The Traveling Rogers Feed

When Volcanoes Wake Up: Travel to the World’s Great ‘Fire Mountains’

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

Mount Etna's July 2026 eruption sent lava and ash plumes into the Sicilian sky, creating spectacular images—and temporary travel disruptions. Volcanic ash interrupted flights at the local Catania Airport. Luckily, hotels, restaurants, archaeological sites, beaches, and coastal towns across eastern Sicily continued operating normally for those whose outbound flights were delayed.

But the eruption reminds us that even historic and cultural Europe has a geological wild side. Etna is just the tallest and most active - but not the only! - volcano on the continent, a living mountain that has been erupting for thousands of years. An unpredictable, dramatic, ancient wonder connecting us to the earliest people who believed it a force of the gods. It’s one of Italy's most fascinating natural attractions.

Experiencing Etna

When Etna isn't putting on a fiery show, visitors can experience Italy's famous live volcano surprisingly close up. A cable car climbs the mountain before specially designed 4x4 vehicles and certified guides continue toward the summit craters, where visitors walk across ancient lava flows, peer into steaming fumaroles, and witness how successive eruptions have reshaped the landscape. Hiking trails wind through forests and volcanic deserts, while winter often brings the unusual opportunity to ski on Etna's slopes overlooking the Mediterranean.

The volcano's influence extends far beyond dramatic scenery. Layers of volcanic ash have created extraordinarily fertile soils that produce some of Sicily's finest wines, as well as pistachios, citrus, olives, almonds, and hazelnuts. Touring wineries on Etna's slopes has become as much a part of the visitor experience as exploring the volcano itself.

Elsewhere in Europe and around the world, active and dormant volcanoes have become some of their countries' most compelling attractions for visitors drawn to the primal appeal of the planet's power.

Iceland: The Land of ‘Fire and Ice’

Few countries embrace living geology quite like Iceland. Sitting astride the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the island is continually being reshaped by volcanic activity. Even when eruptions aren't underway, visitors can hike across fresh lava fields, explore volcanic craters, descend into dormant magma chambers, and soak in geothermal lagoons heated by underground volcanic forces. Volcanoes are not simply attractions here—they are woven into everyday Icelandic life and central to the country's tourism appeal—just like geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and the Northern Lights.

Hawaii: Watching New Land Being Created

On Hawaii's Big Island, Kīlauea is one of the world's most closely monitored active volcanoes. Within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, visitors drive the Crater Rim, walk across hardened lava fields, peer into volcanic craters, and learn how eruptions continue to build the island itself. Depending on conditions, visitors may even glimpse glowing lava after dark from designated viewing areas. The park also highlights the deep cultural significance of volcanoes in Indigenous Hawaiian traditions.

Japan: From Sacred Symbol to Living Volcano

Japan offers two distinct volcanic experiences. Snow-capped Mount Fuji, the country's highest peak, is an enduring national symbol and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thousands of hikers climb its slopes each summer, while countless others admire its near-perfect cone from surrounding lakes, hot spring resorts, high-speed trains, and even Tokyo on a clear day.

On the southern island of Kyushu, however, Mount Aso reveals Japan's volcanic power in action. Home to one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, Aso offers hiking, scenic drives, horseback riding, and, when conditions permit, access to the active crater itself. Together, Fuji and Aso showcase both the beauty and the restless geology that define much of Japan.

New Zealand: A Volcanic Playground

New Zealand's North Island is shaped by volcanic forces both above and below ground. Around Rotorua, geothermal parks bubble with mud pools, steaming vents, colorful mineral terraces, and powerful geysers. Further south, Tongariro National Park offers one of the world's great day hikes across volcanic terrain, passing emerald crater lakes, lava fields, and alpine landscapes that famously portrayed Mordor in The Lord of the Rings films. It's a destination where volcanic landscapes are experienced on foot as much as admired from afar.

Indonesia: Sunrise Over Mount Bromo

Indonesia, home to more active volcanoes than any other country, sits along the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire.’ One of its most accessible volcanic experiences is Mount Bromo in East Java. Before dawn, travelers gather at panoramic viewpoints to watch the rising sun illuminate a landscape of smoking craters, ash plains, and surrounding peaks. Later, visitors cross the Sea of Sand on foot or horseback before climbing to the crater rim.

Costa Rica: Volcanoes at the Heart of Adventure

Costa Rica's volcanic backbone has helped create both its extraordinary biodiversity and its reputation as one of the world's leading adventure destinations. Arenal's perfectly symmetrical cone became famous during decades of near-continuous eruptions before entering a quieter phase, but it remains one of the country's iconic sights. Visitors hike lava trails, zipline through rainforest canopies, spot monkeys and tropical birds, and unwind in naturally heated hot springs.

Elsewhere, Poás Volcano offers one of the world's most accessible active craters, while Rincón de la Vieja combines bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, waterfalls, and forest trails in a single national park. Together, they show how Costa Rica has transformed volcanic landscapes into unforgettable nature experiences.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

3 Sandals Resorts Get $200 Million Glow Up in ‘Great Jamaica Comeback’

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

A trio of storied resorts on the island where Sandals was born is being reborn as part of Jamaica's comeback. A new name, new dream-inspiring accommodations, new dining venues, new menus, and new experiences celebrate Jamaican culture, cuisine, and natural beauty across the three properties.

Sandals Royal Caribbean is being renamed Sandals Caribbean Cay. Plus, the first Sandals ever, as well as Sandals South Coast, are all part of the $200 million re-imagination project that brings beloved resorts – and Jamaican all-inclusive hospitality - into a new era.

1 The Resort That Started It All: Revitalizing Sandals Montego Bay

Over 40 years after opening its doors, Sandals Montego Bay is being transformed while honoring its legacy as Sandals’ flagship property.

A lobby design frames sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. A completely redesigned main pool serves as the social heart of the resort, complemented by new swim-up accommodations and spacious ocean-view suites that bring guests closer to the shoreline. The Caribbean's first-ever swim-up bar remains an iconic centerpiece of the resort's Parisol Beach Club, where the original bricks, carved with decades' worth of guest names, have been preserved as a tribute to the resort's history.

Food & Beverage

Culinary additions include: the arrival of the guest-favorite Buccan in its first waterfront setting in Jamaica, serving island favorites cooked over an open flame, as well as Jamaica's first Scrimshaw seafood restaurant, a refined coastal dining experience with wraparound sea views.

At Bay Roc Rum Club, discover a signature rum experience inspired by the property's origins as Bay Roc Hotel & Villas and the rise of Caribbean music. Featuring hand-painted murals, memorabilia and creative cocktails, the space celebrates the spirit and stories that helped shape the destination.

2 A New Chapter for Jamaica’s Private Island Escape: Sandals Caribbean Cay

Formerly Sandals Royal Caribbean, the resort will debut late in 2026 as Sandals Caribbean Cay, a fresh identity inspired by its offshore island experience.

The transformation begins in the open-air lobby, with views of the main pool and the Caribbean Sea, immediately connecting guests to the water upon arrival.

Dozens of additional rooms include new categories: Sandals’ signature SkyPool Suites overlooking the ocean, new Swim-up Suites, Oceanview Butler Suites and Overwater Butler Villas set above the waters of Sandals Cay.

Food & Beverage

Leading the culinary refresh is Suppa, a homegrown ode to the tradition of gathering around the table for Sunday dinner, featuring Jamaican comfort food designed for sharing, with Keynote Rum Bar as the ‘home’s’ lounge. Heart & Sol serves lighter fare: grab-and-go juices, sandwiches and bowls.

Private Island Update

At the resort's private island, Sandals Cay, Parisol Beach Club creates a laid-back retreat accessible exclusively by boat with a swim-up bar, pool, and palapas perched along the sand, plus new dining venues Parisol and the Jerk Shack.

3 Jamaica’s Natural Hideaway Refreshed: Sandals South Coast

Surrounded by a 500-acre nature preserve, Sandals South Coast’s evolution complements one of Jamaica's most captivating coastlines.

Thoughtfully enhanced with lush tropical greenery and inviting lounge areas, the pool experience feels seamlessly integrated into the landscape, while design elements of the lobby and surrounding areas draw inspiration from the resort's roaming peacocks.

The resort's iconic Overwater Butler Villas return with refreshed, Caribbean-inspired interiors, joined by the brand's first-ever Beachfront ClubTwo Queen Junior Suites, ideal for groups traveling together.

Food & Beverage

BLŪM serves Jamaica's renowned Blue Mountain coffee alongside artisanal pastries and light bites. Butch's Island Chop House debuts on Jamaica's south coast with a dedicated martini bar. And plans are also underway for a new rum bar, the fourth in the island’s collection.

Re-opening Schedule:

Be among the first to set foot on the sand at the trio of reborn Sandals resorts in Jamaica in 2026. Put these reopening dates in your travel calendar:

November 18: Sandals South Coast
December 18: Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Caribbean Cay

START YOUR TRIP!

Images/renderings courtesy of Sandals Resorts International

A Birthday Party at Sea? Count Us In

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

AN ONBOARD CELEBRATION FOR EVERYONE

Celebrate your big day — or party like it's your birthday — during the second annual Birthday Bash. All September long, everyone’s getting in on the celebration because we’re going bigger, bolder, and all out on sailings to the Caribbean or Mexico. Bring your whole crew and get ready for thrilling parties — including a Birthday Balloon Drop, exclusive signature cocktails, special birthday raffles and giveaways, and of course plenty of cake. Treat yourself with deals on specialty dining, beverage packages, and experiences like Thrill Waterpark® or Hideaway Beach℠ at Perfect Day CocoCay. On top of all the thrills, chill, entertainment and dining you love about a Royal Caribbean® vacation. Your birthday wishes just came true.

PARTY LIKE ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY

You can party from dawn till dusk all September long, with exclusive events only found during the Royal Birthday Bash. Show off your best dance moves at the bumpin' Birthday Party and Balloon Drop, where celebration is in the air. Toast to another year bolder with celebratory cocktails and blow out the candles at a multi-course gourmet birthday dinner in the dining room. Win big in thrilling raffles and giveaways. Plus, special surprises to keep the party going. Every day onboard is a reason to celebrate — only on the Royal Birthday Bash.

A BIRTHDAY GIFT FOR EVERYONE

Everyone deserves a little something extra on their birthday— from extra savings off your cruise fare to extra deals on awesome experiences. Like up to half-off dining and beverage packages, so you can treat yourself to jaw-dropping meals every night of vacation. Or huge discounts for the kids, scoring deals on Thrill Waterpark® passes and kids’ refreshment packages to level up the celebration. After all, it’s your party — adventure how you want to.

