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

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:41:03 +0000

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

Not ‘That’ Kind of Tattoo

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

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

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

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

Goosebumps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tattoo Tips for Travelers

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

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

Travel tips:

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

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

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist

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

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:41:03 +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

The Natural Thrills of Costa Rica

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:41:03 +0000

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

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

Embrace Your Wild Side

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

White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River:

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

Catching Waves:

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

Mountain Biking:

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

Volcano and Cave Exploration:

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

Extreme Canyoning:

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

Sea Kayaking and Bioluminescence Paddling:

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

TIP:

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

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

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

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Visit Costa Rica

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

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:41:03 +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

Europe Without the Lines, the Crowds, or the Chaos

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:41:03 +0000

Europe, Before Everyone Else Remembers

There’s a version of Europe most travelers never meet—not because it’s hidden, but because they go at the wrong time. By the time summer arrives, it’s already disappeared into crowds, noise, and the quiet competition of too many people chasing the same moments.

But just outside that window, something shifts. The same cities feel calmer, more personal, almost as if they’ve exhaled. You still get the landmarks, the history, the atmosphere—but without having to work for it.

And that changes everything.

A Different Pace, A Different Experience

In peak season, Europe moves quickly. Days are structured around reservations, timing, and navigating crowds. It’s exciting, but it’s also demanding.

Off-season travel softens that edge. You can walk into places instead of waiting your turn. You can sit a little longer, wander a little farther, and let the day unfold without constantly checking the time.

It’s not that there’s less to do. It’s that you finally have the space to do it well.

What You Start to Notice

When you’re not rushing, your attention shifts.

You notice the quiet of a morning street before it fills. The rhythm of a neighborhood that isn’t performing for visitors. The kind of moments that don’t make itineraries, but stay with you long after the trip ends.

You stop thinking in highlights and start experiencing places as they are—layered, lived-in, and far more interesting than what fits into a checklist.

Why Timing Quietly Changes Everything

Ask anyone where to go in Europe, and you’ll get endless suggestions. Ask when to go, and the conversation becomes more meaningful.

Because timing reshapes the entire experience.

The same café feels different when you’re not waiting. The same street feels different when it’s not crowded. Even the pace of your own day begins to shift when you’re not adjusting to demand at every step.

It’s a subtle change—until you realize how much more of the destination you’re actually taking in.

The Version Most People Miss

Most travelers don’t choose when they go—they choose when they can go. School calendars, work schedules, привычная travel seasons.

And that’s how this version of Europe gets overlooked.

Not because it isn’t worth experiencing, but because it sits just outside the obvious window. Quietly better, without demanding attention.

Once you’ve seen it this way, though, it’s hard to go back.

Start the Conversation

The best trips don’t begin with booking dates or destinations. They begin with a different question entirely: what kind of experience do you actually want?

Let your travel expert unlock the Europe trip you didn’t know you needed.

Because sometimes the biggest shift isn’t where you go—but choosing to go when everything finally feels just right.

Punta Cana Is Looking Very Good On You

Wed, 17 Jun 26 22:41:03 +0000

Your Punta Cana escape starts here

Some destinations just have it – that rare combination of powder-soft beaches, warm turquoise water and a pace of life that convinces you to finally, truly, switch off. Punta Cana is that place.

And while you could spend hours scrolling through options, WestJet Vacations has done the work for you. Whether you're travelling as a couple craving an adults-only escape, a family looking for a resort that entertains every age group, a solo traveller ready to see the world on your own terms or a food lover chasing exceptional dining in paradise – there's a Punta Cana package here with your name on it.

Here's where to start.

For the luxury seeker

W Punta Cana Adult All-Inclusive

This is Punta Cana at its most bold. The W delivers a lifestyle-forward luxury experience – cutting-edge design, 12 restaurants and 7 bars, private pool guestrooms and the AWAY Spa for when rest becomes its own indulgence. The adults-only atmosphere keeps things sophisticated, while the beachfront location keeps things beautiful. Seasonal whale watching nearby is an unexpected bonus.

Perfect for: Couples and solo travellers who want a resort that feels like a statement.

For the adults-only escape

Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

With 639 suites, 9 restaurants, 11 bars and 8 pools, Secrets Royal Beach is built for travellers who want everything – and nothing they don't. The Unlimited-Luxury® concept means 24-hour room service, beach and pool attendants and the "Sip, Savour and See" dining program that opens the doors to neighbouring resort restaurants. It's the kind of trip you'll be talking about for years.

Royalton CHIC Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino - Adults Only

Royalton CHIC is where sophistication meets a seriously good time. Themed pool parties, gourmet dining, 4 pools and 8 restaurants – this Marriott Autograph Collection resort turns an adults-only atmosphere into something genuinely electric. Perfect for couples who want to connect and solo travellers who want to socialize.

For the food lovers

Grand Palladium Select Bávaro

For travellers who believe a great meal is as important as a great view, Grand Palladium Select Bávaro belongs at the top of your list. This resort is defined by chef-inspired gourmet dining with elevated flavours and refined presentation – and with 15 restaurants spanning Indian, Mexican, Asian, Italian and fresh seafood concepts, you'll never eat the same thing twice.

Top-shelf spirits and premium wines are included at all venues, cooking classes and tastings are on offer and the "Stay at One, Play at Three" perk unlocks facilities at two neighbouring Palladium resorts. With 673 rooms, 7 pools, it's an all-inclusive that genuinely delivers anything you could ever want.

Perfect for: Food lovers, families and groups who want more than a buffet.

For families of five or more

Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Punta Cana

Built from the ground up around what kids actually want from a vacation. The Aqua Nick water park delivers a lazy river, splash pads and the legendary daily Sliming event at the Slimulator. Character meet-and-greets with SpongeBob, PAW Patrol and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles happen at Plaza Orange every day – not as an add-on, just as part of the schedule. Club Nick keeps kids aged 4 to 12 entertained with a ball pit, a two-storey slide and daily craft and science activities. Family suites are designed with groups of five in mind.

Perfect for: Families with younger kids who want the resort to do the entertaining.

Bahia Principe Explore Punta Cana

A genuinely full-schedule resort for families. The Bahia Scouts Kids Club keeps children aged 4 to 12 busy with supervised activities, eco-courses and themed entertainment, while the dedicated Teens Club gives older kids their own space. A children's water park, daily mini-disco and complimentary water sports – kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling – mean there's always something on. The "Stay at 1, Play at 2" perk opens up facilities at the neighbouring Grand Turquesa and two-bedroom family suites accommodate up to seven guests.

Perfect for: Multigenerational families who want activities for every age, all in one place.

For the ultimate cap cana experience

Dreams Cap Cana Resort and Spa

Situated in the exclusive Cap Cana enclave – where the water runs an impossible shade of turquoise and the white sand feels almost unreal – Dreams Cap Cana is a resort that earns its setting. The Unlimited-Fun® all-inclusive concept suits both families and couples, striking that rare balance between adventure and total relaxation in one of the most stunning corners of the Dominican Republic.

Perfect for: Travellers who want a premium all-inclusive experience in a more secluded, upscale setting.

Your Punta Cana adventure starts here

Punta Cana doesn't ask much of you. Show up and let WestJet Vacations handle the rest. With plenty of resorts available – ranging from intimate adults-only retreats to sprawling family resorts and culinary-forward properties – the hardest part is narrowing it down.

But that's a good problem to have.

Ready to book your Punta Cana vacation? Contact your travel advisor today.

Opera by the Sea: Where World-Class Music Meets the Waterfront

Thu, 14 May 26 15:33:34 +0000

The world’s waterfronts are undergoing incredible transformations, from no-go industrial sites to revitalized centers of urban lifestyle and community living. Increasingly, the centerpiece of that renaissance… is a landmark, architectural marvel music hall.

Often labeled ‘opera houses,’ these venues are the opposite of stuffy, formal halls that host exclusively traditional performances. Sitting directly on the water, these new icons of modern culture embrace the ebb and flow of the waves they overlook: relaxed and connected to the city around them. Ferries arrive nearby. Locals keep waterfront promenades bustling. Visitors come for the architecture as much as the performances that embrace modern, accessible and widely-interpreted versions of anything and everything musical.

And make the most of exceptional technology and acoustics.

These four venues have become defining landmarks not only because of what happens inside, but because of where they are built.

Sydney: The Harbor Landmark That Started it All

Few buildings are more recognizable worldwide than the Sydney Opera House. Its sail-like roofline rising above Sydney Harbour has become one of the defining images of Australia.

Since its opening in 1973, it has become one of the world’s busiest performing arts venues, hosting opera, symphony concerts, theater, comedy, and contemporary music.

Sitting beside the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the opera house is woven into the daily rhythm of the harbor. Travelers can arrive by ferry, walk the waterfront before a performance, or simply enjoy the outdoor restaurants overlooking the water.

Architectural tours are hugely popular, and many visitors experience the building without attending a formal performance at all. Projections on the exterior reflect cultural touchpoints, from Olympics, to indigenous culture, to ecofriendly themes.

Oslo: An Opera House for the People

The Oslo Opera House helped transform Oslo’s waterfront when it opened in 2008.

Built directly on the edge of the Oslofjord, the white marble structure appears to rise from the water. Its most unusual feature is the roof, which slopes to ground level so visitors can walk all over it.

That decision changed how people interact with the building. Locals use it as a public gathering place as much as a cultural venue. In summer, people picnic there and watch the sunset over the fjord. In winter, the stark white architecture stands out dramatically against dark Nordic skies.

Inside, the opera house is home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. The warm wood interiors create a striking contrast with the minimalist exterior.

The building also reflects modern Oslo itself — a city where outdoor life and contemporary culture live side by side. Visitors can spend the afternoon kayaking or using the city’s floating saunas before attending an evening ballet or concert.

Hamburg: A Concert Hall Above the Port

The Elbphilharmonie Hamburg quickly became Hamburg’s modern symbol when it debuted in 2017. (pictured, top)

Built above a historic brick warehouse in the city’s harbor district, the glass structure resembles waves rising over the River Elbe, transforming the city’s waterfront.

