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Get Refreshed at the Most Fabulous Fountains in Europe this Summer

Imagine your ideal European summer escape. Chances are, one of the sounds you hear is the splashing water of a fountain in the town square on a lazy afternoon.

From ancient times, communities were built up around their local source of water. Eventually, many European cities then gave their sources of water sculptural and architectural treatments. That transformed them from watering holes… to wondrous waterworks and focal points of the European lifestyle travelers love.

There’s nothing quite so refreshing as the sound of water on a hot summer’s day. Especially when you’re seated at a café in the town square, a glass of the local tipple in hand, living the good life – European style.

So make the most of a trip to Europe this summer, and re-discover the primal connection we have to the local water hole at one of these famous fountains.

Trevi Fountain – Rome

Of all the magnificent monuments in the Eternal City, almost no one misses a visit to the Trevi Fountain (pictured, top). It’s the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, possibly in the world. And definitely one of the most famous.

Its spectacular scale - 86 feet high and over 160 feet wide – is matched by the splendor of its 18^th century marble sculptures of Greek gods seen by day or lit up by night.

The word Trevi provides a clue to its ancient origins in historic Rome. It’s located at the intersection of three roads (tre vie), and it's the terminus of one of the aqueducts that supplied water for centuries to ancient Rome.

Today, over 20 million gallons of water flow through the Trevi fountain – every day! But it’s recycled and no longer drinkable.

Visiting Tip: For centuries, visitors to the Trevi Fountain have tossed coins into its waters. The tradition is to throw with your right hand over your left shoulder while facing away from the fountain for luck in returning to Rome once more, and for romance and marriage. Over a million euros a year are thrown into the Trevi Fountain. It’s emptied nightly of coins, which are donated to help feed Rome’s hungry.

Manneken Pis, Brussels, Belgium

From one of the biggest… to one of the smallest. Which proves that when it comes to fountains, size isn’t everything.

Belgium’s entry into our list of famous fountains is just two feet tall, and I think you can put together enough of its name in the local language to know what it’s called.

The bronze sculpture of a boy urinating into the fountain’s basin was erected in the early 1600’s and is one of the most famous symbols of both Brussels and Belgium. Just a short walk from Brussels’ ‘Grand Place’ or main square, the misbehaving boy is considered an example of the local folk humor.

From its beginning, long before there was a bronze statue of a naughty boy, the fountain was on the site of lines supplying drinking water to the residents of the city.

Visiting Tip: Taking the quirky humor of the fountain’s design to new levels, the statue is dressed in different costumes several times each week. You can view his entire, thousand-plus wardrobe of costumes in a special-purpose museum Garderobe MannekenPis, and the original, five hundred year old sculpture is in the Brussels City Museum.

Jet d’Eau, Geneva, Switzerland

Compared to the Trevi Fountain or the Manneken Pis, the Jet d’Eau in Lake Geneva is downright modern, dating from the late 1800’s. The present fountain was installed in 1951 and pumps water in Lake Geneva where it meets the Rhone River.

Unlike other fountains that channel water hidden from view, the Jet d’Eau started for the practical purpose of acting as a pressure-release safety valve of a hydraulic plant on Lake Geneva. Its name simply means ‘Water Jet.’

The jet fountain quickly became the symbol of the city, and the current version is one of the tallest jet fountains in the world, shooting water 130 gallons (500 liters) per second up to a height of over 450 feet (140 meters.) At any given moment, there are about 1800 gallons (7000 liters) of water in the air.

The Jet d’Eau is visible throughout the city of Geneva and even from the air flying over Geneva.

Visiting Tip: You can also see the Jet d’Eau up close by walking along a jetty from the left bank of Lake Geneva. But if the wind changes suddenly, prepared to get wet!

Aix en Provence, France

The former capital of Provence in the south of France, Aix is also known as the ‘City of Water’ and ‘City of 1000 Fountains.’ That’s because Aix was built over top of natural, underground springs and hot springs, the famous French ‘eau des sources’. Fountains were built throughout town to capture and funnel the water for use. Many of Aix’ fountains today are still fed by these aquifers.

The Romans, famous bathers, discovered the thermal waters and called Aix ‘Aquae Sextiae’, or the ‘Waters of Sextius, and installed baths. The town is still famous as a spa town, using the underground hot springs, and one spa still uses the Roman term in its name: Thermes Sextius.

The fountains you’ll see today visiting Aix en Provence date from the 1600’s, and are a wide variety of structures with sculptures of dolphins, animals, and people shooting water into a basin.

Visiting Tips: Residents of Aix still interact with their many fountains, not just looking at them. Dogs bathe, restaurants cool their wine, and some even have water that’s drinkable.

They say that travel is the fountain of youth, but in these and many other European cities, you can take that concept literally.

Start Your European Trip!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, Producer/Host, BestTrip TV

Images: Getty

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

Tue, 30 Jun 26 18:53:49 +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

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

Tue, 30 Jun 26 18:53:49 +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.

G Adventures “Kicks Off” Away Games: Small-Group Soccer Trips

Tue, 30 Jun 26 18:53:49 +0000

You don’t need to let your soccer fandom subside once the tournament’s over and everyone’s gone home. For the first time in small-group travel, G Adventures is launching a brand-new series of soccer-themed premium trips. “Away Games” trips are designed to bring soccer enthusiasts together for matchday experiences and a deeper cultural connection in Europe’s greatest soccer cities.

These soccer-focused trips combine iconic live matches with the immersive cultural experiences and community spirit of like-minded fans. Imagine singing with locals in supporter pubs, celebrating a last-minute goal with fellow travelers after the final whistle, and experiencing a destination through the lens of its football culture.

A Winning Combination

Launching in some of Europe’s most legendary soccer destinations, including London, Manchester, Madrid, and Barcelona, Away Games delivers top-shelf matchday experiences, insider access, and cultural immersion. And G Adventures is taking care of securing tickets, planning complex international trips, and game-day logistics so you don’t have to.

Away Games launches with more than 30 departures, with the first trips kicking off in October 2026 following the release of the English match calendar. Additional Spanish departures will be announced in July 2026 once the Madrid and Barcelona matches are revealed.

Ask us to contact you about Spanish departures; and

Book your English soccer match dates now to secure access to some of the world’s most in-demand soccer matches - experiences renowned for selling out in record time!

G Adventures is giving North American fans guaranteed, verified tickets to the world's most electric rivalries, combined with the small-group local immersion G Adventures does best.

Each Away Games trip is led by a football-loving G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO), whose passion for the sport helps unite the group and bring the local football culture to life. On matchday, fans will enjoy VIP club-level seating, premium lounge access, and hospitality packages while also gaining access to iconic stadiums, including Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge, the legendary homes of Manchester United and Chelsea FC.

Beyond the main event, itineraries dive deeper into sports heritage and local culture. Travelers will go behind-the-scenes with historic stadium tours, join guided journeys through legendary supporter pubs, and explore each city’s culinary hotspots on local food tours. To experience the true roots of the game, the trips also feature lower-league match experiences among die-hard home supporters.

And with plenty of built-in free time, you can soak up the city's atmosphere beyond the stadium gates, balancing football fandom with authentic local exploration.

Away Game trips already available:

Fulham FC: London Beyond the Pitch - For the purist seeking the quintessentially British matchday, this five-day London immersion centers on the country’s most charming and historic riverside ground, Craven Cottage. Guests will watch the action from padded seats in the brand-new Riverside Stand and unwind in the exclusive Markers Lounge, along with a visit from a Fulham club legend. Balancing high-end sports hospitality with deep local culture, the itinerary features a handpicked neighborhood pub crawl, an authentic culinary tour, and a raw, terrace-style lower-league match experience. From USD 2,699 pp based on double occupancy.

Tottenham Hotspur: London, Inside the Game - Built for the fan who wants to experience the bleeding edge of modern sports entertainment, this high-octane itinerary features VIP halfway-line access at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, universally recognized as one of the world's most advanced sports venues. Travellers will enjoy premium multi-level dining options and an architectural behind-the-scenes tour highlighting the ground's famous retractable pitch. The trip perfectly offsets this ultra-modern spectacle with a journey into North London’s grittiest, most passionate grassroots football pubs and local street food hubs. From USD 2,699 pp based on double occupancy.