YOUR PARTY, YOUR RULES

We're throwing an unforgettable party for everyone all September long, with exclusive activities plus all your Royal Caribbean® faves. Make it a short getaway or an all-week vacay. Either way, you are in for the trip of a lifetime. Crank up the thrills with adrenaline-pumping water slides or catch a wave on the FlowRider®. For those built to chill — relax to live music on the resort-style pool deck while you sip a tropical cocktail. And when the sun goes down, enjoy dazzling Broadway-style shows or dance the night away at high-energy nightclubs and theme parties. However you choose to celebrate, the possibilities are endless.

Why You Should Travel to South Korea

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

From centuries-old palaces and traditional neighborhoods to innovative cuisine and global pop culture, South Korea travel has a lot to offer. While many visitors are first drawn by the energy of Seoul, what keeps them talking long after they return home is South Korea's culture, which blends tradition and modernity in a way that feels exciting and authentic.

As part of Collette's small group Explorations tour, Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul, travelers have the opportunity to experience South Korea and Japan in one journey. After discovering Japan's cultural treasures, you'll travel to South Korea for an immersive look at a destination that offers meaningful connections, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences.

South Korean Culture: Where Past and Present Meet

South Korea is a place of striking contrasts. In Seoul, gleaming skyscrapers rise above historic districts, while centuries-old palaces stand just steps from bustling shopping streets and contemporary cafés.

One moment, you may find yourself exploring the grand courtyards of Gyeongbok Palace, a symbol of Korea's royal heritage. The next, you're wandering vibrant neighborhoods where creativity, fashion, and innovation shape everyday life. This seamless blend of old and new gives South Korea its distinctive character and makes every day of exploration feel different from the last.

Meet the People Behind the Stories on a Guided Tour to South Korea

Travel has the power to deepen understanding, and South Korea guided tours offer unique opportunities to connect with the country's complex history.

One of the most impactful experiences on Collette's Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour is a visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the border that separates North and South Korea. On the DMZ tour, travelers gain insight into the Korean Peninsula's past and present while learning about the ongoing realities of division and hope for reunification.

The experience becomes even more personal through a conversation with a North Korean defector. Hearing a firsthand account of resilience, courage, and new beginnings provides a perspective that few travelers have the opportunity to encounter. It's the kind of meaningful cultural exchange that transforms a South Korea vacation into a deeper travel experience.

Experience Korean Culture Firsthand

Some of the most memorable travel moments happen around a shared table in Seoul.

Korean culture places great value on hospitality, community, and connection, and travelers experience this firsthand during a traditional home-hosted lunch with a local family in the countryside. Beyond the Korean Food, it's an opportunity to learn about everyday life, traditions, and the values that shape Korean culture today.

These personal encounters often become the stories travelers share long after they've returned home from Asia travel.

Try South Korean Cuisine

South Korea's culinary scene is one of the most dynamic in Asia. Bold flavors, regional specialties, and centuries-old food traditions combine to create a dining experience unlike any other.

From savory bibimbap and freshly made kimchi to bustling local markets and neighborhood eateries, food offers a window into Korean culture. In Seoul, travelers can explore lively streets lined with cafés, tea houses, and restaurants while discovering the flavors that have made Korean cuisine a global phenomenon.

Whether you're an adventurous foodie or simply curious to try something new, South Korea invites you to experience its culture one delicious bite at a time.

Why Now Is the Time to Visit South Korea

Travel to South Korea continues to rise thanks to the worldwide popularity of Korean music, film, television, fashion, beauty, and cuisine. Yet beyond the cultural trends lies a destination rich in heritage, natural beauty, and genuine human connection.

For travelers looking ahead to 2027 and 2028, South Korea travel offers the perfect combination of iconic landmarks, immersive cultural experiences, and contemporary energy. And with Collette's Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour, it's easier than ever to experience the best of both countries in one expertly guided journey.

Start Your South Korean Adventure

Whether you're drawn by South Korea’s history, culture, cuisine, or the chance to experience a destination that continues to inspire travelers worldwide, South Korea deserves a place on your Asia travel wish list.

Grab your seat on Collette’s expertly planned and guided Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour and discover why this remarkable country is one of Asia's most compelling destinations.

Christmas in July Question: Which Christmas Market River Cruise to Choose?

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

It’s never too early to start counting down the days until Christmas – or plan a holiday getaway. Christmas in July reminders are a great opportunity to think about how you want to celebrate or travel to get into the spirit of the season. And for me, Christmas market river cruises may be the very best way.

First, you get the benefits of river cruising: unpacking once and sailing into the hearts of these European villages, towns, and cities, and having all the details taken care of: being dropped off at the markets without having to find parking! And enjoying seasonal festivities and cuisine on board. Even the Grinch would convert to Christmas on a Christmas market river cruise!

But which Christmas market river cruise?

The Christmas Market River Cruise Conundrum

There are two major Christmas market river cruise itineraries that almost all river cruise lines operate, so you have a wide range of cruising styles and price points.

The Rhine and the Danube are the two major cruising rivers, and they are also in the heart of where many of our most beloved Christmas traditions were born, with Christmas markets in different styles. Sometimes you even visit 2 a day!

Rhine Christmas Market River Cruises

Rhine River cruise itineraries wind their way from Amsterdam in the north, through western Germany, touching France, and ending in Basel, Switzerland.

Ports of call include major urban centers and their Christmas markets, from the vast market surrounding the imposing Cologne cathedral, to charming medieval village markets like Freiburg in the Black Forest (above), where I bought a bouquet including Christmas pine and amaryllis to take back to my balcony stateroom aboard the Viking Sigyn.

What makes this itinerary unique?

The inclusion of France. Strasbourg is the ‘Christmas Capital of France’ and its market is renowned. If you love all things French, you’ll get a little taste of Noël here (the entire town is decked out in elegant French style for the holidays, even the luxury stores, like the one below!).

Mulled wine that’s white Alsatian wine with citrus (which I prefer to red wine that’s sweetened and spiced) and French-German twists, like chocolate pretzel-beignets – irresistible!

And Switzerland. Chocolate, fondu, après-ski… The Swiss do comfort and winters like you imagine them!

Don’t forget: the castles. The Middle Rhine has the highest concentration of castles anywhere in the world.40 castles in 40 miles. A UNESCO site and one of the most romantic scenic sailings in the world, best seen from the river to see these medieval marvels on both banks. They’re even more romantic cupping a mug of spiked hot chocolate, bundled up on the top deck of our Viking longship (top photo).

Danube Christmas Market River Cruises

The middle section of the Danube runs between Passau, in the south-east corner of Germany, through Austria, touching Slovakia, and ending in Budapest, Hungary. At any time of the year, it’s a celebration of Central European culture and history. At Christmas, local food, beverages, arts, crafts, and traditions you won’t experience at any other time come to life.

What makes this itinerary unique?

One of the things I loved most about our Scenic Christmas market river cruise on the Danube was the inclusion of the nighttime, artisan Christmas market in the castle grounds in Regensburg, dubbed the ‘Most Romantic Christmas Market’. With fires and torches illuminating the castle walls, and craftspeople smoking fish, baking sweets, hammering metal before your eyes.

Not to mention the side excursion to Salzburg, Austria, home to the heartwarming classic film that’s become a Christmas-season favorite: The Sound of Music. The Salzburg Christmas market is also one of the most authentic in Austria.

Plus the magic of fairytale, wedding-cake architecture, and horse-drawn carriages in Vienna in the winter, and comfort food like Chicken Paprikash in Budapest, Hungary. Hot tip: get the ingredients like authentic Hungarian paprika to take home as souvenirs or gifts to keep your heart warm through the entire winter season!

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and images by Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

The Cruise Story Everyone’s Talking About

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

Why MSC Cruises Is Giving You More Reasons to Go on Holiday!

MSC Cruises has entered 2026 with momentum that’s hard to ignore. From a new state-of-the-art ship and expanded U.S. homeports to first-time Alaska sailings and a star-powered "Let's Holiday" campaign featuring Drew Barrymore and Orlando Bloom, the brand continues to make headlines both inside and outside the cruise industry.

A Brand That Stands Apart

MSC Cruises offers a unique blend of European style and American comfort. Guests can enjoy authentic specialty dining, elegant Swarovski crystal staircases, thrilling waterslides, lively sports bars, and convenient grab-and-go dining options—all designed to create a memorable vacation experience.

MSC World America Makes a Splash

The launch of MSC World America has elevated the cruise line's profile, introducing travelers to a flagship that combines innovation, entertainment, and modern design. The ship's debut has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including Time Magazine's World's Greatest Places 2026 and The Points Guy's Best New Ocean Ship.

A New Homeport in Galveston

MSC Seascape has opened exciting new possibilities for travelers departing from Texas and the Gulf Coast. Sailing year-round seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries from Galveston, the ship features expansive outdoor spaces, an aft infinity pool, a waterfront promenade, and Robotron—the only robocoaster at sea. Regional culinary influences inspired by Texas and the Gulf Coast add even more local flavor to the experience.

Alaska Joins the MSC Cruises Lineup

For the first time, MSC Cruises is sailing to Alaska aboard MSC Poesia. These seven-night journeys from Seattle visit some of Alaska's most iconic destinations, including Ketchikan, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Endicott Arm, and Victoria. Onboard enhancements include refreshed entertainment venues, upgraded wellness spaces, new dining options, and the addition of the exclusive MSC Yacht Club.
For travelers seeking an elevated experience, MSC Yacht Club offers an all-inclusive luxury retreat with private facilities, butler and concierge service, fine dining, and premium accommodations.

Ocean Cay: A Private Island Escape

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve continues to be one of the brand's standout experiences. Located in The Bahamas, this private island destination features eight pristine beaches, oceanfront dining, relaxing spa experiences, and the only LED lighthouse show in The Bahamas. Future enhancements—including expanded family areas, new dining venues, and an adults-only beach—promise to make Ocean Cay even more appealing.

Looking Ahead to MSC World Asia

The future continues to look bright with the upcoming debut of MSC World Asia. Beginning in December 2026, guests will be able to explore seven-night Mediterranean holidays aboard the newest addition to the World Class fleet, where MSC Cruises' Italian heritage meets some of Europe's most iconic coastal destinations. An expanded MSC Yacht Club offering will provide even more opportunities for travelers seeking a premium experience.