The venue is known for exceptional acoustics, with seating designed to bring audiences unusually close to performers. Programming extends beyond classical music to jazz, contemporary concerts, and international productions.

Even visitors without tickets often head to the public Plaza observation level for panoramic views across Hamburg’s port, bridges, and canals. Unlike many grand concert halls, the Elbphilharmonie feels connected to the working harbor around it rather than separated from it.

Reykjavik: Music on the Edge of the Arctic

The Harpa Concert Hall opened in 2011 on Reykjavik’s waterfront and quickly became one of Iceland’s defining modern buildings.

Its geometric glass exterior was inspired by Iceland’s volcanic basalt formations and changing northern light. Depending on the weather and season, the building shifts dramatically in color and mood. The image of Harpa will remain one of your lingering memories of Iceland’s capital.

Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, but its programming reflects Iceland’s broader music culture as well, hosting everything from classical concerts to electronic and indie music festivals.

The location gives the venue much of its character. Fishing boats and whale-watching tours still depart from the nearby harbor, while mountains and ocean frame the city in every direction. In winter, concertgoers can leave an evening performance to freezing sea air and, if conditions cooperate, the possibility of the Northern Lights overhead.

‘Wave’ of the Future

More major cities are using waterfront concert halls and opera houses as cultural anchors for redeveloped harbor districts. Keep your eyes on the horizon for these:

Korea:
The Busan Opera House is designed by the same architects behind Oslo’s opera house. It’s rising directly on Busan’s waterfront and is scheduled to open in 2027. Like Oslo, it’s designed as a public waterfront space as much as a performance venue, with a walkable roof and harbor views. It will be Busan’s first major opera house and part of a huge redevelopment of the city’s former industrial port area.
Spain:
Another ambitious project is the planned Palacio de la Opera on the Costa del Sol waterfront, set to begin construction soon. Málaga has spent the last two decades reinventing itself as a serious cultural destination — adding museums, galleries, and performance venues beyond its traditional beach-tourism image. The proposed opera house sits near the port and includes a large waterfront auditorium and cultural complex.
China:
Shenzhen has proposed an enormous new waterfront opera complex overlooking Shenzhen Bay, designed by architect Jean Nouvel. Plans include multiple performance halls and architecture explicitly inspired by the movement of water and sails. Once completed, it will be one of the world’s largest waterfront performing arts complexes.

A new generation of modern waterfront concert halls increasingly behaves more like public squares with every kind of music under the sun inside, rather than traditional elite cultural institutions.

START YOUR TRIP!

Top images: Getty

Bottom image: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Orient Express Launches World’s Largest Sailed Cruise Ship

Thu, 14 May 26 15:33:34 +0000

The Golden Age of Sail is returning – with a 21st century twist! Storied travel company Orient Express made its first appearance at Seatrade, just ahead of the debut its first cruise ship: a 720-foot, 100-guest solid-sail ship that marries exquisite French hospitality, design and craftsmanship with next-generation, eco-friendly maritime innovation.

Orient Express Corinthian isn’t just a first for the ultra-luxury travel company known since the 19th century for its exquisite trains and hotels. It’s a first for cruising itself.

The ship’s christening in France at the end of April came as a result of 10 years of research and development on the part of French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

Credit: Maxime Castric

The remarkable, ‘solid sail’ construction is a “concrete, technical response to the decarbonisation challenges facing maritime transport” according to the shipyard’s CEO.

It’s not about re-living the past. It’s about the future.

A Technological Feat Under Sail

OE Corinthian is the first cruise ship equipped with the “SolidSail” wind propulsion system, developed by the shipyard drawing on expertise gained in offshore racing. Her three rigs, each rising to over 320 feet, are fully automated and capable of delivering 100% wind-powered propulsion.

Rotating through 360 degrees, they maintain optimal trim on any point of sail, whatever the wind direction. With carbon masts that can tilt to 70 degrees, the ship can clear the world's great bridges, so the world is this ship’s oyster in terms of destination access.

In sea trials, in 20 knots of wind, this vessel made 12 knots under sail alone. A first for a ship of this size.

And when the ship is sailing under wind power, it’s not consuming any fuel at all. Therefore, zero emissions. What about when there’s no wind?

The solid sails are complemented by hybrid liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion and numerous energy efficiency features, earning her the best EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Index) rating in her class, far ahead of any other vessel of comparable size.

In addition to this ‘what’s old is new again’ sailing technology, the OE Corinthian employs next-generation technology to advance other eco-friendly features:

An AI-assisted detection system continuously monitors for marine mammals and objects in the water to reduce collision risk.
Dynamic positioning preserves the seabed by doing away with the need to anchor.

All-Inclusive, French Hospitality and the Finest Craftsmanship

Orient Express Corinthian’s interiors draw on the golden age of travel, the age of the Orient Express train and the great ocean liners, with contemporary updates, undertaken by 2000 French artisans.

Credit: Alice Mesguich

The ship accommodates 54 suites, ranging from 45 to 230 m2, across four decks. Each suite features a panoramic window and high ceilings. Interior finishes include leather, precious wood veneers, and marbles.

Credit: Alice Mesguich

A dedicated butler attends each cabin.

Five restaurants and private dining rooms are placed under the culinary direction of multi- Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno.

Eight bars, including an Art Deco speakeasy, a 115-seat cabaret, and a recording studio, complete the offering.

Credit: Alice Mesguich

The Guerlain spa, a swimming lane, a pool, and a marina are at passengers' disposal throughout the voyage.

All is offered on a fully inclusive basis.

Itineraries

Following the christening, Orient Express Corinthian embarked on her inaugural Mediterranean season.

From May to October 2026, she sails the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, before crossing the Atlantic in autumn to winter in the Caribbean.

In 2027, a new collection of itineraries extends her range to the eastern Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

Each route leads to carefully chosen ports of call, storied harbours and quieter shores alike, where culture, craftsmanship and landscape compose an open invitation.

Itineraries of one to four nights offer a freedom of pace: each passage can be combined with another to build an entirely bespoke voyage.

Two of a Kind

OE Corinthian is the first of two ships planned for Orient Express. The Orient Express Olympian launches in 2027.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of Orient Express; credits as noted.

Top image credit: Macha Kontchakova — Frontline Studio and Jean-Marie Liot

Top Souvenirs from a Springtime Trip to the Netherlands

Thu, 14 May 26 15:33:34 +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.

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

Thu, 14 May 26 15:33:34 +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

Breaking News: Princess Cruises Building All-New Class of Ships, its Largest-Ever!

Wed, 06 May 26 20:50:18 +0000

By 2039, there will be three new ships in the Princess Cruises fleet, the largest, most advanced ships ever for the cruise line, carrying over 4700 guests each, and dual-fuel, powered primarily by the sustainability-conscious LNG (liquified natural gas). The new class of ships is called the Voyager class, with the first ship scheduled for delivery in 2035.

The new class of ships is another step forward for the cruise line, and its most recent, Sphere class of ships (Sun Princess and Star Princess.)

Here’s how the upcoming Voyager-class of ships stacks up against Princess’ previous classes of ships beginning before this millennium, with Voyager-class representing the next generation in size and technology, but only a slight boost, under 500 additional guests, in staterooms and suites.

Voyager Class (2035+): 183,000 gross tons (GT), 4,700 guests. LNG-powered.
Sphere Class (2024-2025): 177,000 GT, 4,300 guests. Introduced the signature dome feature and massive Piazza design.
Royal Class (2013–2021): ~142,000-145,000 GT, 3,600 guests. This class of ship became known for its SeaWalk and atrium.
Grand Class (1998-2008): ~107,000-113,000 GT, 2,600 guests. At one time, the largest ships in the fleet were considered mid-sized vessels.

According to Princess, the new Voyager-class vessels will integrate the most desired and highest-rated experiences and venues Princess Cruises is known for, with completely re-imagined outer decks, staterooms, and Piazza designs that cater to Princess’ global travelers and worldwide deployments and itineraries. These new ships will build upon the award-winning Sphere Class platform and continue to leverage the latest hospitality and marine technologies.

Many more details have yet to be revealed in advance of the first Voyager-class ship - the cruise line doesn't even have renderings of the vision of the Voyager-class ship!

But fans of Princess Cruises will be watching this space, eager for details as they emerge.

A History of Innovation

In 1965, Princess Cruises began as a single ship sailing to Mexico, and it has grown into a world-renowned cruise line that connects guests to more than 345 destinations across seven continents.

According to the cruise line, Princess was the first to introduce affordable balconies, flexible dining options, and even weddings at sea officiated by the ship's captain. Princess was also the first cruise line to launch Movies Under the Stars — a now-iconic poolside feature — and continues to lead with experiences that surprise and delight in meaningful ways.

It created MedallionClass: a first-of-its-kind experience built around a simple, wearable device called the Medallion. With tools like OceanNow, Manage Booking, and OceanReady, guests enjoy a seamless voyage focused on personalization and convenience.

Its most recent class of ships—the Sphere Class, with sister ships Sun Princess and Star Princess—represents the future of cruising with groundbreaking design and guest experiences.

Today, Princess is part of Carnival Corporation and operates a fleet of 17 ships with a presence in every region of the globe, on all 7 continents.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Star Princess, courtesy of Princess Cruises

Discover Ireland When The Days Are Long

Wed, 06 May 26 20:50:18 +0000

Experience the magic, history, and breathtaking landscapes of the island of Ireland with Exotik Journeys. Whether you’re seeking a perfectly paced introduction or a deep-dive cultural exploration, the Unforgettable Ireland in 8 Days and Explore Ireland in 12 Days itineraries offer two remarkable ways to experience the very best of the Emerald Isle. With departures timed for June and July 2026, travellers enjoy long summer days, lush green countryside, and ideal touring conditions.

UNFORGETTABLE IRELAND IN 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
From $3,395 per person
Departures: June 9, June 30, July 14, 2026

This curated journey is ideal for travellers looking to experience Ireland’s most iconic highlights in one seamless itinerary. Beginning in the lively capital of Dublin, guests settle into Ireland’s cultural heartbeat before heading south through rolling countryside and historic towns.