Arsenal FC: The Pride of North London - Securing a seat at the Emirates Stadium is currently one of the hardest tasks in global sports, but this itinerary solves the ticket crisis by offering guaranteed, exclusive Club Level seating and full VIP lounge access. Fans will experience the buzzing, electric atmosphere of the title-contending Gunners at the absolute peak of their modern power. The trip blends this highly sought-after game-day experience with a relaxed, self-paced stadium tour, a guided excursion to a local food market, and a traditional afternoon on the terraces at a grassroots National League match. From USD 3,299 pp based on double occupancy.

Chelsea FC: West London to Pitch City - this energetic West London getaway brings travellers face-to-face with the glittering, trophy-laden history of Stamford Bridge. The unmatched matchday experience includes pitchside access before kickoff, premium West Upper seating, a chef’s table dinner, and a complimentary bar with a Chelsea FC legend. Beyond the premium treatment, guests will explore the upscale culinary hotspots of West London and dive into the unfiltered passion of local supporter pubs and lower-league terraces where the cameras aren’t watching. From USD 2,799 pp based on double occupancy.

Manchester City: More Than Matchday - This itinerary offers a genuine Mancunian welcome and unforgettable memories at Etihad Stadium. Bypassing the public queues, fans will watch the tactical masterclasses of one of the world's most successful modern clubs from executive middle-tier seating, complete with premium access to 93:20 - the executive lounge aptly named as a nod to the club’s historic, title-winning goal. The journey includes an immersive, state-of-the-art stadium tour featuring a virtual message from a club legend, and a walk through the famous glass tunnel. Outside the stadium gates, the trip celebrates Manchester’s legendary music and culinary culture with a deep dive into the Northern Quarter, led by a local guide. From USD 2,499 pp based on double occupancy.

Manchester United: From the Stands to the Streets - This itinerary answers the ultimate bucket-list dream for global football fans by opening the doors to the "Theatre of Dreams." Guests will bypass the lengthy ballot lines to secure luxury padded seats in Old Trafford’s coveted North East Quadrant, and walk in the footsteps of United legends with visits to the dressing room, famous tunnel, and pitchside dugouts. Outside the iconic stadium gates, fans will explore the rich industrial heritage of Manchester, visit legendary supporter pubs alongside their CEO, and taste the city's hidden culinary hotspots. From $2,699 pp based on double occupancy.

True to G Adventures’ community tourism ethos, Away Games is designed to connect travelers not only to the sport they love, but also to the people, neighbourhoods and local cultures that make football such a powerful global language.

About G Adventures

Since 1990, when social entrepreneur Bruce Poon Tip set out to change the way people see the world, G Adventures has been leading the way in community tourism and small-group adventure travel. With more than 1,000 life-changing trips in 100 countries across all seven continents, the company helps travelers connect deeply with local people, cultures, landscapes, and wildlife, all while having a blast.

But it doesn’t stop there. ‘G for Good’ social impact commitments ensure every journey supports local communities, with over 130 community tourism projects powered by its non-profit partner, Planeterra, and industry-first Ripple Score, which tracks how much of the company’s travelers’ money stays local. And through its Trees for Days initiative, G Adventures has planted over 5 million trees (and counting).

*** Images courtesy of G Adventures

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full itinerary, date, and pricing details.

Celebrate the North, Escape to the South with Sunwing

Mon, 29 Jun 26 13:12:14 +0000

There’s no better way to celebrate summer than having a vacation on the calendar.

Whether you’ve been thinking about relaxing on the beaches of Mexico, exploring the Dominican Republic, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere of Jamaica or discovering somewhere new in the Caribbean or Central America, Sunwing’s latest promotion makes it easier to turn those plans into reality.

For a limited time, guests can save up to 40% on select all-inclusive vacation packages, with travel available through the end of October. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy warm weather, ocean views and the convenience of an all-inclusive getaway while making the most of the season ahead.

The beauty of an all-inclusive vacation is how easy it feels. Once you’ve arrived, everything slows down. Mornings begin by the pool, afternoons are spent on the beach and evenings are reserved for great food, entertainment and time well spent with the people you’re travelling with.

With departures available throughout the summer and into the fall, there’s plenty of flexibility to find a getaway that fits your schedule. But with the booking window only running through July 5, 2026, it’s an offer worth taking advantage of sooner rather than later.

Terms & Conditions

Save up to 40% on select all-inclusive vacations
Destinations include Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Caribbean, and Central America
Booking window: June 29 to July 5, 2026
Travel window: June 29 to October 31, 2026
Offer applies to select vacation packages

Reach out to us to learn more about available resorts, departure dates and current Sunwing offers.

AmaWaterways Is Rewarding Travellers Who Plan Ahead

Mon, 29 Jun 26 13:06:34 +0000

The biggest advantage of booking early isn’t always the savings. It’s having the freedom to choose exactly the itinerary, departure date and stateroom you want before availability starts to narrow.

That’s the thinking behind AmaWaterways’ 2028 Early Booking Rewards. For a limited time, guests can save up to CAD$3,000 per stateroom when reserving select 2028 river cruises by September 30, 2026.

Whether you’ve been dreaming of sailing the Danube through Austria and Hungary, discovering charming villages along the Rhine or exploring destinations throughout Southeast Europe, booking early gives you access to the widest selection of itineraries while securing today’s promotional pricing.

The offer becomes even more valuable because it can be combined with eligible Loyalty Benefits and Future Cruise Benefits, allowing returning guests to maximize their savings. Plus, final payment isn’t due until 90 days before departure, making it easier to plan well in advance with added flexibility.

For many travellers, planning a river cruise isn’t just about choosing a vacation. It’s about securing the itinerary they’ve been thinking about for years. Booking early simply gives you the best opportunity to do exactly that.

Terms & Conditions

Reserve by September 30, 2026
Save up to CAD$3,000 per stateroom on select 2028 river cruises
Valid on eligible 2028 departures
Choose from a wide selection of itineraries, departure dates and staterooms
Final payment due 90 days prior to departure
Eligible guests can combine with Loyalty Benefits and Future Cruise Benefits
Savings and availability vary by itinerary and departure date

Reach out to us to learn more about AmaWaterways’ 2028 Early Booking Rewards and find the river cruise that’s right for you.

Introducing Trafalgar's New Small Group Tours

Mon, 29 Jun 26 13:03:44 +0000

5 Bucket-List Adventures Better With a Small Group

Some destinations earn a place on travellers' bucket lists for good reason. From spotting wildlife in Costa Rica to exploring ancient civilizations in Sardinia and experiencing daily life in East Africa, these are the journeys people dream about for years before finally taking them.

But while the destination may inspire the trip, it's often the way you experience it that makes all the difference.

More travellers today are seeking meaningful connections, authentic local experiences and a pace that allows them to truly immerse themselves in a destination. That's why small group travel continues to grow in popularity. With fewer travellers, there's more flexibility, more opportunities for conversation and more meaningful moments along the way.

Trafalgar's Small Group Tours are designed to deliver exactly that. With a maximum of just 18 guests, travellers enjoy a more personal way to explore the world while still benefiting from expertly planned itineraries, experienced Travel Directors and the ease of guided travel.

Whether you're exploring Europe's historic villages, cruising through Portugal's wine country or discovering the rainforests of Borneo, small group travel creates opportunities to experience destinations in a deeper and more memorable way.

Here are five bucket-list experiences that are even better with a Small Group Tour.

1. Step Inside Ancient Sardinia

The islands of Sardinia and Corsica are famous for their stunning coastlines, charming villages and Mediterranean culture. Yet some of the region's most fascinating stories stretch back thousands of years.

On Trafalgar's Islands of Sardinia and Corsica journey, travellers visit Sardinia's only UNESCO-listed archaeological area and explore one of the world's most complete Nuragic sites. These ancient stone structures provide a remarkable glimpse into a civilization that flourished long before the Roman Empire.

With a smaller group, it's easier to engage with local guides, ask questions and take time to appreciate the significance of these remarkable archaeological treasures. Rather than simply visiting a historic site, travellers gain a deeper understanding of the people and cultures that shaped the island.