Whether you're interested in a Caribbean escape, an Alaskan adventure, a Mediterranean journey, or simply discovering what's new in cruising, MSC Cruises continues to expand its offerings with fresh destinations, innovative ships, and memorable experiences around the world.

Aman At Sea’s Inaugural Season: Mediterranean and Caribbean

Thu, 16 Jul 26 17:32:57 +0000

Aman’s first ultra-luxury lifestyle yacht will chase the sun in her inaugural 2027 season, beginning in the Mediterranean after her mid-year launch, followed by a Caribbean winter season.

The Amangati will sail a series of 5- to 8-night itineraries in both regions. The hotel and resort brand that’s introducing its legendary philosophy to ultra-luxury, small-ship cruising has opened reservations for both inaugural seasons, so you can experience storied and exclusive harbors in this brand-new travel experience.

Amangati means “peaceful motion” in Sanskrit, and the small ship embarks on her maiden voyage on 7 May 2027, with just 94 guests across 47 expansive ocean-facing suites, each with a private terrace, the highest ceilings in luxury yachting, full-height windows and uninterrupted sea views. Interiors are inspired by a Japanese ryokan home, focusing on natural materials and elegant serenity. There’s a dedicated Host for every suite.

Across nine decks, Amangati features four signature restaurants, the Aman Spa, the largest in luxury yachting, and a Marina with direct sea access. When at anchor, Amangati’s Marina extends a direct gateway to the sea – paddleboards, kayaks and a collection of water -based equipment. The vessel’s intimate scale opens to secluded anchorages and private island marinas.

Throughout the inaugural season in both regions, itineraries are shaped by the same philosophy: lengthy, leisurely stays and a preference for anchorages over berths. You’re carried ashore by limousine tender, enjoying late departures or overnights that allow each time at each port to linger into the evening, and bespoke, intimate shore experiences to secluded coves, uninhabited cays and the cultural heart of each destination.

Ashore, cultural, culinary, and naturalist -led experiences are complemented by bespoke exploration.

Amangati’s Inaugural, 2027 Mediterranean Season

Tracing the northern coasts of the Mediterranean from West to East, itineraries empower you to explore intimate harbors and icons of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Itineraries reveal lesser -told stories of picturesque coastlines and intimate harbours, historic ports and remote anchorages often beyond the reach of larger vessels.

Select voyages that align with cultural moments provide exclusive access to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix, among others.

Mediterranean Spain
Balearic Adventure | Maiden Voyage
The French Riviera
Corsica & Cannes Film Festival
Monaco Grand Prix
The Italian Riviera & Sicily
Corsica & Sardinia
Capri & Amalfi
Sicily & Malta
The Adriatic, the Greek Islands & Turkey
Sicily & The Adriatic
The Dalmatian Coast
The Greek Islands
The Aegean Islands

Amangati’s Inaugural, 2027 Caribbean Season

In November, Amangati charts a new course across the Atlantic to arrive in Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda – the port from which the Caribbean season unfolds.

The Autumn season comprises three regional movements – the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, and the Dutch Caribbean – with select sailings extending through the festive season.

The Leeward Islands voyages: three successive itineraries through the

Northern arc of the Antilles,
Saint Barthélemy (Saint Barts),
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Calls at Barbuda for a dedicated Marina Day,
Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands,
Philipsburg in Sint Maarten,
Saba,
Little Bay in Montserrat, and
A beach day at Prickly Pear Cay off Anguilla.

The Windward Islands voyages depart from Saint John’s and Bridgetown in Barbados, respectively, south through

Îles des Saintes in Guadeloupe,
Portsmouth in Dominica,
Anse d’Arlet in Martinique and
Soufrière in Saint Lucia,
Canouan in the Grenadines and
Saint George’s in Grenada.

The Dutch Caribbean voyages sail from Bridgetown and Oranjestad through

ABC islands – Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao
Tobago Cays in the Grenadines.

The year concludes with an intimate New Year’s celebration at a private resort in Nevis, for a two -night anchorage bridging the end of 2027 and the beginning of 2028.

Aman at Sea: The Latest Lifestyle Iteration of a Fabled Brand

Aman was founded in 1988 with the vision of building a collection of intimate retreats with the hospitality of a tranquil retreat in a gracious private home with unparalleled service. The first, Amanpuri (place of peace), in Phuket, Thailand, introduced the concept and, since then, Aman has grown to encompass 35 serene hotels, resorts and branded residences, ranging from the urban to the remote, in 20 destinations across the globe. The company has more projects underway, including a new hotel concept ‘Janu’ with a focus on wellness and transformation.

In recent years, Aman Group has grown to offer its lifestyle beyond the parameters of its havens, including skincare, a supplement range, fragrances, a ready-to-wear collection, and bespoke-designed furniture items inspired by the world of Aman.

Aman at Sea brings the Aman philosophy to the world’s oceans, a sanctuary of serenity and space where each voyage restores balance and inspires discovery.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of Aman

Luxury Like This Rarely Goes on Sale

Wed, 15 Jul 26 21:47:26 +0000

For a limited time, save up to 40% on select voyages worldwide and indulge in the art of all-inclusive luxury at sea. From immersive destinations to elevated onboard experiences, every detail is designed to inspire.

Reserve your suite by September 8, 2026, with reduced deposits from just 15%, giving you the flexibility to plan ahead while securing exceptional value. Whether you're dreaming of iconic cities or hidden gems, this is your chance to sail farther, stay longer, and experience more.

Contact us today to learn more.

Your Passport to Paradise Is Ready

Tue, 14 Jul 26 16:53:27 +0000

Escape to Dreams Jade Resort & Spa and save up to 25% plus get $200 resort credits when you book by September 30, 2026, for travel through April 30, 2027. Kids stay free - up to 2 kids 12 and under per booking.

Indulge in an all-inclusive escape featuring gourmet dining, sparkling pools, and a stunning beachfront setting in the Riviera Maya. Whether you're planning a romantic retreat or a fun-filled family getaway, this is your chance to make unforgettable memories in paradise.

Contact us today to learn more.

Two Cultures, One Unforgettable Journey

Mon, 06 Jul 26 18:54:58 +0000

Encounter Japan’s rich cultural heritage from Tokyo to Kyoto and the energy of Seoul in South Korea. Explore Japan’s blend of past and present through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, traveling between them on the shinkansen bullet train. Meet Japan’s ama pearl divers, see the beauty of the Golden Pavilion, and explore Gion, the historic geisha district of Kyoto. Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. In South Korea, discover Seoul’s Gyeongbok Palace, and take a tour of Korea’s infamous Demilitarized Zone. Join a conversation with a North Korean defector and enjoy a traditional lunch hosted in a Korean family’s home. The spirit of Japan and South Korea’s vibrancy shine from neon-lit streets to tranquil shrines.

For a limited time, save up to $400* per person on Collette’s expertly planned and guided Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour.

Plus, when you book with us, enjoy an exclusive $50 savings on this small group Explorations tour and an additional $50 savings when you add air, waiver, extensions, or pre-/post-night stays.

Contact us today to learn more.

Scenic Expanding River Cruising to India, Sri Lanka

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

In October 2027, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours is launching the Scenic Aura on the Hooghly River, debuting a collection of itineraries in India and Sri Lanka.

Scenic Aura River Cruising

During its inaugural season from October 2027 to March 2028, Scenic Aura will welcome no more than 44 guests per sailing for a truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury river experience through the cultural heartland of West Bengal. The newly released itineraries feature a unique collection of Scenic included excursions and exclusive Scenic Enrich events to showcase the vibrant cities, sacred sites, and riverside villages, complemented by curated land journeys in India and Sri Lanka.

Scenic says the new itineraries provide unique and exclusive experiences that are culturally rich and showcase the best of both countries.

New 2027–28 India & Sri Lanka Program

Anchored by a 9-night all-inclusive ultra-luxury Lower Ganges River cruise along the Hooghly River, the 5 new India itineraries involve a fully integrated river cruise and land journey program, each offering a distinctive new way to experience the subcontinent.

Itineraries range from 17 to 25 days and encompass North India, South India, Rajasthan, and Sri Lanka, all via the storied waterway that flows through some of India’s most historically significant regions.

Unique Experiences

Devoted Scenic travelers will be delighted that each itinerary will feature unique Scenic Enrich experiences. These include an elegant High Tea at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad and a visit to the revered Hooghly Imambara, celebrated for its spiritual resonance and Mughal-influenced architecture. The ISKCON Global Headquarters will be a highlight, where devotional music and vibrant rituals offer a deeply immersive encounter with living spirituality. Guests will also meet master craftspeople in Matiari’s artisan quarter and travel by traditional toto to Katra Mosque through the atmospheric streets of Nawabi-era Bengal.

The Ultimate in All-Inclusive Ultra-Luxury

Scenic Aura’s interiors are being re-imagined for the launch.

The new itineraries will feature Scenic’s signature, all-inclusive river cruising experience, with everything included as standard. Spacious suites have private balconies, separate bedrooms, and Scenic Sun Lounges. Included dining encompasses four different experiences, and guests enjoy complimentary beverages throughout the day, an in-suite mini-bar, unlimited Wi-Fi, a resort-style pool, yoga classes, a Wellness Centre and fitness area, plus self-service laundry facilities.

On combined land and river journeys, Scenic also includes handpicked hotels and special stays, internal transport, tipping and gratuities, while land groups are limited to 25 guests for an intimate, personalized experience.

Scenic Group's Broader Asia Expansion

The launch of Scenic Aura on the Hooghly River is the start of more developments set to follow in 2028, with Scenic Spirit II joining Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River, Scenic Eclipse II returning to Asia and Oceania, and Emerald Xara arriving in Asia.

Early Access Release

Bookings have opened, with full itinerary details and updated pricing to be confirmed from November 2026.

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Images courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Discover More with Silversea

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

Where Exploration Meets Effortless Luxury

There are journeys, and then there are journeys that transform the way you see the world. With Silversea, travel is not just about where you go, but how deeply you connect with every destination along the way. Designed for curious, experienced driven travelers, Silversea brings together immersive discovery, personalized service, and refined comfort across all seven continents.

From iconic cities to remote frontiers, each voyage is crafted to create meaningful connections with the places you visit. Whether wandering through historic Mediterranean ports or exploring untouched polar landscapes, every moment is designed to feel both enriching and effortless.

Access the Inaccessible

Silversea’s small, all suite ships unlock a world few travelers ever experience. With access to more than 900 destinations, you can explore everything from legendary cities to hidden coastal villages and remote natural wonders.

Because these ships are designed for intimacy and agility, they can glide into ports that larger vessels simply cannot reach. This means more time exploring, more authentic interactions, and more opportunities to experience destinations in ways that feel personal and unfiltered.