A highlight of the early journey is a visit to the legendary Blarney Castle, where travellers can kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore centuries-old grounds surrounded by lush gardens. From there, the route continues into County Kerry, where the dramatic scenery of the Ring of Kerry showcases rugged coastlines, mountain passes, and charming villages. A traditional sheepdog demonstration adds an authentic glimpse into rural Irish life.

Travellers then head north to witness the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher and the unique limestone terrain of The Burren before arriving in vibrant Galway. Here, guests enjoy a scenic cruise on Lough Corrib and explore the cultural richness of the region.

The journey continues into the wild beauty of Connemara, including a visit to the historic Kylemore Abbey. The tour concludes back in Dublin with immersive experiences such as the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, blending modern storytelling with Ireland’s powerful heritage.

Inclusions highlight: 4-star hotels, guided touring, motorcoach transportation, airport transfers, and curated cultural experiences.

EXPLORE IRELAND IN 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS
From $5,655 per person
Departures: June 9, July 14, 2026

For travellers who want the ultimate discovery of Ireland, this extended journey reveals not only iconic landmarks but also hidden gems and deeper cultural encounters across the island of Ireland.

Starting again in Dublin, the tour heads north to Belfast, where guests explore the city’s vibrant revival and the world-renowned Titanic Belfast. The journey continues along the breathtaking Antrim coastline to the legendary Giant's Causeway and onward to the historic city of Derry.

Travelling through the west, guests discover natural wonders including the dramatic Marble Arch Caves and the sweeping beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way before reaching cultural hubs like Galway.

The journey south showcases some of Ireland’s most beloved treasures: the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, the iconic Blarney Castle, and the scenic drives of the Ring of Kerry within Killarney National Park.

Cultural immersion continues with visits to the historic Midleton Distillery Experience and the craftsmanship of Waterford Crystal. In Kilkenny, medieval charm comes alive before a moving visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship. The adventure concludes in Dublin with the inspiring EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

Inclusions highlight: premium accommodations, expert guides, immersive experiences, and seamless touring across Ireland.

Why Travel Ireland with Exotik Journeys?

Each itinerary is thoughtfully curated to highlight Ireland’s most iconic landscapes, rich heritage, and legendary hospitality. From rugged coastlines and ancient castles to lively cities and cultural gems, every moment is designed to feel immersive, seamless, and unforgettable. Backed by over 45 years of travel expertise, Exotik Journeys delivers trusted peace of mind, exceptional value, and expertly crafted journeys that go far beyond the ordinary.

LET US TAKE YOU THERE!

Goldilocks and the Three Bears (Alaska Cruise Edition)

Wed, 06 May 26 20:50:18 +0000

In Alaska, everyone can feel like they’re in a fairy tale. Even the one with the three bears! Wildlife watching opportunities – especially bear sightings – rank among the top reasons to take an Alaska cruise. And I’ve never known anyone to leave disappointed!

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE OF SOME OF OUR

FAVORITE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS ON A REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISE TO ALASKA

But how many different types of bears can you hope to see?

1. The American Black Bear

The most common, the smallest— and often the first bear travelers encounter — is the black bear. Widespread across Southeast Alaska, they thrive in the dense coastal rainforest that lines so many cruise routes.

‘Baby Bear’: Adults typically weigh between 200 and 600 pounds, with males on the higher end. They stand about 3 feet at the shoulder on all fours, but can reach 5 to 7 feet when upright. Compared to other Alaska bears, they’re compact — built for agility rather than dominance.

What's for dinner: Black bears are true opportunists. Their diet leans heavily towards vegetarian — berries, grasses, roots — supplemented with insects, shellfish, and the occasional salmon. You’ll often see them along shorelines at low tide, turning rocks with surprising dexterity. They’re also excellent climbers, frequently escaping danger (or napping) in trees.

Wow: Accessibility. In ports like Ketchikan and Sitka, black bears can appear startlingly close to town. It’s not uncommon to spot one from a roadside or harbor edge — a quintessential Alaska moment where wilderness and daily life blur.

That’s why some people joke that the easiest way to see a black bear is a local dumpster!

2. Brown Bears

Black bears are not uncommon in wild areas of other parts of the US and Canada. Brown bears – called grizzly bears inland – are much, much rarer in the ‘lower 48.’ So this is the bear most travelers come hoping to see — and for good reason. Brown bears are the heavyweight icons of Alaska wildlife and bear spotting.

“Mama Bear”: Coastal brown bears routinely weigh 600 to 1,200 pounds, with some exceptional males pushing beyond that. Standing upright, they can reach 8 to 10 feet tall. A pronounced shoulder hump — pure muscle used for digging and power — is their signature silhouette.

What's for dinner: While technically omnivores, coastal brown bears are protein-driven powerhouses. Salmon is the game-changer. During peak runs (late June through August), they consume staggering amounts — sometimes dozens of fish a day — prioritizing the fattiest parts to bulk up for hibernation. Earlier in the season, they graze on sedge grasses; later, they’ll add berries and carrion to the mix.

Wow: The fishing. Watching a thousand-pound bear stand in a rushing river and pluck a leaping salmon midair is one of North America’s great wildlife spectacles. Cruise excursions to places like Admiralty Island National Monument or Katmai National Park and Preserve deliver top opportunities to experience this natural theater.

3. The Kodiak Bear

Venture a little farther to get a chance to glimpse the only bear found nowhere else in the world except Alaska. Kodiak bears are a subspecies of brown bears isolated for thousands of years in the rich environment of the Kodiak archipelago, where they became super-sized versions of their cousins on the mainland.

“Papa Bear”: Among the largest bears on Earth, Kodiak bears often exceed mainland brown bears. Mature males commonly weigh 800 to 1,500 pounds, with rare individuals approaching 1,600 pounds. Standing height can exceed 10 feet. They are, quite simply, massive.

What's for dinner: Like other coastal brown bears, Kodiaks benefit from a nutrient-rich environment — abundant salmon, lush vegetation, and minimal competition. Their diet mirrors that of mainland coastal bears, but in an ecosystem that has allowed them to grow even larger over time, and breeding among the smaller, isolated population reinforces the gigantic genes.

Wow: Rarity and scale. Found only on the Kodiak Archipelago, they’re not part of most cruise itineraries. But for those on Gulf of Alaska routes, crossings via Kodiak to Asia — or willing to take a fly-out excursion — the reward is seeing one of the planet’s most powerful land mammals in a setting that feels truly remote.

Cruises: Alaska's Wilderness Safaris

What makes Alaska so compelling isn’t just that you can see three types of bears — it’s how naturally those encounters fit into a cruise. Ships provide access to remote coastlines and protected wilderness areas, while guided excursions handle the logistics and safety of getting you into bear habitat responsibly.

Timing matters. Salmon season dramatically improves your odds of seeing brown and Kodiak bears in action. But even outside those peak weeks, Alaska’s sheer abundance of wildlife means that bear sightings — especially black bears — are never out of the question.

What about Polar Bears?

Alaska is technically home to a fourth bear – one that’s on many soft adventure travelers’ bucket lists. But polar bears are truly Arctic bears, far beyond the reaches of Alaska cruises, which focus on the temperate coastal rainforest ecosystems of Alaska hundreds of miles south of polar bear country.

If polar bear sightings are your dream, an Arctic cruise - especially in Canada and Norway – offers some of the best chances to see the world’s largest bear and largest carnivore on Earth!

START YOUR TRIP!

Video and story: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Other images: Getty

$500M Update Brings Guest-Favorite Feature Across Holland America Line Fleet

Wed, 06 May 26 20:50:18 +0000

Fans of the Grand Dutch Cafés onboard Holland America Line’s newest ships can look forward to finding this little piece of Netherlands culture and design onboard many more ships soon.

At the Seatrade industry cruise conference in Miami in April, Holland America Line’s president warned the media conference that the event was not a new ship announcement. But fans of the line still have plenty to celebrate.

As part of a half-billion-dollar, fleet-wide ‘Evolution,’ HAL is expanding the best of its newest, Pinnacle-class ships to other ships in six Vista and Signature-class ships.

Grand Dutch Cafés and More

Inspired by European café culture and rooted in the cruise line’s Dutch heritage, the Grand Dutch Café has become a signature venue and experience, with eye-catching, iconic Delft-blue and white ceramics, paint, and leather trim evoking the stepped rooflines of Amsterdam, and sweet and savory Dutch edibles that take guests from morning coffee through pre-dinner bites and drinks. The social hub on Deck 3 near the atrium in Pinnacle-class ships reflects the role cafés play in communities in the Netherlands and Europe… and have become favorite social hubs on Pinnacle-class ships.

On my last cruise, we went to the Grand Dutch Café twice daily! My friend who inexplicably loves pickled herring was thrilled! We aren’t the only people who want more Grand Dutch Café in our lives.

“Our guests have been very clear about what they love about our ships and what they want to see more of, and Holland America Evolution is our answer to that,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president, Holland America Line at Seatrade, making the announcement.

While the signature Grand Dutch Cafe is the highest profile addition to ships during the biggest fleet revitalization in the cruise line’s 150+ year history, the line will also add other restaurant and bar options, and refresh and reinvent key guest spaces — including new stateroom and suite categories — while maintaining the spacious design and intimate ship feel guests associate with Holland America Line ships.

The first ship on the dry-dock list is the Oosterdam, whose renovations will debut in the fall of 2027. The schedule and plans for the remaining 5 ships in the Evolution plan – and how these extended drydocks will affect planned itineraries – will be announced soon. Impacted booked guests will be contacted directly.

