For Jeff, travel wasn’t just a passion—it was the plan. After years of organizing group trips with friends, he stepped into retirement and straight onto an AmaWaterways ship. What followed? Dozens of unforgettable river cruises, birthday celebrations in wine country, and a love affair with small ships and big experiences.

In this episode of Luxury Cruising, Jeff and host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis dive into everything AmaWaterways: from his wife’s suite preferences to wine cruises with personal friends as the winemakers, to Chef’s Table evenings that stretch into four-hour gourmet experiences. Jeff shares the practical perks (like free laundry and strong Wi-Fi at 3 a.m.) and the personal touches—like a cruise director escorting him to a bank in Portugal—that make Ama feel like home on the water.

This is more than a travel story. It’s about how community, comfort, and ease can turn “just a trip” into a life chapter.

About the Guest

Jeff Berlat is a travel concierge and founder of Purple Lemming Travel, where he helps clients design unforgettable journeys by land and sea. Based in Houston, Jeff launched his professional travel career after retiring in 2019—but his passion for group travel began long before that. Since organizing his first friends' trip to the Amalfi Coast in 2004, Jeff has built a life around exploring the world and bringing people along for the ride.

He’s sailed six river cruises—all with AmaWaterways—along the Douro, Nile, Rhine, and Danube (three times!). His cruise portfolio spans the Caribbean, Europe, Antarctica, Tahiti, and beyond. Whether it's biking through Vienna wine country or planning a once-in-a-lifetime Antarctica voyage, Jeff approaches every itinerary with warmth, experience, and a knack for making travel feel seamless.

Jeff is an Accredited Cruise Counsellor (CLIA) and an affiliate of KHM Travel Group. When he’s not planning his next sailing, you’ll find him at home in Houston with his wife, preparing for their next adventure—like their upcoming Alaska cruise with Holland America.

🌐 purplelemmingtravel.com
📱 Facebook: Purple Lemming Travel
📞 713-364-3702

 

About the Host

Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea.

📍 Website: luxurycruising.net
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalsodaitis

👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. 

 

Key Takeaways

1. Ama’s Secret Sauce: Optional pre/post stays and generous inclusions help make travel feel effortless.
2. Same River, Different Story: The Danube never feels the same twice.
   Suite Life = Happy Wife: Spacious staterooms with walk-in showers and balconies matter more than you think.
3. Wine Cruises = Next-Level Fun: Especially when your friend is the winemaker.
4. Service is Personal: Whether it’s laundry, excursions, or an impromptu bank visit, the Ama crew shows up for you.
5. Chef’s Table = Worth It: Even if you don’t know how you got the invite.
6. Luxury = Not Thinking About It: No nickel-and-diming, just seamless travel.

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