For those seeking adventure, expedition journeys take you even farther. From Antarctica’s icy expanse to the biodiversity of the Galápagos, expert led excursions bring you face to face with wildlife, landscapes, and cultures in their purest form.

Immersion Through Every Sense

Understanding a destination often begins with its flavors. Silversea’s S.A.L.T. program, short for Sea and Land Taste, transforms dining into a gateway to culture.

Each voyage features regionally inspired menus that evolve as you travel. In S.A.L.T. Kitchen, dishes reflect the traditions of each destination, allowing you to experience the essence of a place without leaving the ship. In S.A.L.T. Lab, hands on classes invite you to learn techniques, ingredients, and stories that define local cuisine.

The experience continues in S.A.L.T. Bar, where cocktails are crafted using regional inspirations. Every sip becomes a reflection of the places you have explored, creating a deeper and more memorable connection to your journey.

Intimate Ships and Personalized Service

Life on board is defined by comfort, space, and attention to detail. With nearly one crew member for every guest and butler service for every suite, Silversea delivers a level of personalization that feels natural and unobtrusive.
Every suite offers ocean views, and most include private verandas that create a seamless connection to the sea. The atmosphere reflects the elegance of a boutique hotel while maintaining the warmth and familiarity of home.
From remembering your preferred dining style to arranging custom experiences ashore, the onboard team anticipates your needs before you even think about them. It is service that feels intuitive, thoughtful, and genuinely personal.

Enriching Life On Board

Onboard life is designed to inspire as much as it relaxes. You can begin your day with a wellness class overlooking the ocean, attend a lecture led by cultural experts, or simply unwind in beautifully designed spaces that invite reflection.

Dining is an experience in itself, with multiple restaurants offering global cuisine that reflects your journey. From refined gastronomy to casual al fresco meals, each setting offers its own unique atmosphere and perspective.

Evenings bring connection and entertainment, from live performances to social gatherings that celebrate the spirit of exploration. Every moment on board feels purposeful, yet completely at ease.

Expedition Travel: Go Beyond the Expected

For travelers who seek extraordinary experiences, Silversea’s expedition voyages open the door to the most remote corners of the world. These journeys combine adventure with comfort, allowing you to explore places once considered unreachable.

Guided by knowledgeable Expedition Experts, each excursion is designed to deepen your understanding of the natural world. Whether kayaking through glacial waters, hiking across pristine landscapes, or observing rare wildlife, every experience brings you closer to the environment you are exploring.
Small group sizes ensure that each moment feels personal and immersive, while expert insights add context and meaning to every discovery.

A Seamless Way to Travel

With Silversea, every detail is thoughtfully considered to create a seamless travel experience. From gourmet dining and premium beverages to enrichment programs and curated excursions, everything is designed to allow you to focus on what matters most, the journey itself.

This approach removes the complexity from travel, giving you the freedom to fully engage with each destination. It is a style of exploration that feels effortless, refined, and deeply rewarding.

Discover the World Differently

In today’s world, where travel opportunities are endless, the true value of a journey lies in how deeply you experience it. Silversea invites you to go beyond simply visiting destinations and instead truly connect with them.

Across all seven continents, each voyage offers a balance of discovery and comfort, curiosity and ease. It is travel that feels both inspiring and personal, shaped by meaningful moments and unforgettable experiences.

Because the most memorable journeys are not just about where you go, but how deeply you experience every step along the way.

We Didn't Find Your Happy Place, We Built It.

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

At Celebrity Cruises, we don’t just build ships. We design the places where your happiest memories are made.

New ways to get closer than close to the history, culture, and flavors of Europe. Elevated pool days that keep the Caribbean bliss going even between islands. Fresh points of view that will change how you see Alaska forever.

We build your happy places. Discover why Nothing Comes Close to sailing with Celebrity Cruises.

WHY SAIL WITH CELEBRITY?

Get ready for a year filled with firsts, favorites, and unforgettable new horizons:

All new itineraries spanning all seven continents
From weekend getaways to extended island hopping adventures, our nine stunning ships visit 30+ iconic Caribbean destinations, including the world famous Panama Canal
The debut of Celebrity Xcel℠ in Europe — and its highly anticipated return to the Caribbean
Explore The Last Frontier from the Magic Carpet® aboard Celebrity Edge® and the newly renewed Celebrity Solstice®

Your world just got a whole lot bigger.

THE CARIBBEAN’S MOST ELEVATED ESCAPES

Our new 2026/2027 Caribbean sailings aboard our stunning ships will reset your internal clock to island time and relax you in ways you never knew possible.

With nine amazing ships sailing from five ports, your tropical getaway has never been so close. Our newest game-changing ship, Celebrity Xcel℠, returns for its second season in the Caribbean sailing from Miami and leads the way for the rest of the fleet to offer up the islands like no one else can.

Our new sailings visit more than 30 of the most popular places in the Caribbean, including the Panama Canal.
With Celebrity Beyond® and Celebrity Reflection® sailing year-round from South Florida, you can recharge under the tropical sun anytime you want.
Take more 3-to-5-night short Caribbean getaways than ever before aboard our revolutionized Celebrity Summit®.

This is the Caribbean like you’ve never experienced it before.

THE BEST IN EUROPE IS BETTER THAN EVER

The Mediterranean

Are you looking for equal parts sun-drenched beaches and cultural experiences? There’s no better getaway than the Mediterranean. And there’s no better way to see it than with us.

We’ll make waves in the Med with our newest game-changing ship, Celebrity Xcel, when it sails there for the first time along with six other ships from our fleet. Start your journey from Barcelona, Rome, Ravenna, or Athens and choose from itineraries designed to deliver the best vacations possible. Select Xcel sailings offer new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal, so you can do date night there like a local.

Northern Europe & Iceland

If dramatic landscapes and legendary history call to you, Northern Europe delivers.

Step aboard in London (Southampton), Amsterdam, or Reykjavik and trace the paths once sailed by Vikings and explorers. Our new round‑trip Iceland and Greenland itineraries take you beyond the expected, while two of our ships will sail directly through the path of totality for the next solar eclipse.

YOU’LL NEVER SEE ALASKA THE SAME WAY AGAIN

Alaska is already extraordinary—but with Celebrity, it becomes unforgettable.

Our itineraries are crafted to bring you closer than ever to The Last Frontier.

Celebrity Edge®, with its revolutionary outward‑facing design, returns for its third Alaska season—joined by our Renewed Celebrity Solstice® the first of many classics to be made new again, coming March 2026.

You’ll Explore:

Charming towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, and Sitka.
Sail the stunning Inside Passage and visit majestic glaciers.
Whale watch from the Magic Carpet where you’ll soar 12 decks above sea-level.
Raise a toast to calving glaciers from The Sunset Bar or admire the scenery from the comfort of your Infinite Veranda Stateroom.

Our ships let you connect with the great outdoors like never before. No matter which ship or itinerary you choose, you’ll discover that we do Alaska like no one else can.

One Trip, Endless Island Vibes

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

A Caribbean getaway with Delta Vacations offers a seamless, customizable way to experience some of the world’s most beautiful island destinations. By packaging flights, hotels, rides like airport transfers or car rentals, and even tours and excursions into one booking, Delta Vacations simplifies travel planning while you earn toward Medallion® Status. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury escape, a family-friendly trip, or an adventure-filled island experience, there are several ways to vacation in the Caribbean, with options tailored to every travel style

All-Inclusive Luxury Escapes

If All-Inclusive luxury is your style, Delta Vacations has your resort. All-inclusive hotels typically include your accommodations plus meals, drinks and on-site entertainment, making them perfect for travelers looking for a stress-free, butler-serviced experience. Check out Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa in Punta Cana for adults-only luxury with gourmet dining, infinity pools and spa services, perfect for sophisticated relaxation. Add on activities like zip line adventures, Seaquarium Punta Cana, catamaran cruises and more!

For families, don’t miss the new Riu Palace Aquarelle in Jamaica. Featuring 24-hour all-inclusive services, sports and recreational facilities and the Splash Water World water park with children’s pool, as well as the Renova Spa to unwind and soothe the body and mind, everyone has something to enjoy without leaving the resort. With activities like bamboo rafting at Good Hope, Dunn’s River Falls tours, a chocolate making experience and tubing, there are so many activities to add on to your Jamaica vacation that everyone will love.

Boutique and Cultural Experiences

Travelers seeking a more authentic Caribbean experience can choose boutique hotels or smaller resorts through Delta Vacations. These properties allow visitors to immerse themselves in local culture while still enjoying comfort and convenience.

In St. Lucia, Ladera Resort is perched on a mountainside within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers eco-luxury, adults-only accommodations with open-air suites and breathtaking views of the Pitons. Guests can explore nearby rainforests on zip lines, visit Soufriere or experience a hands-on chocolate-making demonstration. In the Bahamas, the Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant offers an enticing world tucked away from the glitter of Nassau. This historic, colonial mansion is set in a welcoming oasis of casual elegance and tranquility. These types of vacations are perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the resort. Add on activities like cultural walking tours, wine tastings, or visits to local markets, to truly connect to your destination.

Family-Friendly Caribbean Adventures

Delta Vacations also caters to families by offering packages that combine convenience with engaging activities. Resorts in Aruba, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico are especially popular for family travel due to their accessibility and range of attractions.

In the Bahamas, the Atlantis Paradise Island is a flagship resort packed with entertainment: water slides, aquariums, dolphin encounters, and beaches all in one place. In Puerto Rico, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach and Golf Resort provides easy access to El Yunque National Forest, where families can hike waterfalls and spot tropical wildlife. Look for kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and organized activities so parents can relax while children stay entertained. Off-site excursions such as snorkeling trips, glass-bottom boat rides, and zip-lining adventures add excitement to your itinerary.

Adventure and Activity-Based Trips

For travelers who thrive on adventure, Delta Vacations makes it easy to build an itinerary centered on outdoor exploration. Islands like Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Punta Cana offer a mix of land and sea activities.
At The Caves in Negril, Jamaica, you’ll find a combination of all-inclusive luxury with adventure and nature-immersive accommodations. Poised on limestone cliffs overlooking the west coast, The Caves offers underwater grottos, cliff diving lessons and a sea-view spa. In Puerto Rico, you’ll find a paradise overlooking the ocean, Caribbean Sea and El Yunque Rainforest at El Conquistador Resort. Featuring four villages in one resort, there are activities for everyone – enjoy family fun at Coquí Water Park or escape to Palomino Island for watersports, horseback riding and more. Activities booked through Delta Vacations can include rainforest hikes, ATV tours, deep-sea fishing, and snorkeling in coral reefs.