2. Cruise Through Portugal's Douro Valley

Portugal's Douro Valley is one of Europe's most picturesque regions. Terraced vineyards climb steep hillsides, historic wine estates dot the landscape and the river winds through scenery that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

On Portugal Uncovered with Madeira, travellers board a traditional Rabelo boat in Pinhão and cruise through the heart of the Douro Valley. Once used to transport barrels of port wine downriver, these boats now offer visitors a unique perspective of the region.

The leisurely cruise offers an opportunity to soak in the views and appreciate the landscapes that have helped make the Douro Valley one of the world's most celebrated wine regions.

3. Discover Wildlife and Conservation in Borneo

For nature lovers, few destinations are as exciting as Borneo.

Home to orangutans, sun bears and some of the oldest rainforests on Earth, Borneo offers extraordinary opportunities to witness wildlife while learning about the conservation efforts helping protect these fragile ecosystems.

On Wild Encounters of Borneo, travellers visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where orphaned and rescued orangutans are cared for and prepared for life back in the wild. Watching these incredible animals move through the rainforest canopy is an unforgettable experience.

Guests also visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and meet founder and CEO Dr. Wong, who shares how his team rescues and rehabilitates sun bears threatened by habitat loss and the illegal pet trade. It's a rare opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the conservation efforts helping secure the future of the species.

The journey continues through the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, where suspension bridges and canopy walkways provide a unique perspective high above the rainforest floor.

4. Explore Costa Rica's Remarkable Waterways

Costa Rica is one of the world's most biodiverse destinations, and nowhere is that more evident than Tortuguero National Park.

Accessible primarily by boat, this protected region is a network of canals, lagoons and rainforest habitats that support an astonishing variety of wildlife.

On Costa Rica Nature Adventure, travellers cruise through Tortuguero's waterways alongside a Local Specialist, searching for monkeys, toucans, sloths, crocodiles and countless other species that call this ecosystem home.

The experience extends beyond wildlife encounters. Travellers also visit the village of Tortuguero, where they meet local residents and gain insight into daily life within the community.

One memorable highlight is meeting Cloied, a member of one of the village's pioneer families, who shares stories about the region while demonstrating how to prepare a traditional coconut dessert.

5. Experience Daily Life in Kenya and Tanzania

East Africa is often associated with iconic safari experiences and extraordinary wildlife sightings. While those moments are certainly unforgettable, some of the most meaningful memories come from the people travellers meet along the journey.

On Kenya and Tanzania Safari Adventure, guests visit an authentic Maasai village to learn about one of East Africa's most recognizable cultures. Community members share traditions, daily customs and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations.

Later, travellers visit the village of Mto wa Mbu, where local farms and markets provide insight into everyday life. Guests sample traditional banana beer, enjoy a home-cooked Swahili lunch and hear stories from local women who share the ingredients and traditions behind each dish.

Why Small Group Travel Makes a Difference

While these experiences span continents and cultures, they share a common thread: meaningful connection.

Trafalgar's Small Group Tours are designed for travellers who want more than a checklist of famous sights. With a maximum of 18 guests, journeys feel more relaxed, immersive and personal from start to finish.

Travellers enjoy more opportunities to engage with local communities, spend time in remarkable places and experience destinations at a pace that feels comfortable rather than rushed.

At the same time, they continue to benefit from everything Trafalgar is known for: expertly planned itineraries, knowledgeable Travel Directors, carefully selected accommodations and signature Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences that connect travellers with local people and cultures.

The result is a style of travel that combines the convenience of guided touring with the intimacy and flexibility many travellers are seeking today.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

If you've been dreaming about exploring some of the world's most remarkable destinations, now may be the perfect time to discover them through a Small Group Tour.

For a limited time, save 10%* on select 2027 Trafalgar Small Group Tour departures. Speak with your travel advisor to find the journey that matches your travel style and discover how a smaller group can create bigger travel experiences.

30% Off Plus Pre-Cruise Hotel, Air Offers on Crystal Cruises

Tue, 16 Jun 26 19:36:52 +0000

Only until July 31: Ultra-luxury Crystal Cruises is extending its Exceptional Savings Offer of up to 30% off – and it’s combinable with Crystal’s ‘More in the Med’ hotel offer or their ‘Caribbean Included Air’ Offer!

ASK US HOW TO MAXIMIZE THE VALUE OF YOUR NEXT CRYSTAL CRUISE!

Book by July 31 to Save

Exceptional Savings Offer:

Save up to 30% off eligible 2026, 2027, and 2028 voyages

Featured itineraries included in this offer:

Lisbon – Barcelona, 7 Nights: Aug 14, 2026 - Aug 21, 2026 aboard Crystal Serenity
Barcelona - Civitavecchia (Rome), 9 Nights: Aug 21, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026 aboard Crystal Serenity
Fusina (Venice) - Piraeus (Athens), 7 Nights: Sep 8, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026 aboard Crystal Serenity
Lisbon – Lisbon, 6 Nights: Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026 aboard Crystal Serenity

For even more benefits, combine Exceptional Savings with other Crystal Cruises offers!

Caribbean Included Air

Get an air credit of up to $6,000 when you book your flights through Crystal, or up to $4,000 cruise credit if you arrange your own flight;
Available on select 2026 Americas & Caribbean voyages;
Guests booking Crystal air will receive up to USD $1,500/CAD $3,000 per person. Book your own air and receive an air credit of up to USD$1,000/CAD$2,000 per person, applied towards either your cruise booking or airport transfers.

Book by July 31, 2026.

More About Crystal

For more than three decades, Crystal has been synonymous with exceptional, award-winning voyages. In 2022, AKTG (Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group) acquired the Crystal brand and its two vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, ushering in a new era of being ‘Exceptional at Sea’ following a $170 million refurbishment of the two ships. The globally renowned cruise line offers discerning travelers industry-leading, authentic, and enriching experiences both onshore and at sea. Crystal’s pioneering partnership with Abercrombie & Kent provides guests with unparalleled access to the most sought-after experiences and destinations around the world. The reimagined ships boast larger, updated suites with artisanal finishes, and almost one crew member per guest.

With a legacy of unrivalled service and commitment to sophistication and elegance at every touchpoint, once onboard, guests feel as if they are perfectly at home.

Crystal is home to the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea as part of an exclusive partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), and world-class dining includes Umi Uma, the only dining experience at sea by chef Nobu (Nobuyuki Matsuhisa), and the only Beefbar on the ocean, a collaboration with visionary restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi, and a specially curated Osteria d’Ovidio menu by three-time Michelin-starred Italian chef Massimiliano and celebrated restaurateur Raffaele Alajmo. The ships also feature cutting-edge wellness at the Aurōra Spa, and spectacular entertainment including Broadway-standard shows.

*** Images courtesy of Crystal Cruises

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full offer, itinerary, date and pricing details

Travel to Scotland and Ireland with Brendan Vacations and Save

Tue, 16 Jun 26 19:36:52 +0000

For a limited time, this Celtic travel-focused company is making booking your next trip to Ireland and Scotland even easier with hundreds of dollars in savings on 2026 and 2027 tours across all the company’s travel styles.

Book one of Brendan Vacations’ Ireland or Scotland trips, including Guided Vacations, Small Group Tours, and independent trip itineraries, and save during their summer promotion.

CONTACT US TODAY

AND

LET US HELP YOU FIND YOUR PERFECT CELTIC TRIP AND TRAVEL STYLE!

2027 Savings on Classic Guided Tours

Travelers can save 10% on select Signature and Premium Guided Tours in 2027, including a dedicated expert Travel Director, transportation, curated accommodations, and immersive sightseeing experiences.

The Early Booking Advantage offers travellers first access to the widest selection of 2027 departures with the best pricing and more flexibility to coordinate travel arrangements and runs through September 30, 2026. On-sale itineraries include:

Highlights of Ireland and Scotland (Signature): An 11-day tour from Dublin to Edinburgh covering the best of both countries, from the Giant's Causeway and the Ring of Kerry to the Scottish Highlands, historic castles, and scenic lochs.
Ireland's Icons (Premium): A 10-day round-trip journey from Dublin covering Ireland's most storied regions, including the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, Connemara, Kylemore Abbey, and a “MAKE TRAVEL MATTER” Experience at Powerscourt Gardens.