New Staterooms and Suites – Including Solo Verandahs

Oosterdam will get 76 new staterooms while the line promised to preserve the “room at the rail” guests love. New and enhanced accommodations debuting on Oosterdam include:

NEW: Solo Verandahs: Thirty purpose-built staterooms created specifically for solo travelers. Each features a private balcony, dedicated workspace, and full Holland America Line amenities, responding to strong and growing guest demand.
When asked about the pricing of the new solo verandah staterooms at Seatrade, Bodensteiner revealed that pricing would be ‘dynamic’ based on demand. At the same time, she suggested that, while there were no plans to offer the staterooms without a single supplement, there would be savings compared to the 100% markup single travelers often encounter on cruise lines.
NEW: Bridgeview Suites: Two new suites offering sweeping 180-degree ocean views through panoramic windows at the forward part of the ship, with 900 square feet of space, a wraparound balcony, and separate living and sleeping areas.
Reimagined Pinnacle Suite: The most expansive suite ever introduced on a Vista Class ship, offering 1,550 square feet of refined living space with panoramic views, a private balcony, separate living room, powder room, bedroom, ensuite bath, and walk-in closet.
Vista Suites debut on Oosterdam: Twenty-four Vista Suites, familiar to guests who have sailed on Pinnacle Class ships, will be introduced on Oosterdam for the first time.

Sustainability Part of the Plan

Renovations focus on revitalizing the fleet while improving efficiency and reducing overall environmental impact: waste reduction and circular design, prioritizing upcycling and material reuse.

Media in attendance at the Seatrade conference received a gift bag that included this coaster, in true Grand Dutch Café style, made from upcycled carpet – just one example of the cruise line's upcycling and efficiency efforts.

The company is also investing in energy efficiency as part of the Evolution.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy

G Adventures Shines Spotlight on Global Tree Projects on Earth Day

Wed, 06 May 26 20:50:18 +0000

Earth Day is April 22, and it’s a wonderful time to share stories of travel companies that are making the world we love to travel a better place.

For G Adventures, the focus is on trees. In the last 18 months, the tour operator has expanded its global Trees for Days initiative with seven new community partners. Its network now stands at 22 communities across multiple continents and benefits more than 200,000 local people.

And within the next month, the project will reach a milestone of 6 million trees!

The company points out that trees represent immediate and multi-layered climate solutions: one where tree growing does more than restore ecosystems, it helps rebuild livelihoods, strengthen communities, and create long-term resilience for those living on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

Trees provide shade and shelter for people and domestic animals and crops; forests are homes for wildlife biodiversity; their roots prevent erosion from increasingly violent storms; they absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen… and so much more.

With this project, each tree is grown with a long-term commitment to reach maturity, with the first trees from the initiative now beginning to mature in 2026, three years after the program launched.

Furthermore, Trees for Days has been built on a new, more enlightened model than previous reforestation initiatives. It works in partnership with communities. Instead of focusing solely on environmental outcomes or carbon offsetting, the initiative is designed to address the interconnected challenges communities face from the climate emergency, from food insecurity and unemployment to biodiversity loss and climate resilience.

By putting local people at the center, supporting women, uplifting Indigenous communities, and creating economic opportunities, tree growing becomes a catalyst for broader change.

G Adventures has provided examples of some of their latest tree initiatives under the program:

Reclaiming the ‘Last Refuge’ of the Higa-onon community in the Philippines

A powerful example of this approach of creating meaningful benefit is in the Philippines, where the Higa-onon Indigenous community is restoring its ancestral forest after decades of environmental decline. Described as their “last refuge,” the rainforest had been severely depleted, and the community, facing extreme poverty, was forced into destructive practices such as illegal logging and mining in order to survive. Tribal elders wanted to protect their sacred forests but had no means to do so.

Today, that story is being rewritten. Trees for Days is supporting the Tribes and Nature Defenders project, which has mobilized over 200 local tribal farmers, 15 youth enthusiasts, and 5 women to physically restore Indigenous lands. Nurseries cultivating thousands of native and coffee trees are helping to restore biodiversity while creating sustainable livelihoods rooted in the protection of the forest itself.

For elders, this project represents a fight for “cultural nature survival," recognizing that the forest and the community cannot exist without one another.

Kenya: Combating the impact of drought and supporting Women-Owned Nurseries

In Kenya, Trees for Days is supporting the farming communities of Embu, who have been battling a persistent drought since 2024. With insufficient or late rains, agricultural productivity and food security are under constant threat.

Trees for Days has partnered with Trees for Kenya to develop agroforestry that directly impacts household health. Over 50,000 seedlings have been distributed to 523 farmers over the past 10 months, bringing the total number of trees grown to over 300,000 since the program's implementation in 2023. The program focuses on fruit trees (mangoes and avocado) and medicinal species, including Moringa Oleifera. Over 20,000 of these seedlings have been sourced from local women-owned nurseries, demonstrating another way tree growing can be a powerful engine in supporting female financial independence.

The impact: For the women running these nurseries, the income from seedling sales is pooled and used to provide loans to group members in need. Bella (aged 64) used her loan to support her household of seven, buying two hens, which now provide her family with fresh eggs and a new micro-income. Julia (aged 58) purchased a goat, which provided fresh milk and drastically improved the nutrition of her family’s daily meals.

Canada: Rebuilding the Ocean's "False Bottom"

When we think of deforestation, we rarely think of the ocean seabed, but the loss of underwater kelp forests in Canada has severely impacted marine biology and the traditional food system of local Indigenous communities. Trees for Days has partnered with Coastal Kelp, which includes the Tsawwassen First Nation, Nuchatlaht Tribe, and Lax Kw'alaams Band, working to restore marine ecosystems through an innovative “seaforestation” approach on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. By installing non-invasive moorings in areas previously unsuitable for kelp growth, they have created a ‘false-bottom’ and a brand new marine habitat, which has driven a staggering ecological bounce-back, with new species of kelp returning and the area being repopulated with scallops, oysters, shrimp, and rockfish.

The impact: 10% of all processed kelp is given back to members as community food products, and 10% of the fertilizer created is donated to community gardens

While planting trees is relatively easy, growing them and ensuring they deliver real, lasting benefits is far more complex. G Adventures and Trees For Days believe their community-driven approach will create the most benefits for people and the planet we love to travel.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of G Adventures

Turning Family History Into Meaningful Travel

Thu, 16 Apr 26 20:39:44 +0000

Do you travel for the food? Festivals? Or maybe family? Over a quarter of travelers these days are interested in heritage or ancestry-based trips. The surge in DNA testing has been accompanied by a corresponding rise in the popularity of genealogy-focused trips.

People are putting their traveling ‘genes’ on. And not going sightseeing, but searching for their roots. Motivations vary from family heritage to the story of migration from their ancestral homes.

Do any of these ideas strike a chord in you and beckon you to your ancestors’ distant shores?

Learning: discovering your original identity
Connection: walking where your ancestors lived and left
Closure: if your family didn’t choose their displacement or migration
Curiosity: sparked by DNA surprises or family lore
Legacy: sharing “where we come from” with the next generation

Ancestry Travel Hotspots

Do these destinations call you home? Here are some of the more popular destinations for North Americans to trace their roots.

Ireland and Scotland, the emotional epicenter for those with Celtic roots
Italy (especially Sicily and southern regions) draws diaspora descendants in droves
Germany and Eastern Europe are seeing new interest as archives become more accessible
Nordic countries like Sweden and Norway are booming with ancestral travelers, thanks to strong genealogical records
West Africa — particularly Ghana — has become a powerful destination for many with African heritage, due to its connection to the transatlantic slave trade

How to do Ancestry Travel?

Family heritage travel is genealogy, part emotional archaeology. But how much information do you need to ‘start digging?’

Some travelers arrive armed with binders of family trees and DNA results. Others simply know that “Grandpa was from somewhere near Kraków.”

Ancestry travel gives all the questions new meaning: Who? Where? When? Why? How?

Here are tips to get the most from ancestry travel:

Do the Homework (But be Realistic)

Before you book a ticket, spend time with records — immigration documents, ship manifests, census forms, church registries. Sites like FamilySearch are invaluable, and many towns will respond to polite archive requests.

But remember: villages change. Borders shift. Records disappear.

Go looking for discovery — and be open to whatever you find, or don’t find.

Bring in a Local Expert

If you’re zeroing in on a specific town, hire a local genealogist or guide. They know which municipal office holds the birth records and who still remembers the families who left.

In small places, people — not paperwork — may be your best resource.

Balance Roots With Real Travel

Don’t turn your trip into a full-time research project.

Yes, visit the ancestral village. But also experience the destination. If your roots are in southern Italy, explore Puglia. If they trace to Portugal, spend time in Porto to understand the country's rhythm. Today’s lifestyle is as valuable a lesson in your heritage as your history.

Strike up Conversations

Walk into bakeries. Visit parish offices. Ask about your surname.

Bring documents. Smile. Be curious. And friendly.

A shared name can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Manage Your Expectations

Sometimes you’ll find long-lost cousins. Sometimes you’ll find a locked archive and a shrug.

No matter what you discover, if you travel with an open mind and open heart, you’ll always come away richer than when you left.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Getty

8 Reasons Guided Tours Are Perfect for Solo Travellers

Thu, 16 Apr 26 20:39:44 +0000

8 Reasons Solos Travellers Should Consider Guided Tours

Guided tours offer solo travellers a stress-free way to explore the world with built-in safety, companionship, and expert guidance. With Collette, you’ll enjoy expertly crafted itineraries, knowledgeable Tour Manager and local guides, and unique experiences you might miss on your own — all while meeting like-minded travellers.

Still not convinced? Read on to learn why guided travel might be perfect for your next solo adventure.

Why Guided Tours Can Be Perfect for Solo Travellers

Safety and peace of mind come first

Traveling alone can feel daunting, especially in unfamiliar destinations. Guided tours come with safety — professional Tour Managers, vetted accommodations, and secure transportation. You’re never navigating late-night transfers or isolated routes alone, and Collette offers 24/7 Emergency Support in the rare event that your journey hits a snag.

Built-in companionship without pressure

Guided tours attract people who love discovery, which means you’re surrounded by travellers who “get” your enthusiasm, pace, and priorities. Connections happen organically on the road. Some will be quick conversations, while others may become lasting friendships. But you’ll also have space to step back and take in the day quietly should you choose.