Romantic Getaways and Honeymoons

The Caribbean has long been a favorite for couples, and Delta Vacations offers curated packages specifically designed for romance. Islands like Antigua and St. Lucia offer Maldives-inspired overwater villa luxury catering to couples looking for privacy and scenic beauty.

Jade Mountain Resort in Saint Lucia provides open-concept suites with private infinity pools and sweeping views—perfect for honeymoons. Antigua’s Hermitage Bay offers secluded beachfront cottages in a tranquil setting. Couples can enhance their vacation with experiences like sunset cruises, private beach dinners, couples’ spa treatments, and snorkeling excursions. These tailored romantic touches create memorable moments without the need to coordinate logistics independently.

From all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels, family friendly resorts to adults-only retreats, relaxation to adventure and more, Delta Vacations offers something for every traveler. Plus, SkyMiles® Members can earn toward Medallion® Status on their flights, as well as on their hotels, rides and activities. By combining trusted Delta® flight service and SkyMiles benefits with curated accommodations and activities, Delta Vacations helps transform a tropical trip into a seamless and unforgettable experience.

All SkyMiles program rules apply. To review the rules, please visit delta.com/memberguide. To review rules for Delta Vacations miles redemption, please visit delta.com/us/en/delta-vacations/use-miles. Delta Vacations packages will earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) based on the eligible value of the package, as apportioned between all travelers in the booking. To learn about earning toward Medallion Status, visit delta.com/us/en/delta-vacations/skymiles-member-experience/earn-miles. Bonus miles do not count toward Medallion Status or Million Miler™ status. Please allow 8 weeks after qualification for miles to be posted to your account. Offers void where prohibited by law. Offers subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.

New European Hotels in Landmark Historic Sites to Inspire your Next Trip

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

London. Venice. Lisbon. Each powerhouse travel destination already has its share of iconic hotels. But new properties opening in 2026 give visitors the unique ability to live inside the history and culture of these storied cities, not just peer at them from the outside.

LONDON

Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch

One of London's most recognizable landmarks is now one of its most exclusive places to stay, offering access to ordinary people for the first time ever.

Commissioned as a memorial to Queen Victoria and designed by the architect behind Buckingham Palace's famous façade, the Grade I-listed historic site, Admiralty Arch, has been the grand ceremonial gateway linking Trafalgar Square with The Mall and Buckingham Palace. That’s made it the one of the most-photographed buildings in London: the backdrop for royal carriage wedding and funeral processions, state occasions, and national celebrations.

Despite its landmark significance, inside was government office space, the HQ of the British Royal Navy’s Admiralty – earning it the name Admiralty Arch. Civilians rarely got inside at all, and never overnight.

That’s all changed. The Waldorf Astoria conversion preserves the building's historic architecture while adapting its 200,000 square feet into a luxury hotel with 114 guest rooms, suites, residences, restaurants, a ballroom, and spa. More than half the accommodations are expansive residential-style suites, many named for Britain's naval heritage.

The transformation also brings acclaimed dining to the landmark, with restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs Clare Smyth and Daniel Boulud, including a rooftop venue overlooking Buckingham Palace and St. James's Park.

For travelers, the Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch (also pictured above) offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Britain's most historic public monuments from the inside—not as a visitor passing through, but as a guest spending the night at the ceremonial heart of London!

VENICE

Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli

Image courtesy of Orient Express; ©Jeremy Zaessinger

One of Venice's grandest historic palaces is entering a new chapter as a luxury hotel, giving travelers access to a building that has been at the center of the city's history for nearly six centuries.

The 15th-century Palazzo Donà Giovannelli has reopened as Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli following an extensive restoration. Built in 1436 by the architect associated with the Doge's Palace, the palace has served over the centuries as the private residence of the influential Donà and Giovannelli families and later the Duke of Urbino. Its ornate ballrooms, frescoed salons, and Gothic façade have remained largely hidden from public view.

The restoration carefully preserves the palace's Neogothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture while adapting it into an intimate hotel with just 47 rooms, suites, and apartments. Original frescoes, mosaic floors, and one of Venice's most dramatic staircases have been restored, allowing guests to experience spaces once reserved for Venetian nobility.

True to Venetian tradition, you arrive by private boat through the palace's original 15th-century water gate or via a quiet courtyard off Cannaregio's streets. Public spaces include the spectacular Vittoria Ballroom, created for a royal wedding in 1548, as well as historic salons.

The Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli is not just another luxury hotel. It’s an opportunity to stay inside one of Venice's authentic historic palazzi, experiencing a remarkable piece of the city's architectural and cultural heritage from within rather than simply admiring it from the canal.

Danieli, Venezia, A Four Seasons Hotel

In 2026, one of Venice's most famous hotels begins a new era under the beloved Four Seasons flag, following an extensive restoration of a landmark that has welcomed travelers for more than 200 years.

Danieli, Venezia, A Four Seasons Hotel, occupies a waterfront complex of three interconnected palaces – one dating from the 15th century - overlooking the Venetian Lagoon, just steps from Piazza San Marco, which became one of Venice's most iconic hotels.

The restoration preserves many of the property's defining historic features, including its soaring pink marble columns, grand staircase, Murano glass chandeliers, and richly decorated Venetian interiors, while introducing updated guest accommodations and public spaces designed to respect the buildings' architectural heritage.

The reimagined Danieli connects visitors with Venice through experiences that highlight the city's living traditions, from Voga Veneta rowing and Murano glass craftsmanship to hidden gardens and the engineering behind the MOSE flood barrier protecting the UNESCO-listed city.

The re-launched hotel under one of the most revered luxury hospitality brands preserves one of Venice's best-known historic landmarks while offering the chance to stay inside a collection of aristocratic palaces and immerse yourself in Venetian culture and lifestyle.

LISBON

Six Senses Lisbon

Lisbon's growing collection of historic palace hotels gains another fascinating addition with the opening of Six Senses Lisbon, a restoration project that brings two centuries-old aristocratic residences back to life.

Set beside the historic Elevador do Lavra—the city's oldest funicular railway still in operation—the new hotel occupies two restored 18th-century palaces.

The restoration retains grand staircases, soaring ceilings, frescoes, historic artwork, antique rugs, maps, and period furnishings, while introducing 21st-century comforts within spaces once occupied by Lisbon's elite. Rather than replacing the buildings' history, the project highlights it, allowing guests to experience authentic Portuguese palatial architecture from the inside.

Guests are within walking distance of the historic Bairro Alto neighborhood, Avenida da Liberdade, and some of Lisbon's best-known theaters, while rooftop terraces and gardens provide a sense of space and a breezy place to relax in Lisbon’s city center.

For travelers, Six Senses Lisbon allows you to experience one of Europe's most vibrant capital cities from an authentic historic setting.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images as noted and courtesy of their respective hotel brands.

Good News if You’re Flying to Europe: New Passenger Protections

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

It only took 13 years! And resistance from the air industry. But finally, European lawmakers have passed updated regulations adding even more starch to what are already the stiffest air passenger protection rules in the world.

They apply to all passengers departing from an EU airport, and to passengers arriving in the EU from outside the zone if their flight is operated by an EU-based airline.

Doesn't Seem Too Much to Ask…

Key protections and updates agreed upon in June 2026 include:

No Charge for Carry-on Luggage: Airlines must include both a personal item and a small carry-on bag in the even the base, or lowest, ticket price – that is, without extra fees!
No Charge for Families to Sit Together: Families with children under 14 must be seated together without having to pay for it. The same goes for people accompanying passengers with disabilities, reduced mobility, and pregnant travelers.
App & Booking Transparency: The new rules forbid airlines from charging "no-show" penalties, where airlines cancel return legs if you miss your inbound flight. They also can’t require you to download the airline app just to get your boarding pass.
Protections for Passengers with Reduced Mobility: These fliers get priority rerouting and free replacement/insurance for mobility equipment. Plus, airports are now partially accountable for providing support if disruptions overwhelm local services.
Food and Hotel Stays During Flight Disruptions: Flight delayed? You’re entitled to refreshments every 2 hours of your delay and a meal after three hours and every five hours after that, up to three meals a day. Plus, the airline needs to provide you with a hotel if overnight delays occur. If the airline drops the ball and doesn’t provide such assistance, passengers can go ahead and make reasonable arrangements of their own and get reimbursed.
Automatic Compensation for Flight Delays - Maintained: Previous European rules established that passengers get compensated if your flight is delayed 3 hours or more, providing the delay is in the airline’s control. In the latest decade-long negotiations, the air industry tried to get compensation reduced. But payouts for delays remain at their current levels: starting from €250 and going up to €600 depending on flight distance.

The Small Print

Holding firm against air industry pressure on flight delay payouts seems like a win, but… Because the payouts have not been updated since the law was introduced over two decades ago, the value of flight delay compensation has actually decreased by nearly 40% due to inflation.

What does that look like for us passengers in the real world? In 2004, when the regulations were first passed, a maximum €600 payout could cover a high-end replacement flight or multiple nights in a hotel. Today, as anyone who’s booked flights or hotel rooms in Europe lately knows, that €600 in an era of dynamic pricing wouldn’t cover last-minute re-booking flight rates or hotel prices during a peak travel disruption.

Leaving you, the passenger, out of pocket for flight delays that aren't your fault.

Denied

And some reforms failed to launch altogether:

No Mandatory Pre-Filled Compensation Forms: Consumer advocates pushed hard to require airlines to automatically send passengers a pre-filled compensation claim form or online link after a disrupted flight. The idea was to eliminate paperwork barriers that get some air travelers to abandon the claim process and miss payments they’re entitled to.
This initiative failed. Passengers must still initiate the claim process themselves, but airlines have to provide “clear instructions” about how to apply within 96 hours of arrival.

In a Class of Their Own

Even though European air passenger rights advocates didn’t get everything they asked for… the new regulations are still first class compared to how the rest of us are treated.

The updated European regulations only serve to highlight how few protections outside of Europe the rest of us have.

Why should only flights originating in Europe protect passengers from incurring unnecessary delays, costs due to problems that are not their fault, and even the hassle of scrambling to rebook when you had a perfectly good flight and itinerary in the first place?

In short: why can’t we have nice things too?

Hopefully, these latest European measures apply pressure to other governments – and raise passenger expectations about how we deserve to be treated in the skies. No matter where we fly.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert.