Small Group Tours

On Brendan Vacations’ new Small Group Tours, travellers can save USD 500 per person ($650 CAD) on 2026 and 2027 departures limited to 18–24 guests.

This intimate style pairs premium accommodations, including select castle stays, with deep local connections and at least one “MAKE TRAVEL MATTER” Experience per itinerary. New itineraries include:

Scotland at Leisure: An eight-day journey from Edinburgh through the Scottish Highlands, combining sea crossings to Iona, the famous landscapes of Glencoe and the Isle of Skye, and immersive local experiences including whisky tasting and Harris Tweed craft.
Extraordinary Ireland: A 12-day circular journey tracing Ireland's story from Dublin's Georgian squares and Galway's cobbled streets to the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, the Giant's Causeway, and the walled city of Derry/Londonderry.

Flexible Travel Styles

For travelers seeking freedom to explore at their own pace, Brendan Vacations’ flexible independent travel options combine personalized planning with on-the-ground support and trusted local expertise:

Self-Drive & Rail Vacations:

Travelers save hundreds depending on the total price of your independent curated scenic itinerary by car or rail, with hand-picked accommodations and seamless logistical coordination.

Ireland Coast to Coast (Self-Drive): A fully flexible journey through Ireland's most iconic landscapes, from the medieval streets of Kilkenny and the Cliffs of Moher to the charm of Killarney and Dromoland Castle.
Scotland's Festive Adventure (Rail, NEW): A nine-day winter rail journey through Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, taking in Christmas markets, whisky experiences, snow-dusted Highlands, and Scotland's festive seasonal charm.

Private Driver & Luxury Self-Drive Vacations:

Travelers save hundreds depending on the total price of your independent itinerary, which can combine customized routing, accommodations from Catherine’s Collection, and expert support with private drivers or luxury vehicles.

Irish Cities, Landscapes & Castles (Private Driver): A fully flexible journey through Ireland's contrasts, from Dublin and the ancient monastic site of Glendalough to the Ring of Kerry and a stay at Dromoland Castle.
Scotland's Highlands and Hidden Roads (Luxury Self-Drive): A ten-day journey through Scotland's Highlands, sparkling lochs, and charming villages, with the freedom to explore independently in a premium vehicle with accommodations from Catherine's Collection.

Brendan’s Every Season Sale is valid on select 2026 and 2027 Small Group Tours and independent departures and must be booked by July 31, 2026.

The Early Booking Advantage is valid on select 2027 Guided Vacation departures and must be booked by September 30, 2026. All offers are subject to availability at the time of booking, so book early to get your choice of date and trip!

*** Images courtesy of Brendan Vacations

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full offer, itinerary, pricing and date details.

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

Tue, 16 Jun 26 19:36:52 +0000

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

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

Tue, 16 Jun 26 19:36:52 +0000

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

Discover the World with Oceania Cruises at Our Exclusive Virtual Event

Mon, 15 Jun 26 15:22:56 +0000

Join us for an inspiring evening as we explore what sets Oceania Cruises apart, from destination-rich itineraries that span the globe to elegant small-ship experiences designed for curious travellers who want to see more of the world.

During this special presentation, you’ll discover:

• Exceptional voyages to some of the world’s most captivating destinations
• Intimate, refined ships with a focus on comfort and service
• Meaningful cultural experiences ashore
• The Finest Cuisine at Sea® and a culinary experience unlike any other

Whether you’re dreaming about your next adventure or looking for inspiration for future travels, this is your opportunity to learn why Oceania Cruises continues to be a favourite among discerning travellers.

Reserve your spot for our Virtual Consumer Night today.

Travel Better Together with Riviera Travel

Fri, 12 Jun 26 10:15:14 +0000

Travel Is Better When Everyone's In!

Some journeys are just better shared. The laughter over dinner. The first glimpse of a skyline. The moment someone says, "I'm so glad we did this."

Riviera Travel believes group travel should feel like the best decision you ever made, not the most complicated. That's why they've built an offer that puts every single member of your group exactly where they deserve to be: fully present, fully included, and completely taken care of.

50% off. A saving that means everyone can say yes.

For every 7 guests who book, the 8th place is on them, their way of saying that no one should ever be left out of the adventure.

Full immersion, fully included. Dining, drinks, excursions, and the experiences that truly define a journey are woven into every itinerary from the start. No awkward bill-splitting. No optional extras that feel anything but optional.

Behind every group booking is a dedicated Riviera Travel Groups Team, specialists who know that the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one is in the details. From your first enquiry to the moment you return home, they're with you every step of the way.

And underpinning it all: their Holiday Happiness Guarantee. Because when you've brought together the people you care about most, peace of mind isn't a luxury; it's a given.

Celebrate Love in Caribbean Luxury with Sandals and Beaches Resorts

Fri, 12 Jun 26 10:02:33 +0000

At Sandals and Beaches Resorts, couples can experience world-class service, exceptional amenities, and authentic Caribbean charm while creating memories that last a lifetime.

Whether planning a destination wedding, honeymoon, vow renewal, babymoon, or romantic getaway, every celebration is thoughtfully designed to reflect each couple's unique love story. From intimate elopements to grand affairs surrounded by family and friends, these resorts offer personalized experiences that transform special moments into unforgettable occasions.

Couples who stay seven nights or longer in select Club or Butler room categories at any Sandals or Beaches Resort can take advantage of our Sweetheart Wedding Package. Designed to enhance the wedding experience, this package includes support from a dedicated wedding planning team, ensuring every detail is carefully coordinated from the initial planning stages through the big day itself. Couples can relax knowing experienced professionals are there every step of the way.

The package also includes exclusive perks such as a private one-hour cocktail reception, 15% savings on select Red Lane Spa services for the bride and groom, and a $200 credit toward select photography and videography packages. These thoughtful additions help create a seamless and memorable wedding week filled with luxury and romance.

Because every couple is different, Sandals and Beaches believes every wedding should be too. Wedding inspirations are thoughtfully curated to reflect the beauty and culture of the Caribbean islands. From Jamaica-inspired tropical blooms bursting with vibrant colours to the soft desert florals and natural textures inspired by Curaçao, couples can personalize their celebration with décor and styling that reflects their vision.

Choosing the perfect ceremony location is equally effortless. From Turks and Caicos to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sandals and Beaches offers a variety of breathtaking venues, including stunning beachfront settings where waves gently lap the shore and iconic overwater chapels suspended above crystal-clear waters. Couples can also choose from lush tropical gardens and elegant oceanfront terraces, each offering spectacular scenery and unforgettable photo opportunities.

The romance continues long after the ceremony. Newlyweds can enjoy luxurious honeymoon experiences featuring candlelit dinners, couples' spa treatments, and endless opportunities to relax and reconnect in paradise. Couples celebrating milestone anniversaries can also renew their vows in a beautiful setting that honours their journey together.

For those seeking a more meaningful celebration, our partnership with the Sandals Foundation offers eco-conscious wedding options that allow couples to give back while celebrating their love. Through symbolic tree planting ceremonies, wedding garment donation programs, and nature-based experiences, couples can create lasting memories while supporting local communities and environmental sustainability.

At Sandals and Beaches Resort, every detail is designed to celebrate love. Combined with exceptional service, stunning venues, personalized wedding experiences, and the warmth of Caribbean hospitality, it is the perfect destination for couples looking to begin their next chapter—or celebrate the journey they have already shared—in unforgettable style.

Europe Without the Crowds? Air Canada Vacations Has You Covered

Fri, 12 Jun 26 09:54:15 +0000

There’s a reason experienced travellers often choose Europe outside of peak season!

The pace feels different. Attractions are less crowded, restaurant reservations are easier to secure, and cities tend to feel more intimate once the busy summer months have passed. Whether it’s strolling through Paris in the fall, experiencing Christmas Markets along the Danube, or exploring Italy during the quieter winter season, off-season travel often offers a completely different perspective.

That’s the idea behind Air Canada Vacations’ latest Europe promotion.

