclusive deals of a national leader, combined with my personalized service.
I’m your Personal Travel Concierge. Forget spending endless hours sifting through conflicting information online. You tell me your travel dreams, and I leverage my expertise and industry connections to curate the perfect options for you. I handle all the intricate details – from flights and transfers to excursions and special requests.
Whether it’s a family cruise, a romantic honeymoon, a multi-generational reunion, or a complex corporate incentive trip, I know the ins and outs. I anticipate potential issues and handle them proactively, so you don’t have to.
My relationships with top cruise lines, resorts, and tour operators often grant access to exclusive perks, upgrades, and amenities you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, I constantly monitor for price drops even after you book, ensuring you always get the best possible value before final payment.
From our initial “Dream Discovery” conversation to providing detailed pre-travel documents and being your direct point of contact during your trip, I’m here. If anything, unexpected arises, you call me, not an anonymous call center. That’s true peace of mind.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious cruise, a breathtaking African safari, an all-inclusive resort for the family, a meticulously planned destination wedding, or a unique group adventure, I specialize in crafting experiences that align perfectly with your vision.
As a disabled veteran-owned business, I bring a disciplined, detail-oriented approach and a deep understanding of unique travel needs, offering an added layer of trust and dedicated service.
Choosing to work with me means choosing a trusted local partner who is genuinely invested in turning your travel dreams into unforgettable, stress-free realities.
Let’s make your next trip your best one yet and when you return let’s have a cup of coffee so you can tell me all about your adventure!
Ready to learn more? Call Royce at 830-360-5548 or click here to visit his website.