Image: Lynn Elmhirst

Discovering the Japan You Didn’t Expect Beyond the Main Island

Wed, 01 Jul 26 22:37:03 +0000

For many travelers, the increasingly popular destination of Japan begins and ends on the island of Honshu – literally, it’s ‘Main Island.’ I can’t blame them – so much of the energy and contrasts of Japan are to be found there: the neon energy of Tokyo, the ancient cultural treasures of Kyoto, the food scene of Osaka, and iconic attractions as different as Mount Fuji and Tokyo Disneyland! All connected by those famous, high-speed bullet trains.

But if you stay on Honshu your entire trip to Japan, you’re missing out on experiences that will astound and resonate with you most after you leave. The incredible north-south length of the Japanese archipelago – about the same distance as the continental USA, although much narrower – means the islands of Japan span vastly different climates. That means many different sights, landscapes, and local cultures.

Think active volcanoes, subtropical beaches, and winter wonderlands, antique forests, distinctive cuisines, and cultural traditions, including indigenous peoples, that feel worlds apart from the familiar Golden Route. Japan’s other main islands - from Hokkaido in the north, to Kyushu, Shikoku, and tropical Okinawa in the south - offer compelling reasons to linger longer and dig deeper.

No wonder cruising to Japan is taking off! Voyages to other islands of this famously maritime nation allow visitors to experience many other facets of real Japan.

Hokkaido: Japan’s Great Outdoors

Japan’s northernmost main island is often compared to Alaska or Scandinavia for its vast landscapes, lower population density, outdoor lifestyle, and indigenous culture. Hokkaido is the traditional homeland of the Ainu, an Indigenous people whose history in northern Japan stretches back centuries before Japanese settlement of the island.

In winter, Hokkaido is famous for some of the lightest, driest powder snow on earth, with legendary ski resorts.

Summer brings wildflower meadows, cycling, hiking, and cooler temperatures, offering relief from the humidity elsewhere in Japan. The island is also home to several national parks, including one of Japan’s most remote wilderness areas, where brown bears, whales, and eagles thrive.

Food is another draw. Hokkaido’s cool climate produces some of Japan’s finest dairy products, seafood, and agricultural products. Snow crab, sea urchin, scallops, and rich miso ramen are local specialties.

Kyushu: Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and History

Southwest of Honshu lies Kyushu, an island shaped by fire.

The landscape is dominated by active volcanoes, including Mount Aso, whose enormous caldera is among the largest in the world. Steam vents and volcanic peaks create some of Japan’s most dramatic scenery.

That also makes Kyushu one of Japan’s premier hot spring destinations.

History buffs will find another layer of fascination. Because of its proximity to the Asian mainland, Kyushu served as an important gateway for international influence. The city of Nagasaki tells one of Japan’s most complex stories, from early international trade to its role in World War II and its remarkable recovery.

Food lovers should come hungry. Tonkotsu ramen, made with a rich pork-bone broth, originated in Kyushu and remains one of Japan’s most beloved regional dishes.

Shikoku: Slow Travel and Spiritual Discovery

The smallest of Japan’s four main islands is often overlooked—and that’s why you should go.

Shikoku offers a quieter, slower-paced Japan where traditional rural landscapes remain intact. Rice paddies, mountain villages, fishing communities, and dramatic gorges, vine suspension bridges, and coastlines define much of the island.

Its most famous attraction is the Shikoku Pilgrimage, an 88-temple circuit spanning more than 700 miles around the island.

Okinawa: Japan’s Tropical Escape

If Hokkaido is the Alaska of Japan, Okinawa, at the opposite, southern end of the country, is its Hawai’i.

Okinawa (pictured, top) is not one of Japan’s four main islands, but it has incredible appeal with subtropical coral reefs, turquoise waters, jungles, and Ryukyu Kingdom cultural heritage — with its own language, cuisine, music, architecture, and lifestyle.

The people of Okinawa are not considered Indigenous in the same way as Hokkaido’s Ainu, but they continue to preserve a distinct cultural identity from the centuries-old Ryukyu Kingdom, which Japan annexed in the 19th century.

Today, visitors experience this distinctive heritage through Ryukyu textiles and pottery, Okinawan soba noodles, and music played on a unique three-stringed instrument.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel expert and journalist

Unpack Once. Smile Often. Sail Viking.

Mon, 22 Jun 26 14:31:07 +0000

EXPERIENCE THE CONVENIENCE OF UNPACKING JUST ONCE as you join like-minded guests and let Viking take care of the rest. Impeccable service, engaging excursions in each port, and an onboard enrichment program tailored to enhance your experiences on shore.

Book now and receive $200 Shipboard Credit per Stateroom.

Contact your travel advisor for more information!

This offer is valid for booking through 7/31/2026.

Less “Are We There Yet?” More “Which Island Next?”

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:34:33 +0000

Why Norwegian Cruise Line Is the Best Way to Experience the Caribbean

The Caribbean offers an incredible mix of cultures, landscapes, and island experiences—and Norwegian Cruise Line makes it easy to experience more of it, your way. With the industry’s widest variety of Caribbean itineraries, custom‑built ships designed for outdoor living, and exclusive resort‑style destinations, Norwegian delivers a Caribbean vacation that’s equal parts immersive, flexible, and unforgettable.

Sailing with Norwegian means access to over 30 Caribbean ports across Eastern, Western, and Southern routes, with convenient departures from 11 U.S. and Caribbean homeports. Guests enjoy an average of eight hours in port, allowing more time to explore world‑class beaches, vibrant towns, and unforgettable excursions—without feeling rushed.

A Caribbean Experience with More Choice

Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the most diverse selections of Caribbean sailings at sea, with more than 73 unique itineraries across 18 ships. Whether guests prefer the luxury‑focused islands of the Eastern Caribbean, the culturally rich destinations of the Southern Caribbean, or the adventure‑filled waters of the Western Caribbean near the Mesoamerican Reef, there’s an itinerary to match every travel style.

With sailings from popular departure ports—including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, New Orleans, New York, Boston, and San Juan—getting to the Caribbean is easier than ever. This variety allows guests to choose the route, ship, and length of sailing that best fits their vacation goals.

Custom‑Built Ships Designed to Bring the Caribbean Onboard

Norwegian’s ships are designed to connect guests with the beauty of the Caribbean—not separate them from it. Open‑air spaces like The Waterfront®, Ocean Boulevard, and expansive top decks invite guests to relax with ocean views, sea breezes, and stunning sunsets throughout the journey.

From observation lounges and thermal suites to lively outdoor venues, these ship designs create a resort‑style atmosphere that feels perfectly aligned with island living. Adventure‑seekers can enjoy attractions like waterslides, rope courses, mini golf, and racetracks, while guests looking to unwind can find plenty of quiet spaces to relax between ports.

Cruising Made Even Better with Free At Sea®

A vacation with Norwegian becomes even more rewarding with the Free At Sea® package, which enhances both the onboard and on‑island experience. Guests enjoy an Unlimited Open Bar, specialty dining meals, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, and shore excursion credits—all bundled into one convenient offering.

In the Caribbean, this means tropical cocktails poolside, elevated dining after full days ashore, and added value for excursions like snorkeling, cultural tours, and outdoor adventures. Free At Sea® allows guests to focus less on budgeting and more on making the most of every island stop.

Exclusive Norwegian Destinations You Can’t Experience Anywhere Else

Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island in The Bahamas, offers pristine beaches, crystal‑clear waters, and unforgettable experiences like snorkeling, ziplining, overwater swings, and swimming with the pigs. Guests sailing with Free At Sea can even enjoy their Unlimited Premium Beverage Package on the island.

Harvest Caye, located in Belize, is the Caribbean’s premier resort‑style destination exclusive to Norwegian guests. Here, travelers can relax by a massive pool, enjoy the beach, soar on the 136‑foot Flighthouse® zipline, or unwind in luxurious private cabanas with concierge food and beverage service—all without leaving the island.

Great Stirrup Cay is Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in The Bahamas, offering guests a seamless extension of their onboard experience in a destination designed exclusively for NCL travelers. With Free At Sea® benefits carrying ashore—including complimentary dining and unlimited open bar—guests can relax without extra planning or added costs while enjoying spacious beaches, snorkeling spots, and multiple activity zones. Recently enhanced with the resort‑style Great Life Lagoon pool. Plus, coming this summer is a dramatic cliff bar overlooking turquoise waters, and new family splash areas, the island continues its transformation this summer with the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark, featuring towering slides, a dynamic river for laid‑back floating and playful fun, and an even more immersive, resort‑style experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and the freedom to enjoy paradise your way.

Family‑Friendly Cruises That Everyone Can Enjoy

Norwegian Cruise Line is designed with families in mind, offering complimentary youth programs for all ages and a wide array of kid‑friendly activities. From Aqua Parks and Kids’ Aqua Parks to sports complexes, ropes courses, mini golf, and high‑energy attractions like ThrillPlex®, families can enjoy fun together—or apart—throughout the cruise.

A variety of family‑friendly accommodations, including suites and connecting staterooms, make traveling together easy. Plus, Norwegian offers sailings around key holidays and school breaks, with Kids Sail Free promotions available for third and fourth guests on select sailings.

Dining, Entertainment, and Freedom to Do It Your Way

Norwegian’s signature Freestyle Cruising® philosophy gives guests the flexibility to enjoy their Caribbean vacation without rigid schedules. Dining is available when and where guests choose, with a wide range of complimentary venues and specialty restaurants serving global cuisine, premium steaks, Italian favorites, and fresh seafood.

Evenings onboard come alive with Broadway‑style entertainment, live music, comedy, and vibrant lounges—ensuring there’s always something happening after the sun sets. With multiple venues and showtimes, guests can tailor each night to match their mood.

Less Crowd More Connection

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Small Groups. Big Adventures.

Today’s travelers are looking for more than a checklist of sights. They want connection, comfort, and a deeper way to experience the world. Small Group Tours are designed for exactly that, offering a more personal way to see the world with fewer travelers, more flexibility, and more meaningful moments along the way.

With over 75 years of experience and more than five million travelers welcomed worldwide, Trafalgar has built its reputation on taking the stress out of travel while bringing people closer to the places they visit. Iconic landmarks, local experiences, and expert Travel Directors come together to create journeys that feel seamless from start to finish.

Now, that experience becomes even more personal with Small Group Tours.

A More Personal Way to Travel

Trafalgar’s Small Group Tours feature a maximum of just 18 guests. With fewer travelers, journeys feel more relaxed, flexible, and immersive. There is more space on the road, more time with local hosts, and a more natural pace throughout each day.