For a limited time, travellers can take advantage of special offers on select Europe tour packages for departures between September 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027. It’s an opportunity to experience some of Europe’s most iconic destinations during a time of year many seasoned travellers consider the sweet spot.

Beyond the destinations themselves, the added value makes planning even easier. Guests can enjoy 50% off CareFlex travel protection, along with a first checked bag and one carry-on included, helping simplify the journey from the moment they leave home.

Terms & Conditions

Book by July 5, 2026
Valid on select Europe tour packages
Travel between September 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027
50% off CareFlex travel protection
First checked bag included
One carry-on included
Additional conditions may apply

Reach out to us to learn more about featured Europe tours, available departures, and current Air Canada Vacations offers.

Chicken Provençal - A Taste of Southern France

Fri, 12 Jun 26 03:30:27 +0000

A Taste of Southern France

Chicken Provençal is a classic dish from Provence, a sun-drenched region in southern France known for its lavender fields, hilltop villages, vineyards, and Mediterranean coastline.

The cuisine of Provence celebrates simple ingredients and bold flavours. Olive oil, tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs, olives, and citrus appear in many traditional recipes, creating dishes that feel both rustic and elegant.

This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with fragrant Herbes de Provence, tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and a touch of orange zest. Slowly braised until meltingly tender, it's the kind of meal best enjoyed with a crusty baguette and a glass of French wine.

Whether you're planning a future trip to France or simply exploring through your taste buds, this dish offers a delicious introduction to one of Europe's most beloved culinary regions.

Ingredients

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tbsp Herbes de Provence
1½ tsp kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 to 2 tbsp olive oil
6 medium shallots, quartered
12 cloves garlic, halved
1 cup dry white wine
2 cups cherry tomatoes
½ cup Castelvetrano olives, halved
2 tbsp capers, rinsed
4 sprigs fresh tarragon
1 strip orange zest

For garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh tarragon, chopped

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry. Combine Herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper. Rub over both sides of the chicken and under the skin. Let rest for 20 minutes.

2. Sear the Chicken

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet. Sear chicken skin-side down until golden and crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes. Flip and cook another 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Build the Sauce

Add shallots and garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.

Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer until reduced by half.

Add tomatoes, olives, capers, tarragon, and orange zest.

4. Braise

Return chicken to the skillet, keeping the skin above the liquid as much as possible.

Transfer to the oven and cook uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has reduced.

5. Serve

Discard the tarragon sprigs and orange zest.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and tarragon. Serve with a warm baguette to soak up the delicious Provençal sauce. Enjoy!

Travel Inspiration: Provence, France

If this recipe leaves you dreaming of France, Provence is famous for:

• Lavender fields in bloom each summer
• Charming villages such as Gordes and Roussillon
• Outdoor markets overflowing with local produce and spices
• Vineyards and wine tasting experiences
• Mediterranean coastal towns and beaches
• River cruises along the Rhône River

Provence is a wonderful destination for travellers who enjoy food, wine, culture, history, and relaxed sightseeing.

Ready to experience Provence for yourself? Let's connect.

Herbes de Provence - The Flavour of Southern France

Fri, 12 Jun 26 02:47:31 +0000

The Flavour of Southern France

Herbes de Provence is a classic French herb blend inspired by the sunny countryside of Provence in southern France.

This aromatic seasoning typically combines herbs that thrive in the Mediterranean climate, creating a blend that is earthy, floral, and slightly savoury. It's a staple in French kitchens and is often used to season roasted meats, vegetables, soups, and stews.

The blend became popular throughout the Provence region, where fragrant herbs grow wild among vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields.

What Does Herbes de Provence Taste Like?

Herbes de Provence has a warm, herbaceous flavour with notes of:

Thyme
Rosemary
Savoury
Marjoram
Oregano

Some modern versions also include:

Lavender
Fennel seed
Basil

The result is a seasoning that captures the flavours of southern France in a single spoonful.

Ways to Use Herbes de Provence

Roasted Chicken

Rub generously over chicken before roasting for a classic French-inspired meal.

Roasted Potatoes

Toss potatoes with olive oil and Herbes de Provence before baking.

Grilled Vegetables

Perfect with zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and onions.

Soups and Stews

Add a teaspoon while simmering for extra depth of flavour.

Bread Dipping Oil

Mix with olive oil and serve with a fresh baguette.

Fish and Seafood

Sprinkle over salmon, cod, or shrimp before cooking.

Lesa's Favorite way

Sprinkle into your French omelet or delicately scrambled eggs with a bit of cheese.

Featured Recipe

Chicken Provençal

One of the most famous dishes featuring Herbes de Provence combines tender chicken with tomatoes, olives, garlic, capers, and a touch of citrus.

View the Chicken Provençal Recipe

Make Your Own Herbes de Provence

Want to create your own blend at home?

Mix together:

2 tablespoons dried thyme
2 tablespoons dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried marjoram
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried savoury

Optional:

1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
1 teaspoon fennel seed

Store in an airtight container for up to six months.

Travel Inspiration: Provence, France

Provence is one of France's most beautiful regions and is famous for:

Lavender fields
Vineyards and wineries
Outdoor markets
Hilltop villages
Mediterranean cuisine
Rhône River cruises

Travellers often visit Provence to experience the food, wine, history, and relaxed pace of life that have inspired generations of artists and chefs.

Perhaps this little packet of herbs will inspire your next adventure. If it does, let's connect.

Travel Through Your Taste Buds

Fri, 12 Jun 26 02:04:54 +0000

Every destination has a story, and many of those stories begin around a table.

Food connects us to culture, history, and tradition in a way few other experiences can. The spice blend you received was inspired by a destination known for its unique flavours, local ingredients, and culinary heritage.

Choose your spice blend below to discover recipes, regional traditions, and the destinations that inspired them.

Explore Your Spice Blend

Herbs of Provence

Experience the flavours of southern France, where lavender fields, hilltop villages, and Mediterranean cuisine create one of the world's most beloved culinary regions.

Featured Destination: Provence, France

Explore Herbs of Provence

Merguez Seasoning

Discover bold flavours inspired by the rich cultural influences of North Africa and southern Spain, where centuries of history have shaped both architecture and cuisine.

Featured Destinations: Morocco & Andalusia, Spain

Explore Alhambra Merguez Seasoning - coming soon

Yakitori Seasoning

Explore the simple yet unforgettable flavours of Japan. Inspired by traditional grilled skewers enjoyed in lively neighbourhood restaurants and street markets, this blend captures the balance and attention to detail that define Japanese cuisine.

Featured Destination: Japan

Explore Yakitori Seasoning - coming soon

Collect the Series

Each spice blend in the Travel Through Your Taste Buds collection highlights a different destination and its unique culinary traditions.

New destinations and spice blends will be added over time, so be sure to check back and continue your journey around the world.

Ready to Experience the Destination Behind the Flavours?

Whether you're dreaming of wandering through the villages of Provence, exploring the markets of Morocco, discovering the history of Andalusia, or experiencing the culture of Japan, I'd be happy to help you plan the journey.

Holland America Launching Year-Round Cruises in Europe

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:29 +0000

The seasons for cruise and travel are changing – even disappearing altogether! Holland America Line has become the latest cruise line to expand to year-round sailing in Europe, joining the likes of Viking and Windstar to make the coasts of the Mediterranean and beyond a destination for all seasons.

From festive Scandinavian cities to European Christmas markets, Lapland and a more relaxed Mediterranean, new Holland America Line winter voyages bring the season to life with an extended 2027-2028 season sailing through early spring. These itineraries showcase Europe at a different pace, with access to seasonal experiences, regional traditions and a greater mix of destinations across the region With more overnights and late-night stays, the new deployment offers deeper, more immersive ways to explore throughout the year.

The expanded season includes a dozen cruises aboard Nieuw Statendam across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The new itineraries add more than 70 additional port days year-over-year, giving guests more time in port along with extended stays and fewer crowds.

The deployment also includes two additional voyages aboard Zuiderdam, further expanding options for guests exploring Europe during the winter season.