Expert guides unlock deeper cultural insight

Collette’s local guides and Tour Managers bring history and culture to life in ways a guidebook can’t. The cobbled streets of an Old Town become a living history museum; a drive through the countryside becomes a lesson in local life. Instead of skimming the surface, you’ll learn the meaning behind local traditions, taste regional specialities with context, and hear anecdotes that only insiders know.

Hassle-free logistics mean more time for you

Planning a major trip on your own can feel like a full-time job — one that doesn’t stop, even once you’re on your journey. A guided tour removes the burden of logistics so you can focus on what matters: enjoying the experience. With transportation, timing, and key experiences already arranged, you get to enjoy the best parts of travel without decision fatigue or last-minute logistical scrambles.

Access off-the-beaten-path experiences

When you travel solo, it’s easy to stick to what’s visible — major landmarks, popular restaurants, and well-trodden paths. But there’s magic to be found in the lesser-known gems.

Picture this: sharing a home-hosted lunch in the Umbrian countryside, where a local family serves traditional recipes passed down for generations, or sitting down in South Korea for a candid conversation with a North Korean defector. Collette’s tours are crafted by destination insiders, giving you access to these kinds of authentic experiences that go beyond the guidebook.

Interested in that home-hosted meal in the Umbrian countryside? Ask your travel advisor about Collette's Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside.

Or, join a conversation with a North Korean defector on their Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour.

Cost clarity and value

One of the biggest challenges of solo travel is managing unpredictable expenses. Guided tours simplify this by including the essentials. Accommodations, on-tour transportation, many meals, and key experiences are built into Collette’s tour pricing. That means fewer surprises and more control over your budget.

Plus, group rates often unlock savings you can’t get on your own, especially for more premium experiences.

Confidence in unfamiliar destinations

Guided tours make exploring complex or remote regions easier, from language barriers to local customs. Whether navigating Tokyo’s high-speed bullet trains or understanding tipping etiquette in Morocco, your Tour Manager smooths the way. Think of them as your cultural roadmap, empowering you to enjoy the culture without stress.

Freedom to pave your own way

Collette’s guided tours include built-in free time, so you can have the chance to discover a destination however you wish — whether that means on your own or with some newfound friends. Take the long way through a historic neighborhood. Sip your coffee slowly at a café, or wander through a market or museum at your own rhythm.

Plus, optional add-on excursions give you even more ways to pave your own way on tour.

FAQs

Q1: Are guided tours good for first-time solo travellers?

Yes. They provide structure, safety, and social opportunities, making them ideal for first-time solo travellers.

Q2: Do I have to share a room on a guided tour?

Depending on your tour operator, no. Collette offers single-room options for solo travellers.

Q3: How much free time do guided tours allow?

It varies, but most itineraries include some flexible afternoons or evenings for independent exploration.

Q4: Can I join a guided tour if I’m introverted?

Absolutely. You can engage with others as much or as little as you’d like.

Q5: Are guided tours more expensive than traveling solo?

Not necessarily. When you factor in included experiences and group rates, they often offer excellent value.

The Bottom Line for Solo Travellers

Solo travel doesn’t have to mean going it alone — and guided tours offer the perfect balance of independence, connection, and confidence. With expert planning, meaningful cultural experiences, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, Collette makes it easy for solo travellers to see more of the world without the stress. Whether you’re adventuring for the first time or your passport is already well stamped, a guided tour can turn your next solo journey into something truly unforgettable.

Ask your travel advisor about Collette’s expertly planned, expertly led tours.

5 Spectacular Annual Flower Shows Worth Planning a Trip Around

Thu, 09 Apr 26 20:10:38 +0000

It’s spring at last, and our thoughts turn to the outdoors and our gardens. What better inspiration for a trip than some of the most breathtaking flower shows on earth - that take nature’s horticultural gifts and maximalize the colors, the spectacle and the drama!

1. Keukenhof Gardens — Netherlands

Keukenhof’s claim to fame is scale and control. More than seven million bulbs are planted by hand each year in layered sequences—early, mid, and late bloomers—so the park continuously evolves across its eight-week season each March and April.

WATCH VIDEO ABOVE: Our Tulip Time River Cruise on the Emerald Sky in the Netherlands

It’s also known for its indoor pavilions, where Dutch growers stage rotating displays of orchids, lilies, and cut flowers at exhibition quality—essentially a showcase of the country’s global flower industry. Add the classic windmill overlooking surrounding tulip fields, and you get both the postcard and the production line behind it.

Why go: The world’s largest spring flower garden, paired with a living showroom of Dutch floriculture.

2. Chelsea Flower Show — London, UK

The Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show is a highlight of Britain’s royal, society, and gardening calendar. Only 5 days long, usually in the third week of May, it draws the who’s who of the Royal Family, celebrities, and flower lovers from around the world.

Defined by its Show Gardens—full-scale, meticulously judged landscapes installed from scratch and dismantled days later, the Chelsea Flower Show is horticultural theater – and big business. Winning “Best in Show” can launch a designer globally. Inside the Great Pavilion, growers compete for medals with near-perfect specimens, and the “Plant of the Year” regularly introduces varieties that go on to dominate garden centres worldwide.

Simultaneously, Chelsea in Bloom transforms the streets of London’s Chelsea—especially Sloane Square and King’s Road—into a free, whimsical open-air floral art trail created by local boutiques, hotels, and restaurants.

Why go: To see the exact gardens, plants, and ideas that will shape how the world gardens next.

3. Floriade Canberra — Canberra, Australia

Spring Down Under is in September and October, and that’s when Aussie gardens shine. Floriade is known for its mass plantings arranged in bold, almost graphic patterns—entire beds of tulips and annuals laid out like landscape-scale design pieces around Lake Burley Griffin.

Each year follows a theme, and the planting schemes are executed with striking precision, more akin to outdoor installation art than traditional bedding displays. Its signature NightFest adds a second layer, with light projections and illuminated sculptures transforming the gardens after dark.

Why go: Monumental tulip displays by day—and a fully reimagined, light-driven experience at night.

4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival — Chiang Mai, Thailand

This northern Thailand festival, held for three short days in early February, is best known for its elaborate flower-float parade, where entire scenes—temples, animals, mythological figures—are constructed from orchids, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.

Chiang Mai is also a centre of orchid cultivation, and the displays highlight rare varieties alongside fields of locally grown damask roses used in regional perfumes and oils. Much of the action centres on Suan Buak Haad Park, where competitive displays and precision planting showcase the region’s horticultural expertise.

Why go: Intricately constructed floral floats and a rare window into Thailand’s orchid and rose-growing traditions.

5. Genzano Infiorata — Genzano, Italy

Genzano’s Infiorata, held over a weekend in mid-June, is defined by precision petal mosaics. Artists use thousands of hand-placed petals—sorted by colour and texture—to create highly detailed images that resemble paintings more than floral displays. The carpets run down a steep street in the historic centre, creating a dramatic, gallery-like perspective.

By Sunday afternoon, a traditional procession deliberately walks across the designs, dismantling them in minutes and highlighting the ephemeral nature of flowers and the natural world.

Why go: Hyper-detailed floral “paintings” you can walk through—before they’re intentionally erased.

START YOUR TRIP!

Video and Story: Lynn Elmhirst, Cruise/ Travel Journalist and Expert

Images: Getty

Two New Ships, Two Ways to Cruise: There Really is a Cruise Out There for Everyone

Thu, 09 Apr 26 20:10:38 +0000

Two very different new ships—one an intimate, design-forward superyacht, the other a high-energy floating resort—are sending a strong message. Whether you’re a cruise lover or a cruise newbie, there’s a cruise style and ship that’s perfect for you.

The recent, back-to-back debut of Emerald Cruises’ newest intimate, modern yacht and Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest Caribbean mega-ship shows just how wide that spectrum has become—and why first-time cruisers, in particular, have never had more options to ‘dip your toes’ into cruising waters.

Emerald Kaia and the Rise of Yacht-Style Cruising

At one end, yacht-style cruising is booming! Fewer guests, more space, and a strong connection to the destination. The new Emerald Kaia is home to just 128 guests, a scale that feels closer to a private club than a cruise ship.

What that size delivers is not just intimacy, but a different rhythm of travel in the warm-water destinations she’s designed to sail. Days unfold at a slower, more immersive pace.

Whether you sail the Emerald Kaia on the Adriatic coast between Venice and Dubrovnik or island-hopping through the Seychelles, the ship’s design leans into that philosophy: expansive outdoor decks, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and suites filled with natural light.

The latest Emerald Cruises yacht includes a reimagined observation deck, larger suites, and more flexible interconnecting accommodations for groups. The onboard experience leans further into immersive, contemporary luxury: more varied dining venues, stronger indoor-outdoor flow, and a purpose-built wellness deck that integrates spa, fitness, and relaxation into a single, cohesive experience that opens onto the sea.

Relaxing at Sea: Dining and Design Re-imagined aboard Emerald Kaia

It’s easy yachting luxury rather than traditional cruising formality. Dining is designed to feel interactive and varied—an open kitchen concept that brings guests closer to the culinary process, relaxed Mediterranean-style poolside dining, and small-scale, highly curated private dining inspired by regional cuisines.

Wellness, too, is no longer a side offering but a central pillar. The dedicated wellness deck integrates spa treatments, salt therapy, cold plunges, and fitness spaces in a way that feels holistic.

Even the accommodations reflect changing travel habits. The introduction of interconnecting suites speaks to a growing segment of travelers who want to share experiences—families or groups of friends—without sacrificing privacy.

Norwegian Luna, A Ship That’s Its Own Destination

At the other end of the spectrum: a ship designed to deliver around-the-clock variety, energy, and choice on a much larger scale.

The new Norwegian Luna brings more than 3,500 guests together in a floating playground of options. But unlike older-generation mega-ships that could feel overwhelming, the modern approach is about letting guests shape their own experience—whether that means adrenaline, entertainment, or quiet escape.

With Norwegian Luna, what’s new isn’t just the hardware—it’s the way a large ship is organized around choice and personalization. The ship introduces next-level attractions like a hybrid rollercoaster-style waterslide, immersive game zones, and outdoor activity spaces designed for all ages, alongside more segmented experiences that let different travelers coexist without overlap.

There’s a clear evolution toward multi-generational travel, with purpose-built zones for families, teens, and adults—including elevated “ship-within-a-ship” suites in the Haven for those seeking privacy. Add in a broader range of dining and entertainment, and the innovation here is about flexibility: a large ship that doesn’t feel one-size-fits-all, but instead lets guests design their own version of the cruise experience.

The Ultimate Vehicle for Multi-generational Travel

For active travelers and families, the appeal is immediate. Attractions blur the line between cruise ship and theme park, while expansive outdoor spaces offer room to move and play.

Alongside the high-energy attractions are adult-only entertainment venues, private retreat areas, and a “ship-within-a-ship” suite complex that offers a more exclusive, insulated experience for those who want it.

Dining follows the same logic of abundance and choice, with a wide range of global cuisines and multiple venues that allow guests to curate their own culinary journey rather than follow a fixed schedule.

Beyond the Ship: The Rise of Curated Destinations

And then there’s the destination. The Norwegian Luna is focused on Caribbean itineraries out of Miami and New York, anchored by private island experiences—Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize, Norwegian’s private beach resort. Complete with beach clubs, waterparks, and curated shore amenities, these exclusive spaces are designed to extend the Luna’s lifestyle ashore.

The Big Takeaway: A Cruise Style for Every Traveler

So what ties these two very different ships together? Choice.

Options for experienced cruise travelers to try something new – and a way for new-to-cruise travelers to find the voyage that’s exactly right for you.

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Images: Emerald Cruises/ Scenic Group and Norwegian Cruise Line

River to Ocean Onboard a Single Ship: Windstar’s New Way to Cruise

Thu, 09 Apr 26 20:10:38 +0000

If you love river cruising and you love ocean cruising… then there’s a new cruise style on the horizon for you. Beginning December 2026, Windstar’s newest ship, Star Explorer, will offer new river-to-ocean cruises combining the best of both experiences.

No changing ships. Your floating boutique hotel seamlessly transitions from a river cruise to an ocean voyage, and your trip continues from an intimate river experience into equally compelling coastlines.

Purpose-built for river-to-ocean travel, the 224-guest, all-suite yacht can navigate waterways that are too small for larger ocean ships and reach coastal destinations that traditional river vessels can’t access.

Even if you’ve already sailed aboard the world’s iconic rivers, this new way of cruising offers the next frontier. Think cultural connections, the opportunity to immerse yourself in less-traveled ports, and authentic maritime exploration.

Where Does Star Explorer Sail on Her River-to-Ocean Voyages?

Star Explorer’s 2027 itineraries showcase exactly what makes this concept so appealing: sailings that bring guests into city centers by river, then continue on to coastlines, islands, and unexpected ports beyond.

Impressionist France (10 nights) – Ideal for Seine veterans ready to go further, this trip from Bordeaux to London / HMS Belfast pairs the Seine and the Thames with overnights in Bordeaux, St. Malo, and Paris/Rouen, plus access to the D-Day beaches.
Connoisseur’s Delight: Northern Spain & Portugal (8 nights) – Perfect for travelers who have sailed the Rhône and are ready to expand their wine-focused journeys, this voyage extends from France into Spain and Portugal, pairing Bordeaux’s Garonne and Gironde rivers with culinary discoveries along the Spanish coast and time in Portugal’s Douro region.
Moroccan Markets & Iberian Icons (8 nights) –Journey into Seville via the Guadalquivir, continuing on to a broader mix of Iberian and Moroccan destinations.
Ireland Circumnavigation (10 nights) – Craving wild and dramatic landscapes? This sailing includes a call at Cork City Quay on the River Lee, then continues along Ireland’s rugged coastline of cliffs and castles.

Other River-Meets-Ocean Inspired Windstar Cruises

Beyond Star Explorer, Windstar offers travelers more ways to experience small-ship cruising across Europe and beyond.
French Feast: Normandy, Brittany & Aquitaine – A natural extension for Seine cruisers, this culinary-focused itinerary blends Bordeaux and Rouen/Paris with nearby coastal regions.
British Isles Medley This sailing from Paris/Rouen to Leith includes small-ship-only ports like Swansea and Fort William.
Quick Getaways: St. Malo Getaway A natural add-on for Thames and Seine cruisers, this round-trip from London / HMS Belfast includes visits to St. Malo and Brittany.
Quick Getaways: Belgium: A Sweet Getaway River cruisers seeking a shorter escape will love this 3-day trip that combines London and Antwerp via the Scheldt, offering Belgian charm, historic streets, and culinary pleasures.
Ancient Wonders of Vietnam & Angkor Wat Ideal for Mekong cruisers interested in a new Southeast Asia option, this journey sails through Halong Bay and along the Saigon River into Ho Chi Minh City, then continues to Bangkok via the Chao Phraya River, with inland stops like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh.

Growing Windstar Fleet

Star Explorer will be the 8^th yacht-sized ship in the Windstar fleet. Over four decades, Windstar has grown into a diverse fleet of four Star Class all-suite vessels and three Wind Class sailing yachts, accommodating 150-350 guests. In addition to the arrival of Star Explorer, Windstar’s legendary Wind Class sailing yachts are also undergoing a two-phase redesign to be completed by 2027.

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Image courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Discovering the Future of Wellness Travel in Sweden

Thu, 26 Mar 26 22:10:16 +0000

Recently in Sweden, I experienced ancient wellness practices intertwined with new science and artistic sensibilities. In many ways, Sweden wrote the book on wellness as a way of life and a travel destination. And my stays at two sister hotels in Stockholm proved the country is in the vanguard of redefining wellness travel again.

In case you missed it, in 2025, Sweden became the first country where doctors can prescribe travel for wellness. The global leader in quality of life, renowned for its thousands-year-old sauna culture, is an inspiration for wellness lifestyle – and a beacon for wellness travelers… and now this:

The “Swedish Prescription”

In a wellness ‘first,’ Sweden has become the first country where patients can download a medical referral form to take to their physician for wellness travel to the country!

The Swedish Prescription isn’t a marketing gimmick. The program is rooted in deeply-held Swedish beliefs and practices, like

‘fika:’ social rituals of connecting with loved ones;
‘lagom,’ or achieving balance, moderation, and sustainability in your way of life;
love of getting outdoors, no matter what the weather, and of course,
sauna and thermal hot/cold practices,

all of which combine to create meaningful and scientifically supported health benefits.

Hagastrand and Hotel J: Beyond the Spa Hotel

All that said, why would anyone go to Sweden in the winter, far enough north that the sun rises after 8 am and sets mid-afternoon?

I went to spend a week immersed in the wellness experiences at 2 of Stockholm's Nobis Hospitality Group hotels: Hagastrand and Hotel J.

The company has set a new gold standard for wellness travel, following a three-year renovation program, masterminded by Alla Sokolova, its Head of Wellness.

“I think every human being has an innate wish to be in their best form,” she explained to me. Her vision for the wellness program at the hotels is for a stay there to be part of a “never-ending learning journey” to help create winning conditions for guests to achieve their maximum performance, their best selves.

HAGASTRAND SPA AND HOTEL

When it re-opened in Fall, 2025 as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, Hagastrand Spa and Hotel was already billing itself as a “new social wellness destination” in Sweden’s capital. A post-modern building attached to a historic military barracks in the quiet, seaside location of Stockholm’s Royal Park, Hagastrand re-launched with a 27,000 square foot, cutting-edge wellness center with some practices that are the first of their kind.

If you’re imagining a clinical, white-jacketed, James Bond-style European health retreat, think again. Instead, Hagastrand offers warmth, along with a masterful and welcoming blend of ancient practices and advanced therapies, including modern technologies that deliver wellness experiences to guests in one-of-a-kind ways, all under one roof.

There’s also a focus on music, “a universal language” that “everyone can relate to,” Alla adds.

“Tuning our bodies and our minds,” as she puts it.

Hagastrand’s facilities incorporate both traditional Nordic and international wellness practices, as well as sensory design and the newer concept of ‘biohacking.’

Along with treatment rooms and private suites you expect to find in a spa or wellness center, Hagastrand’s includes:

Underwater therapeutic music in its 18-meter indoor pool;
A Thermal center, with multiple saunas, including herbal and hammam, and also:
- Sweden’s first "Event Sauna," one of the few in the world, for up to 60 guests. As an ‘event,’ one of Hagastrand’s trained sauna masters invites guests in the wellness center to join them in a paced series of rituals where the sauna master employs herbs, music, infused ice, and spoken word to lead guests through a wellness journey that changes every time.
- Scandinavia's largest snow room for cryotherapy
Experience showers, red light therapy, and neuro-acoustic massage loungers.
Gongs, handmade in Italy, including a giant (as tall as a person) gong at the end of the pool played by hand by sauna masters, and
- in the ‘Gongmatic’ room (pictured, top), a ‘self-playing’ gong – also the first in the Nordic countries – which plays in timed performances as guests lie on warm ceramic lounge beds. The audio art installation immerses guests in vibrations and invites them to embark on a meditative journey.
Cardi suit – like a giant diving dry suit with hands and feet, except that a therapist fills this suit with carbon dioxide. The therapy increases blood flow to the cells, resulting in improved oxygen delivery, performance, and rest. Cardi suits are already used extensively by high-performance athletes, but are rarely available to the wellness-seeking public – including me!

The state-of-the-art wellness experiences flow harmoniously with the new versions of familiar practices and are woven seamlessly into a hotel stay that includes warmly Nordic accommodations, stylish bars, and a fine dining restaurant (no restricted, seaweed smoothie diet here unless you wish!) that even drew a member of the Swedish Royal Family while we were dining one evening.

HOTEL J

Sister property Hotel J draws inspiration from its location on the Stockholm archipelago in a Newport, Rhode Island-type neighborhood of illustrious and historic seaside homes.

The nautical and natural themes run deep, from stunning water views and terraces overlooking the sea, extensive gardens that are not just visual but also harvested for wellness herbs and botanicals, and, of course, its wellness offering.

Hotel J’s Sauna by the Sea is a ritual all the more memorable for its location in the Panorama Sauna perched on rocks rising from the waves. The sauna itself is on the second story, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing the perfect vantage point over the sea to become part of your herbal-infused sauna ritual. And a cold plunge into a wintery sea is just steps out the door to conclude your authentic Swedish sauna!

But we also got off property, accompanied by ‘nature therapist’ Lisen Sundgren, who took us on a Swedish interpretation of that famous Japanese wellness practice, ‘forest bathing.’ During a walk in a nature reserve next door in the twilight, where dimming sight helped sharpen our other senses as we were guided to literally feel, hear, and smell the woods. We ended up on a rocky lookout over the sea and the lights of Stockholm on the opposite side of the archipelago, sipping her homemade Swedish rosehip soup and communing by the mystical twinkles of lamp light.

SANCTUM

From the primal forest… to a wellness rave!

In another ‘first,’ Hagastrand and Hotel J’s parent company has introduced ‘Sanctum’ to the Nordics as part of its wellness experience offering. We were invited to the launch party at the Nobis Hospitality Group’s event space at the Stockholm Opera House.

Sanctum hosts these ‘wellness raves’ around the world for a growing community drawn to the euphoric release of its hour-long, high-intensity, music-led 55-minute sessions that combine HIIT, Kundalini yoga, breathwork, and meditation. Ours in Stockholm was candle-lit in the awe-inspiring historic surroundings… in complete silence, with sound healing, music, and guidance delivered through headphones.

***

Embracing the widest interpretations of wellness lived through ancient traditions, Nature, technology, art, and the most welcoming Scandinavian culture and lifestyle… these Swedish hotels are setting the stage for a new global approach to wellness travel.

The Nobis Hospitality Group’s founder gives all the credit for the hotels’ pioneering wellness journeys to Head of Wellness Alla Sokolova – a risk, but a calculated one, with a simple foundation of beauty and hospitality.

“Everybody today is talking about longevity and all these things, and sometimes it's too much,” Alessandro Catenacci, owner and CEO of the family-owned Nobis Hospitality Group, told me.

“I hate the word ‘trend.’”

He acknowledges that the groundbreaking wellness offerings of the two hotels are “a new thing for us,” but “things are not so complicated usually if you do it in the right way.” He points out that wellness practices are a natural way of life for Swedes.

“We are a sauna family.

“And this is very important because you, you can't go on doing things if you don't like that. I love it, really.”

Hagastrand and Hotel J may be on the leading edge. But advanced wellness experiences for travel are no longer a novel trend.

As more travelers intentionally incorporate their wellness practices from home into their travels to new destinations, and expand their wellness horizons while traveling, wellness hospitality will take the lead from Hagastrand and Hotel J in helping us discover the destinations’ best experiences to hone our mental, physical, and spiritual health.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images and story by: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Celebrity River Cruises Reveals Experiential Approach to Shore Excursions

Thu, 26 Mar 26 22:10:16 +0000

The hotly anticipated new river cruise line has shared how it’s planning to offer its guests a new way to experience the river communities of Europe when it debuts in 2027. Four curated categories of exclusive and included shore excursions reveal how guests will river cruise, Celebrity-style.

Local insiders lead the Storyteller Series and Skillmaster Series, while the Keys to the City Series gives guests the tech-driven power to explore on their own with insights curated to their own interests and passions. Available once per sailing, the Celebrity Takeover Series delivers one-of-a-kind, bespoke experiences.

The shore excursions are available across all 2027 and 2028 Celebrity River Cruises itineraries, and pre- and post-cruise stays in Prague, Budapest, and Amsterdam.

Storyteller Series: Included locally led experiences that go beyond what guidebooks can capture

Celebrity River Cruises' Storyteller Series offers experiences guided by residents, artists, and cultural insiders who call each destination home. Guests can choose from multiple included experiences at each port, each balancing iconic landmarks with hosts’ personal favorites and hidden stories only locals know. Here are a couple of examples:

Amsterdam

A canal captain will share Amsterdam's centuries-long relationship with water, showing guests an unseen side of the city’s iconic waterways. Guests will cruise hidden passages, through the eyes of someone with deep family ties to the region, as they admire the city’s oldest building, Oude Kerk, board a legendary Dutch trading ship, and learn about modern canal engineering.

Prague

Guests who enjoy discovering a city through food and drink will be led through the city’s rich brewing traditions by a local brewer. From the brewer’s unique perspective, guests will explore historic breweries like the bustling U Vejvodu Tavern, as well as beer-infused artisanal shops. Taking a journey that blends history and hospitality into every pour, the brewer will show guests how centuries-old recipes shaped the city’s culture of connection and celebration.

Skillmaster Series: Included, hands-on experiences invite guests to actively participate in local culture

Guests craft, cook, and create alongside the artisans and makers who shape each destination's cultural identity in shore excursions like these:

Budapest

A local Mamika (grandmother) will lead aspiring culinarians through generations-old Hungarian recipes from her own home kitchen. After selecting ingredients at the local Central Market Hall, guests will uncover dishes that bring Budapest’s soul to the table through Mamika’s treasured family recipes and cooking secrets.

Amsterdam

A local artist leads a painting class that immerses guests in Van Gogh's imagination. After exploring the famed painter’s works at the iconic Van Gogh Museum, guests will discover the settings that influenced some of his greatest pieces while learning some of the techniques he used to turn emotion into color and movement into meaning.

Keys to the City Series: Included independent digital discovery tools with complimentary behind-the-scenes access and stationed local hosts

Through an innovative digital platform, guests access curated route maps tailored to specific interests such as art, history, food, and architecture.

Interactive maps, audio guides, and video content lead guests off the beaten tourist path to interest-led locations, where stationed local hosts provide behind-the-scenes access and exclusive experiences at working studios and craft sites, creating moments of surprise and delight. For example:

Bratislava

Architecture enthusiasts will follow their curiosity to St. Martin’s Cathedral, hearing from a local historian who brings its coronation past to life, before hiking to Bratislava Castle to see how the fortress has watched centuries of change, then pausing beneath the modern span of the UFO Bridge with an architect who explains its bold vision.

Uncover the city’s authentic Slovak flavors from raising a glass in a traditional Slovak pub while a generational brewer pours his stories into every craft drop, to tasting delicate sweets in a family-run pastry shop where the baker shares recipes passed down through decades. Guests will curate their adventure, shaping their own path to uncover the stories of cities exactly as they choose.

Celebrity Takeover Series: Included one-of-a-kind experiences for bucket list memories

Once per sailing, these exclusive, bespoke experiences transform must-see European attractions and unassuming plazas into elevated private events available only to Celebrity River Cruises guests. Celebrity says these are “indulgent bucket-list experiences” designed to be the defining memory of your river cruise

Pre- and Post-Cruise Stays the Celebrity Way

Celebrity River Cruises guests can extend their journey with multi-day pre- and post-cruise stays that carry the same locally-led, small-group discovery philosophy as every sailing.

Available in Prague and Budapest beginning in 2027, and also Amsterdam in 2028, each stay includes daily small-group tours with local hosts, premium hotel accommodations, dedicated concierge service for dining reservations and private experiences, daily breakfast, and airport transfers.

The result is a seamless, end-to-end journey from arrival to departure with no gap between the onboard Celebrity River Cruises experience and the destination discovery that defines it.

Bookings for 2027 and 2028 pre- and post-cruise stays in Summer 2026 open, and all other destination experiences will open for booking in 2027. Celebrity River Cruises sailings are on sale now.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Celebrity River Cruises

The April Fools of Travel Destinations

Thu, 26 Mar 26 22:10:16 +0000

World travel is easier than ever. But it seems world geography is not! Some destinations remain stubbornly — and even hilariously — confused by travelers, media, and even governments. The result is a mix of comedy, branding opportunity, and unsuspecting travelers finding themselves in the wrong place.

In some cases, people simply don’t know the difference, and it’s a case of mistaken identity and some embarrassing social media posts. Others are tiny spelling errors that have landed travelers on the opposite side of the world from where they expected to be. There are cities, countries, and regions that regularly get confused.

Admit it: even an intelligent and savvy traveler like you gets some of these destinations mixed up!

So what better time than April Fools to run through the hit parade of trickster travel destinations?

Australia or Austria?

Australia and Austria are as different as two countries can be. And in different hemispheres!

Australia is a young, vast, sun-drenched country defined by distance—beaches, reef systems, and cities like Sydney that feel plugged into the Pacific. It’s long-haul, laid-back, and larger-than-life.

Old World Austria is compact, landlocked, and classically European—Alpine peaks, imperial history, and cultural heavyweights like Vienna and Salzburg.

Yet their confusion is so persistent that Austria’s tourism board leaned into it with the now-famous line: “No Kangaroos in Austria!”

Sweden or Switzerland?

This is possibly the most politely awkward confusion in global travel.

So common, in fact, that Visit Sweden launched an entire campaign to address it—complete with a straight-faced “negotiation” video proposing a formal division of national identities.

The messaging is brilliantly deadpan:

Switzerland has banks; Sweden has sandbanks

Switzerland has yodelling; Sweden has a silent nature

The Swiss keep the watches; the Swedes offer the luxury of forgetting about time

It’s funny because it’s true. The confusion shows up in headlines, speeches, and travel plans more often than any half-experienced traveler would like to admit.

Grenada or Granada?

“Tomayto”, “Tomahto.” Grenayda, Granahda. Two destinations thousands of miles apart, and cultural worlds apart.

Grenada is a Caribbean island nation where there’s nutmeg in the air, rainforest spilling into the sea, and long, languid afternoons on Grand Anse. It’s called the “Spice Island” for a reason.

Granada, on the other hand, is a city in Spain: Moorish palaces, tapas culture, and the architectural marvel of the Alhambra rising above the city like a mirage.

One is barefoot, the other is baroque.

Dominica or Dominican Republic?

This is less a mix-up and more a recurring travel identity crisis. They’re both countries, and both in the Caribbean. But that’s where the similarity ends.

Dominica (dom-in-EE-ka) is volcanic, rainforest-thick, and defiantly underdeveloped. You go here to hike, to soak in hot springs, to earn your cocktail off the beaten track. You have to work a little harder to vacation in Dominica. You won’t find direct flights from North America. Instead, you connect on Island Hopper Airlines through regional hubs like Barbados, San Juan, and St. Lucia.

The Dominican Republic is a hub. It’s one of the Caribbean’s largest countries and most popular beach resort destinations —built for sun-seeking travelers, with resort areas like Puerto Plata and Punta Cana, and a rich colonial history in Santo Domingo. All-inclusive resorts line the country’s beaches, and airlines and packaged tour operators serve the country well.

Slovakia or Slovenia?

Here’s a quick test: can you place these two Central European countries on a map?

Slovakia and Slovenia don’t just sound similar—they both fly under the radar of popular European travel destinations, so they’ve gotten used to handling the non-stop cases of mistaken identity.

Embassies have long reported receiving each other’s diplomatic pouches. Invitations to official events have arrived in the wrong capital. Trade documents, cultural exchanges, even the occasional VIP correspondence—misaddressed, misrouted, and then, very politely, forwarded along. The postal services of the two countries meet regularly to exchange misaddressed mail!

Meanwhile, the destinations themselves couldn’t be more distinct. Slovakia leans into its Danube River culture, castles, and Carpathian drama; Slovenia into alpine lakes and storybook perfection—hello, Lake Bled.

Baltics or Balkans?

This one is a classic travel-writer slip—and a reminder that “similar-sounding” regions are not all created equal.

The Baltics are the three countries on northeastern Europe’s Baltic Sea coast: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. They share a common history shaped by Northern and Eastern Europe and are today known for compact capitals, medieval old towns, and a blend of Nordic and Eastern European influences. Cool, composed, and increasingly design-forward. Think Tallinn’s medieval perfection, Riga’s Art Nouveau swagger.

The Balkans refer to a broader region in southeastern Europe that includes countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. The region is culturally diverse, shaped by Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian histories, and ranges from Adriatic coastlines to inland mountains. Sunshine and history weave through a tangle of cultures that stretch across southeastern Europe, from Adriatic coastlines to inland capitals shaped by empires.

Same opening syllable. Entirely different narratives.

The Moral of the Story

It always happens to someone else you can laugh at - until it’s you landing in the wrong country. Even the most seasoned travelers can be tripped up by a familiar-sounding place and a hastily confirmed booking.

Work with an expert travel advisor, and always double-check your travel documents.

Happy April Fool’s Day… and

START YOUR TRIP (TO THE RIGHT DESTINATION!)

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Images: Getty

Why is it Called ‘Easter’ Island?

Thu, 26 Mar 26 22:10:16 +0000

You likely already know that’s a trick question. This tiny dot in the eastern South Pacific Ocean, but technically a territory of Chile, is actually properly called Rapa Nui.

The world over, Easter Island has been synonymous with exotic mysteries of an impossibly distant, long-lost civilization and mind-boggling human endeavor.

It may be the most remote inhabited island on the planet. Only a few thousand people live on this remnant of oceanic volcanoes sticking out of the sea, and that's the first miracle itself. The closest inhabited island is 1300 miles away (Pitcairn Island with only 50 people), and the nearest continental point is Chile, over 2000 miles away. Local tales say a 2-canoe Polynesian expedition around AD 700 was the start of Rapa Nui's extraordinary story.

Today, Easter Island is on the map as one of the corners of the millions of square miles of the Pacific Ocean known as Polynesia – the other corners for easy reference are Hawai’I and New Zealand. And it’s on the map of global travelers who want to come face to face with the island's nearly 1000 moai at its UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Monuments to the Past

These stately, solemn statues were carved during a 500-year period in the island's history, beginning a thousand years ago. The moai share artistic characteristics with Polynesian carvings, confirming the origin tale of the Rapa Nui people. Chiseled with only stone tools out of volcanic rock in the 'quarry' of an extinct volcano, each statue took a team of half a dozen artisans about a year to complete. The largest is over 30 feet long and weighs 90 tons. They were an incredible feat of creativity, production, and organization.

You probably think of them as 'Easter Island heads'. But the moai actually have torsos, and some even have complete lower bodies; they were just buried up to their necks over the centuries by shifting sands.

These monumental statues represented deceased ancestors. And only about a quarter were originally installed; others were left in the quarry or remained en route to their intended locations. All but 7 faced inland, the spirits of the deceased 'watching over' the living and their lands. The 7 facing the sea stood as wayfinders for seafarers.

Many moai were toppled after the mysterious collapse of the Rapa Nui society in the 19th century. In recent decades, local and international efforts have restored and re-mounted a number of moai. This dot on a map in Chilean Polynesia still seems as awe-inspiring and as full of hidden secrets as when explorers first arrived.

Timing is Everything

Which brings us to: Why is it called Easter Island? The Dutch explorer who was the island's first-recorded European visitor arrived on Easter Sunday in 1722 – he came upon it while searching for another island. (He must have been pretty lost!) So 'Easter Island' it was dubbed, and its current official Spanish name in Chile is still Isla de Pascua, while its Polynesian name is Rapa Nui, in the local language: the 'naval of the world'.

There's more to Rapa Nui than the silent witness of the moai to the island's past. Visitors experience the local version of Polynesian culture, explore pink-sand beaches, caverns, and dive sites, cycle, hike, or ride horses across prairies and volcanic hillsides, and even surf on those waves so distant from other shores.

How to get there? You can fly from both Chile and Tahiti, participate in tour packages offered by expedition and exotic travel experts, arrive by small or expedition cruise ship, or by private yacht.

There may be nowhere else in the world where a traveler can feel the greatness of human achievement and small in the face of a culture so far across the waves.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert.

Images: Getty

Places Outside of Dublin to Get to Know Ireland – and the Irish

Thu, 19 Mar 26 14:24:43 +0000

On St. Patrick’s Day, the saying goes, there’s a ‘little bit of Irish’ in us all. For some of us, it’s true all year round. Today, Ireland has about 5 million people. But there are over 30 million Americans (10% of the entire population, the second-highest European ancestry in the USA!) and an even higher percentage of Canadians – nearly 15% of the population – who claim Irish roots.

No wonder so many North Americans feel drawn to visit the Emerald Isle on St. Patrick’s Day and throughout the year.

Many people fly into Dublin, have a grand time, and leave.

But to really get a feel for the country – and the people you may have an ancestral connection with – you need to get out of the capital – and into the countryside.

Of course, if you know the county where you may have family roots, you’ll want to start there.

And here are 5 more of the best places and experiences beyond Dublin to connect with the Irish people. So you can get a real sense, like I did when I first set foot in the Irish countryside, that “These people are my people.”

County Clare: Doolin & the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher may draw you west, but it’s the village of Doolin that keeps you there.

After standing at the cliff’s edge, Atlantic wind in your hair, step into a low-ceilinged pub where the music begins almost casually — a fiddle tuning, a bodhrán tapped into rhythm. No stage. No spotlight. Just musicians playing because that’s what you do on a Tuesday night in County Clare.

Locals will ask where you’re from. Someone’s cousin likely lives there. By the end of the evening, you’re clapping along, perhaps attempting a chorus you don’t quite know.

Meet the people: Some tours connect you with a local farmer-guide in the nearby Burren who explains how his family has worked this limestone land for generations. The geology – and the family stories - are fascinating.

County Galway: Galway & Connemara

Galway feels like Ireland’s creative pulse. Buskers line the cobbled streets, poets argue amiably over pints, and Irish (Gaeilge) floats through the air as naturally as a sea breeze.

Head into Connemara National Park and you’ll find a different rhythm — sheep farmers leaning on gates, artisans weaving wool, guides who can trace their lineage back through the valleys.

At Kylemore Abbey, Benedictine nuns still maintain the Victorian walled gardens. The abbey’s romantic silhouette may be what you photograph, but it’s the quiet devotion of those who care for it that lingers.

Meet the people: On a food tour in Galway led by a local who introduces you not just to oysters and farmhouse cheeses, you’ll meet the producers themselves — people whose pride in place is as rich as the flavors.

County Kerry: Killarney & the Ring of Kerry

County Kerry’s scenery is showstopping — lakes and mountains in Killarney National Park, Atlantic views along the Ring of Kerry — but Kerry people have a reputation for storytelling that rivals the views.

Take a jaunting car ride through the park, and your driver won’t simply point out landmarks; he’ll recount legends, local scandals, and family lore with theatrical timing.

Tour Muckross House with a guide who makes 19th-century aristocratic life feel immediate and human rather than distant and grand.

Meet the people: Stop in a rural pub off the main Ring route. The best conversations often happen where there’s no Wi-Fi and no rush.

County Tipperary: Cashel & Ireland’s Ancient East

The Rock of Cashel rises dramatically above County Tipperary, but it comes alive through the voices that interpret it.

Irish guides have a gift: history becomes theatre. St. Patrick, high kings, Viking raids — they’re delivered with humour and a twinkle that keeps things human.

Wander down to Hore Abbey, where you may find sheep grazing among the ruins and perhaps a local photographer happy to share the best angle for your shot.

Meet the people: On a private heritage walk with a local historian, you don’t just see ruins — you meet the descendants of those who built their stories around them.

County Antrim and County Down: Belfast & the Causeway Coast

In Northern Ireland, landscapes are dramatic, but conversations can be even more so.

At Titanic Belfast in Belfast, you’ll meet guides proud of their shipbuilding heritage — honest about history, resilient about the future.

Along the coast, at the Giant's Causeway, local storytellers still recount the legend of Finn McCool as if it might be true. At the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, you’ll likely find yourself laughing nervously alongside strangers as the bridge sways.

Meet the people: Take a black cab tour in Belfast with a driver who shares personal perspectives on the city’s recent history — complex, candid, and deeply human.

Ireland’s landscapes are spectacular. But it’s the Irish people — their renowned easy humour, gift for storytelling, the sense that you’re not quite a stranger — that turns a trip into something lasting.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Images: Ireland.com