Travel feels less structured and more connected to the destination itself. Conversations are easier, shared moments feel more genuine, and travelers have more room to experience each place without feeling rushed.

You still enjoy fully planned itineraries, carefully selected accommodations, and expert guidance throughout your trip. The difference is a more comfortable rhythm, with the freedom to take things in at your own pace.

Where You Can Go

Trafalgar’s new collection of 21 Small Group Tours is available across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, including destinations such as Kenya, Portugal, Greece, China, Borneo, South Africa, Costa Rica, and Patagonia.

While the destinations may be familiar, the experience is different. Smaller groups allow for more direct connection with local people, culture, and everyday life in each place.

Experiences That Bring Destinations to Life

Each journey is built around moments that help travelers connect more deeply with the destination.

Highlights include:

Hilltop Villages of Tuscany: Discover Montepulciano with your Travel Director before tasting its celebrated Vino Nobile, one of Tuscany’s most prestigious wines.
Basque Explorer: Meet a local family in Getaria for a hands-on grilling experience with fresh fish and local wine.
Best of China with Yangtze Cruise: Join a local host for a traditional tea ceremony in Beijing and discover China’s tea culture.
Wonders of Patagonia: Dine in Claudia’s Ushuaia home, where personal stories and local history reveal life at the end of the world.

More Ways to Connect

Every Small Group Tour includes signature Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences. These moments bring travelers closer to local people and communities through shared meals, cultural exchange, and experiences that support local impact.

They add depth to each journey while helping ensure travel benefits the places being visited.

Is a Small Group Tour Right for You?

Small Group Tours are ideal for travelers who want the ease of guided travel with a more intimate experience.

They are a great fit if you:

Prefer smaller, more relaxed group travel
Want more space and time to experience each destination
Enjoy a balance of guided experiences and independent exploration
Are looking for a more immersive way to travel without planning every detail

It is guided travel with a more personal rhythm.

Ready to Experience a Small Group Tour?

Book early to unlock a limited-time introductory offer and secure your preferred departure date. Speak with a travel advisor to find the Small Group journey that best fits your travel style and discover a more personal way to see the world.

The Cruise Line Breeding “Super Coral” and Other Good News for World Oceans Day

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The private island for Explora Journeys and MSC Cruises, MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, is at the forefront of a cruise-industry-wide drive to support and sustain the world’s oceans. World Oceans Day is the perfect time to share some of those stories as we reflect that nearly three-quarters of our Earth is covered in oceans. Whether you live on one of the world’s coastlines or cruise, oceans affect us all.

The water dominating the surface of our “Blue Planet,” helps regulate the entire world’s climate and weather by absorbing heat and storing carbon dioxide.

Did you know oceans produce half of the oxygen we breathe, through microscopic marine plants - phytoplankton? The heat and movement of oceans also affect weather patterns, rainfall, and temperatures that affect farming and freshwater supplies far beyond coastal regions.

As a cruise lover, I’m proud that cruising stands up for oceans and our Blue Planet.

The cruise industry has a collective goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), every new generation of cruise ship is 20% more energy-efficient than the previous class of ships. So new cruise ships are about more than new design, dining, and entertainment experiences!

If, like me, the more you cruise, the more you fall in love with and want to protect the oceans.

On World Oceans Day, we can learn more about how cruise lines are being part of the solution, the projects they are supporting and spearheading - some of which you, as a cruise guest, can participate in! - and what we as individuals can do to make a difference.

MSC Cruises / Explora Journeys / MSC Foundation

Super Coral Program – Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas

WATCH VIDEO ABOVE: Meet the marine biologist helping develop ‘Super Coral.’

The Super Coral Program is one of the cruise industry's most ambitious coral-restoration initiatives. Scientists are identifying and propagating heat-resistant strains of endangered coral to help reefs survive warming oceans. Guests visiting Ocean Cay can see coral nurseries and learn about ongoing restoration efforts.

Mission Blue Partnership

The Mission Blue Partnership is a multi-year collaboration supporting marine protected areas ("Hope Spots"), ocean literacy programs and seagrass restoration projects in the Mediterranean.

“Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation.”

To celebrate World Oceans Day this year, it has launched “Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation.” It’s a new onboard program for children and families combining learning, creativity and participation and helping nurture the next generation of ocean ambassadors.

The onboard program is designed around three pillars – celebrating the ocean on every cruise, placing children and families at the center of the experience, and fostering ocean literacy. It draws on the MSC Foundation’s years of collaboration with conservation and education partners, combining lessons from its restoration work at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas with the expertise of organizations such as Mission Blue and Marevivo to create immersive experiences.

Viking Expeditions

Science Lab Program

Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris were designed as working research vessels with onboard wet and dry laboratories. Scientists sail alongside guests conducting research in polar regions, the Great Lakes and other sensitive ecosystems.

Genomics at Sea Program (GASP)

In partnership with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the J. Craig Venter Institute, Viking supports onboard environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing to study marine biodiversity and monitor ecosystem health through its Genomics at Sea Program.

Fjord Phyto Citizen Science Program

Guests help collect phytoplankton samples for NASA-supported research. Phytoplankton produce roughly half of Earth's oxygen and are critical indicators of ocean health.

Great Lakes Research Partnerships

Viking's expedition ships support freshwater science, biodiversity monitoring and water-quality research throughout the Great Lakes—an important reminder that protecting waterways extends far beyond oceans.

WATCH VIDEO: Highlights of a Great Lakes Cruise on Viking with Scientists and Guest-included Research

HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions)

Citizen Science Program

Widely considered the gold standard in expedition cruise citizen science. Guests can participate in collecting water samples, recording wildlife sightings, monitoring marine debris and supporting climate research.

HX Foundation

Supports projects focused on marine biodiversity, plastic pollution reduction, conservation education and community initiatives in destinations visited by expedition ships.

Ponant

Ponant Science Foundation

Funds scientific research and biodiversity studies and brings researchers on board the fleet in remote marine environments including Antarctica, the Arctic and Pacific islands.

Ponant and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) recently unveiled new initiatives to protect polar environments. Their enhanced partnership introduces:

The Polar Ocean Image Collection: A collaboration with WHOI and The Ocean Agency, this open-access bank provides non-commercial, media-quality images to scientists, educators, and journalists to raise awareness about rapidly changing cryospheric regions.
AI-enabled Whale Spotter Cameras and autonomous sensors on board ships to study remote sea ice and protect marine wildlife from vessel strikes.

Adelie Penguins, Antarctica image: Alexandre Herbrecht, Studio PONANT / Ocean Image Bank

Royal Caribbean Group

WWF Global Ocean Conservation Partnership

Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, has a partnership with the renowned World Wildlife Fund supporting sustainable tourism, destination stewardship, responsible seafood sourcing, ocean conservation projects and environmental education.

World Wildlife at Sea

An onboard ocean education program, developed with WWF, helps guests better understand marine ecosystems and conservation challenges.

Celebrity Cruises

Galápagos Conservation Projects

Celebrity's Galápagos operations support a variety of conservation initiatives in partnership with the local community and the Galápagos National Park. Efforts have included giant tortoise restoration, invasive species management and habitat protection.

Cunard

ORCA Marine Mammal Monitoring Program

Passengers and trained volunteers help collect whale, dolphin and porpoise sighting data for the UK marine conservation charity ORCA. Decades of observations have contributed to marine mammal research and protection efforts.

Lindblad Expeditions/ Nat Geo

National Geographic-Lindblad Conservation Fund

Supports marine conservation, scientific research and habitat protection in destinations including Antarctica, Alaska and the Galápagos.

Research and Scientist-in-Residence Programs

Scientists frequently travel aboard Lindblad ships, conducting field research and engaging guests in ongoing conservation projects.

Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship

This program gives pre-K–12 educators the opportunity to sail on board ships to participate in field-based exploration, providing a transformative, real-world experience that teachers can bring back to their classrooms, schools, and communities, improving geographic literacy and awareness.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

Coral Reef and Mangrove Restoration Projects

Through destination partnerships and sustainability programs, Norwegian's brands—including Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—have participated in coral reef, mangrove and coastal restoration initiatives in destinations throughout the Caribbean and elsewhere.

Cruise travel is a choice and a privilege, and we hope cruise travelers will support cruise lines and projects that make a difference to preserve, sustain, and protect the vast oceans that inspire us to travel and sustain the planet.

START YOUR CRUISE TRIP!

Videos and story: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist

Images courtesy of respective cruise lines or as noted

Journeys That Move You

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Experience Europe’s most iconic destinations from a new perspective with AmaWaterways. Cruise through the regions you’ve long wanted to explore, from France’s renowned wine regions to Germany’s storybook landscapes and the unique waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium.

On board, every detail is considered. Thoughtfully designed staterooms—many featuring both a French and outside balcony—keep the landscape in view, while complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hours, specialty dining experiences and host-led wellness activities create a balance of comfort, immersion and connection throughout the journey.

Explore Your Way

Each day offers the opportunity to experience Europe more closely, with up to six onshore experiences to choose from at no additional cost. Guided walks through historic cities, bike rides along the river and tastings of local cuisine or regional wines provide different ways to engage with each destination, allowing the journey to reflect your interests.

A Taste of Europe

On board, the culinary experience is shaped by the destinations and cultures along the rivers. Driven by a farm-to-ship philosophy, AmaWaterways’ chefs draw on local flavors and traditions, from a traditional German lunch on Rhine River itineraries to delectable desserts on the rivers of France. You’ll also be treated to a specialty dining experience during your cruise, such as a multi-course wine-paired dinner at The Chef’s Table restaurant.

An Incredible Value

With the Complimentary Land Package offer, you can add up to 4 nights in iconic European cities like Prague, Paris and Amsterdam before or after your cruise at no additional cost. Available on eligible 2026 and 2027 departures, you can enjoy more time in Europe. Combine with the Limited-Time AirPlus offer to add roundtrip economy airfare to Europe for just $599 per person. Both offers end June 30, 2026.

Your travel advisor can help you explore the options and also enhance your reservations with exclusive Upgrade Rewards benefits.

The Natural Thrills of Costa Rica

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If you want the focus of your vacation to be an authentic immersion into raw nature, put Costa Rica on your list of outdoor adventure destinations. This Central American country is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. In a territory roughly the size of the state of Vermont, it contains nearly 6% of the world’s known species!

Even more amazing is that over 25% of Costa Rica – from its cloud forests and rainforests to volcanoes, mangroves, and coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea – is protected through a network of national parks, wildlife refuges, and conservation areas. A global model for conservation and sustainable tourism through decades of early vision and environmental leadership, including large-scale reforestation and ecotourism initiatives.