Christmas Market Cruises Bring Europe’s Holiday Traditions to Life

Nieuw Statendam’s holiday sailings are designed to immerse guests in Europe at one of its most atmospheric times of year, when city squares glow with lights, markets fill with local artisans and the pace of travel invites deeper exploration. With overnights and extended stays built into each itinerary, guests have the time to experience the traditions, cuisine and rhythms that define the season.

A 13-day Baltic and Scandinavian Christmas Markets: Stockholm cruise sails roundtrip from Rotterdam or Dover, calling at Kiel, the gateway to Hamburg’s well-known Christmas markets, as well as Tallinn and Copenhagen. Overnight stays in Helsinki and Stockholm give guests time to explore festive city centers after dark, when markets and cultural traditions are in full swing. The Helsinki call also offers access to Lapland in the Arctic Circle, referred to by many as the home of Santa Claus.
A second 15-day holiday sailing spans the Christmas season, featuring overnights in Hamburg and Copenhagen. The itinerary also includes a call to Aarhus and scenic cruising of the Elbe River, along with exploration of southern Norway, with calls to Oslo, Kristiansand, Bergen and Stavanger.

Mediterranean Voyages Offer a More Relaxed Way to Explore

Beyond the holiday season, Nieuw Statendam’s winter and early spring sailings shift south to the Mediterranean, where guests can experience the region at a slower pace. With mild temperatures and a rich mix of seasonal experiences, destinations feel local and approachable, offering a fresh perspective on some of Europe’s most-visited cities.

The itineraries span the Western and Eastern Mediterranean as well as the Canary Islands, connecting cultural capitals and coastal towns across Spain, France, Italy and Greece. Voyages include ports such as Valencia, Marseille and Livorno, and Naples for access to Pompeii. Farther east, sailings explore destinations including Mykonos, Rhodes and Kusadasi, along with overnight calls in sought-after destinations allowing for more time ashore.

With a mix of seven- to 14-day voyages, guests can choose shorter, region-focused sailings or combine itineraries for a more expansive journey.

Longer Collectors’ Voyages span up to 24 days and can also be sailed back-to-back, allowing guests to experience a broader mix of the region. Sailings highlight the Mediterranean in a season when the pace is slower, the atmosphere is more intimate and each destination offers a more authentic connection.

Whether you want to escape hot weather, avoid crowds during school holidays, or enjoy seasonal local holiday celebrations, formerly ‘off season’ cruises are increasingly the perfect solution. With all the benefits of cruising: packing once and having your floating hotel bring you into the heart of multiple destinations, and having all the details looked after so all you have to do is be on vacation!

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Holland America Line

Do You Know Your Mediterranean A, B… Seas?

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:29 +0000

When is the Med… not just the Med? The Mediterranean Sea and its iconic coastal towns, yacht harbors, fishing villages, beaches, cliffs, and cultural touchpoints are on nearly everyone’s list of favorite escapes. But – pop quiz - did you know that the Mediterranean isn’t just one sea?

In reality, it’s a collection of smaller seas that developed independently and were named before the full region was charted by ancient navigators. Ultimately, they were stitched together by ancient trade routes, empire-building, mythology, culture, cuisines, and coastlines. Travel across the Med, and you’re not cruising a single body of water. You’re crossing distinct maritime worlds, each with its own personality, history - even color palette and weather!

How many Mediterranean ‘seas within a sea’ can you name? How many could you point out on a map? There are at least a dozen! Here are the 5 most famous and noteworthy:

1. The Adriatic Sea

Tucked between Italy and the Balkan coast, the Adriatic Sea may be the Mediterranean’s most elegant subsea. Venetian merchants once ruled these waters, leaving behind a trail of bell towers, marble squares and fortified ports from Venice to Dubrovnik. The Adriatic is narrower and calmer than the rest of the Mediterranean, making it ideal for yacht cruising and smaller-ship itineraries. Its eastern coastline, especially along Croatia and Montenegro, is deeply indented with coves, islands, and medieval stone towns.

(Venice Image: Lynn Elmhirst)

2. The Aegean Sea

South and to the east: the unmistakably Greek Aegean Sea (pictured, top, Getty Images). By cruise ship, yacht or ferry, go island-hopping and discover civilizations that shaped the Western world. The Aegean is scattered with thousands of islands, though only a fraction are inhabited. Santorini is the one everyone pictures first, but smaller islands reveal how diverse the Aegean really is. The sea itself tends toward striking cobalt blues against the stark whites of villages under blazing sun.

3. The Ligurian Sea

South of France, another “sea within the Mediterranean Sea” has a glamorous reputation more famous than its name. Did you know the Italian Riviera and the Côte d’Azur are technically on the Ligurian Sea? This is the heart of the chic ‘Mediterranean’ lifestyle, where villages evolved into playgrounds for aristocrats, artists and billionaires. Portofino, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez all front these waters. Behind the polished marinas, the Ligurian coast is breathtakingly vertical, with rocky cliffs, terraced hillsides, fishing villages and some of Europe’s most dramatic coastal rail routes. This is also where Mediterranean beach culture as we know it was born.

(Monaco Image: Lynn Elmhirst)

4. The Tyrrhenian Sea

The Tyrrhenian Sea, off Italy’s western coast, is the heart of the cinematic Mediterranean. Rome, Naples, Capri, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Amalfi Coast all face the sea where ancient Greeks and Romans battled. Volcanoes still shape the horizon, and underwater archaeology continues to uncover shipwrecks from empires that once dominated the known world. Travelers crossing the Tyrrhenian quickly understand how deeply Italy’s identity is tied to the sea — from seafood markets in Naples to Stromboli’s volcanic silhouette rising from the water at night.

(Sardinia Image: Getty)

5. The Balearic Sea

Then there’s the Balearic Sea around the Spanish islands of Mallorca/ Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Your first thoughts may go to Ibiza’s famous party culture, but explore beyond: Menorca preserves quiet coves and prehistoric stone sites; Mallorca combines mountain villages with sophisticated food culture; Ibiza, despite its nightlife fame, has become a serious wellness and luxury destination. All infused with Spanish island culture.

(Mallorca Image: Getty)

Remembering the mosaic of the Mediterranean’s seas is the clue to why we love to return to its shores again and again. From the Straits of Gibraltar on its Western gateway, to Biblical shores at the Eastern end, the Mediterranean reveals worlds of travel appeal.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Images as noted

Keeping Time: Why a Timepiece is Still the Best Souvenir of Switzerland

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:29 +0000

For more than 400 years, Switzerland has been the world’s watchmaking and time-keeping capital. And unlike many luxury industries in other countries that outsourced production decades ago, the most respected Swiss watch brands are still made in Switzerland — often by hand, often in the same valleys and communities where the craft was born.

That makes a Swiss watch or clock not only an investment in precision timekeeping and prestigious personal style, but also a truly authentic and heirloom-quality memento of a visit to Switzerland.

Now, when it comes to souvenir shopping, I'm firmly in the ‘consumables’ camp: something you can eat or drink or share when you get home. But something useful that also represents timeless craftsmanship and will last forever? That is the kind of souvenir I can get behind. Especially when it's wearable every day!

I know we are bombarded with opportunities to treat ourselves to luxurious Swiss timepieces at every turn: from chic boutiques in shopping centers, on cruise ships, and in airports, to online. But here’s why: actually going to Switzerland and immersing yourself in its horological history and culture – then buying that statement watch from the source! – will give you a lot more satisfaction – and something to talk about! - than a simple store transaction.

The Birth of a ‘Quiet’ Luxury Industry

The story of Swiss watchmaking began almost accidentally in the 16th century. Mechanical clocks and then portable timepieces had been developed in the late mediaeval period in other European countries.

It was when Protestant reformer John Calvin banned the display of jewelry and luxurious ‘excess’ in Geneva that local goldsmiths and jewelers quickly pivoted to an alternative product to save their businesses. Useful and practical watches were the perfect workaround to the restrictions.

Inadvertently, Calvin’s ‘sumptuary laws’ ended up launching Switzerland as the grandfather of the industrialization, precision, artistry, and global standardization of watchmaking. And set the country on the road towards being the undisputed home of the most luxurious and prestigious timekeeping brands.

By the 1700s, watchmaking had spread into the Swiss Jura Mountains, where long winters kept farming families indoors for months at a time. Tiny workshops producing gears, springs, enamel dials, and cases emerged across western Switzerland. Entire villages specialized in microscopic components assembled elsewhere into finished timepieces.

The geography mattered. Swiss watchmaking evolved in relative isolation, encouraging highly specialized expertise and obsessive precision. By the 19th century, Swiss makers dominated international exhibitions and world timing competitions. Railroads, shipping, science, and later aviation and sporting events all required increasingly accurate timekeeping — and Switzerland set the global benchmark.

Watch This!

Made-in-Switzerland marques remain global cultural touchpoints and symbols of success, as much as luxury products such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Breitling, and TAG Heuer. Even disruptor Swatch has populist Swiss chic.

A trip to Switzerland lets you actually see how mechanical watches are still made in ‘factory towns’ that are pilgrimage sites for timekeeping fans.

In Switzerland’s ‘Watch Valley’ — the informal name for Switzerland’s watchmaking corridor — you’ll find factory tours and museum experiences tied to legendary brands. Don’t miss the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva that traces five centuries of horology. Or the UNESCO-listed town of La Chaux-de-Fonds, where urban planning itself reflects the watch industry, with streets and workshops designed to maximize natural light for microscopic watch assembly.

Time Travel

In an era when luxury branding and souvenirs are often disconnected from manufacturing reality, Swiss watches remain the real deal. A ‘Swiss Made’ label carries strict requirements including movement manufacturing, assembly, and inspection inside Switzerland.

You know that treating yourself to a Swiss mechanical watch is not about telling time in an era when your phone has taken over that role. Instead, Swiss watches purchased at their source represent an indelible sense of place alongside engineering, heritage, craftsmanship, and increasingly, permanence in a disposable age.

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Image: Getty

When Your Overwater Bungalow Sails with You in Tahiti: Paul Gauguin Cruises' Room Tour

Tue, 02 Jun 26 20:28:29 +0000

It’s a tropical vacation fantasy: staying in an overwater bungalow over breathtaking, warm, turquoise waters in the legendary and romantic South Pacific. But what if your overwater bungalow floats with you to a new, incredible destination every day?

That’s one of the best reasons to experience the Islands of Tahiti and French Polynesia with Paul Gauguin Cruises.

The Paul Gauguin IS your floating overwater bungalow in the fabled South Seas. With mesmerizing early morning sail-ins and romantic sunset sailaways from the emerald green cliffs and picturesque lagoons of places you’ve visited in your dreams: Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and beyond.

From an overwater bungalow, you gaze out onto the incredible seas of Polynesia. From your veranda aboard the Paul Gauguin, you gaze onto the thatched roofs, palm-dappled untouched beaches, steep jungles, and vivid colors of the islands and their surrounding seas.

WATCH THE VIDEO: Room Tour aboard the Paul Gauguin.

For over a quarter of a century, the Paul Gauguin has called French Polynesia home. Designed in every respect specifically to sail into the quiet coves and shallow lagoons of the islands of the South Pacific, she is part of the seascape and culture of Tahiti and French Polynesian travel.

Like a cherished heritage inn, she has undergone frequent refurbishments that have maintained her jewel-box charms and quality appointments, with tasteful nods to modern tastes and comforts.

A voyage aboard feels like you’ve traveled not only to the other side of the Pacific, but also to another time: of gracious, slow travel, of voyages of discovery in pristine places, of having time and space and silence to think and appreciate the company of the people you’re traveling with.

It’s a haven of escapism, tropical nature, French Polynesian history, culture, and nautical heritage.

Is there any more evocative holiday that celebrates the romance of exotic travel more than a vacation in an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific? Having sailed aboard the Paul Gauguin in my own, floating overwater bungalow… I think there is.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

Why Travelers are Following the Trail of South Africa’s Oldest Vineyards

Tue, 19 May 26 16:39:48 +0000

For wine travelers, South Africa’s Old Vine Project has transformed a tasting trip through the Cape winelands into a journey through living wine history.

Across the Western Cape, the tell-tale shapes of gnarled old bush vines — some planted decades ago — are now among the country’s most compelling travel experiences. Visitors in the know increasingly come not just to taste wine, but to stand among vineyards that survived turbulent decades of drought, shifting wine fashions, and the global race toward high-yield commercial wine production.

The Champion of South Africa’s Old Vines

At the center of this movement is Rosa Kruger, the South African viticulturist widely credited with helping save the country’s heritage vineyards.

I had the privilege of meeting Rosa at an event hosted by the Wines of South Africa, where she recounted her quest to rediscover, document, and preserve the country’s oldest vines. A tasting confirmed they were worth the effort – and visiting those wineries nurturing and making wine from these small and precious vineyards should be on every oenophile’s list of travel goals.

In the early 2000s, Kruger began traveling through the Cape searching for forgotten old vineyards. At the time, many were at risk of being uprooted because older vines naturally produce lower yields and were often seen as economically inefficient. Kruger believed exactly the opposite: that these mature vineyards represented some of South Africa’s greatest wine treasures.

The Old Vine Project

Her work eventually led to the formal launch of the Old Vine Project (OVP) in 2016. The project’s mission is to identify, preserve, and promote vineyards older than 35 years while creating financial incentives for growers to keep them alive rather than replacing them with younger, higher-yielding vines better suited to mass, commercial wine production.

The result has been transformative — not only for South African wine, but for wine travel.

South Africa did not invent the idea of old vines. European wine regions have revered ancient vineyards for centuries, and wineries in France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy long marketed “old vine” wines. Spain and Portugal, in particular, still have vineyards significantly older than many in South Africa.

What South Africa has done — arguably more influentially — has been to turn old vines from romantic wine marketing into a globally respected preservation movement.

Groundbreaking Initiative Preserving Ancient Vineyards

South Africa debuted the first nationally organized certification and preservation movement dedicated specifically to identifying, registering, protecting and commercially promoting old vineyards across an entire wine-producing country.

Before the South African model, “old vine” was often vague marketing language with no formal definition. One producer’s old vines might be 20 years old; another’s 80. The Old Vine Project introduced traceable vineyard records and a formal “Certified Heritage Vineyards” seal for vineyards older than 35 years, helping establish credibility and authenticity.

Global Impact

The idea resonated far beyond the Cape winelands.

For decades, many growers saw old vines as liabilities because they yield fewer grapes. The Old Vine Project helped flip that thinking. Lower yields could mean greater concentration, texture, and personality — wines distinctive enough to command premium prices and inspire wine lovers to travel halfway around the world to taste them.

Its impact can now be seen in the Old World and the New World, where wineries are embracing, codifying, and preserving their own oldest vines.

Kruger herself has become one of the most respected figures in global wine. In 2022, she became the first South African inducted into Decanter’s Hall of Fame.

Redefining Regional Wines and Wine Travel

The movement reshaped South Africa’s wine identity. For years, the country was associated with inexpensive bulk wine. The rediscovery of old Chenin Blanc, Cinsault, Semillon, Palomino, and Grenache vineyards helped fuel a premium wine renaissance centered on authenticity, terroir, and heritage.

In the glass, old vines often deliver wines with extraordinary texture, concentration, and sense of place.

For visitors planning a Cape winelands itinerary, the Old Vine Project has created a heritage wine route through some of South Africa’s most compelling vineyard landscapes: a quest that is part wine tasting, part road trip, part treasure hunt.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and event images: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Top image: Getty

Top Souvenirs from a Springtime Trip to the Netherlands

Tue, 19 May 26 16:39:48 +0000

Tulip season in the Netherlands is a feast for the senses: ribbons of technicolor flowers beside canals, market squares bursting with spring blooms, and river cruise ships gliding through landscapes that look suspiciously filtered (even when they’re not!)

You’re going to love your trip so much that you will want to savor the moments for as long as possible.

Emerald river cruise ship docked in Willemstad, the Netherlands

I don’t believe in souvenirs that collect dust or worse! End up in landfills. Here are some mementos that fulfill the saying, “If you ain’t Dutch, you ain’t much.’ Many you’ll consume or share with loved ones, and others you’ll get lots of use from for years to come.

Cheese, Please!

Cheese may be the most delicious example. Markets in towns with name-sake cheeses like Gouda and Edam have been trading wheels for centuries, and a spring cruise often includes excursions where travelers can sample cheeses still made on family farms. Aged Gouda is the superstar!

Tip: Vacuum-packed wedges travel well. Don’t forget to check the import regulations about bringing food into your home country.

A Blooming Gift

Then there are tulips themselves, the official symbol of the country. Cut flowers are perishable, of course. But the Netherlands produces billions of spring flower bulbs annually, and you can shop for exotic varieties at gardens, flower farms, and markets – even the airport on your way home!

Tip: Many countries regulate the import of agricultural products like tulip bulbs. Check your local laws and also look for ‘export ready’ tulips with certification they will pass inspection. OR, if Keukenhof, famous as being the largest spring flower garden in the world, is on your agenda, you can order bulbs from Dutch growers there, and they will be shipped to your home, customs cleared.

Then you can look out your window every spring, see the tulips, and remember your trip to the Netherlands!

A Room with Blue

Like the cities of Gouda and Edam whose names have lent themselves to their most famous product, the city of Delft is known for its porcelain – or that one-of-a-kind color of Delft blue. Iconic Royal Delft has symbolized Dutch craftsmanship since the 17th century. Originally inspired by Chinese porcelain brought to Europe by trading ships, Delftware evolved into something unmistakably Dutch: windmills, canal houses, floral motifs, all painted in cobalt blue on creamy white ceramics.

You may not be able to resist the Dutch canal house figurines you can collect and line up as a street scene. But practical Delft items, from Christmas ornaments, to tea and coffee services, to a tulip vase that brings two Dutch symbols together, all marry beauty and utility in iconic blue and white.

Tip: beware of fakes. You’ll see all kinds of blue and white ceramics in the Netherlands. But for the quality of porcelain and artisanal hand-painting, nothing matches real, Royal Delft.

Clogged Up

Traditional wooden clogs – or klomps - remain a beloved symbol of Dutch culture. Clogs began as practical footwear for Dutch farmers, fishermen, and laborers at windmills. Over time, they became a cheerful national symbol, painted with regional designs. But clogs are not just folklore or crafts. Today, they’re still worn by farmers and millers and are legally certified safety footwear!

Tip: Instead of wooden folk art, fuzzy clog slippers in the Netherlands’ national colors, orange, yellow, or red, make a cozy, lightweight, unapologetically kitschy, and completely charming souvenir that will warm your feet and your heart every winter’s day you put them on!

There’s No Wafel like Stroopwafels

No visit to the Netherlands is complete without eating – and bringing home – stroopwafels: thin waffle cookies sandwiching a layer of spiced caramel filling. Fresh, warm, market stroopwafels are life-changing. If you’re wondering what every passenger on your river cruise ship is carrying in a thin, paper sleeve, now you know!

Tip: Follow the Dutch and re-create that just-cooked gooey-ness! Balance your souvenir stroopwafels out of the tin over a hot cup of coffee so the steam softens the filling.

START YOUR TRIP!

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

International Day of Light: Why Norway’s Midnight Sun Inspires Travelers

Sat, 16 May 26 19:34:40 +0000

International Day of Light: Why Norway’s Midnight Sun Is One of the World’s Most Inspiring Travel Experiences

Every year on May 16, the world celebrates the International Day of Light, a UNESCO initiative that recognizes the importance of light in science, culture, art, and everyday life.

For travelers, light creates some of the most unforgettable moments on Earth.

It is the golden glow over the Mediterranean at sunset.

The dancing Northern Lights in the Arctic sky.

And perhaps most extraordinary of all, the Midnight Sun in Norway, where daylight stretches through the night and transforms the landscape into something almost surreal.

If you have ever dreamed of experiencing one of nature’s most remarkable phenomena, Norway should be at the top of your bucket list.

What Is the Midnight Sun?

Above the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set for weeks during the summer months.

Instead, it hovers near the horizon, casting a warm, golden light across fjords, mountains, and charming coastal villages at all hours of the day and night.

Imagine enjoying dinner at 11:00 p.m. while the sun still shines.

Or stepping onto your balcony at midnight to see the sea glowing beneath a golden sky.

It is one of the most magical travel experiences in the world.

Why Norway Is the Perfect Place to Celebrate the Power of Light

Norway’s dramatic landscapes seem designed to showcase the beauty of light.

The country offers:

Spectacular fjords carved by glaciers
Snow-capped peaks reflecting the sun
Charming fishing villages
Endless summer daylight
Incredible photography opportunities
Peaceful, uncrowded natural beauty

The quality of light in Norway is unlike anywhere else. It creates a sense of wonder that is difficult to describe until you experience it yourself.

My Exclusive Norway Travel Groups for 2027

If seeing the Midnight Sun is on your travel wish list, I currently have two exceptional group journeys to Norway.

These are ideal for travelers who want a seamless, thoughtfully planned experience.

14-Day Land of the Midnight Sun & Summer Solstice Cruise

View My Princess Cruises Group

View the Official Princess Cruises Itinerary

This extraordinary Princess Cruises voyage takes you deep into the Arctic during the season of endless daylight.

Highlights Include:

Sailing above the Arctic Circle
Experiencing the Summer Solstice
Visiting stunning Norwegian coastal towns
Enjoying world-class dining and entertainment onboard
Watching the Midnight Sun from the comfort of your ship

There is something profoundly special about standing on deck at midnight, surrounded by towering mountains and shimmering water, while the sun still shines overhead.

Best of Norway with Return to Oslo Guided Tour

View My Globus Group

View the Official Globus Itinerary

This immersive guided tour with Globus showcases Norway’s most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures.

Highlights Include:

Oslo
Bergen
The breathtaking Flåm Railway
Hardangerfjord
Scenic drives and ferry crossings

This journey is perfect for travelers who want the beauty of Norway without the stress of coordinating transportation, hotels, and sightseeing on their own.

Other Incredible Destinations Where Light Creates Magic

While Norway is one of the world’s most dramatic examples, there are many destinations where light transforms the travel experience.

Iceland

Experience the Midnight Sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter.

Alaska

Witness glaciers glowing in the late evening on a small-ship or luxury cruise.

Greece

Watch whitewashed villages glow under brilliant Mediterranean sunlight.

Africa

See a golden sunrise over the savannah on safari.

Paris

Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle after dark.

Why Guided Tours and Cruises Are Ideal for Bucket-List Destinations

Destinations like Norway involve complex logistics, changing weather, and a wide range of experiences.

Cruises and guided tours remove the guesswork.

Benefits Include:

Expert planning
Carefully curated itineraries
Comfortable accommodations
Local insight
Stress-free transportation
Greater peace of mind

Instead of worrying about details, you can focus on the experience itself.

Why Work With a Travel Advisor?

When planning a once-in-a-lifetime journey, having an experienced advisor makes a meaningful difference.

I help my clients:

Choose the right itinerary
Compare cruise lines and tour styles
Access exclusive group pricing
Understand what is included
Navigate insurance and documentation
Travel with confidence

My goal is to make your vacation as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see the Midnight Sun in Norway?

Late May through July offers the best chance to experience the Midnight Sun.

Is Norway expensive?

Norway can be costly, but cruises and guided tours often provide excellent value because many expenses are included.

Should I choose a cruise or a guided tour?

A cruise is ideal if you enjoy unpacking once and seeing multiple destinations. A guided tour offers deeper immersion and more time on land.

Is this a good trip for retirees and empty nesters?

Absolutely. Norway is especially popular with travelers seeking meaningful, comfortable, and well-organized journeys.

Let Light Inspire Your Next Adventure

The International Day of Light reminds us how powerful and beautiful our world can be.

Few destinations showcase that beauty more dramatically than Norway under the Midnight Sun.

Whether you prefer the comfort of a cruise or the immersive experience of a guided tour, this is the kind of journey you will remember for the rest of your life.

Ready to experience Norway in its most magical season?

I would be delighted to help you find the perfect itinerary.

Ready to start planning your Norway adventure?

Explore my exclusive group departures or contact me directly to reserve your space before these popular journeys sell out.

Let’s turn your travel dreams into reality.