Embrace Your Wild Side

Immerse yourself in nature and push your physical limits in adrenaline-fueled expeditions like these:

White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River:

Often ranked among the world’s best rafting rivers, the Pacuare delivers 18 miles of heart-pounding rapids (Class III–IV) in just one day, through a lush, untouched rainforest. Also, with 52 rapids in a single day trip and sights like the towering Huacas waterfall, this is an unforgettable ride packed with natural beauty and pure excitement.

Catching Waves:

Witch’s Rock, located in Santa Rosa National Park, is famous for its powerful A-frame wave that breaks both left and right. Best accessed by boat, this remote surf spot offers consistent conditions, especially when southwest swells meet northeast winds. For those chasing one of the longest left-hand breaks in the world, Pavones is also a must. Tucked along the southern Pacific coast, it delivers legendary rides during Green Season swells.

Mountain Biking:

Explore the rugged beauty of Arenal’s rainforest on two wheels through trails deep within the jungle, zooming through farmlands, river crossings, and mud roads, while even getting to witness epic volcano views and the beautiful Lake Arenal. Whether you're up for short slope casual riding or tackling Arenal 1968's high-intensity downhill tracks with dramatic curves, this region offers challenging terrain and excitement.

Volcano and Cave Exploration:

Costa Rica's most active volcanic region offers a different kind of adrenaline. Hike through steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and volcanic landscapes before descending into lesser-known lava tube formations and caves created by past eruptions. The terrain combines geology, wildlife, and adventure, with opportunities for rugged backcountry trekking far from the country's more visited attractions.

Extreme Canyoning:

Canyoneering just outside La Fortuna is a full-body adventure through Costa Rica’s wild rainforest terrain. Rappel down waterfalls up to 200 feet in height, scramble up and down rocky cliffs, and leap into pristine deep canyon pools—some cliffs from as high as 40 feet. Prepare for a packed itinerary full of adrenaline-fueled experiences that blend challenges with panoramic scenic views.

Sea Kayaking and Bioluminescence Paddling:

For an adventure that unfolds after dark, paddle through mangrove channels and protected coastal waters in the Gulf of Nicoya, where microscopic organisms create glowing blue trails in the water with every stroke of your paddle. Night kayaking trips combine wildlife spotting, navigation by starlight, and the rare chance to witness one of nature's most remarkable phenomena.

TIP:

Look for reputable, accredited operators for the best advice and experienced guides that ensure you optimize the timing and safety of your adventure for the thrill of a lifetime.

As you’ll hear time and time again in Costa Rica: “Pura Vida!” or “Pure Life!” The unofficial national motto and mindset: the value of spending time outdoors, connecting with nature, prioritizing family and community, simplicity and a positive outlook.

It’s the perfect call to an adventure in the extraordinary embrace of Costa Rica.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Visit Costa Rica

Gaudí at 100: Barcelona's Most Famous Architect "Raising the Roof" of the City

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One hundred years after his death, Antoni Gaudí remains impossible to separate from Barcelona.

The Catalan architect died on June 10, 1926, one of the most defining architects of any era, tragically struck down by a tram. A century later, his extraordinary buildings are not only the city's most recognizable landmarks, but they have also become symbols of Barcelona itself. For most travelers, a first visit to the Catalan regional capital is as much about discovering Gaudí as it is about experiencing Spain.

Celebrating the Centenary: Momentous Milestone for Sagrada Familia

Throughout 2026, Barcelona is hosting a year-long program of events commemorating the architect's life and legacy with exhibitions, concerts, cultural programs, special tours, and commemorative events across the city.

The centrepiece of the anniversary is a milestone in the long story of the Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s masterpiece towering over Barcelona.

The basilica that is the greatest legacy of the architect is still being built. Construction on Sagrada Familia began in 1882. And although Sagrada Familia will not be fully completed until well into the next decade, it has already achieved UNESCO World Heritage designation.

In death, Gaudí remains with his life’s work. He is buried beneath the nave.

The 100th anniversary of his passing was commemorated on June 10, 2026, by the inauguration of the completed Tower of Jesus Christ, now the tallest church tower in the world.

It was a celebration for the ages, with Pope Leo XIV traveling to Barcelona, joining the King and Queen of Spain and other dignitaries for a commemorative Mass celebrating Antoni Gaudí, and inaugurating the Tower of Jesus Christ.

A cross that reaches the sky above Barcelona

The completion of the 172.5-meter (568-foot) tower fulfills one of Gaudí's most ambitious visions.

The Tower of Jesus Christ is the central tower of the Sagrada Família tower grouping, and the last one to be completed. It is surrounded by the four towers of the Evangelists and the tower of the Virgin Mary. It has 12 faces. The tower is topped with a three-dimensional four-armed cross, which itself is 17 meters (55 feet) tall and 13.5 meters (44 feet) wide.

Gaudí wanted the cross to shine both day and night. So it features white enameled ceramic and glass, two shiny materials that reflect the vivid Barcelona sun (and can also stand up to exposure to the elements). Spotlights will ensure the cross continues to be a beacon throughout the nights.

Inside, the church remains one of Europe's most phenomenal interiors. Gaudí designed the soaring columns to resemble a forest canopy, with stained glass creating an ever-changing play of light throughout the day.

The ceremonies were an exceptional tribute to the architect and his dream of building a temple conceived as a ‘great stone Bible,’ where art and architecture share with the world the values that inspired the basilica: faith, culture, nature, spirituality and the pursuit of beauty.

The Architect Who Became Barcelona

Gaudí's significance extends far beyond architecture. His work helped shape modern Catalan identity and became one of the defining expressions of Catalonia's artistic and cultural confidence at the turn of the twentieth century.

Inspired by nature, religion, geometry, and local craftsmanship, he rejected conventional architectural rules and created a style that remains instantly recognizable and completely unique today. Sagrada Familia is just one of seven of his works that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Many cities are known for their architecture. Barcelona is unusual because one architect's vision became inseparable from the city's identity. Gaudí buildings are often the first images travelers associate with Barcelona.

The Essential Gaudí Sites

For first-time visitors to Barcelona, four landmarks form the core of any Gaudí itinerary:

Sagrada Família — Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece and Barcelona's most visited attraction.
Park Güell — A whimsical landscape of colorful mosaics, organic forms, and panoramic city views.
Casa Batlló — The architect's fantasy-like reinterpretation of an urban townhouse.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera) — Famous for its flowing stone façade and sculptural rooftop chimneys.

Together, they showcase the architect's mature style and his extraordinary ability to blur the boundaries between architecture, art, fantasy and nature.

Why Gaudí Still Matters

The anniversary gives us the opportunity to celebrate Gaudí's greatest achievement - the extraordinary, unparalleled Sagrada Familia - AND that his legacy was not that single building. Many destinations have famous architects and landmark structures.

Gaudí created a visual language so distinctive and even other-worldly that it became the visual and cultural identity of an entire city.

Just one hundred years after his death, a 2000-year-old city can’t be imagined without the vision and cultural signature Gaudí imprinted on this Mediterranean coastal city.

START YOUR TRIP!

Top images from video courtesy of Sagrada Familia

Bottom Image and story: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

Scotland's Greatest Summer Spectacle: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

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Every August, something remarkable happens on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. The ancient fortress, perched atop the craggy remnants of a volcano in the center of Scotland’s capital city, becomes the backdrop for one of the world's most moving and evocative live performances: the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Not ‘That’ Kind of Tattoo

Don’t let the name fool you. There’s no ink involved! The word "tattoo" comes from a 17th-century Dutch military phrase “doe den tap toe,” meaning "turn off the taps"—a specific theme played by drummers in towns near barracks, signalling bartenders to stop serving and soldiers to abide by curfew. Scottish mercenaries took the term home, morphing it into referring tomilitary evening ceremonies with displays of music, marching, and pageantry of massed bands of bagpipes and drums played by Scots in full Highland military regalia.

Edinburgh turned the historic tradition of tattoos into an international phenomenon and spectacle that still today takes your breath away – and transports you to ancient Highland Scots culture.

I’ve always been moved by bagpipes and loved how the sight of a kilt or tartan reminded me of my Scottish ancestry.

But you don’t need even one drop of Scottish blood in your family tree to be pulled into another time, life and place at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Goosebumps

It’s the setting as much as the pipes and drums.

As the sun sets over Scotland's capital, the floodlit walls of Edinburgh Castle tower above tiered grandstands on the castle’s ramped esplanade, built specifically for the event. Massive torches flicker in the wind.

The castle isn't merely a backdrop; it's a character in the show, and a virtual time machine for everyone in attendance. Pipes echo off the stone ramparts, and kilts snap around knees. If you know your tartans, in your head, you start naming the clans and regiments represented.

Precision Scottish military bands aren’t the only ones marching across the parade ground. Every year, dancers, drummers, singers, and cultural performers from around the world are invited to Edinburgh to complement Scottish culture with dramatic international color. Think equestrian regiments from North Africa galloping in formation. Or precision rifle drill teams from elite American military units.

Alongside storied projection mapping, lighting effects, lasers, and fireworks that add contemporary showmanship without diminishing the Tattoo’s historic roots.

And just when you think there’s nothing more majestic than massed pipes and drums making the earth vibrate under your feet ….

The Tattoo draws to an end with a lone piper appearing on the battlements next to a single torch that extinguishes as the last note fades into the wind and the hair on the back of your neck rises.

Tattoo Tips for Travelers

The three-week Tattoo is perfectly timed for summer visitors to Scotland. It takes place during Edinburgh's famed August festival season, sharing the city with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival, and a host of other cultural events.

By day, explore the medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, museums, whisky bars, and literary landmarks. By night, join thousands of spectators climbing Castle Hill for the Tattoo.

Travel tips:

Book early. The best seats often sell months in advance. We were lucky to be cruising in Scotland, and the Tattoo was an included shore experience with VIP seating, so our seats had already been secured. A cruise line or a tour operator books blocks of often the best seats in advance; another reason to let someone else take care of your travel details!
Dress for Scottish weather, which can change dramatically even during a single performance! The Tattoo is famously a rain-or-shine event.

In a world overflowing with festivals, the Edinburgh Tattoo remains genuinely unique. Part concert, part military tradition, part deeply meaningful Scottish cultural touchstone, and part theatrical spectacle, it is one of those rare travel experiences that moves you to the point of goosebumps and remains at the top of your memory for years to come.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist